a full version - Wanaque School District

WANAQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
LYNDA D’ANGIOLILLO, M.A.
DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM,
INSTRUCTION, & PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
DONNA L. CARDIELLO, M.A.
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
NANCY DIBARTOLO
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR/
BOARD SECRETARY
September 2015
Dear Parents or Guardians,
Here is the 2015-2016 edition of the Parent-Student Handbook for the Wanaque Public Schools. In this document, we have
attempted to provide information that will help you understand the organization and operation of the school district, as well as
your child’s school. Topics include “Student Health,” “Arrival to School/Dismissal from School,” “Discipline,” “Student
Services,” “Homework,” and “Reporting to Parents,” just to name a few. Please don’t miss the sections on School Nutrition,
Healthy Celebrations in School, Student Allergies, and Pupil Supervision after Dismissal.
Also of note:
•
The dress code is explained on page 33 of this Handbook.
•
Located on page 40, we have tried to better explain the way Honor Roll, High Honors, and Graduation Honors are
calculated for our middle school students. Numerical averages are now used for the calculation rather than letter
grades.
•
Please be sure to read, beginning on page 48, the description of, and instructions for, our Parent Portal, where parents
or guardians can view up-to-date information on their child’s progress in school. Test and quiz scores, homework
completion, and other grade book information will be available to parents and guardians for students in grades 4-8.
Parents and guardians of students in all grades can see attendance information and class schedules, as well as update
personal information such as personal telephone numbers and emergency contact information.
•
The District’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying policy is reprinted in the Policy section, starting on page 89.
This updated policy meets the requirements of the State’s new law on HIB.
•
The back cover displays the 2015-2016 school calendar, which includes the dates for the end of marking periods and
report card dissemination. PARCC testing dates for 2016 are April 4th through May 13th.
I am confident that you will find the information in this Handbook useful and worth the time you take to review its
contents. Parents and guardians, working cooperatively with the school, can achieve their dreams for their child and our
school district’s mission of:
…providing an enriched academic and social foundation that fosters a love of learning, where all
students achieve the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards at all grade levels, thereby
creating informed citizens ready to meet the varying challenges of a rapidly changing world.
As you read the Handbook, please let us know if you have any suggestions for additions or improvements that we can make in
future editions. Attached is a form to complete to acknowledge that you have received the Handbook. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Donna L. Cardiello
Superintendent of Schools
9 7 3 A R I N G W O O D A V E N U E — H A S K E L L , N J — 0 7 4 2 0 — ( 9 7 3 ) 8 3 5 - 8 2 0 0 — ( 9 7 3 ) 8 3 5 - 1 3 1 6 ( F A X )
Acknowledgement of Receipt Form
2015-2016 Parent-Student Handbook
I ____________________________________ have received a copy of the Parent-Student
Handbook
(print name of parent/guardian)
for the 2015-2016 school year. I have the following child(ren) attending the Wanaque Public
Schools:
Name (Print)
Grade
Homeroom Teacher
__________________________________________________________
______________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date
Please return this form to your youngest child’s homeroom teacher.
Thank you!
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Table of Contents
LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS .................................................................................1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT FORM .....................................................................................................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................................................3 SCHOOL AND OFFICE INFORMATION ...............................................................................................................8 BOARD OF EDUCATION INFORMATION ...........................................................................................................9 MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE WANAQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS .....................................................................................9 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETINGS .............................................................................................................................9 GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................................................................................9 PUBLIC NOTICES .........................................................................................................................................................9 INFORMATION FOR VOTERS ..............................................................................................................................10 APPROVED BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING DATES FOR THE 2013-2014 SCHOOL YEAR ..........11 DIRECTORY ..............................................................................................................................................................12 AFFIRMATIVE ACTION .........................................................................................................................................13 ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL/DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL .....................................................................................13 HOURS OF SESSIONS-REGULAR SCHEDULE ..............................................................................................................13 HOURS OF SESSIONS-DELAYED OPENING SCHEDULE ...............................................................................................13 EARLY DISMISSAL SCHEDULE ..................................................................................................................................14 SUPERVISION AT DISMISSAL—POLICY 8601 ............................................................................................................14 SUPERVISION AFTER DISMISSAL ...............................................................................................................................14 BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE...............................................................................................................14 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ......................................................................................................................................15 ATTENDANCE ..........................................................................................................................................................15 STUDENT ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL ...........................................................................................................................17 MAKE-UP WORK AFTER ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL ...................................................................................................17 TARDINESS TO SCHOOL ............................................................................................................................................18 BICYCLE/SCOOTER SAFETY ...............................................................................................................................18 NEW JERSEY BICYCLE HELMET LAW—TITLE 39:4-10.1 ..........................................................................................18 LAW GOVERNING BICYCLE SAFETY .........................................................................................................................19 BREAKFAST PROGRAM ........................................................................................................................................20 BUS TRANSPORTATION ........................................................................................................................................20 Procedures for Students Who Are Bussed To School ..........................................................................................20 Afternoon Procedures .........................................................................................................................................21 BUS TRANSPORTATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES .....................................................................................21 CHARACTER EDUCATION ...................................................................................................................................22 CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT ......................................................................................................................................23 CLASS PLACEMENT/TEACHER SELECTION ..................................................................................................23 COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS ......................................................................................................23 DELAYED OPENING/EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOLS’ PROCEDURES .......................................24 DELAYED OPENING OR MORNING CLOSING OF SCHOOL: .........................................................................................24 EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOL AFTER CHILDREN HAVE ARRIVED IN THE BUILDING: ......................................24 DISCIPLINE ...............................................................................................................................................................25 COMMON INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR ......................................................................................................................25 SERIOUS INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR ........................................................................................................................26 3
COMMON INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR PROCEDURES ................................................................................................26 Grades Kindergarten Through 2 .........................................................................................................................26 Grades 3 & 4 .......................................................................................................................................................26 Grades 5 through 8 .............................................................................................................................................27 SERIOUS INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR PROCEDURES ..................................................................................................27 Kindergarten through 2 .......................................................................................................................................27 Grades 3 & 4 .......................................................................................................................................................28 Grades 5 - 8 .........................................................................................................................................................28 LUNCHTIME BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES ........................................................................................................................29 Common Inappropriate Behavior .......................................................................................................................29 Serious Inappropriate Behavior ..........................................................................................................................29 General Outside Lunchtime Safety Rules ............................................................................................................29 Lunchtime Consequences ....................................................................................................................................29 REWARDS FOR DESIRED BEHAVIORS ........................................................................................................................32 MIDDLE SCHOOL (GRADES 6, 7, AND 8) BEHAVIOR POINT SYSTEM .........................................................................32 DRESS AND GROOMING .......................................................................................................................................33 DRUG /ALCOHOL/TOBACCO ...............................................................................................................................34 FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION ..................................................................................................................................35 GRADING ...................................................................................................................................................................35 SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT GRADES 4 – 8 ..............................................................................................................35 BEHAVIORAL ATTITUDES GRADES 4 – 8 ...................................................................................................................35 GRADING SYSTEM ....................................................................................................................................................35 Kindergarten .......................................................................................................................................................35 Grade 1 ................................................................................................................................................................35
Grade 2 ................................................................................................................................................................35 Grade 3 ................................................................................................................................................................36 Grade 4 ................................................................................................................................................................36 Grade 5 ................................................................................................................................................................37 Grades 6-8 ...........................................................................................................................................................37 GRADE REPORT AND CONFERENCE DATES--2013-2014 ...........................................................................................37 Grade Reporting ..................................................................................................................................................37 REQUIRED SUMMER SCHOOL FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS WHO FAIL COURSES ..............................................38 HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS ...................................................................................................................................38 HOMEWORK .............................................................................................................................................................38 SUGGESTED TIME PARAMETER FOR MINUTES OF HOMEWORK PER NIGHT...............................................................39 PERCENTAGE RANGE FOR AVERAGING HOMEWORK INTO STUDENTS’ GRADES ......................................................39 ROLE OF THE STUDENT .............................................................................................................................................39 ROLE OF THE TEACHER .............................................................................................................................................39 ROLE OF THE PARENT ...............................................................................................................................................40 NON-COMPLETION OF HOMEWORK/HOMEWORK ASSISTANCE .................................................................................40 HONOR ROLL ...........................................................................................................................................................40 HIGH HONOR ROLL...................................................................................................................................................40 HONOR ROLL ............................................................................................................................................................41 END OF YEAR ATTENDANCE AWARDS .....................................................................................................................41 HONORS FOR 8TH GRADERS ................................................................................................................................41 LOCKERS ...................................................................................................................................................................42 LUNCH PROGRAM & PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................42 WANAQUE SCHOOL CAFETERIA PRICE LIST .............................................................................................................42 HASKELL SCHOOL CAFETERIA PRICE LIST ...............................................................................................................42 NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY .............................................................................................................43 NUTRITION AND BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY 8505 .............................................................................43 HEALTHY CELEBRATIONS.........................................................................................................................................44 Promoting a Healthy School Environment ..........................................................................................................44 4
But it’s Just a Cookie ..........................................................................................................................................44 Benefits of Healthy Celebrations .........................................................................................................................44 How-To’s for Happy Healthy Parties .................................................................................................................45 Ideas for Healthy Celebrations ...........................................................................................................................45 PARENTS ....................................................................................................................................................................47 PARENT CONFERENCES WITH TEACHERS ..................................................................................................................47 PARENT INVOLVEMENT IN THE SCHOOLS .................................................................................................................47 PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATIONS ............................................................................................................................48 PARENT/TEACHER RESOURCE ROOMS......................................................................................................................48 PARENT PORTAL USER GUIDELINES ...............................................................................................................48 GUIDELINES ..............................................................................................................................................................48 INFORMATION ON THE PARENT PORTAL ...................................................................................................................48 PARENT PORTAL USER ACCOUNT AGREEMENT........................................................................................................49 PERSONAL ITEMS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES ..........................................................................................49 PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT ...........................................................................................................................49 PLAYGROUND SAFETY .........................................................................................................................................50 SKATEBOARDING AND ROLLER BLADING .................................................................................................................50 PRE-ALGEBRA AND ALGEBRA CLASSES ........................................................................................................50 PRE-ALGEBRA ..........................................................................................................................................................50 ALGEBRA ..................................................................................................................................................................51 PUPIL DUE PROCESS ..............................................................................................................................................51 REGISTRATION FOR SCHOOL ............................................................................................................................51 REPORTING TO PARENTS ....................................................................................................................................53 REPORT CARDS .........................................................................................................................................................53 INTERIM PROGRESS REPORTS ...................................................................................................................................54 SAFETY AND SECURITY IN SCHOOL ................................................................................................................54 STUDENTS AND OUTSIDE DOORS TO THE SCHOOL BUILDING ...................................................................................55 FIRE AND EVACUATION DRILLS ................................................................................................................................55 SALUTE TO THE FLAG ..........................................................................................................................................55 SERVICES FOR STUDENTS ...................................................................................................................................55 GIFTED, CREATIVE, AND TALENTED ........................................................................................................................55 GUIDANCE AND OTHER SERVICES ............................................................................................................................56 ENGLISH LANGUAGE SERVICES ................................................................................................................................56 TITLE 1 INSTRUCTION/BASIC SKILLS ........................................................................................................................56 Eligibility Criteria: ..............................................................................................................................................56 Exit Criteria: .......................................................................................................................................................57 INTERVENTION AND REFERRAL SERVICES AND 504 COMMITTEE .............................................................................57 SPECIAL EDUCATION ................................................................................................................................................57 Child Study Team ................................................................................................................................................57 Referral to the Child Study Team ........................................................................................................................58 Speech-Language Services ..................................................................................................................................58 Program for Preschoolers with Disabilities .......................................................................................................58 STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM .............................................................................................................................58 SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND BIAS .....................................................................................................................59 SIGNING A CHILD IN AND OUT OF SCHOOL ..................................................................................................59 STUDENT COUNCIL ................................................................................................................................................59 STUDENT HEALTH .................................................................................................................................................60 PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS FOR NEW STUDENTS ......................................................................................................60 REGULAR HEALTH MONITORING AND SCREENINGS .................................................................................................60 5
IMMUNIZATIONS .......................................................................................................................................................60 Preschool Students ..............................................................................................................................................60 Grade Six Students ..............................................................................................................................................60 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DISEASE CONTROL...........................................................................................................61 ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION ...........................................................................................................................61 Medications on Field Trips .................................................................................................................................61 ILLNESS OR ACCIDENT DURING SCHOOL ..................................................................................................................62 MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR STUDENTS ......................................................................................................................62 STUDENT ALLERGIES ................................................................................................................................................62 Background .........................................................................................................................................................62 Student Allergies Protocol ..................................................................................................................................63 STUDENTS’ RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ...............................................................................................69 SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION ...........................................................................................................................70 OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION – REMOVAL FROM CLASS WITHOUT SCHOOL ATTENDANCE......................................70 IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION – REMOVAL FROM CLASS AND SUPERVISION IN A QUIET ENVIRONMENT. ..........................71 TELEPHONE USE BY STUDENTS ........................................................................................................................71 CELLULAR TELEPHONES/PAGERS .............................................................................................................................71 Consequences for Cell Phone Infractions ...........................................................................................................71 STATE & LOCAL TESTING ...................................................................................................................................72 TEXTBOOKS .............................................................................................................................................................72 VIOLENCE, VANDALISM AND THREATS .........................................................................................................72 VISITORS TO SCHOOL ..........................................................................................................................................72 VOLUNTEERS ...........................................................................................................................................................73 WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS ................................................................................................73 WORLD LANGUAGE—SPANISH .........................................................................................................................73 SELECTED BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND NOTIFICATIONS ....................74 POLICY 2260—AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM FOR SCHOOL AND CLASSROOM PRACTICES ................................74 POLICY 2361—ACCEPTABLE USE OF COMPUTER NETWORK/COMPUTERS AND RESOURCES ...................................75 Standards for Use of Computer Networks...........................................................................................................76 Internet Safety/Protection ...................................................................................................................................76 Consent Requirement ..........................................................................................................................................77 Violations ............................................................................................................................................................77 POLICY 5111—ELIGIBILITY OF RESIDENT/NONRESIDENT PUPILS ...........................................................................77 Eligibility to Attend School .................................................................................................................................78 Proof of Eligibility ...............................................................................................................................................79 Initial Assessment and Enrollment ......................................................................................................................79 Notice of Ineligibility ...........................................................................................................................................80 Removal of Currently Enrolled Pupils ................................................................................................................80 Appeal to the Commissioner ...............................................................................................................................80 Assessment and Calculation of Tuition ...............................................................................................................81 Nonresident Pupils ..............................................................................................................................................81 Children Who Anticipate Moving to or from the District ...................................................................................81 Children of District Employees ...........................................................................................................................81 Other Nonresident Children ................................................................................................................................81 POLICY 5330—ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION ..................................................................................................81 Authorization for Medication to be Taken During School Hours Form .............................................................84 Permission for Self-Administration of Medication Form ....................................................................................85 POLICY 5331—MANAGEMENT OF LIFE-THREATENING ALLERGIES IN SCHOOLS.....................................................86 POLICY 5350—PUPIL SUICIDE PREVENTION ............................................................................................................87
POLICY 5410—PROMOTION AND RETENTION ..........................................................................................................88
POLICY 5512- HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING .................................................................................89 POLICY 5512.02—CYBER-BULLYING ....................................................................................................................102 Policy Statement ................................................................................................................................................102 Definitions .........................................................................................................................................................102 6
Reporting Procedure and Investigation ............................................................................................................102 Discipline and Consequences ............................................................................................................................103 Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited ....................................................................................................................103 Consequences for False Accusation ..................................................................................................................103 Policy Publication .............................................................................................................................................104 POLICY 5513—CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY .........................................................................................................104 POLICY 5530—ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS .......................................................................................................104 Definitions .........................................................................................................................................................104 Discipline ..........................................................................................................................................................105 Instruction .........................................................................................................................................................105 Identification, Evaluation, and Intervention .....................................................................................................105 In-Service Training ...........................................................................................................................................107 Outreach to Parents ..........................................................................................................................................107 Records ..............................................................................................................................................................108 Nonpublic School Pupils ...................................................................................................................................108 Civil Immunity ...................................................................................................................................................108 Reporting Pupils to Law Enforcement Authorities ...........................................................................................109 Policy Review and Accessibility ........................................................................................................................109 POLICY 5600—PUPIL DISCIPLINE/CODE OF CONDUCT ...........................................................................................109 POLICY 5751—SEXUAL HARASSMENT (STUDENTS) ..............................................................................................111 POLICY 5770—PUPIL RIGHT OF PRIVACY ..............................................................................................................112 POLICY 7422—SCHOOL INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PLAN .........................................................................113 IPM Coordinator (IPMC) .................................................................................................................................113 Integrated Pest Management Procedures in Schools .......................................................................................113 Development of IPM plans ................................................................................................................................113 Education/Training ...........................................................................................................................................114 Recordkeeping ...................................................................................................................................................114 Notification/Posting ..........................................................................................................................................114 Re-entry .............................................................................................................................................................114 Pesticide Applicators.........................................................................................................................................114 Evaluation .........................................................................................................................................................114 POLICY 7441—ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE IN SCHOOL BUILDINGS AND ON SCHOOL GROUNDS........................115 POLICY 8420—EMERGENCY AND CRISIS SITUATIONS ...........................................................................................115 POLICY 8505—SCHOOL NUTRITION .......................................................................................................................116 POLICY 8601—PUPIL SUPERVISION AFTER SCHOOL DISMISSAL ............................................................................118 POLICY 9560—ADMINISTRATION OF SCHOOL SURVEYS ........................................................................................119 POLICY 9700—SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS ...........................................................................................................120 NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA ..............................................................................................................121 NOTICE AND CONSENT/OPT-OUT FOR SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES ..................................................................................122
COMPUTER NETWORK ACCEPTABLE USE GUIDELINES ............................................................................................123
NOTES .......................................................................................................................................................................125 WANAQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS CALENDAR ...................................................................................................126 7
School And Office Information
Office hours for the district are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
The main telephone number for the school district is:
(973) 835-8200
All district schools and offices can be reached via the above telephone number.
Wanaque Board of Education Office
Office of the Superintendent of Schools
973-A Ringwood Ave.
Haskell, NJ 07420
FAX: 973-835-1316
Business Office for the Wanaque Board of Education
973-A Ringwood Ave.
Haskell, NJ 07420
FAX: 973-835-8754
Schools
Haskell School
973 Ringwood Ave.
Haskell, NJ 07420
FAX: 973-835-3690
Wanaque School
First Street
Wanaque, NJ 07465
FAX: 973-839-0843
Hours for students are 8:45 am to 3:16 pm.
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Board of Education Information
Mission Statement for the Wanaque Public Schools
The following is the mission statement, approved by the board of education, for the Wanaque Board
of Education and the Wanaque Public Schools:
The Wanaque Public School District, a unified community in partnership with students in
grades PreK-8, parents, and staff, engages all students by providing an enriched academic
and social foundation that fosters a love of learning, where all students achieve the New
Jersey Common Core Standards at all grade levels, thereby creating informed citizens
ready to meet the varying challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Recognizing and providing positive learning experiences necessary to foster the
intellectual, social, physical, and emotional development of the individual child will
accomplish this mission.
Board of Education Meetings
The Board of Education has two public monthly meetings. At the regular meetings, actions are taken
on a wide variety of topics, e.g., district policies, financial expenditures, curriculum items and
personnel decisions. At the Work Session Meeting, topics are discussed and committee reports are
presented to the entire Board. Generally, no actions are taken at Work Session meetings, however,
the Board does have the option to take action should the need arise. A schedule of meetings is listed
below.
Special meetings of the Board may be called when needed. Advance notice of special meetings will
be posted in the Record and the Suburban Trends, and, if time permits, in the schools, and on the
district’s website.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend and participate in meetings of the Board of
Education. Two opportunities are provided for comments from the public. The first opportunity,
around the beginning of the meeting, is for members of the public to comment on agenda items. The
second opportunity is at the end of the meeting where comments on any topic are invited. The Board
may limit the time an individual may speak as well as the amount of meeting time is devoted to
comments from the public.
General Information
The Wanaque Board of Education consists of nine elected members. Each year, three members are
elected to three-year terms. The function of the Board is to set goals and establish policies for the
district. The Board adopts the annual budget and makes decisions on a wide variety of educational
concerns. The Board of Education serves as a communication link between schools and community.
If you would like further information on becoming a Board member, please contact the Board
Secretary at the central office.
Public Notices
As required by federal and state health and environmental regulations, any member of the community
may review the Asbestos Management Plan. This document is on file in the Board of Education
Office at 973-A Ringwood Avenue, Haskell, NJ 07420.
The district curriculum guides and school goals and child services are annually adopted by the Board
of Education. Interested parties may review adopted programs by contacting the Office of the
Superintendent.
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Information for Voters
At the annual school election, which will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2015, voters choose
members of the 9-member Board of Education for the coming year. To be eligible to vote, borough
residents must be at least 18 years old on the date of the election and be citizens of the United States.
Borough residents must have been living in the state and county for 30 days, and must have registered
at least 30 days before the election. Anyone registered to vote in general elections may also vote in
school elections.
Absentee ballots may be obtained from the Office of the Passaic County Clerk.
10
Approved Board of Education Meeting Dates for the 2015-2016 School Year
WANAQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
WORKSHOP/REGULAR MEETINGS
2015/2016
BOARD MEETINGS
LOCATION
August 25, 2015
Workshop/Regular
Haskell
September 29, 2015
Workshop/Regular
Wanaque
October 20, 2015
Workshop/Regular
Haskell
November 24, 2015
Workshop/Regular
Wanaque
December 15, 2015
Workshop/Regular
Haskell
Please check the website for 2016 Board Meeting dates after the December meeting.
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Directory
Wanaque Public Schools
2015-2016
Board Of Education Members
Mr. Robert Barnhardt, President
Mrs. Dana Imbasciani, Vice President
Mrs. Angela Demetriou
Mrs. Jill Nitkinas
Mr. Richard McFarlane
Mrs. Liautaud-Watkins
Mr. Thomas Paster
Mr. Daniel Sinclair
Mr. Charles Strobel
District Administrative Staff
Ms. Donna L. Cardiello, Superintendent of Schools
Mrs. Nancy DiBartolo, Business Administrator/Board Secretary
Mrs. Lynda D’Angiolillo, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development
Ms. Celia Pino-Morales, Principal—Haskell School
Mr. Charles Frick, Principal – Wanaque School
Mr. Patrick Sarullo, Assistant Principal – Wanaque School
Mrs. Marlene Yanuzzi, Educational Consultant
Child Study Team/Special Services
Ms. Carol Hesse, School Social Worker
Mrs. Rosa Hanley, School Psychologist
Ms. Nicole Protomastro, School
Psychologist
Mr. Canaan Bump, Learning Disability
Teacher Consultant
Mrs. Eileen Pricken R.N. – School Nurse,
Haskell School
Mrs. Christine Centi R.N. – School Nurse,
Wanaque School
Guidance Counselors
Mrs. Elyse Zucker, Haskell School
Mrs. Allison Mauro, Wanaque School
Support Staff
Mrs. Alice Lewis, Administrative Secretary,
Superintendent’s Office
Mrs. Danielle Cierech, Secretary, Wanaque School
Ms. Vanessa Coronado, Secretary, Haskell School and
Curriculum Office
Mrs. Gina Huster, Secretary, Child Study Team
Mrs. Roseann Silvestri, Secretary, Haskell School
Mr. Ed Flores, Bookkeeper
Molly Reith, Administrative Secretary, Business Office
Maintenance
Mr. Frank Sierra
Mr. Ronald Burrofato
Tri-District Substance Awareness Coordinator
Dr. Raymond Danziger
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Affirmative Action
In accordance with state and federal mandates, the Wanaque Borough Board of Education adopted an
Affirmative Action plan for school and classroom practices and employment and contractual
practices. The Board will guarantee each child and each employee in the public school district equal
education and employment opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry,
national origin, social or economic status.
To oversee the operation of this policy, the Board of Education has appointed
Mrs. Lynda D’Angiolillo as Affirmative Action Officer for the Wanaque Public School District.
Copies of Wanaque’s Affirmative Action Policy 2260 are available on the district’s website at
www.wanaqueps.org.
Any complaints that the guidelines of the Affirmative Action Program are not being followed should
be handled through the district’s regular grievance procedure.
Arrival at School/Dismissal from School
Students are expected to arrive at school between 8:30 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. Prior to that time, no
supervision is available. Students will be admitted at 8:45 a.m. On days of inclement weather, when
deemed necessary, students will be permitted to enter the building at 8:30 a.m. Students will enter
through their assigned entrance and proceed to designated areas.
Students will be dismissed at 3:16 p.m. unless there are other circumstances (early dismissal,
detention etc.) Upon dismissal, students must leave the school grounds and proceed home or to a
previously designated location.
Hours of Sessions-Regular Schedule
Students in Grades K-8
8:45 a.m. to
3:16 p.m.
A.M. Session
9:00 a.m. to
11:15 a.m.
P.M. Session
12:45 p.m. to
3:00 p.m.
Preschoolers
Lunch periods
All students in a full day program receive a 40-minute lunch period during the regular school day.
Hours of Sessions-Delayed Opening Schedule
Students in Grades K-8
10:15 a.m. to
3:16 p.m.
Preschoolers
A.M. Session
10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
P.M. Session
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Lunch Periods
All students in a full day program receive a 30-minute lunch period on days when a delayed opening
schedule is utilized.
13
Early Dismissal Schedule
During the course of the school year, it may be necessary to dismiss school early to facilitate teacher
workshops and/or days preceding a holiday. In such a case, the following early dismissal schedule
shall be utilized:
Students in Grades K -8
8:45 a.m. to 1:16 p.m.
Preschoolers
A.M. Session
P.M. Session
8:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
11:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Lunch periods
No lunch will be served on early dismissal days.
Supervision at Dismissal—Policy 8601
Any parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a pupil attending a district-operated school or program where the
pupil is not eligible for district-provided transportation or is eligible and elects not to use districtprovided transportation after dismissal, may request the school or program not release the pupil to
walk home after dismissal unless the pupil is released to the parent(s) or legal guardians(s) or
escort(s) designated by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
requesting their child(ren) only be released to a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or parent(s) or legal
guardian(s)-designated escort after dismissal must submit a completed Request for Supervision at
Dismissal from School Form to the Principal or designee, or program administrator. The form shall
be made available in the Main Office of the school building or the location of the program.
The pupils, whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have opted for this mode of dismissal, shall be
supervised by school staff in a designated area of the school building and will only be released when
the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or designated escort arrives to pick up the pupil and signs the pupil
out of school.
The full text of Policy 8601 is included in the Policy section at the end of this handbook.
Supervision after Dismissal
Pupil supervision by school district personnel is only available for a very short time after dismissal.
In an emergency situation, students can be held in the school office until it closes at 4:00 p.m. In the
event that a student is not picked up by 4:00 p.m., the school will be required to contact both the
Wanaque Police Department and the Division of Children and Youth Services (DYFS) to assume
supervision of the child. Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to keep their emergency
contact information current to avoid this situation from occurring.
Before and After School Child Care
Both Haskell and Wanaque Schools provide before and after school programs for children operated
by the YMCA. There is a charge for children to attend these programs. Additional information may
be obtained at the main office at each school.
In the event a child is routinely not picked up in a timely manner at dismissal time, the child will be
sent to the YMCA program that is located in the school. Parents and guardians will be assessed a fee
by the YMCA for this service.
14
Additional Information
Students, who arrive any time after 8:45 a.m., must report directly to the office with their parent or
guardian.
Students who leave before the end of the day are to be signed out by a parent or guardian. The
schools will only release children to adults designated by the parent on the emergency card.
If there is a special circumstance, such as a court order limiting access to a student by a parent or
guardian, affecting whom a student can be released to, the Principal/Assistant Principal must be
informed and provided with a copy of that order to maintain on file at the school.
Attendance
The Board of Education requires that the pupils enrolled in the schools of this district attend school
regularly in accordance with the laws of this state. The educational program offered by this district is
predicated upon the presence of the pupil and requires continuity of instruction and classroom
participation. The regular contact of pupils with one another in the classroom and their participation
in a well-planned instructional activity under the tutelage of a competent teacher are vital to this
purpose.
The District’s policy requiring regular attendance is not intended to have students attend school when
their health is such that their learning would be impaired or they could infect other students. To
emphasize the need for children who are ill to stay home from school, the Wanaque Public Schools
will no longer provide awards for Perfect or Near-Perfect Attendance. The wish to obtain an award
for attendance at school should not be at the expense of a child’s long-term health or the health of
others.
Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in the schools during the days and hours that the
school is in session. All absences occasioned by the observance of the student’s religion on a day
approved by the Board as a religious holiday shall be excused, and no student so excused shall be
deprived of an award or eligibility to compete for an award or the opportunity to make up a test given
on the religious holiday.
A family vacation, when school is in session, is not an excused absence from school and is legally
considered to be truancy. Teachers are not required, nor encouraged, to provide work for students
who are absent from school for an unexcused reason.
In accordance with state statute, the Board shall require from the parent of each child who has
been absent from school or from class for any reason a written statement of the cause for such
absence. The Board reserves the right to verify such statements and to investigate the cause of
each absence of more than three (3) days duration and repeated, unexplained absences or
tardiness.
The Board Policy relative to attendance is as follows:
1. Maximum number of absences permitted is twenty (20). All absences will be counted. It is the
intention of this policy that the permitted number of absences will provide for normal illnesses.
2. Definition of Absence—A student will be considered absent for the purpose of this policy, for the
following reasons:
a) When the student fails to report for school on the first day of school and on any other school
day.
b) When the student fails to report to homeroom on time, one (1) absence will be charged for
each six (6) tardies.
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c) When a student is absent for two and one-half hours, this will be considered as a half-day
absence. Any time less than two and one-half hours, a student will be considered tardy.
3. School District Response To Unexcused Absences During the School Year
1. For up to four cumulative unexcused absences, the Building Principal or designee shall:
1. Make a reasonable attempt to notify the pupil’s parent or legal guardian of each
unexcused absence prior to the start of the following school day;
2. Conduct an investigation of the cause of each unexcused absence, including contact with
the pupil’s parent or legal guardian;
3. Develop an action plan in consultation with the pupil’s parent or legal guardian designed
to address patterns of unexcused absences, if any, and to have the child return to school
and maintain regular attendance;
4. Proceed in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 9:6-1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:1611, if a potentially missing or child abuse situation is detected; and
5. Cooperate with law enforcement and other authorities and agencies, as appropriate.
2. For between five and nine cumulative unexcused absences, the Building Principal or designee
shall:
1. Make a reasonable attempt to notify the pupil’s parent or legal guardian of each
unexcused absence prior to the start of the following school day;
2. Conduct a follow-up investigation, including contact with the pupil’s parent or legal
guardian, to determine the cause of each unexcused absence;
3. Evaluate the appropriateness of the action plan developed pursuant to 3.a.3. above;
4. Revise the action plan, as needed, to identify patterns of unexcused absences and
establish outcomes based upon the pupil’s needs and specify the interventions for
achieving the outcomes, supporting the pupil’s return to school and regular attendance
that may include any or all of the following:
i. Refer or consult with the building’s Intervention and Referral Services Team,
pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8;
ii. Conduct testing, assessments, or evaluations of the pupil’s academic, behavioral,
and health needs;
iii. Consider an alternate educational placement;
iv. Make a referral to a community-based social and health provider agency or other
community resource;
v. Refer to the court program designated by the New Jersey Administrative Office
of the Courts; and
vi. Proceed in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 9:6 et seq. and N.J.A.C.
6A:16-11, if a potentially missing or child abuse situation is detected.
5. Cooperate with law enforcement and other authorities and agencies, as appropriate.
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3. For cumulative unexcused absences of ten or more, the pupil between the ages of six and
sixteen is truant, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-27, and the Building Principal or designee
shall:
1. Make a mandatory referral to the court program required by the New Jersey
Administrative Office of the Courts;
2. Make a reasonable attempt to notify the pupil’s parent or legal guardian of the mandatory
referral;
3. Continue to consult with the parent or legal guardian and the involved agencies to support
the pupil’s return to school and regular attendance;
4. Cooperate with law enforcement and other authorities and agencies, as appropriate; and
5. Proceed in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:38-28 through 31, Article 3B, Compelling
Attendance at School, and other applicable State and Federal statutes, as required.
4. Appeals Process—The Board, to insure due process relative to the policy, has established an
Appeal process as follows:
Level I
Appeal: Any request for appeal must be made in writing to the Principal/Assistant Principal
within three (3) school days of notification of action to be taken regarding students’ violation
of attendance requirement.
Level II
Appeal: Any appeal of a Level I decision shall be made in writing to the Superintendent of
Schools within three (3) school days of notification by the Principal/Assistant Principal. The
Superintendent will schedule a meeting with the parents and within five (5) school days of
said meeting will render a decision in the matter.
Level III
Appeal: Any request for appeal of the Level II decision must be made to the Board of
Education in writing within three (3) days of notification of the Superintendent’s decision. A
hearing by the Board will take place that will include all the involved parties. The final
decision in this matter will rest with the Board of Education
Student Absence from School
A written and signed letter by a parent or guardian must be presented to the homeroom teacher after
an absence. This note must include the student’s name, homeroom, telephone number, date, and
reason for absence.
To help determine that all children are safe and accounted for, if a student will be absent from school
for any reason, parents are requested to contact the absence verification line prior to 8:45 a.m., using
the district’s main telephone number:
(973) 835-8200 and following the telephone prompts to reach the proper extension for your school.
*Any student that is absent from school may not attend after school activities without approval from
the building Principal/Vice-Principal.
Make-Up Work after Absence from School
The responsibility for making up work rests with the students. He/she should arrange with the teacher
to make up work missed. Twenty-four hour advanced notice is required for work to be sent home for
two (2) or more consecutive days of illness.
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Tardiness to School
Parents or guardians should bring students who are late to school into the office for sign in purposes.
Six (6) tardies will equal one (1) absence and can affect a perfect attendance record. Disciplinary
action may be taken for excessive tardiness or for not following proper sign in procedures.
Bicycle/Scooter Safety
Due to traffic hazards, it is recommended that your child walk to school. As per Board of Education
policy, only children in grades 4-8 will be permitted to ride their bicycles/scooters to school. If a
bicycle/scooter is ridden, please impress upon your child the importance of the following:
1. Wear an approved bicycle/scooter helmet at all times.
2. Observe all traffic regulations.
3. Do not ride on the main streets in town. Walk the bicycle/scooter on the sidewalk.
4. Keep to the right in a straight line and single file.
5. Give proper signals before turning or stopping.
6. No double riding, trick or stunt riding in the streets.
7. Walk the bicycle/scooter on the school grounds.
8. Park and lock your bicycle/scooter in the bicycle rack. The school district is not liable for any
lost or stolen bicycle/scooter.
It is recommended that no pupil be permitted to ride a bicycle/scooter to and from school during
periods when snow or ice are on the ground or during inclement weather.
The Wanaque Public Schools recognizes the importance of students following the safety rules that
govern bicycle/scooter use. Students, who continue to not exhibit safe operation of their
bicycle/scooter after warning from school personnel, will lose the privilege of riding the
bicycle/scooter to and from school.
New Jersey Bicycle Helmet Law—Title 39:4-10.1
In New Jersey, anyone under 17 years of age that rides a bicycle or is a passenger on a bicycle, or is
towed as a passenger by a bicycle must wear a safety helmet.
On August 1, 1998, this helmet law was extended to include roller and inline skates and skateboards.
Roller skates mean a pair of devices worn on the feet with a set of wheels attached, regardless of the
number or placement of those wheels and used to glide or propel the user over the ground.
The definition of bicycle with reference to the helmet legislation is a vehicle with two wheels
propelled solely by human power and having pedals, handle bars and a saddle-like seat. The term
shall include a bicycle for two or more persons having seats and corresponding pedals arranged in
tandem.
All helmets must be properly fastened and fitted. Bicycle helmets must meet the federal standards
developed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) effective March 10, 1999, that
ensure the best head protection and strong chin straps to keep the helmet in place during a fall or
collision. Also acceptable are helmets meeting the Snell Memorial Foundation’s 1990 Standard for
Protection Headgear.
Exemptions from the helmet requirement are persons who operate or ride a bicycle (as a driver or a
passenger) on a roadway closed to motor traffic; on a trail, route, course, boardwalk, path or area set
aside only for the use of bicycles. These exemptions do not apply if the areas of operation are
adjacent to a roadway and not separated from motor vehicle traffic by a barrier that
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prevents the bicycle from entering the roadway. Bicyclists or passengers operating in an area where
helmets are not required who need to cross a road or highway should walk with the bicycle.
Initial violators of the helmet law will receive warnings. For minors, the parent or legal guardian may
be fined a maximum of $25 for the 1st offense and a maximum of $100 for subsequent offense(s), if
lack of parental supervision contributed to the offense.
Bicycle salespersons and rental agents must display a sign at least 15 inches long and 8 inches wide at
the point where the transaction is completed when they sell or rent a bicycle. This sign should read:
“STATE LAW REQUIRES A BICYCLE RIDER UNDER 17 YEARS TO WEAR A HELMET.” In
the case of bicycle rentals, the salesperson/rental agent must provide a helmet, if necessary, for a fee.
Law Governing Bicycle Safety
For your information, the following information is provided directly from Title 39 of the Motor
Vehicles and Traffic Regulation laws, which regulates bicycling in New Jersey:
“Bicycle” means any two wheeled vehicle having a rear drive which is solely human powered and
having a seat height of 25 inches or greater when the seat is in the lowest adjustable position.
When in use at nighttime every bicycle shall be equipped with:
1. A front headlamp emitting a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front;
2. A rear lamp emitting a red light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the rear;
3. In addition to the red lamp a red reflector may be mounted on the rear.
A bicycle must be equipped with a bell or other audible device that can be heard at least 100 feet
away, but not a siren or whistle.
A bicycle must be equipped with a brake that can make wheels skid while stopping on dry, level,
clean pavement.
Bicyclists should not drive the bicycle with feet removed from the pedals, or with both hands
removed from the handlebars, nor practice any trick or fancy driving in a street. Limit passengers to
only the number the bicycle is designed and equipped to carry (the number of seats it has).
Hitching on a vehicle is prohibited. No person riding a bicycle shall attach himself or herself to any
streetcar or vehicle.
Every person riding a bicycle on a roadway is granted all the rights and subject to all of the duties of
the motor vehicle driver.
Every person riding a bicycle on a roadway shall ride as near to the right roadside as practicable
exercising due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction. A
bicyclist may move left under any of the following conditions:
1. To make a left turn from a left turn lane or pocket
2. To avoid debris, drains, or other hazardous conditions on the right
3. To pass a slower moving vehicle
4. To occupy any available lane when traveling at the same speed as other traffic
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5. To travel no more than two abreast when traffic is not impeded, but otherwise ride in single file.
Every person riding a bicycle should ride in the same direction as vehicular traffic.
In New Jersey, the law states a bicyclist must obey all state and local automobile driving laws. A
parent may be held responsible for the child’s violation of any traffic law.
Breakfast Program
Breakfast is served daily, at Haskell School only, from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m., and is available to all
students. In the event of a delayed school opening, however, breakfast will not be served.
The breakfast menu is designed to ensure that a child’s recommended dietary allowances are met.
Students who are eligible for free lunch under the state and federal programs are eligible for free
breakfast as well. Similarly, students who are eligible for reduced price lunch under those programs
are also eligible for reduced price breakfast.
Item ...................................................................Price
Reduced price student breakfast: ..................... $0.30
Full price student breakfast: ............................. $1.50
Bus Transportation
It is expected that all students maintain good behavior on buses at all times. The privilege of bus
transportation may be provided to eligible students providing the following safety rules, regulations,
and pupil responsibilities are followed:
1. Routes and stops are assigned. Students are expected to board and leave the bus at designated
stops.
2. Students are not permitted to ride on other buses unless authorized by the Principal/Assistant
Principal.
3. Relatives and visitors are not permitted to ride on the school bus.
4. Students are expected to:
a. Arrive on time for scheduled pick up.
b. Enter the bus in an orderly fashion.
c. Remain seated at all times when the bus is in motion.
d. Follow the instructions of the bus driver.
e. Be quiet, orderly and courteous.
f.
Be alert to safety procedures should an emergency arise. The rear door is to be used for
emergency situations only.
Yelling, hitting, inappropriate language and unauthorized movement are behavior infractions.
Students who misbehave are subject to school consequences, such as detention and suspension.
Removal from the bus can occur at the discretion of the Superintendent, Principal/Assistant Principal
or the bus company.
Procedures for Students Who Are Bussed To School
1. Students are met by a teacher and the teacher takes attendance.
2. The teacher and the students are walked to the assigned grade level area and supervised by a
teacher (identified areas for line-up).
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3. At 8:45 a.m., students are brought to homeroom by their teacher.
4. On all inclement weather days, ALL students are escorted into the building.
5. Students must have a signed note stating that they are NOT taking the bus home.
Afternoon Procedures
1. An adult (teacher or assistant) picks up kindergarten, first and second graders and walks them to
designed location where teacher on duty walks all students to the bus. Prior to entering the bus,
teacher on duty takes attendance.
2. All third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth graders are escorted to the bus and attendance is
taken one more time before the bus departs.
Bus Transportation for Students with Disabilities
First and foremost, parents and guardians should be aware that the majority of our students, who
receive special education services and ride a bus to school, do so on a regular bus. Transportation is a
related service that may be provided to a child if he or she physically, mentally, or emotionally meets
the requirements for special education transportation. Whether or not a child requires special needs
transportation is considered during the annual Individual Education Program (IEP) planning meeting.
Similarly, any child with an educational handicap who does not qualify for special transportation
services during the regular school year is typically not eligible for special transportation during an
extended school year (ESY) program, should the child qualify for ESY.
If transportation is in question, parents should document their reason(s) why transportation services
should be provided by the school district. For example, a letter of explanation from a licensed
physician documenting a medical condition that would warrant transportation should be provided to
the child’s case manager in advance of the IEP meeting so the information can be given proper
consideration by the full Child Study Team.
Special needs bus service is a shared responsibility between parents, the child, drivers, bus attendants,
the transportation office, as well as special education school personnel. Students with disabilities on
the special education bus may ride with drivers, attendants, personal attendants, nursing personnel
and other student riders. Some of these individuals may be present on the bus providing direct
services, while others are behind the scenes and provide important supportive help. All of these
individuals, including the parent or guardian play an important and supportive role toward a
successful and safe student school bus ride.
Parents must communicate promptly with the bus driver or school personnel if the child is
experiencing problems on the bus. Waiting too long to discuss problems can be a serious mistake as,
at that point, little can be done to improve the services that have already been provided.
Parents are required to provide an authorized and responsible adult to accept the student, if they are
not personally available during drop-off. The bus driver will inform parents how to communicate
with them in the event the child will be absent or late.
Parents should notify both transportation and school specifically when their child will not ride the
bus. For example, a parental call about their child not being on the morning bus does not make clear
if the child will require afternoon bus service. Be specific. Parents should notify transportation and
the school about prolonged student rider absences.
Please comply with the established school bus schedules. Have the child ready at least five (5)
minutes before the route pickup each school day.
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Be patient. Wait, if necessary, during a ten (10) minute window for the bus to arrive before calling to
find out the location of the bus. The ten (10) minute window includes five (5) minutes before and
after the bus arrival time. Be aware that traffic patterns, new students to transport, route changes,
substitute drivers, acts of nature and other things beyond the control of the driver can lead to
occasional delays in student arrival or departures. This is especially true at the beginning of the
school year when bus schedules are “ironed out.”
Be flexible. Adjust to bus time changes when notified by transportation.
Please be aware that pick-up for special bus service will be provided at one, consistent location.
Similarly, drop-off will be provided at one, consistent location. Special bus service cannot be
provided at varying pick-up and drop-off locations. A minimum notice of 10 school days is needed to
complete a request to change a pick-up or drop-off location as changing a bus service has a major
impact on school bus schedules that has the potential to affect other passengers on the special
education bus.
Students must demonstrate appropriate behavior while on the bus. Seat belts must be worn at all
times. Students who do not (or are not able) comply with maintaining their seatbelt will require the
use of a seat harness to ensure a safe and secure ride.
When parents or other responsible adults are not present to receive the student at the assigned dropoff location, emergency drop-off procedures will be instituted. Drivers will link with the school or
transportation office to call the parent or guardian at a pre-arranged telephone number. This usually
resolves the “parent no-show problem” unless the parent has experienced an emergency.
In the case of an emergency, where the parent or guardian is unable to accept the child, the driver will
deliver the child to a pre-arranged emergency drop-off location, if one has been arranged and if the
emergency drop-off person is present at that location. In the event that the child must be delivered
somewhere other than the regular site, the individual(s) receiving the child must be named on the
emergency card and must be capable of producing picture forms of identification.
If an alternate location has not been established, the bus driver will contact the school and make
arrangements for returning the child to the school, where parent/guardian and persons on the school
emergency contact list will be called. If no one can be located to accept the child or there is a
continual problem with having a student met at the designated drop-off location, the school system
will be required to involve the appropriate social service agencies such as the Department of Children
and Family Services (DYFS) or the Wanaque Police Department.
Character Education
The Wanaque Board of Education is committed to the infusion of character education into all aspects
of school life in every building in the district. This initiative must become an integral part of the
fabric of the school culture. Administrators, teachers and staff will be asked to stress a series of
universal character virtues in their daily contacts with students. These virtues include: humility,
courage, self-discipline, forgiveness, generosity, honesty, justice, kindness, loyalty, hope, moderation,
patience, perseverance, prudence, respect, responsibility, simplicity, spirituality, tolerance and hard
work.
According to Theodore Roosevelt, “To educate someone to be smart and not good is to create a
menace.” The acts of violence that have occurred in our schools across the country all have a
common thread. The students who committed these horrendous acts were disenfranchised and
disconnected from the school life that surrounded them. The safety of our schools depends on the
creation of a culture and climate that promotes caring and understanding.
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The institutions of our society are failing us. Statistics tell us that one in five children live in a home
with an alcohol or drug issue, one in four children will never know their father and 50% of our
children live in a divorced family. In addition, our schools are more diverse, our society rewards
improper behavior and our world has become desensitized to violence.
Thomas Lickona author of Educating For Character states, “Respect and responsibility are the ‘fourth
and fifth R’s’ that schools must teach if they are to develop ethically literate individuals to take their
place as citizens in our society.”
The goals of the Wanaque Character Education Initiative include:
1. To infuse character virtues into the curriculum Pre-K to 8.
2. To provide strong peer leadership programs in schools.
3. To create an atmosphere of respect, responsibility and non-violence in the schools and
classrooms.
4. To encourage the demonstration of character virtues in students.
5. To develop a strong guidance and counseling program to provide support.
6. To include the services of Cops in School officers in character education and school safety
programs.
7. To educate and include parents in the character education initiative.
Child Abuse/Neglect
The Wanaque Board of Education believes that the physical and mental well being of all children in
its charge must be maintained as a prerequisite to learning. Thus, the district is cognizant of the
importance of early identification of child abuse and/or neglect. School personnel will cooperate in
accordance with state law and the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) in the
identification, immediate reporting and investigation of the allegations of child abuse.
Class Placement/Teacher Selection
Class placement for the next grade is arrived at through a careful and thoughtful process involving a
team composed of the school’s professional staff. Parents or guardians are invited to share their
views regarding the class placement of their child with the Principal in person or in writing. Parents
or guardians should address the qualities of a teacher they believe would best work with their child
and not request a specific teacher for their child as requests of this type are not given any additional
consideration in the placement process.
Parents or guardians are requested not to ask faculty or staff members for their personal
recommendation regarding a class placement for their child. Faculty and staff members are required
to direct such inquiries to the principal as, he or she, with input from the professional staff, is in the
best position to make that judgment, given his or her knowledge of the entire faculty and the needs of
the student.
The Principal has the final word in class placement decisions.
Communications and Publications
Open communication between the home and the school is encouraged. Along with the regular notices
sent home each month, the Principal may send home a newsletter and calendar. These will inform
parents and students of early dismissals, assembly programs, PTA events, awards assemblies,
parent/teacher conference dates and other events during that month.
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Teacher Communication: Teachers communicate with parents in a variety of ways that may include:
newsletter, flyers, teacher-parent communication books, and the like. Parents should contact their
child’s teacher(s) whenever they have a question or concern regarding their child’s school
performance.
Principal/PTA Newsletter: The Principal in each of the district’s schools communicates between the
school and the home through a school PTA newsletter. The intent of these publications is to inform
members in the school community of the daily and long-term activities taking place in the schools
and more specifically in the classrooms.
Superintendent’s Newsletter: This is published periodically and sent to all residences and business in
the Borough via the US Mail. It contains information regarding educational programs, important
dates, curriculum information and advertisement of district-wide events and programs.
To call any school building or school district department requires only one telephone number:
(973) 835-8200. You will be directed, via a menu of options, to the appropriate extension. Every
teacher has their own voice mailbox in an effort to facilitate parent communication with their child’s
teachers.
Delayed Opening/Emergency Closing of Schools’ Procedures
The safety of the students is the first priority when handling an unforeseen situation that may require
a school closing, delayed opening or shortened school day with dismissal earlier than the normally
scheduled time of 3:16 p.m. Should this occur, the district will make every effort to notify parents via
all means possible including announcements on NEWS and the Wanaque Borough Schools website,
www.wanaqueps.org. In addition, for delayed openings and morning closings of school, the
Wanaque Public Schools uses an automated calling program to inform parents about the status of
school for the day.
Delayed Opening or Morning Closing Of School:
•
Announcements on radio and TV explain status.
•
No later than 7:15 a.m., a decision will be made to close school or have a delayed opening.
•
If a delayed opening is the decision, there will be a 90-minute delay: instructional personnel will
arrive at 10:00 a.m., with students arriving at 10:15 a.m.
While the district uses an automatic dialing system to alert parents about an emergency closing of
school, please remember that every system fails to work at some time. Therefore, the importance of
listening for radio and television announcements must be urgently stressed as another source of
communication in the notification procedure.
PLEASE NOTE - Do not call the Wanaque Borough Police Department for information relative to
school closing and/or delayed opening.
Emergency Closing Of School After Children Have Arrived In The Building:
As a district, we will be sending home a letter requesting a verification of the emergency contact
telephone number the District has on file in the event of an emergency closing or any other general or
individual situation that requires the immediate presence of a parent/guardian. While the District’s
automated emergency calling program does a good job of notifying parents and
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guardians about school closings prior to students arriving at school, the system is not as adept at
contacting parents at work as the system requires a direct number and will not go through
switchboards, operators, or auto-attended answering systems.
No child will be released from school during an emergency closing unless the parent, guardian, or
emergency contact person is directly contacted. An e-mail message, or message on an answering
machine, is not sufficient. In the event that a parent or guardian does not have such a number or
cannot be contacted, if conditions allow, the child will be held in school until the normal dismissal
time. If the parent or guardian has not arrived to pick up the child by the normal dismissal time, the
Wanaque Police Department or the Department of Children and Youth Services will be contacted.
Discipline
The Board of Education acknowledges that conduct and classroom management are integral to the
learning process for pupils. An effective instructional program requires an orderly school
environment, which is reflected in the behavior of our students.
The Board believes that the pupils should be encouraged to develop character and self-control;
respect for school property, themselves and others; responsibility for their own behavior; and, an
understanding of the consequences of their actions. All teachers utilize a systematic approach to
classroom management and student discipline that enables them to set firm and consistent limits
while providing the support and understanding pupils need to be successful. Students are required to
adhere to the rules, regulations and procedures. Students are to maintain acceptable and orderly
behavior, to respect people and property, and to obey and respond to those who represent authority.
Building Principals/Assistant Principals, and teachers will ensure that structure and routines are
established, articulated and enforced from the first day of school each year.
Wanaque Public Schools’ students are expected to display excellent behavior at all times for the
safety and well-being of the entire school community. We expect that students will:
Treat Others with Respect and Courtesy
Use Appropriate Language
Speak Positively to Others
Walk in Hallways & Around School
Grounds
Avoid Dangerous Items
Respect Property
Use “Inside Voices”
At times, students may choose to behave inappropriately or in a manner not up to our expectations.
We have identified some of the unacceptable behaviors.
Common Inappropriate Behavior
•
Mildly inappropriate language, (For
example: name calling)
•
Littering
•
Running in the hallways, stairways and
lunchrooms
•
Yelling
•
Gum chewing
•
Eating candy at inappropriate times
•
Wearing hats in school except on special
school occasions
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Serious Inappropriate Behavior
•
Seriously inappropriate language (For
example: swearing or gestures)
•
Assault (hitting a classmate or an adult)
•
Biting
•
Bullying
•
Leaving school without permission
•
Stealing
•
Spitting
•
Vandalism
•
Weapon possession
•
Throwing potentially dangerous objects
Common Inappropriate Behavior Procedures
These procedures serve as a guide for staff members to follow when a student exhibits a common
inappropriate behavior. (Steps are not required to be followed in order)
Please remember that consequences are most effective when implemented in a timely manner.
Grades Kindergarten Through 2
Steps:
1. Warning
2. Five minute time out
3. Lunch time out
4. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
5. Further action as deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal.
The teacher may repeat steps 1 and 2 at his or her discretion.
Grades 3 & 4
Steps:
1. Warning
2. Lunch time out
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action as deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal.
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Grades 5 through 8
Steps:
1. Warning
2. Lunch time out
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action as deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal.
Serious Inappropriate Behavior Procedures
These procedures serve as a guide for staff members to follow when a student exhibits a serious
inappropriate behavior. Depending upon the severity of the infraction, the Principal/Assistant
Principal may suspend a student for a first infraction. Serious inappropriate behaviors may include:
physical or verbal assault, biting, fighting, leaving school grounds, stealing, spitting at others,
bullying, and vandalism.
For a student of any age or grade level, the possession of a weapon in school or on school property at
any time (before, during, or after the school day) will be addressed immediately by an Administrator
who will contact the appropriate authorities in accordance with New Jersey Code.
Kindergarten through 2
Steps:
1. Staff member notifies Principal/Assistant Principal and follows up with a written report.
2. Principal/Assistant Principal contacts parent by telephone.
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action, if deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal, which may include further
after-school detention, lunchtime detention or suspension from school.
27
Grades 3 & 4
Steps:
1. Staff member notifies Principal/Assistant Principal and follows up with a written report.
2. Principal/Assistant Principal contacts parent by telephone.
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action, if deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal, which may include further
after-school detention, lunchtime detention or suspension from school.
Grades 5 - 8
Steps:
1. Staff member notifies Principal/Assistant Principal and follows up with a written report.
2. Principal/Assistant Principal contacts parent by telephone.
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action, if deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal, which may include further
after-school detention, lunchtime detention or suspension from school.
28
Lunchtime Behavior Guidelines
The goal of our lunchtime program is to ensure that all students may eat their lunch in a safe,
enjoyable environment and to play safely and cooperatively outside for recreation.
Students will be seated by grade and class during lunchtime Monday through Friday.
Common Inappropriate Behavior
•
Mildly inappropriate language (For
example: name calling/teasing)
•
Not keeping hands, feet, objects to
oneself
•
Littering
•
Not following lunchroom rules
•
Running in the lunchroom
•
Gum chewing
•
Yelling
Serious Inappropriate Behavior
•
Seriously inappropriate language (For
example: swearing)
•
Biting others
Bullying others
Being disrespectful to staff
members/aides
•
•
•
Stealing
•
Leaving the lunchroom/building without
permission
•
Spitting
•
Vandalism
Physical and verbal assault
•
Weapon possession
•
General Outside Lunchtime Safety Rules
•
“Keep Away” games are not permitted
•
Bats, hard baseballs or footballs, superballs, Frisbees or other potentially hazardous play items are
not permitted
•
Pushing is not permitted
•
Children must stay in designated area
•
Tackle football is never permitted
•
Children must not enter building without permission of staff member
•
Playground equipment must be used safely. Children must not go up the slides, stand on the
monkey bars, etc.
Recommended Lunchtime Consequences
Common Inappropriate Behavior
First time a student breaks a rule ............................. Warning
Second Time ............................................................ Loss of play privilege for one day or
removal to separate lunch table
Third Time ............................................................... Sent to Principal/Assistant Principal and loss
of lunchtime privileges for one day
Fourth Time ............................................................. Principal/Assistant Principal conferences
with parent and loss of lunchtime privileges
for up to one week
29
Repeated Infractions ................................................ Principal/Assistant Principal conferences
with parent to discuss further consequences,
which may include indefinite loss of lunch
privilege
Serious Inappropriate Behavior
These procedures serve as a guide for staff members to follow when a student exhibits a serious
inappropriate behavior. Depending upon the severity of the infraction, the Principal/Assistant
Principal may suspend a student for a first infraction. Serious inappropriate behaviors may
include: physical or verbal assault, biting, fighting, leaving school grounds, stealing, spitting at
others, bullying, and vandalism.
Kindergarten through 2
Steps:
1. Staff member notifies administrator and follows up with a report of the incident.
2. Administrator contacts parent by telephone.
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action, if deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal, which may include further
after-school detention, lunchtime detention or suspension from school.
Grades 3 & 4
Steps:
1. Staff member notifies Principal/Assistant Principal and follows up with a written report.
2. Principal/Assistant Principal contacts parent by telephone.
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action, if deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal, which may include further
after-school detention, lunchtime detention or suspension from school.
Grades 5 through 8
Steps:
1. Staff member notifies administrator and follows up with a written report.
2. Principal/Assistant Principal contacts parent by telephone.
3. Written behavioral referral (Principal/Assistant Principal or Teacher notifies parents)
4. Further action, if deemed appropriate by Principal/Assistant Principal, which may include further
after-school detention, lunchtime detention or suspension from school.
30
The following rules are in addition to the consequences stated earlier:
1. Any act of violence at school, or at a school-sponsored event, must result in a suspension from
school by the Principal/Assistant Principal.
2. Any profanity or abusive language directed at another person at school, or at a school-sponsored
event, must result in a suspension from school by the Principal/Assistant Principal.
3. Acts of vandalism and destruction to school or personal property will result in suspension and
financial restitution. Failure to provide restitution will exclude student from any future activity
considered to be outside of the student’s daily routine; i.e., field trips, dances, field day, etc.
4. Schools will implement a “log type” hall pass system indicating the date, time, and destination of
the student. The hall pass procedure must be monitored by teachers and administration.
5. Upon the third tardy to any class, student will receive a central detention and the building
Principal/Assistant Principal will contact parent/guardian, subject to a determination of the cause
of the tardies and attempts to remedy the problem. Repeat instances of tardies will result in
increasing before, or after for the purpose of making up missed class work.
6. Cutting a class shall result in a central detention and parent or guardian notification by the
Principal/Assistant Principal. Additional instances of cutting classes will result in increased
periods of time before or after school, to make up missed work.
7. Cheating on an academic assignment or test will require parent or guardian notification, as well as
a grade indicating failure on the assignment or test. The classroom teacher or Principal/Assistant
Principal may impose additional sanctions, such as requiring the test to be retaken and/or the
completion of an alternate assignment. Based upon evaluation by the Principal/Assistant
Principal, repeat offenders may be assessed additional consequences in addition to the lowered
report card grade resulting from the failing grade earned for the test.
31
8. For instances where parents/guardians may object to the use of additional school time before,
after, or on Saturday (if available) for the purpose of making up school work due to tardies,
cutting classes, or cheating, alternate consequences may be substituted by the Principal/Assistant
Principal such as school suspensions and reduced course grades.
9. Inappropriate behavior during the lunch period shall result in a referral by lunch aides to the
Principal/Assistant Principal. Consequences are to be escalating up to and including suspension.
Upon referral from a lunch aide, after a review of the referral and interviews of relevant
individuals by the Principal/Assistant Principal or designee, the student may receive a central
detention or a more severe consequence if appropriate. The committee also recommends that
lunch aides continue to receive training and increased monitoring of the lunch period by the
school Principal/Assistant Principal.
10. Allegations of harassment and/or bullying will require an investigation by the Anti-Bullying
Specialist. Any student demonstrating this behavior will receive an appropriate consequence,
including suspension, if deemed necessary by the Principal/Assistant Principal.
11. Student lockers are the property of the Wanaque Public Schools and are subject to random search
and seizure in addition to individual search and seizure when there is probable cause.
12. Saturday detentions may be used as a consequence for inappropriate behavior, with the need to be
determined by the building administrators.
13. In all instances where school suspensions are used as a consequence, preference will be given to
in-school suspension over out-of-school suspension.
Rewards for Desired Behaviors
Students who continually comply with the rules will receive one or more of the following:
•
Praise
•
Independent time (For example:
computer, D.E.A.R. time)
•
Positive notes sent home
•
Small rewards
•
Game time
•
Privilege/homework pass
•
•
First in line
Other special rewards deemed
appropriate by Teacher/Principal/
Assistant Principal
Middle School (Grades 6, 7, and 8) Behavior Point System
Our mission is to provide students with a quality instructional program, teach good work habits, and
encourage proper behavior. Our Discipline Policy provides for rewards and consequences based
upon classroom rules and regulations. Multi-copy disciplinary referral forms will be utilized for each
infraction. Parents/guardians are asked to sign and return the form to ensure that they have been
included in the disciplinary process.
While we do not expect students to continually misbehave, we have developed a point system that
will result in a loss of privileges, such as attending school-sponsored activities, for students who do
not follow the rules. Anything in excess of three (3) in-school suspensions or two (2) out-of-school
suspensions will be automatic grounds for exclusion.
32
The point system is as follows:
15 minute detention ........................................................................ 1 point
30 minute detention ........................................................................ 2 points
1 hour detention ............................................................................. 4 points
In-school suspension (each offense) .............................................. 10 points
Out-of-school suspension (each offense) ....................................... 14 points
A total of 15 points will result in exclusion from the Holiday Dance. A total of 25 points will result
in exclusion from the March Student Council Dance. A total of 36 points will result in the loss of the
class trip, including the 8th Grade Trip to Washington. Accumulation of 10 additional points will
lead to the exclusion of 8th grade students to the 8th Grade Dance.
Students who fail to complete homework assignments may be given after school homework
assistance time; however, no points will be accumulated for this reason as long as the student attends
the after-school program when assigned.
A list of cumulative points will be maintained by homeroom teachers and a secretary in the front
office. Parents will be notified regularly through progress reports of the number of points
accumulated. As noted in the Wanaque Public Schools Parent and Student Handbook, the
Principal/Assistant Principal shall retain discretion over the discipline program in their school. Any
student reaching thirty-six (36) points during the course of the year will not be receiving a refund for
the monies accumulated from the fund raising activities.
Working together, all school rules can be followed and every student can enjoy the available
activities.
Dress and Grooming
School personnel believe there is a close relationship between the dress and grooming of students and
the discipline and learning characteristics of the school. Since school is a place of learning where
students are being taught to express themselves in speech, thought, and written word for life within
the framework of society, school authorities have the obligation to regulate student behavior,
including as it is reflected in dress and grooming.
A child can be removed from school or asked to change attire that is in any way distracting; impedes
the teaching or learning process; or provides a danger or hazard to the student or other students.
Parents are urged to lend their cooperation to school personnel by insuring that their children dress in
good taste and wear clothing appropriate to the occasion during regular school hours, schoolsponsored events, and when in attendance on field trips. Should the student’s appearance, relative to
dress and grooming, be deemed inappropriate for the particular occasion, the school administration
may deny the privilege of participation to the pupil involved.
It is recognized that the basic responsibility for the proper dress of students lies with the students and
their parents. However, students are expected to wear clothing, which is neat and clean, is consistent
with standards of health and safety, appropriate for the weather, and does not disrupt learning in the
classroom. In order to create a positive school atmosphere, attire and grooming should be reasonably
modest.
33
The items listed are prohibited from being worn by students in the Wanaque Borough Public Schools:
•
Flip flops
•
Any garment that shows skin in the
torso area of the body
•
Slippers
•
Single strap shoes
•
Pajamas, boxer shorts, any sleepwear
•
Backless shoes
•
Beachwear
•
Heelies or any shoe with wheels
•
•
Garments with less than a 2” shoulder
strap and/or inappropriate neckline
Any clothing or item suggesting
violence, profanity, sexual connotation,
gang, alcohol, drugs, discrimination
•
Halter tops
•
Any clothing with derogatory slogans
•
Bandanas, hats, visors, curlers, picks,
sunglasses
•
Garments that are inappropriately sized
•
•
Shorts and skirts should be below midthigh and reach the end of the student’s
extended hand.
Garments that are shredded, ripped, or
cut-off, see-through
•
Coats, jackets, or outdoor wear of any
kind are not permitted in halls or
classrooms during the school day
Any garment that has holes not backed
• Chains, spike jewelry
with fabric
In addition, pants or slacks must be waist fitted and be worn to prevent slipping to hip level. They
must be worn so the entire waistband is above the top of the hip. The legs of pants shall extend to the
top of the shoe and cannot be worn rolled up exposing the students’ leg.
•
Any student found to be in violation of the dress code will have their parent/guardian called to replace
the violation with appropriate clothing. If parent/guardian is not available, student will exchange
his/her personal garment with an approved garment; i.e., T-Shirt or other approved clothing supplied
by the school. The student must return the school garment at the end of the day. Parent/guardian will
be responsible to reimburse the school for the cost of any school garment not returned.
Consequences for repeat offenders of these guidelines will be escalated. Consequences may result in
disciplinary action up to suspension from school.
Drug /Alcohol/Tobacco
The Board of Education recognizes that the misuse of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs seriously
impedes the students’ education and threatens the welfare of the entire school community. The Board
is committed to the prevention of substance abuse and the rehabilitation of substance users by
educational means, but will take necessary and appropriate steps to protect the school community
from harm and exposure to drugs and alcohol.
The Board prohibits the use, possession, distribution, consumption of any drug, alcohol or tobacco
product by students in school or at any event away from the school premises that is sponsored by the
Board, and on any transportation vehicle provided by the Board. Students suspected of being under
the influence of drugs will be identified, evaluated, and reported in accordance with the law.
Smoking in school buildings or on school property is forbidden by the Board and by state law and is
punishable by a fine payable to the State of New Jersey.
34
Family Life Education
In compliance with New Jersey law, Family life Education is taught in grades K-8 in the Wanaque
Public Schools. Instruction is given to help develop an understanding of the physical, mental,
psychological aspects of interpersonal relationships. Students are given the opportunity to gain
knowledge for the development of responsible personal behavior, strengthen their own family lives
now and aid in establishing strong family ties for themselves in the future. Parents are entitled to
review the entire curriculum and/or preview any materials.
Grading
Scholastic Achievement Grades 3 – 8
A+ = 97 – 100
B+ = 87 – 89
C+ = 77 – 79
D+ = 67- 69
A = 93 – 96
B = 83 – 86
C = 73 – 76
D = 63 – 66
A- = 90 – 92
B- = 80 – 82
C- = 70 – 72
D- = 60 – 62
F = Below 60
If you are attaching numerical significance to grades O, S, N, please utilize the following:
Numerical range for academic O, S, & N grades:
O = Outstanding
S = Satisfactory
O = 90 – 100
S = 73 – 89
N = Needs Improvement
N = 72 and below
Behavioral Attitudes Grades 3 – 8
O = Outstanding
S = Satisfactory
N = Needs Improvement
Grading System
Kindergarten
Grade 1
Grade 2
Subject
Subject
Subject
Reading Skills
Speaking
Writing
Writing Skills
Writing
Reading
Math Skills
Reading
Speaking
Art
Mathematics
Mathematics
Music
Science
Science
Physical Education
Social Studies
Social Studies
Library
Health/Character Ed.
Health/Character Ed.
Technology
Art
Art
Social/Emotional Skills
Music
Music
Work Habits
Library/Media Center
Library/Media Center
Physical Education
Physical Education
Technology
Technology
Spelling
Social Skills
Social Skills
Work & Study Skills
Work & Study Skills
35
Rating Key Grades K-2
4
•
•
•
Consistently meets grade level expectations
Understands, applies, and transfers concepts or skills
Performs independently
•
•
•
Steady progress toward expectations
Understands concepts or skills
Requires some guidance
•
•
•
Beginning to work toward expectations
Demonstrates beginning understanding
Requires frequent assistance
•
•
•
Works below grade level expectations
Difficulty grasping/retaining concepts
Has difficulty even with considerable assistance
3
2
1
Grade 3
Grade 4
Subject
Subject
Reading
Reading
Language Arts
Language Arts
Spelling
Spelling
Penmanship
Penmanship
Mathematics
Mathematics
Science
Science
Social Studies
Social Studies
Health
Health
Art
Art
Music
Music
Library
Writing
Physical Education
Physical Education
Writing
Technology
Technology
36
Grade 5
Grades 6-8
Subject
Subject
Reading
Literature
Language Arts
Language Arts
Spelling
Mathematics
Penmanship
Science
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science
Art
Social Studies
Music
Health
Physical Education
Art
Health
Music
Library
Writing
Technology
Physical Education
Spanish
Technology
World Culture
1. Teachers in all grades will use N/A when appropriate.
2. Special Education Teachers should implement this chart unless otherwise noted in the student’s
IEP.
3. The use of O, S, & N for work habits and behavior/conduct must be consistent throughout the
district. All teachers must report these marks in the subject areas for which they are responsible.
4. Teachers in Grades 3-8 will use O, S, & N for conduct and effort.
5. The work habits and conduct/behavior areas are based on teacher observation in the classroom.
Conference Dates--2015-2016
Important Dates for Reporting to Parents on Students’ Progress (3-8)
1. Conferences- November 10, 11, 12, 2015
2. First Report Card—November 30, 2015
3. Second Report Card—February 17, 2016
4. Third Report Card—April 22, 2016
5. Last Day of School – Tentative date – June 24, 2016
37
Required Summer School for Students Who Fail Courses
Pupils who have not met course requirements shall make up the work in summer school and/or repeat
the grade. Specifically, pupils who have failed one or two subjects for the school year shall be
required to make up the work in summer school. Written documentation of successful completion of
the course will be required and submitted to the Principal upon the conclusion of the course. Failure
to meet the requirements of summer school will result in retention.
Classroom teachers shall recommend to the Building Principal the promotion or retention of each
pupil. Pupils who have failed more than two subjects for the school year will automatically be
required to repeat the grade. Parent (s) or legal guardian (s) will be informed of the possibility of
summer school attendance or retention no later than the middle of the fourth marking period of each
year. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and adult pupils may appeal a promotion or retention decision to
the Building Principal and the Superintendent whose decision shall be final.
The above rules apply to all regular education students and to those students enrolled in special
education programs where an exception to these rules is not specifically written in the student’s
individual education program.
The cost of the summer school program and responsibility for any transportation to and from the
summer school program shall be borne by the parents or guardians. In the case of a student with an
identified financial hardship, individual accommodations with the parents or guardians will be made.
Holiday Celebrations
A “Holiday Celebration Committee,” comprised of parents, board members, administrators, and
members of the local clergy, agreed that the PTA in each building should create a “Holiday
Showcase” or similar display that would show religious symbols from the numerous religions
celebrated by families in our school district. This would provide one location in each school that
could be used as a learning tool for students to help see the diversity of our community and gather
information on ways of worship here and around the world.
Homework
The Wanaque Public Schools has initiated a homework policy that stresses the importance of
homework for effective learning. The following district-wide philosophy reflects the value of
homework:
1. Homework extends learning experiences beyond the classroom and reinforces learning by giving
children a chance to practice without the pressure of time.
2. Homework has value as a process, one that teaches a child responsibility, how to organize time,
work independently; practice good study skills, and develop self-discipline.
3. Homework encourages good work and study habits and gives the child extra time and the extra
opportunity to improve skills.
4. Homework is one of the links between schools and home that enables parents to become more
involved with their child’s education.
In keeping with the above philosophy, the Wanaque Public Schools support the following practice for
students.
Daily homework is at the discretion of the teacher and can include:
1. Unfinished class work
38
2. Make-up work due to absence
3. Special needs of the child
4. Reinforcement of class work
5. Special Projects
Parents need to be aware of the fact that the amount of time a child spends on homework will vary
according to each individual child and the conditions under which the child is working.
In order to promote good study habits, it is suggested that a suitable time and place for the completion
of homework be established. Give the encouragement and assistance your child needs, but do not do
the homework for your child. Homework that is done by a parent is of no value to the child. In early
grades, parents should assist a child in proofreading. In the upper grades, this is a responsibility the
student should accept. Remember, as teachers and parents…the more we work together, the more we
will help our children.
Suggested Time Parameter for Minutes of Homework per Night
Grade
K
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Time
10
20
30
45
60
75
90
120
120
Percentage Range for Averaging Homework into Students’ Grades
This includes projects and other long-term assignments.
Grades 4—5 ........... Up to 5 to 10%
Grades 6—8 ........... Up to 10 to 15%
Note:
Exceptions will be made for classes that do not meet daily.
Role of the Student
The student is expected to:
1. Regard homework as a serious undertaking.
2. List homework assignments in assignment books.
3. Accept full responsibility for completing all homework.
4. Meet all due dates.
5. Use homework as a study guide for quizzes and tests.
6. Ask questions concerning homework assignments prior to leaving school and request assistance
from a teacher for assignment clarification when necessary.
7. Exercise careful selection in both the quality and quantity of television viewing.
Role of the Teacher
The teacher should:
1. Have a definite purpose in assigning work.
2. Clearly explain assignments in a manner that enables all students to work independently.
3. Encourage students to notate or list assignments carefully.
4. Correct, record, and return assignments promptly.
39
5. Encourage students to establish standards of neatness, completeness, accuracy, and punctuality.
6. Encourage students to effectively use and budget time.
7. Evaluate homework assignments according to the purposes for which they were given.
8. Confer with other teachers of particular students to be certain that they are not overburdened with
homework.
9. Refrain from assigning homework as a punitive measure.
10. Give recognition to outstanding work.
Role of the Parent
The parent should:
1. Build respect for education by taking a serious interest in whatever homework is assigned to the
child.
2. Give school assignment precedence over the child’s outside activities whenever possible.
3. Provide a quiet, comfortable work area for the child and designate an uninterrupted work period
for the child.
4. Encourage a health balance of outside and school activities that allows sufficient time to complete
school assignments.
5. Help the child budget his/her time properly for immediate and long-range assignments.
6. Encourage the child to work independently but provide help when necessary.
7. Establish rules with the child concerning the quality and quantity of television viewed.
8. Encourage the child to read for pleasure and to use the public library as a primary learning
resource.
9. Contact the child’s teacher if they believe the homework is too challenging or time consuming for
their child. Conversely, the parent should contact the teacher if the homework assigned is below
the child’s academic ability.
Non-completion of Homework/Homework Assistance
Sometimes students do not fulfill their homework responsibility. For isolated occasions when
homework is not completed, teachers will afford the student another opportunity to complete the
assigned task. In those instances, the non-completion of homework is a repeated event and where it
has been determined that the homework is within the ability of the student to complete, students will
be recommended to attend the after-school Homework Assistance program, where students are
afforded the opportunity to complete the work not done at home.
Honor Roll
An honor roll has been established for students in grades 6 through 8. An honor roll is announced for
each marking period and for final grades. The criteria utilized to determine placement on the honor
roll is as follows:
High Honor Roll
Students must achieve a grade of 93% or above in all of the academic areas of Reading, Language
Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, and O’s and S’s in Work Habits and
Behavior/Conduct.
40
Honor Roll
Students must achieve a grade of 83% or above in all of the academic areas of Reading, Language
Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, and O’s and S’s in Work Habits and
Behavior/Conduct.
A student must not achieve less than a grade of 80% in all minor subjects in order to be placed on the
High Honor or Honor Roll. If a student receives an N either in an academic area or Work Habits and
Behavior/Conduct on their report cards, they are ineligible for the High Honor Roll and Honor Roll
during that single marking period.
End of Year Attendance Awards
To emphasize the need for children who are ill to stay home from school, the Wanaque Public
Schools will no longer provide awards for Perfect or Near-Perfect Attendance. The wish to obtain an
award for attendance at school should not be at the expense of a child’s long-term health or the health
of others.
Honors for 8th Graders
1. Class Valedictorian is defined as the student with the highest Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) for
grades 6 through 8.
2. Salutatorian is defined as the student with the second highest Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) for
grades 6 through 8.
3. Class valedictorian and salutatorian must be students of the Wanaque Public Schools for all of
grade eight.
4. Grade 8 End-of-Year Honors Award Assembly
a. Excellence in Subject: Must achieve a grade of 93% or better in each marking period in
subject to receive the Excellence certificate.
b. Achievement in Subject: Must achieve a grade of 83% or better in each marking period
in subject to receive the Achievement award.
5. To achieve Grade 8 High Honors and Honors for Graduation, students must attain the grade point
averages listed below. Sixth, seventh and eighth grade marks are used in these calculations.
3.75 GPA and above = Graduation High Honors
3.5-3.74 GPA = Graduation Honors
th
6. Honors and awards for 8 graders are determined by the status of grades at the midpoint of the 4th
quarter.
7. The following equivalents can be used to convert number grades to letter grades:
A+
97%
B+
87%
C+
77%
A
93%
B
83%
C
73%
A-
90%
B-
80%
C-
70%
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Lockers
Lockers, where available, are furnished for the convenience of students in grades 6-8 and should
contain only coats and books. Students are to use only those lockers that have been assigned to them.
Each student receiving a locker is assigned a combination lock. No student should enter or tamper
with anyone else’s locker, nor should anyone allow another student to use his or her locker. Students
may go to their lockers only at assigned times.
Lockers are the property of the Board of Education. There is no expectation of privacy in
regard to students’ use of school-provided lockers. Authorized personnel have the right, for
reasonable and/or just cause, to open and examine any locker. Illegal material will be seized
and charges will be filed with local authorities.
The following are some guidelines governing locker use:
1. Lockers are to be locked at all times.
2. Lockers should be kept neat and orderly.
3. Use only the locker assigned to you.
4. No private locks are to be placed on
lockers.
5. Locker combinations should not be
given to other students.
Lunch Program & Procedures
Students are provided cafeteria facilities during their regularly scheduled lunch period. This
eliminates the need for students to leave school premises for lunch purposes. Additionally, the district
participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) administered by the Bureau of Child
Nutrition of the NJ State Department of Education that establishes both operating procedures and
nutritional guidelines for local educational agencies. Lunch applications are sent home with all
students at the beginning of the school year for parents to complete. New students entering the
district will be given lunch applications at the time of registration.
All required data must be completed on the application prior to processing. Parents shall be notified
as to whether their child qualifies for free or reduced lunch. Students also have the option of a
“brown bag” lunch from home or purchasing the daily lunch at full price, if they do not qualify for
free or reduced program services. It should be noted that if there is a change in the financial
status of a family during the school year, contact should be made with the building
Principal/Assistant Principal for purposes of reviewing eligibility for free or reduced lunch.
Students may leave during the lunch period only if a parent provides school offices with advanced
written notice of their intention to take students out for lunch. The parent or authorized individual
must sign the student out and then back in.
Wanaque School Cafeteria Price List
Haskell School Cafeteria Price List
Item Price
Item Price
Student Full-Price Lunch ..................... $2.25
Student Full-Price Lunch ...................... $2.25
Student Reduced Price Lunch .............. $0.40
Student Reduced Price Lunch .............. $0.40
If a student has a doctor’s note excluding him or her from physical education, this also excludes the
student from recess. If the physician feels the student should still be allowed to go outside during
recess it must be specified in the doctor’s note.
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National Junior Honor Society
The National Junior Honor Societies of Wanaque Public Schools are duly chartered and affiliated
chapters of this prestigious national organization. Membership is open to those students who meet the
required standards in five areas of evaluation: scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship, and
character. Standards for selection are established by the national office of NJHS and have been
revised to meet our local chapter needs. Students are selected to be members by five-member Faculty
Council, appointed by the Principal/Assistant Principal, which bestows this honor upon qualified
students on behalf of the faculty of our school each year.
Students in the second half of sixth, seventh, and eighth grades are eligible for membership. For the
scholarship criterion, a student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0
scale. Students who meet this criterion are invited in March to complete a Student Activity
Information Form that provides the Faculty Council with information regarding the candidate’s
leadership and service. A history of leadership experiences and participation in school or community
service is required.
To evaluate a candidate’s character, the faculty council uses two forms of input: first, school
disciplinary records are reviewed and members of the faculty are solicited for input regarding their
professional comments on a candidate’s service activities, character, leadership, and citizenship.
These forms and the Student Activity Information Forms are carefully reviewed by the Faculty
Council to determine membership. A majority vote of the council is necessary for selection.
Candidates are notified regarding selection or non-selection in writing according to a predetermined
schedule.
Following notification, a formal induction ceremony is held at the school to recognize all newly
selected members. Once inducted, members are required to maintain the same level of performance
(or better) in all five criteria that led to their selection. This obligation includes regular attendance at
chapter meetings held monthly during the school year and participation in the chapter service
project(s).
Students may be removed from the National Junior Honor Society for displaying behavior that does
not meet the high standards expected of members. The determination that a student no longer meets
the academic or behavioral standards of the National Junior Honor Society will be made by the
building Principal/Assistant Principal in conjunction with the school’s faculty advisor for the National
Junior Honor Society.
The National Junior Honor Society is an extracurricular activity that is budget-dependent. As such,
the activities of the Honor Society may not be able to be carried out if there are insufficient dollars in
the budget to offer the program.
Nutrition and Board of Education Policy 8505
As per State and Federal law, all school districts are required to adopt nutrition policies that
significantly restrict the types of foods that can be sold and served in schools by September 1, 2007.
To be in compliance with the law, the Wanaque Board of Education adopted Policy 8505 on August
28, 2007.
Suburban living, with less walking and more driving and an increase in “Screen Time,” with
computers, television, and video games, results in a decrease in physical activity and an over
consumption of calories. In addition, the increase in two-income families provides for less time for
meal planning, shopping, and home cooking and results in more frequent dining with the
43
consumption of large portions of high calorie, high fat, low cost “fast” foods. It is no wonder that the
percentage of overweight and obese children has been increasing in the United States.
Overweight and obesity are associated with other diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood
pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease, which may lead to heart attack and stroke. Overweight
children will likely become overweight adults.
Schools are being expected to play an increasing role in the fight against childhood obesity. Our
school lunch program is in compliance with the newly required policy, which has significant
limitations on the amount of sugar, fat, and trans-fat that can be in food served in schools.
The policy guidelines from the State of New Jersey also affect school celebrations. For example, the
following items may not be served, sold, or given out as free promotion anywhere on school property
at any time before the end of the school day:
•
Foods of minimal nutritional value (FMNV) as defined by U.S. Department of Agriculture
regulations.
•
All food and beverage items listing sugar, in any form, as the first ingredient; and
•
All forms of candy.
The full text of the policy is available at the District’s central office.
Healthy Celebrations
Promoting a Healthy School Environment
Birthday parties and holiday celebrations at school provide a unique opportunity to help make healthy
eating fun and exciting for children. Schools can take advantage of classroom celebrations to serve
food that tastes good, is nutritious, and provides students with an opportunity for nutrition education
experiences.
But it’s Just a Cookie
Typically, foods for school celebrations include cookies, candy, cupcakes, and soda. So what’s the
harm? There is nothing wrong with an occasional treat, but unhealthy choices have become the norm
rather than the exception. Parties, treats used as classroom rewards, food fundraisers, vending
machines, snacks and school stores constantly expose children to high-fat, high-sugar, low-nutrient
choices.
Overall, our children’s eating habits are poor. Only two percent of children meet all Food Pyramid
recommendations. Most children do not eat enough fruits, vegetables or whole grains. Obesity rates
among children are on the rise, with serious health consequences. Constant exposure to low-nutrient
foods makes it difficult for children to learn how to make healthy food choices. By providing
students with nutritious choices whenever food is available (including the classroom), schools can
positively influence children’s eating habits.
Benefits of Healthy Celebrations
Healthy Kids Learn Better: Research
clearly demonstrates that good nutrition is
linked to better behavior and academic
performance. To provide the best possible
learning environment for children, schools
must also provide an environment that
supports healthy behaviors.
promote positive lifestyle choices to reduce
student health risks and improve learning.
Promotes a Healthy School Environment:
In order to positively change eating
behaviors, students need to receive
Provides Consistent Messages: Providing
healthy classroom celebrations demonstrates
a school commitment to promoting healthy
behaviors. It supports the classroom lessons
students are learning about health, instead of
contradicting them. Healthy celebrations
44
consistent, reliable health information and
ample opportunity to use it. Healthy
celebrations are an important part of
providing a healthy school environment.
Creates Excitement About Nutrition:
Children are excited about new and different
things, including fun party activities and
healthy snacks (see back for ideas). School
staff and parents need not worry that
children will be disappointed if typical party
foods are not served in the classroom.
Holiday treats and traditional birthday
parties with cake will still be available at
home.
Protects Children with Food Allergies:
When parents send in food, it is difficult to
ensure the safety of children with food
allergies. Schools can protect food allergic
children by providing nonfood celebrations
or, if food is served, obtaining it from
known sources such as the school food
service program.
How-To’s for Happy Healthy Parties
•
Plan several contrasting activitiesactive and quiet, indoor and outdoor,
individual and group.
•
Put food in its proper place.
Refreshments should complement fun,
not become the “main event.”
•
In addition to familiar games and foods,
offer something different. Children like
adventure.
•
Be sure that each child receives a prize
or favor, if such awards are given.
•
Don’t use food as rewards or prizes.
•
Choose foods for fun, good taste and
health. Parties that feature healthful
foods provide opportunities for children
to practice making wise food choices.
•
Plan creative experiences such as art,
music, and cooking.
•
Involve children in planning and
preparing the party. Let them make
decorations and party favors.
Ideas for Healthy Celebrations
Schools can help promote a positive learning environment by providing healthy celebrations that shift
the focus from the food to the child. Choose a variety of activities, games and crafts that children
enjoy. When food is served, make it count with healthy choices! Parties can even incorporate a fun
nutrition lesson by involving children in the planning and preparation of healthy snacks. Try these
ideas and healthy foods at school parties and other celebrations.
Non-Food Ways to Celebrate
Ways for families to celebrate special
events
•
Donate a book to the school library or
classroom in honor of a child’s birthday
•
Donate funds to purchase new
playground or physical education
equipment in child’s name, such as jump
ropes & balls
•
Host a field day
•
Host an agriculture day—have a local
farmer come in and have a taste test
party
•
Play an indoor game of child’s choice
•
Play games outside
•
Take a walk around the school with
Principal/Assistant Principal or teacher
School or classroom celebrations
•
Allow extra recess time
•
Take the children on a field trip
•
Engage children in a special art project
•
Turn on some music and dance
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Healthy Food Choices
•
Animal Crackers
o
Tomatoes
•
Angel food cake, plain or topped with
fruit
o
Watermelon slices
o
Zucchini
•
Baked chips & salsa
•
Dried fruit
•
Fig Bars
•
Fresh, Frozen, or Canned
Fruits/Vegetables—
•
Fresh Fruit topped with low-fat yogurt
dip (apples and cinnamon with yogurt
dip)
•
Fruit Smoothies--Made with 100% fruit
juice, skim milk, and fresh fruit (berries,
bananas, and pineapple)
•
Fruit or Vegetable juice--(100% fruit or
vegetable juice)
•
Ham, cheese, or turkey sandwiches or
wraps with low fat condiments
•
Low fat breakfast or granola bars
•
Low-fat milk or Dairy Alternative (Rice
& Soy milk)
•
Nuts (Soy nuts, cashews, walnuts,
almonds)
o
Apple
o
Baby carrots
o
Banana
o
Berries
o
Broccoli
o
Cauliflower
o
Celery sticks
o
Cucumber
o
Grapefruit
•
Pretzels or Rice Cakes
o
Kiwi
•
Reduced-fat popcorn
o
Mango
•
Seed (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds)
o
Melon slices
•
o
Nectarines
o
Olives (no pits)
Trail Mix (Made with whole grain, low
sugar cereals mixed with dried fruit,
pretzels, etc.)
o
Oranges
•
Vegetables with low-fat yogurt dip
o
Papaya
•
Water
o
Peaches
•
o
Pears
Whole grain crackers with low-fat
cheese or hummus
o
Pineapple slices/chunk
•
o
Radishes
Whole wheat English muffin or bagel
with fresh fruit or reduced fat peanut
butter on top
o
Snow peas
•
o
Squash slices
Whole wheat Pita with hummus or bean
dip
o
Strawberries
•
Quesadillas or bean burrito with salsa
o
Sweet Pepper slices (green, red,
yellow)
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The State of New Jersey makes the following additional suggestions for special school celebrations:
•
Combine student birthday parties into one monthly celebration.
•
Always consider allergies, ethnic and medical food restrictions.
•
Do not make food the main focus of the celebration.
•
Suggest families send in small (non-food) grab-bag party favors.
•
Include healthy snacks and physical activity.
•
Play games and organize age appropriate activities such as “Simon Says,” line dancing, karaoke,
sing-a-longs, etc.
•
Provide guidance to parents and families on foods that are appropriate for school celebrations that
reflect reinforcement of the local school wellness policy.
•
Ask parents for suggestions and healthy recipes that can be shared with other families for school
celebrations.
•
Suggest that teachers reward the celebrating students with a free homework pass for their special
day.
Parents should work closely with their child’s teacher in planning classroom celebrations to ensure
that the food and activities meet the goal of a healthy celebration.
Parents
Parent Conferences with Teachers
Communication between the home and school is a vital link in the educational process. Scheduled
parent conferences are held on specific dates, which are listed on the school calendar. Forms for
these conference times are sent home with each child, parents are to respond to the teacher and the
teacher returns a confirmation.
The district strongly urges parents/guardians to meet with their child’s teacher. Communication
between parent and teacher offers early detection and prevention of possible problems.
As always, additional conferences are available. Parents wishing to schedule a conference regarding
individual student achievement and/or grades should call the school to either speak directly with the
teacher or have one of the school secretaries schedule an appointment. In all cases, parents are
directed to speak with the teacher before contacting the Principal/Assistant Principal or
Superintendent.
Parent Involvement in the Schools
The formula for a successful educational experience includes three parts: the child, the school and the
home. Without a sincere partnership between the home and the school, the student will not be able to
extract the maximum value from his or her educational opportunities. The Wanaque Public Schools
encourages and promotes strong parent involvement in our schools.
Our schools welcome parents to visit their child’s “home away from home.” Back-to-School Night,
along with formal and informal conferences are an integral part of every child’s education. Parents
are encouraged to volunteer in our schools, our libraries, our classrooms and for the Parent Teacher
Association activities. Parents are to ask for permission from an administrator to bring a child, that is
not a student of that school, to an event.
Active parents believe in and value education. Active parents are positive role models and they
encourage the development of respect and responsibility in their children. We welcome and
appreciate active parents in our school district.
47
Parent Teacher Associations
Both elementary schools have Parent Teacher Associations entitled the Wanaque School Parent
Teacher Association (WSPTA) and the Haskell School Parent Teacher Association (HSPTA). These
organizations are a vital link between home and school. The PTAs provide programs for children and
work with the school community for the common good of children. Elections are held annually for
officers in the association and there are many opportunities to volunteer for the many activities the
PTAs sponsor. If you would like more information about these organizations, please contact your
local elementary school.
Parent/Teacher Resource Rooms
Parent/Teacher Resource Rooms will be created, where space allows, in each of our schools. These
rooms are full of materials related to children and education. Contained in the Parent/Teacher
Resource Rooms are curriculum outlines, classroom texts, workbooks, videos, periodicals and even a
Parent Lending Library.
Parent Portal User Guidelines
The Wanaque School District has developed the Parent Portal as a means to enhance communication
with parents and guardians in our effort to promote educational excellence. The Parent Portal is
available to every parent or guardian of an enrolled student in the Wanaque School District. The
Parent Portal allows parents to view their own child’s school progress at anytime. Student
information will be updated on a regular basis.
The information contained in the Parent Portal is the same confidential information contained in our
student records. As such, in exchange for the opportunity of accessing the Wanaque School District
Parent Portal, every parent and guardian is expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner.
Parents must follow these guidelines:
Guidelines
1. Parents will not share their user IDs and passwords with anyone, including their children.
2. Parents will not attempt to harm or destroy data belonging to their own children, another user, the
school or district, or the Internet.
3. Parents will not use the Parent Portal for any illegal activity, including the violation of Data
Privacy laws. Anyone found to be violating laws would be subject to Civil and/or Criminal
Prosecution.
4. Parents will not access data or any account owned by another parent.
5. Parents who identify a security problem with the Parent Portal must notify the school
immediately, preferably by e-mail to fcalero@wanaqueps.org without demonstrating the problem
to anyone else.
6. Parents who are identified as a security risk to the Parent Portal will lose their access to the
system.
Information on the Parent Portal
1. Parents/Guardians will have access to the following data about their child/children. Our goal is to
have student information for the following current every Monday.
a. Attendance
b. Grades for classes currently enrolled
c. Current schedules for each student
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2. System Requirements—Your computer must meet or exceed the minimum following
requirements:
a. Internet Connection: 56k modem speed or greater
b. Browser: Internet Explorer with 128 bit encryption
c. A monitor with at least 800x600 resolution
3. Security Features of the Parent Portal
a. Three unsuccessful login attempts will disable the Parent Portal account. In order to use
the Parent Portal again, parents will need to have it reactivated by contacting the school,
preferably by email to fcalero@wanaqueps.org.
b. If you leave the Parent Portal web browser open and inactive for a period of time you
will be automatically logged off.
c. When you are ready to end your Parent Portal session make sure you click the “Log Off”
button.
Parent Portal User Account Agreement
Parents or guardians will be required to complete and sign a Parent Portal User Account Agreement
prior to being granted access to the system. The form will be provided to parents and guardians
through the school office. Parents or guardians should return the completed Agreement to the school
office at each school in a sealed envelope.
Personal Items and Electronic Devices
The school district does not assume any responsibility for personal items brought to school by
students. This includes, but is not limited to, jewelry, cellular telephones, and electronic devices or
games.
The school district makes a significant effort on its computer networks to keep material that is, or
might be considered, objectionable away from students. Unfortunately, some electronic devices (such
as the Nintendo DS) have the ability to connect directly, through a wireless connection, to the
Internet, thus bypassing the school district’s protective measures. Therefore, students are expressly
forbidden to bring devices that have this capability to school at any time. If a student brings an
electronic device with Internet capability to school, it will be confiscated and returned only to a parent
or guardian. Students found using such a device to contact the Internet will be subject to the full
range of discipline under the school district’s code of conduct.
Photographic Equipment
Cameras in any form—film, digital, PDA, or cellular telephone—are not permitted to be used by
students in school or on the grounds of the Wanaque Public Schools during the school day and at
school-sponsored activities before and after the school day without the express permission of a
teacher or the Principal/Assistant Principal. Unauthorized use of the camera will result in its
confiscation. Only the parent or guardian may retrieve the camera once confiscated. Additional
consequences may apply depending upon the circumstances.
49
Playground Safety
Activity on the playground is intended to be fun and safe. The following games and activities are
prohibited:
1. Tackle Football
6. Rollerblading
2. Rugby
7. Keep Away
3. Scooters
8. Skateboarding
4. Pegging
9. Chicken—One student on the shoulders
of another.
5. Gymnastics
The lunchroom aides are empowered to enforce the policies and procedures established for the
orderly functioning of the lunchroom and playground. Initial or mild behavioral infractions will
result in a time out. The student will be prevented from playing for a period of time. Severe or
repeated infractions will result in after-school or lunch detention (student remains inside after lunch
has been eaten).
Skateboarding and Roller Blading
These activities are prohibited on school grounds at all times. This includes before, during and after
school, weekends, and vacations. Students who violate this policy will be disciplined appropriately.
Those individuals who participate in these activities on school grounds who are not students of this
district will be reported to the police.
Pre-Algebra and Algebra Classes
Pre-Algebra
A special accelerated course is offered in Grade 7 for Pre-Algebra. Students must meet special
eligibility requirements to participate in this class. These requirements are:
1. Teacher recommendation
2. 90% or better on the end-of-the year test in 6th grade
3. 80% or better on the Pre-Algebra Diagnostic Test
4. Grade of B+ or better as a final grade in grade 6 mathematics
To be considered for inclusion in the Pre-Algebra class, a student must meet at least three of the
above listed criteria.
A committee (comprised of the building Principal/Assistant Principal and two upper grade math
teachers) shall meet to consider the placement of students in the Pre-Algebra class who did not meet
the requirements listed above. All students enrolled in the class are expected to maintain a minimum
of a C average. Students whose grade average falls below C may be moved to a regular 7th grade
math section.
50
Algebra
A special accelerated course is offered in grade 8. Students must meet special eligibility requirements
to participate in this class as listed:
1. Teacher recommendation
2. 90% on the end-of-year test in seventh grade
3. 80% on the Algebra Prognosis test
4. A grade of B+ or better as a final grade in grade 7
To be considered for inclusion in the Algebra class, a student must meet at least three of the above
listed criteria.
A committee (comprised of the building Principal/Assistant Principal and two upper grade math
teachers) shall meet to consider the placement of students in the Algebra class who did not meet the
requirements listed above. All students enrolled in the class are expected to maintain a minimum of a
C average. Students whose grade average falls below C may be moved to a regular 8th grade math
section.
Pupil Due Process
Students have a right to be heard. Parents can call the Principal/Assistant Principal and discuss the
incident with the building Principal/Assistant Principal. If the parent is not satisfied with the
outcome, they may contact the Superintendent of Schools to discuss the matter. If, at the
Superintendent level, there is still no satisfaction, parents may wish to address the Board of Education
or take the appropriate legal steps to which all citizens are due.
Registration for School
The Wanaque Public Schools provide a free, public education for eligible students in kindergarten
through grade eight. In addition, students with educational handicaps are eligible to attend school
when they reach their third birthday. As per Board of Education policy, to be eligible to enroll in
kindergarten, a child must reach his or her fifth birthday on or before October 1st of the school year.
To be eligible to attend the Wanaque Public Schools, a child must meet one of the following
requirements. The child is:
•
domiciled in the district, i.e., living with a parent or guardian whose permanent home is located
within the district. A home is permanent when the parent or guardian intends to return to it when
absent and has no present intent of moving from it, notwithstanding the existence of homes or
residences elsewhere.
•
living with a person, other than the parent or guardian, who is domiciled in the district and is
supporting the student without compensation, as if the student were his or her own child, because
the parent cannot support the child due to family or economic hardship.
•
living with a person domiciled in the district, other than the parent or guardian, where the
parent/guardian is a member of the New Jersey National Guard or the reserve component of the
U.S. armed forces and has been ordered into active military service in the U.S. armed forces in
time of war or national emergency.
51
•
living with a parent or guardian who is temporarily residing in the district.
•
of a parent or guardian who moves to another district as the result of being homeless.
•
placed in the home of a district resident by court order pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-2.
•
the child of a parent or guardian who previously resided in the district, but is a member of the
New Jersey National Guard or the United States reserves and has been ordered to active service in
time of war or national emergency pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-3(b).
•
residing on federal property within the State pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-7.7 et seq.
Note that the following does not affect a student’s eligibility to enroll in school:
•
Physical condition of housing or compliance with local housing ordinances or terms of lease.
•
Immigration/visa status, except for students holding or seeking a visa (F-1) issued specifically for
the purpose of limited study on a tuition basis in a United States public secondary school.
•
Absence of a certified copy of birth certificate or other proof of a student’s identity, although
these must be provided within 30 days of initial enrollment, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A: 36-25.1.
•
Absence of student medical information, although actual attendance at school may be deferred as
necessary in compliance with rules regarding immunization of students, N.J.A.C. 8:57-4.1 et seq.
•
Absence of a student’s prior educational record, although the initial educational placement of the
student may be subject to revision upon receipt of records or further assessment by the district.
The following forms of documentation may demonstrate a student’s eligibility for enrollment in the
Wanaque Public Schools. Particular documentation necessary to demonstrate eligibility under
specific provisions in law will be indicated in the appropriate section of the registration form.
•
Property tax bills, deeds, contracts of sale, leases, mortgages, signed letters from landlords and
other evidence of property ownership, tenancy or residency.
•
Voter registrations, licenses, permits, financial account information, utility bills, delivery receipts,
and other evidence of personal attachment to a particular location.
•
Court orders, state agency agreements and other evidence of court or agency placements or
directives.
•
Receipts, bills, cancelled checks and other evidence of expenditures demonstrating personal
attachment to a particular location, or, where applicable, to the support of the student.
•
Medical reports, counselor or social worker assessments, employment documents, benefit
statements, and other evidence of circumstances demonstrating, where applicable, family or
economic hardship, or temporary residency.
•
Affidavits, certifications and sworn attestations pertaining to statutory criteria for school
attendance, from the parent, legal guardian, person keeping an “affidavit student,” adult student,
person(s) with whom a family is living, or others, as appropriate.
•
Documents pertaining to military status and assignment.
52
•
Any business record or document issued by a governmental entity.
•
Any other form of documentation relevant to demonstrating entitlement to attend school.
The totality of information and documentation offered will be considered in evaluating an application,
and, unless expressly required by law, the student will not be denied enrollment based on an inability
to provide certain form(s) of documentation where other acceptable evidence is presented.
Parents or guardians will not be asked for any information or document protected from disclosure by
law, or pertaining to criteria, which are not legitimate bases for determining eligibility to attend
school. Parents or guardians may voluntarily disclose any document or information they believe will
help establish that the child meets the requirements of law for entitlement to attend school in the
district, but the district may not, directly or indirectly, require or request the following:
•
Income tax returns;
•
Documentation or information relating to citizenship or immigration/visa status, unless the
student holds or is applying for an F-1 visa;
•
Documentation or information relating to compliance with local housing ordinances or conditions
of tenancy;
•
Social security numbers.
Please be aware that any initial determination of the student’s eligibility to attend school in this
district is subject to more thorough review and subsequent re-evaluation, and that tuition may be
assessed in the event that an initially admitted student is later found ineligible. If a student is found
ineligible, now or later, the parent or guardian will be provided the reasons for the school district’s
decision and instructions on how to appeal.
Persons experiencing difficulties with the enrollment process should first contact the
Principal/Assistant Principal of the school in their area. Additional inquiries may be directed to the
Office of the Superintendent of Schools, Wanaque Public Schools, 973 A Ringwood Avenue,
Haskell, New Jersey 07420, (973) 835-8200.
Upon enrollment, parents will be asked to complete emergency notification cards, lunch forms, and
release forms. The release form allows the district to request all past records from the child’s former
district to be forwarded to the school.
Reporting To Parents
The progress of your child is very important, therefore, frequent communication between home and
school cannot be stressed enough. In order to facilitate this process, the district has an established
pattern relative to informing parents of pupil progress. This includes mid-marking reports, scheduled
conferences, and report cards. The schedule for each of these instruments for each specific school
year is provided elsewhere in this handbook.
Report Cards
Report cards are issued to all students in Grades 3-8 four times a year. Students in grades K-2 receive
report cards three times a year. The schedule for each of these instruments for each specific school
year is contained in the packet included with this booklet.
53
Interim Progress Reports
In an effort to keep parents informed of their child’s progress between report cards, the district has
interim progress reports that are sent home mid-marking period throughout the year for students who
are failing or in danger of failing, those earning a grade of D or F at the time of the notification. It is
important to note that grades can change significantly from mid-marking period to the end of the
marking period. Absence of an interim report does not preclude a child from receiving a D or F in a
given marking period.
Safety and Security in School
Unfortunately, given the open design of most schools, the number of doors required for fire and
safety regulations, and the ways that schools are used by communities beyond the school day, make it
virtually impossible to have a school be completely invulnerable without having the facility resemble
a prison and seriously restrict access to the building by non-school groups. No school can be made
completely secure.
That said, in the Wanaque Public Schools, we take the matter of school security very seriously.
Working closely with the Wanaque Police Department, over the past several years, the Wanaque
Public Schools has significantly increased its vigilance and preparedness for the possibility of
emergency or crisis situations. Both the Haskell and Wanaque Schools have crisis management plans
that have been developed in concert with the Wanaque Police Department. Both schools have
ongoing safety management systems that include identification badges for all staff members, locked
doors, and sign-in procedures for visitors.
As a result of the upgrades and repairs to the school buildings due to the referendum, Haskell and
Wanaque Schools now have new doors and windows that enhance the overall safety of the buildings.
The building entrances have been completely re-keyed with a security-enhanced locking system that
has card-key capability. In addition, the buildings are now monitored by video cameras.
Both schools practice lockdown and emergency evacuations under the supervision of the Wanaque
Police Department. Due to security reasons, prior notice of these practice drills is not provided.
Every effort is made to protect access to the school buildings. The Principal/Assistant Principal
monitor their buildings on an ongoing basis to ensure that only selected, observed, doors are open
during morning arrival. Once arrival is complete, every door to the school is locked and entrance to
the school can be gained only through the front door. We ensure that all visitors to the school sign-in,
have a legitimate purpose for being in the building, and wear a prominently displayed visitor badge.
Individuals without a scheduled appointment, or other valid reason to be in the building, are not
permitted in the building. This rule applies even during morning arrival; parents or guardians are not
permitted to walk students to their classroom without first stopping at the main office, indicating their
reason for needing to go to the classroom (e.g., scheduled meeting with the teacher), and obtaining a
visitor badge. Once in the building, persons are permitted to go only to the area to which they have
been approved. Staff members are required to enforce these rules and escort any individual back to
the main office that does not have a proper visitor’s badge. At the end of their visit, all visitors must
return to the main office, sign out, and return the visitor’s badge.
Parents must be vigilant. Please report to the office anything you notice that is out of the ordinary or
of concern. Report any doors that are unlocked or “chucked” open. If you have any safety
suggestions, please contact the Principal/Assistant Principal at your school or the Superintendent’s
office directly. Help us make your children as safe as possible. Working together, we can make the
Wanaque Public Schools a secure environment for learning.
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Students and Outside Doors to the School Building
Students have a very important role in keeping our school safe and secure. In our effort to make
certain that all persons entering the building do so through the front door, or staff-monitored, door,
once a student is inside the school building, he or she is not permitted to open a door to allow an adult
or student to enter the building, unless given express instructions from a member of the staff. This
rule applies whether or not the student knows the individual wishing to gain access to the building.
This rule is in effect before, during, and after the school day, as well as at school-sponsored activities.
Students found to violate this rule will receive disciplinary consequences including detentions and
suspensions, depending upon the severity and frequency of infraction.
Fire and Evacuation Drills
In accordance with New Jersey school law, fire and evacuation drills will be held at least twice each
month for all pupils. These drills are held at various times and under varying conditions. Students
are taught to evacuate the building quickly, quietly and safely. To assist in an orderly evacuation of
the building, all classes shall post a schematic indicating both primary and secondary exits.
Shelter-in-place (lockdown) drills are scheduled with the cooperation of the Wanaque Police
Department.
The second floor of each building is equipped with a stair evacuation chair for the purpose of
evacuating persons with limited mobility from the building. Individuals trained in the use of these
devices will be assigned to assist any persons who require such assistance.
As a result of the upgrades and repairs to the school buildings due to the referendum, new fire
detection and alarm systems have been installed in both Wanaque and Haskell Schools that enhance
the safety of all who learn, work, or play in our school facilities. In addition, the gymnasiums have an
electromagnetic door locking system to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the area
during a shelter-in-place situation.
Salute to the Flag
The Wanaque Board of Education requires all students to salute the flag and recite the Pledge of
Allegiance on every school day, except students who have conscientious scruples against such a
pledge or salute. These students shall not be required to render such a salute and pledge, but shall be
required to show full respect to the flag while the pledge is being given by standing at attention.
Services for Students
Gifted, Creative, And Talented
The Wanaque District provides gifted, creative, and talented pupils in grades K-8 with a program that
provides an opportunity to develop their special abilities. The needs of the students are addressed
through a differentiated curriculum providing extended and in-depth studies with emphasis on higher
level critical thinking and problem-solving skills to as great an extent as their abilities, interests and
resources allow.
The program has two major elements – the academically gifted portion and the non-academic creative
and talented portion.
In grades 3-8, in order to participate in the GCT program, students must meet the eligibility
requirements as set forth within the district’s multiple assessment matrixes.
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Students in kindergarten through grade 2 are initially identified by the classroom teacher and referred
to the Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) team for further consideration. Parents may also
refer their child. If the child is identified as being gifted or talented, the classroom teacher will
implement the classroom and curricular modifications recommended by the I&RS team. Additional
services may be provided, if warranted.
Guidance and Other Services
The guidance counselors, as well as the district’s school psychologist, social worker, and learning
disabilities specialist, are available to assist in monitoring the academic, social, and emotional
development of all of our students. These professionals can help parents and students work with
teachers or parents on particular situations and problems that might arise during the school year.
Please contact the guidance office if you have any questions or would like additional information.
English Language Services
Some students enter the Wanaque Public Schools with limited English proficiency. All students are
carefully screened for language proficiency upon registering for school. Those students found to be
in need of services will receive services from the ESL instructor. If there are ten or more students
who qualify for English language services in a school, State of New Jersey law requires that those
services be provided by a specialist certified as a Teacher of English as a Second Language.
Title 1 Instruction/Basic Skills
The Title 1 program implemented in the Wanaque District is a state mandated program for those
students who have not met district and state standards in reading, math and/or language.
The child’s scores on various standardized tests and/or teacher recommendation determine eligibility
for this program. The needs of each student are addressed through small group instruction, one-onone instruction, or through in-class instructional support. In the in-class support model, the Title 1
teacher works in the regular classroom to assist individual Title 1 students during class.
Eligibility Criteria:
Students are eligible for the Title I/BSI Program based on multi-criteria approach.
Grades K-2 Criteria:
•
Report card performance
•
Teacher/Principal recommendation
•
Language Arts assessments
•
Math assessment
•
Prior participation in the Title I/BSI program with results that indicate the need for continuation.
Grades 3-8 Criteria:
•
Report card grades
•
Teacher/Principal recommendation
•
Language Arts assessment
•
Math assessment
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•
NJ ASK scores
•
Prior participation in the Title I/BSI program with results that indicate the need for continuation.
Exit Criteria:
Students will exit the Title I/BSI Program when any of the following have been met:
•
The student is receiving services from another special program in the same subject area.
•
The basic skills teacher, principal, and homeroom teacher determine that the student has reached
their program goals and that special assistance is no longer needed.
•
The parent requests that the student be removed from the program.
Intervention and Referral Services and 504 Committee
The Intervention and Referral Services (I & RS) and 504 Committees are school-based teams which
serve to design and monitor the implementation of strategies for supporting non-classified pupils who
are experiencing difficulties in their classes. These teams are regular education initiatives that
coordinate and/or deliver intervention and referral services for students in need. The I&RS and 504
Committees assist regular education teachers with strategies for educating their non-classified
students who demonstrate ongoing learning and/or behavior problems. The goal of the committee is
to extend the capacity of regular education to service pupils experiencing specific problems. Referral
to the I&RS Team or the 504 Committee can be generated by either a parent or regular education staff
member.
Special Education
The Special Services Department ensures programs are provided for all students classified “Eligible
for Special Education and Related Services,” from preschool through eighth grade. Students with
learning disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
An individualized educational program, based on the needs of the student, is developed in
collaboration with teachers, parents, Child Study Team and students when appropriate. The Wanaque
Board of Education provides the full continuum of special education services and ensures that the
rights of students with disabilities and their parents are protected.
Child Study Team
The Child Study Team includes a School Psychologist, a School Social Worker, a Learning
Disabilities Teacher Consultant, and a Speech-Language Specialist. The School Psychologist
evaluates intellectual, social and emotional aspects of the student. The School Social Worker provides
a link between the home and school, and reports the developmental history and relevant background
data to the team. The Psychologist and Social Worker provide counseling, and crisis intervention as
needed. The Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant evaluates educational needs; determines
academic strengths, weaknesses, individual learning styles; and provides, in collaboration with
general education faculty and administration, strategies to address the needs of individual students.
The Speech-Language Specialist evaluates to determine if there is a language disorder; or when
articulation, voice, and fluency of communication impact academic achievement. Additional
specialists in the area of disability may include, but are not limited to, Occupational Therapists,
Physical Therapists, Audiologists, and the School Nurse. The Child Study Team is responsible for the
identification, evaluation and determination of eligibility. The team is also responsible for the
development, review and case management of individualized education programs and placements.
The Child Study Team is also a resource to general education staff and provides consultation
regarding preventative and support services for non-
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disabled students in techniques, materials and programs for students who have difficulty acquiring
basic academic skills.
Referral to the Child Study Team
The district’s policies provide procedures for referral of students experiencing academic difficulties by
instructional staff, administrators, professional staff, parents, and concerned agencies. Students suspected of
difficulties due to physical, sensory, emotional, communication, cognitive, or social concerns are identified
through the Intervention and Referral Service and 504 Committees in each building. Prior to referral to the
Child Study Team, the I&RS or 504 Committee defines, brainstorms, develops, monitors, and documents the
effectiveness of interventions in the general education program.
Parents may request a referral for Child Study Team evaluation in writing, with an original signature. Letters
without a signature, a copy of a letter, or facsimile of a letter, do not meet this standard. The referral process,
when initiated by a parent or guardian cannot proceed without a valid request.
The Child Study Team reviews referrals to determine if the referral is appropriate and schedules an initial
planning meeting within 20 days of the receipt of the referral. If appropriate, the teacher completes a referral
packet and the Child Study Team meets with parents and teachers to obtain signed consent for evaluation.
A 90-day timeline is specified for completion of all evaluations. Eligibility meetings are held within 90 days
of the referral date and parents must receive evaluation reports 10 days prior to the scheduled eligibility
meeting. Parents will be advised when special circumstances exist that make meeting the timeframes, stated
above, unattainable. These circumstances may include, but are not limited to, student illness, staff illness,
difficulty scheduling atypical evaluations, inclement weather that requires school closure, etc.
Speech-Language Services
The speech-language specialist reviews all Child Study Team referrals to determine whether further
evaluation is warranted. Screenings, teacher, and parent referrals are considered in determination of language
disorders, as well as difficulties in articulation, voice and fluency of communication. The speech-language
specialist assesses all preschool age children referred for evaluation. Students who exhibit difficulties in the
areas of articulation, voice or fluency are classified “Eligible for Speech and Language Services” and only
receive speech and language services. Parents and teachers are asked to reinforce and help the student apply
newly learned skills.
Program for Preschoolers with Disabilities
The program for preschoolers with disabilities provides a continuation of programming for children
transitioning out of Early Intervention, as well as those referred by their parents or identified by the
district’s Child Study Team. Programs for preschoolers with disabilities are to be in effect by an
eligible child’s third birthday. The program provides instruction for children who exhibit
developmental delays in areas of communication, gross and fine motor skills, as well as social and
emotional development. In addition, the program serves children identified with any autistic
spectrum characteristics.
Student Assistance Program
The Student Assistance Program enables the school district to satisfy the state drug and alcohol
mandates that direct a school district to offer a comprehensive substance abuse prevention and
intervention program for all students.
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The Student Assistance Program is designed not only to assist at-risk students, but also to provide
primary prevention activities to avert future difficulties for young children. The components of this
program are as follows:
1. Services of Dr. R. Danziger, Tri-District Coordinator
2. Peer Leadership Activities
3. Character Education Initiative
4. Peer Mediation and Conflict Mediation
5. New Jersey Child Assault Prevention Programs
6. D.A.R.E. Activities
7. Crisis Intervention
Sexual Harassment and Bias
In order to comply with the state law, the following policies will be applied as they relate to sexual
harassment.
The Board of Education explicitly forbids any conduct or expression that may be construed as the
sexual harassment of a pupil, by an employee of the district or by another pupil.
Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances (which may include sexual acts of a
violent nature), suggestions or requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct
of a sexual nature. There are two main types of sexual harassment. Quid pro quo is one type of
harassment. This occurs when a student feels they must submit to unwelcome conduct in order to
avoid detriment or receive benefit.
The existence of a hostile environment is the second type of sexual harassment. This occurs when
harassment in the workplace is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it affects a student’s ability to
participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating,
threatening or abusive environment.
Sexual harassment can be verbal, such as sexual comments, jokes, rumors or comments about sexual
activities. It can be physical including offensive touching, impeding or blocking movements or
sexual assault. Sexual harassment can also be visual including posters, photographs, cartoons,
drawings, graffiti, or gesturing.
Students involved in any form of sexual harassment will be subject to school discipline and
appropriate reports will be filed with the police.
Signing a Child In and Out of School
Parents or guardians are required to sign their child(ren) in and/or out of school if they are entering
after 8:45 a.m. or leaving prior to 3:16 p.m. The parent or guardian must report to the main office for
this purpose. The sheet for signing a child in and/or out of school is located on the front counter. If a
child is being signed out, the school secretary will call the appropriate classroom and indicate to the
teacher that the child is leaving. Parents are not to go directly to the classrooms.
Student Council
The student council in each of our elementary schools is an organization that is open to students in
grades 6-8. The officers are elected each fall and every homeroom has representation on the council.
The council functions as both a student and community service group. The council
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organizes dances, holds fund-raising activities, and meets to discuss student concerns throughout the
year.
The Student Council is an extracurricular activity that is budget-dependent. As such, the activities of
the Student Council may not be able to be carried out if there are insufficient dollars in the budget to
offer the program.
Student Health
Physical Examinations for New Students
All new students entering the district are required by New Jersey law to have a physical examination
by their doctor within 30 days of enrollment. If there is a financial concern preventing a parent or
guardian from obtaining the required physical examination, please contact the school nurse who will
arrange for the school physician to conduct the examination. No student will be permitted to attend
school in the Wanaque Public Schools beyond 30 days without completion of the physical evaluation
form. Parents or guardians will also be asked to complete a health checklist.
Regular Health Monitoring and Screenings
It is highly recommended that all children entering kindergarten be examined by their own physician.
Screenings for height, weight, and blood pressure will be done yearly for grades K-8. Vision
screenings will be conducted for grades K-2, 5, and 7. Hearing screenings are for grades K-3 and 7.
Color perception will screened in grade 1.
Immunizations
Proof shall be furnished of immunization against the communicable diseases at the time of
enrollment.
Tuberculosis testing is mandatory only for students transferring from high-risk countries. The state
should provide the school with a yearly list of countries.
Preschool Students
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
Every child 12 months through 59 months of age enrolling in or attending a child-care center or
per school facility on or after September 1, 2008, shall have received at least one dose of PCV on
or after their first birthday.
Influenza Vaccine
Children six months through 59 months (4years 11 months) of age attending any child-care center
or pre-school facility on or after September 1, 2008, shall annually receive at least one dose of
influenza vaccine between September 1 and December 31 of each year.
Grade Six Students
Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Pertussis Vaccine
1.1. Effective September 1, 2008, every child born on or after January 1, 1997, and entering or
attending grade six, or a comparable age level special education program with an unassigned
grade on or after September 1, 2008, shall have received one dose of Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria,
acellular pertussis) given no earlier than the 10th birthday.
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1.2. Children entering or attending Grade Six on or after September 1, 2008, who received a Td
booster dose less than five years prior to entry or attendance shall not be required to receive a
Tdap dose until five years have elapsed from the last DTP/DTaP or Td dose.
1.3. Children born on or after January 1, 1997, and transferring into a New Jersey school from
another state or country after September 1, 2008, shall receive one dose of Tdap, provided at
least five years have elapsed from the last documented Td dose.
Meningococcal Vaccine
1.1. Every child born on or after January 1, 1997, and entering or attending Grade Six or a
comparable age level special education program with an unassigned grade on or after September
1, 2008, shall have received one dose of a meningococcal-containing vaccine, such as the
medically-preferred meningococcal conjugate vaccine.
1.2. Every child born on or after January 1, 1997, and transferring into a New Jersey school from
another state or country on or after September 1, 2008, shall have received one dose of
meningococcal vaccine.
Recommendations for Disease Control
The following common sense guidelines have been established in conjunction with recommendations
from the state and district physician regarding communicable diseases. Suspected contagious disease
should be reported to your school nurse.
Scarlet Fever (Strep Throat) – Patient excluded from school until student has been on antibiotic
therapy for 24 hours. Physician’s statement required for return to school.
Chicken Pox – Patient excluded from school until all pox eruptions are crusted (dry). This usually
takes up to seven days.
Mononucleosis – A physician’s statement is required for return to school.
Impetigo – Patient must be on appropriate antibiotic for 24 hours before returning to school.
Pink eye (Conjunctivitis) – Patient must be on appropriate eye drops for 24 hours before returning to
school.
Lice (Pediculosis of the scalp) – Patient should be examined and treated if they are infested. Bed
mites should be treated prophylactically. Children are not allowed to return to school until all nits are
removed. Parents are strongly advised to contact the school nurse to report any case of head lice so
that the proper precautions and notifications can be taken in school. A note from the school nurse will
be sent home in all grades where an incident of head lice has been reported.
When a case of head lice is reported in school, the following procedure is followed:
As soon as is reasonably possible, the school nurse will check the heads of all students in the class of
the affected child. The heads of all siblings of the affected child will be checked as well. In the event
that a sibling has lice, the students in the sibling’s class will be checked. If the outbreak appears to be
more widespread, the school nurse, with consultation from the school physician, will determine a
more aggressive form of action.
Administration of Medication
See Policy 5330, located in the Policy section of this handbook.
Medications on Field Trips
Medication on field trips must be given by a parent/guardian accompanying children on the field trip
or a registered nurse. Parents of students requiring medication(s) are strongly encouraged to
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accompany their children on field trips. At no time will a teaching staff member be allowed to
administer medication to a student.
Illness or Accident during School
In case of illness, a student shall obtain a pass from a teacher to see the nurse who will determine
his/her fitness to remain in school. No pupil will be permitted to go home unless the nurse is able to
contact the family. No student is to report to the nurse without a pass from the teacher unless the
student has become ill in the corridor. If the nurse is not available, the student who is ill shall report
to the main office. In the case of an accident, no matter how slight, the student is to report the incident
to the nurse immediately.
Medical Insurance for Students
School insurance may be purchased through the school in September. This is a service provided by
the school for the convenience of parents. The Board of Education, Superintendent and school
administrators strongly encourage every family with or without health insurance consider adding this
very low cost option for their children as it covers accidental injuries that occur in school. The form
to purchase this insurance is included in the packet of information sent home at the beginning of the
school year. The form is also available in the school office. If you have any questions about the
Group Student Accident Insurance Program, please contact the school nurse at your school.
Student Allergies
The Wanaque Public Schools recognizes the increasing prevalence of student allergies and the lifethreatening nature of allergies for many students. The school district administration has developed
and implemented a procedure and protocol to minimize the risk of exposure to allergens that pose a
threat to students, to educate all members of the school community on management of student
allergies, and to plan for the needs of students with allergies. Further, the protocol will aim to provide
age-appropriate procedures and to assist children in assuming more individual responsibility for their
health and safety as they grow older. The schools are committed to working with allergic students
and their parents to address the students’ emotional and social needs in addition to their health needs.
If parents wish the school to accommodate their child with an allergy, they must notify the school
nurse of this need. The school nurse will work with the parents to meet their child’s needs in the
school setting.
Background
The number of students with life-threatening allergies, especially food allergies, has increased
substantially in recent years. Allergic reactions vary among students and can range from mild to
severe and life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. Anaphylaxis refers to a collection of symptoms
affecting multiple systems in the body, the most dangerous of which are breathing difficulties and a
drop in blood pressure or shock, which are potentially fatal.
Anaphylaxis may occur in allergic individuals after exposure to a specific allergen even when prior
exposure to the allergen has not resulted in symptoms. Anaphylaxis can occur immediately or up to
two hours following allergen exposure. Some students, who are very sensitive, may react to just
touching or inhaling the allergen.
The most common causes of anaphylaxis in children include allergies to:
•
Foods (most commonly: peanuts, tree nuts, milk, dairy products, eggs, soy, wheat, fish and
shellfish)
•
Insect stings (yellow jackets, bees, wasps, hornets)
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•
Medications
•
Latex
Student Allergies Protocol
The protocol will include the following:
A. Education and training: The District will provide education and training to all appropriate
personnel on management of student allergies. The training will address prevention efforts,
information about common allergens, recognition of signs of an allergic reaction, and the
emergency response plan.
B. Individualized planning and accommodations: An Individual Health Care Plan and Allergy
Action Plan that addresses management of anaphylaxis will be developed for each student with an
allergy. A copy of the Allergy Action Plan will be provided to the classroom teacher and
substitutes for all preschool to grade 5 students and to all core subject teachers for middle school
students. The protocol will address how information about student allergies will be provided to
other personnel, such as specialists, as needed. The implementation of the District protocol and
of the individualized plan for each allergic student requires a team approach and cooperation
among administrators, teachers and other staff members, parents, and the student as appropriate.
C. Classroom management procedures: Appropriate accommodations will be made in the
classroom, including designation of the classroom as “allergen-free,” as necessary. Procedures
will address education of parents and students and planning for special events involving food.
The protocol will allow for age-appropriate classroom rules. For preschool to grade 5 students,
the classroom teacher, in collaboration with the nurse and with input from the parents of the foodallergic child, will develop a classroom-specific protocol regarding the management of food in
the classroom. All school administrators will facilitate and support the accommodations when
required for individual classrooms, team classrooms, specialist classrooms, and common areas.
D. Common Use Areas: The protocol will address foods used in common areas and cleaning of those
areas, including use of those areas by groups other than students.
E. Kitchen and cafeteria procedures: The food service staff must make reasonable efforts to ensure
that all food items offered to a student with life-threatening allergies are free of suspected
allergens. Kitchen and dining area practices will be aimed at minimizing the cross-contamination
of foods. Dining area procedures must address proper oversight and cleaning of allergen-free
tables.
F. Transportation procedures: School busses and vans must have a working means of two-way
communication and a plan to check the communication system periodically. Bus and van drivers
must have an emergency response plan. Parents of students with life-threatening allergies will be
encouraged to inform bus and van drivers about student allergies. The eating and sharing of food
will be prohibited on routine transportation routes unless medically indicated for a student.
G. Field trip procedures: Planning for field trips will include plans to implement a student’s Allergy
Action Plan, plans for carrying an Epi-pen as needed, and plans for emergency response such as
identification of the nearest medical facility. The school nurse or a trained professional designated
by the school nurse will attend field trips including a student with a life-threatening allergy in the
event that a parent cannot attend.
H. Emergency response procedures: All staff members supervising students with life-threatening
allergies must have a means of communication to call for assistance. The school nurse or another
school staff member trained to administer epinephrine in
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accordance with State of New Jersey regulations must be available in each school facility during
the school day. The protocol must provide for the management of anaphylaxis in individuals with
unknown allergies, including an authorization for administration of epinephrine by the school
nurse signed by the school physician.
I.
Procedures for handling epinephrine: Each school must maintain a current supply of epinephrine
by auto-injector (Epi-pens) and must comply with all Department of Public Health regulations for
administration, storage, and record-keeping concerning epinephrine. The school nurse shall
register with the Department of Public Health and shall train other school personnel to administer
epinephrine in accordance with State of New Jersey regulations. All staff members will be
informed of the location of the Epi-pens.
The protocol outlines procedures and practices and designates staff member responsibilities for
implementation of the protocol.
Responsibilities
The implementation of the District protocol and of the individualized plan for each allergic
student requires a team approach and cooperation among administrators, teachers and other staff
members, parents, and the student as appropriate.
Responsibility of the School Nurse
The School Nurse will:
1. Discuss the child’s allergy with the parent and develop an Individual Health Care Plan and an
Allergy Action Plan at the beginning of the school year, or as needed when a student’s allergy is
identified. The plan will be reviewed annually.
2. Maintain all student Allergy Action Plans in an available location in the nurse’s office.
3. Consult with the classroom teachers (for all preschool to grade 8 students) to develop a
classroom-specific protocol to accommodate students as needed.
4. Provide training to all staff members on management of student allergies. The training will
address prevention efforts, information about common allergens, recognition of signs of an
allergic reaction including anaphylaxis, and the emergency response plan. The training will be
provided annually at the start of the school year.
5. Provide resources and support for training substitute teachers on the management of student
allergies. This includes general training that all substitutes will receive, as well as specific
training for substitutes in the classrooms of children with life threatening allergies.
6. Provide training to appropriate staff members regarding the administration of an Epi-pen, as
outlined in New Jersey regulations. Additional training will be conducted with staff members
that have an allergic student in their classroom. This training will be reviewed periodically
during the school year as needed, such as prior to a field trip.
7. Maintain a list of all staff members trained to use an Epi-pen.
8. Keep a record of all Epi-pens, with their expiration dates, along with the physician orders and
care plans, and notify staff about location of Epi-pens.
9. Meet with the Food Service Manager each year to provide information about specific student
allergies and associated safety needs.
10. Attend, or arrange for a trained professional to attend, field trips with a student with a lifethreatening allergy in the event a parent cannot attend.
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11. Ensure that any student receiving emergency epinephrine will be transported to the hospital via
emergency services.
12. Provide a contingency plan, as part of the emergency response plan, in the event that the nurse is
not in the building.
Responsibility of Administration
The School Administrator will:
1. Arrange time necessary for the school nurse to conduct the training of staff during staff meeting
time.
2. Provide walkie-talkies, or other means of communication, to staff supervising students with food
allergies outside the classroom setting if no other means of communication is readily available or
the location is not in the proximity to the administrative/health offices.
3. Facilitate and support the accommodations developed for individual students, including the
classroom-specific protocols. As needed, the administrator will develop and execute a
management plan to implement accommodations required beyond the individual classroom, such
as requirements concerning team classrooms, specialist classrooms, and common areas.
4. Provide reminders to staff of the risks of food allergies at high-risk times of the year (e.g.,
Halloween, Valentine’s Day).
5. Require that, when food is consumed by staff and parents in areas that students access,
tables/desks or other spaces will be wiped with an appropriate cleaning substance prior to leaving
the room.
6. Include in the community use of the building forms a statement that, if food is consumed, it is the
responsibility of the individual reserving the space, to wipe all tables and chairs with an
appropriate cleaning material prior to leaving the building.
Responsibility of the Food Service Manager
The Food Service Manager will:
1. Be aware and knowledgeable of all aspects and procedures in operating the kitchen, food
preparation and serving including: menus, recipes, food products and ingredients, food handling
procedures and cleaning and sanitation practices.
2. Establish communications and training for all school food service staff and related personnel
regarding safe food preparation and student food allergies.
3. Maintain information concerning food ingredients or food labels with such information from each
food served for at least 24 hours following service in case any student displays an allergic
reaction.
4. Maintain contact information with vendors and purveyors to access food content information and
require clear and complete labeling of all food products.
5. Annually review the laws protecting students with food allergies as they relate to food services.
Responsibility of Parents
The parents of food-allergic students will:
1. Provide documentation from the child’s allergist regarding the specific food allergen(s), an Epipen, as well as appropriate orders for the administration of an Epi-pen.
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2. Be strongly encouraged to provide the classroom teacher with safe snacks that can be eaten
during classroom celebrations.
3. Be strongly encouraged to inform the bus or van driver, and any substitute driver when possible,
about their child’s food allergy.
4. Be strongly encouraged to provide the student’s Allergy Action Plan to persons responsible for
the child during after-school activities located at the school or sponsored by the school.
Procedures
Classroom Procedures (preschool to grade 5):
1. At the start of the school year, the nurse will provide the classroom teacher information regarding
students with allergies and the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. The district allergy
protocol will be provided at this time.
2. A copy of the student’s Allergy Action Plan, with photo if provided, will be given to the student’s
classroom teacher. Copies of all Allergy Action Plans for the class will be placed in the substitute
folder.
3. The classroom teacher, in collaboration with the nurse and with input from the parents of the
allergic child, will develop a classroom-specific protocol regarding the management of food in
the classroom. The teacher will consult with the parent of students with food allergies and the
nurse prior to any celebration involving the consumption of food. The classroom or specific
tables will be designated allergen-free, as needed.
4. The classroom protocol also will address cleaning of tables and chairs. Development of the
classroom protocol will take into account the ages of the students and the emotional and social
needs of the allergic student.
5. The nurse will inform other staff members about students with allergies, as needed and with the
permission of the student’s parents.
6. A letter from the school nurse and classroom teacher will be sent to all parents in the class
informing them that a student with a food allergy is a member of the class, whether the classroom
will be designated as “allergen free,” and the required accommodations for the safety of the
student(s).
7. An age-appropriate review of food allergies will be conducted with classroom students at the
beginning of the school year. This review will be done by the classroom teacher, or in
conjunction with the school nurse, if requested by the teacher.
8. The school nurse will be consulted prior to any grade-wide or school-wide activity during school
hours involving the consumption of food. The teachers, in consultation with the school nurse,
will review any curriculum-related activity involving food, the presence of animals in a classroom
with an allergic student, and other practices that may expose a student to allergens (e.g., sharing
of musical instruments).
9. All students will be instructed that sharing or trading of food in the classroom will not be allowed.
10. In no instance shall a staff member make decisions to allow food to be given to a food-allergic
child unless that staff member has spoken with the nurse or parent.
11. Information on appropriate hygiene, including the benefits of frequent hand washing, will be
provided to students at the beginning of the year and reinforced periodically throughout the
school year.
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12. The classroom teacher of a student with a life-threatening allergy will be provided a means to
communicate with the school nurse or administration office in the event of an emergency.
13. Clear instructions will be provided to a substitute teacher about the classroom-specific food
allergy protocol. In the event a student with a life-threatening allergy is in a classroom taught by a
substitute, the substitute will be required to meet with the school nurse prior to the assignment, to
get specific accommodations, communication expectations, actions, or safety needs that must be
met.
Classroom Procedures (grades 6 to 8):
1. At the start of the school year, the nurse will provide all teachers information regarding students
with allergies, as needed, and the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. The district allergy
protocol will be provided at this time.
2. A copy of the student’s Allergy Action Plan, with photo if provided, will be given to the student’s
core subject teachers. The teachers will provide a mechanism to inform substitutes about student
allergies.
3. The nurse will specifically inform teachers concerning any accommodations provided in a
student’s Allergy Action Plan, especially concerning the presence of food in a classroom or for a
special event. The classroom teacher, in collaboration with the nurse and with input from the
parents of the allergic child, will develop a classroom-specific protocol regarding the
management of food in the classroom. The teacher will consult with the parent of students with
food allergies and the nurse prior to any celebration involving the consumption of food.
Allergen-free tables will be provided, as needed, in individual classrooms.
4. A letter from the school nurse and teachers will be sent to all parents on the team informing them
that a student with a food allergy is a member of the class, if the classroom will be designated as
“allergen free,” and the required accommodations for the safety of the student(s).
5. The nurse will inform other staff members about students with allergies, as needed and with the
permission of the student’s parents.
6. The school nurse will be consulted prior to any activity during school hours involving the
consumption of food. Such activities include celebrations, reward parties, and curriculum events
for a class, team, or grade. The teachers, in consultation with the school nurse, will review any
curriculum-related activity involving food, the presence of animals in a classroom with an allergic
student, and other practices that may expose a student to allergens (e.g., sharing of musical
instruments).
7. Any teacher of a student with a life-threatening allergy will be provided a means to communicate
with the school nurse or administration office in the event of an emergency.
Field Trip Procedures:
1. The nurse must be notified of all field trips two weeks prior to the scheduled date.
2. It is recommended that parent(s) of allergic students attend all field trips with their child. If the
parent is unable to attend, the allergic student will be placed in the group chaperoned by the
teacher. The school nurse or a trained professional will attend field trips including a student with
a life-threatening allergy in the event a parent cannot attend.
3. The student’s Epi-pen and Allergy Action Plan will be sent on the field trip.
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4. The nurse will review with the teacher the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction and
administration of an Epi-pen prior to the trip. Planning for the field trip will include designation
of persons carrying an Epi-pen. Staff members will identify the nearest medical facility or local
emergency numbers, when feasible.
5. The teacher will carry a cell phone or other means of communication, and will be instructed to
follow the Allergy Action Plan and to call 911 in the event of a suspected allergic reaction.
6. Plans for lunch and snack will be discussed prior to the field trip. If eating takes place outside of
school, the same precautions in place at school will be followed on the field trip. While eating on
the bus is not permitted, if lunch or snack must be held on the bus because of weather or
unforeseen conditions, the allergic students(s) will sit in an area designated to maintain necessary
safety and separation from any possible allergens. Lunches of children with food allergies should
be stored separately to minimize cross contamination.
Cafeteria Procedures:
1. The school kitchen will prepare all products in a manner that will minimize the risk of cross
contamination of foods. This preparation area and all utensils will be washed in hot, soapy water
immediately after the completion of the task.
2. All products that contain nuts/peanuts will be clearly marked and individually wrapped.
3. All school kitchen staff will use only latex-free gloves.
4. Peanut/nut-free or other allergen-free tables (or areas of tables) will be provided as needed and
will be clearly identified. Schools are encouraged to locate and implement allergen-free tables in
a manner that minimizes the isolation of allergic students. When feasible, other students will be
encouraged to sit at allergen-free tables if appropriate measures are in place to minimize crosscontamination of the allergen-free tables.
5. The staff and volunteers on lunch duty will ensure that the allergen-free table(s) and chairs will be
washed before lunches begin and after each group finishes. The same table and benches shall be
used each day and will be clearly marked as allergen-free. Students will not be responsible for
washing allergen-free tables. Food-allergic students may be table washers for other tables only if
they wear gloves.
6. Staff and volunteers on lunch duty shall monitor the students’ compliance with the food allergy
protocol at allergen-free table(s). They should also be aware of any bullying or teasing behavior
toward a food-allergic student and report any incidents to the administrator.
7. Students will be discouraged from sharing or trading of food or utensils throughout the cafeteria.
Transportation Procedures:
1. Each school bus or van will have a working means of two-way communication and a plan to
check the communication system periodically.
2. Eating will not be allowed on routine school bus or van routes. Exceptions will be provided for
students with diabetes who may need a snack to treat a hypoglycemic episode or for
circumstances where students are traveling for long periods of time. Students will be informed of
this policy at the beginning of each school year.
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3. Parents are strongly encouraged to inform the bus or van driver, and any substitute driver when
possible, about their child’s food allergy. The student with life-threatening allergies should be
encouraged to sit in the front of the bus.
4. School bus drivers shall be trained annually in allergy awareness and response by appropriate
personnel, per their individual contracts. If the drivers are employed by the school district, this
training will include recognition of an allergic reaction and implementation of bus emergency
procedures.
5. Bus drivers will not distribute food or treats to students.
Emergency Response Procedures:
1. All staff members will be trained on the management of student allergies. The training will
address prevention efforts, information about common allergens, recognition of signs of an
allergic reaction including anaphylaxis, and the emergency response plan. The training will be
provided annually at the start of the school year.
2. Appropriate staff members will be trained regarding the administration of an Epi-pen, as outlined
in the State of New Jersey regulations. All staff members will be informed of the location of the
Epi-pens.
3. When allergic symptoms are suspected in a student, the teacher or staff member supervising the
student shall activate the Allergy Action Plan. The school nurse shall be contacted as soon as
possible. No staff member will decide that potential symptoms do not warrant a response without
consulting the school nurse. Parents will be informed whenever allergic symptoms are suspected
in a student with diagnosed allergies.
4. All staff members supervising students with life-threatening allergies must have a means of
communication to call for assistance.
5. Any student receiving emergency epinephrine will be transported to the hospital via emergency
services.
6. The student’s parent(s) will be notified as soon as possible in the event of anaphylactic reaction
and as appropriate in the event of other allergy symptoms.
7. The school nurse or another school staff member trained to administer epinephrine in accordance
with State of New Jersey regulations must be available in each school facility during the school
day. Staff will be informed of procedures to follow in the absence of the school nurse.
8. The school nurse will maintain an authorization signed by the school physician to administer
epinephrine to individuals with unknown allergies. In the event that an individual with unknown
allergies exhibits symptoms of anaphylaxis, staff members will contact the nurse and call 911.
9. Substitute teachers, when applying for employment, will be provided information on the
management of student allergies. This information will address prevention efforts, information
about common allergens, recognition of signs of an allergic reaction including anaphylaxis, and
the emergency response plan.
Students’ Rights and Responsibilities
The New Jersey Constitution guarantees the right to a free public school education for all New Jersey
children between the ages of five and eighteen. The statutes provide that public schools are to be free
to any person over five and under twenty years of age who is domiciled within the school district.
State law also requires compulsory education for children between the ages of six and sixteen.
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This right to education is subject to certain restrictions. These restrictions include: students must
submit to the authority of their teachers; they must pursue their prescribed courses of study; and they
must comply with those rules that have been established by law for the governance of their schools.
Those students who do not obey the reasonable rules of the school system or who otherwise act in a
manner so as to disrupt the school system are subject to punishment, including suspension or
expulsion from school.
Suspension and Expulsion
Suspension of a student from classes is utilized when all other methods of discipline have been
exhausted or a student commits an offense that requires their removal from classes. Conduct which
constitutes good cause for a student’s suspension or expulsion includes, but is not limited to:
•
Continued and willful disobedience
•
Open defiance of authority
•
Multiple detention or cutting detention
•
Conduct that constitutes a danger to the physical well-being of others
•
Physical assault
•
Taking or attempting to take personal property or money from another pupil by any means
including fear or force
•
Willfully causing, or attempting to cause, substantial damage to school property
•
Participating in an unauthorized occupancy by any group of pupils of any part of any school and
failure to leave the area promptly when directed
•
Incitement resulting in unauthorized occupation by any groups of pupils of any part of any school
•
Incitement which is intended to and does result in truancy by other pupils
•
Knowing possession or knowing consumption of alcoholic beverages or controlled dangerous
substances on school premises, or being under the influence of intoxicating liquor or controlled
dangerous substances while on school premises.
In addition, a Board must immediately suspend a student who commits an assault (as defined in the
state’s criminal code) on a Board member, teacher, or other employee of the Board of Education.
Expulsion proceedings before the local Board of Education must take place no later than 21 days
following the suspension of the student.
The terms “suspension” and “expulsion” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference in
their meanings. “Suspension” refers to the temporary denial of the student’s right to attend school. A
suspension is normally imposed by the school Principal/Assistant Principal and is usually of short
duration. “Expulsion” in contrast, refers to the permanent denial of the student’s right to attend
school and may be imposed only by the local Board of Education. The Principal/Assistant Principal
may suspend any student in or out of school for good cause. Explanations of these suspensions are:
Out-of-School Suspension – Removal from class without school attendance.
If the building Principal/Assistant Principal believes the action to be in the best interest of the
student(s), an out-of-school suspension can be assigned immediately, or it can be assigned to
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take place the following day. Parents will be contacted by phone prior to any student being
suspended. A notice sent home describing the offense and the date of suspension would follow this
up.
In-School Suspension – Removal from class and supervision in a quiet environment.
If the building Principal/Assistant Principal believes it to be in the student’s best interest to have an
in-school suspension, a notice will be sent home to parents indicating the offense and date of the inschool suspension.
A student may appeal a suspension or expulsion decision of the Wanaque Board of Education to the
New Jersey Commissioner of Education. An appeal from a decision of the commissioner is made to
the state Board of Education. The courts may review decisions of the State Board.
Telephone Use by Students
With the approval of their teacher, students who must make an emergency telephone call may do so
from the main office of the school. Otherwise, office telephones are for business purposes only. The
office cannot take messages for students. Parents and students are advised to plan ahead for rides,
play dates, assignments, and permission to go somewhere after school.
Pay telephones are no longer available in schools.
Cellular Telephones/Pagers
Students may carry cellular telephones and devices (i.e. cellular watches) in book bags or handbags,
but must be turned off and kept out of sight during the school day and at school-sponsored activities
before and after the school day. Students observed with cell phones (cellular devices), or cell phone
heard ringing or vibrating will be immediately confiscated.
Consequences for Cell Phone Infractions
1. At the first offense the student will be issued a warning, with the cell phone (device) returned to
the student at the end of the school day.
2. The second offense will result in confiscation of the telephone, with it being returned only to a
parent or legal guardian after a meeting with the building administrator, and an after school
detention.
3. The third offense will result in the loss of the ability to carry a cell phone (device) on school
grounds or at school-sponsored activities for the remainder of the school year and a one-day inschool suspension.
4. Additional violations will result in increasing levels of disciplinary action.
At no time shall the camera feature of a student’s cell phone or device be permitted to be used
on school property (inside or outside the building) unless specifically approved by the building
Principal or Assistant Principal. This includes before, during, and after school, and at schoolsponsored events or school-based activities. Violations of this rule will result in significant
disciplinary consequences.
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The school district does not assume any responsibility for lost or stolen cellular telephones.
Pupils are not permitted to bring or possess a remotely activating paging device on any school district
property at any time regardless of whether school is in session or other persons are present. Students
observed with a remotely activating paging device will result in confiscation of the device, with it
being returned only to a parent or legal guardian after a meeting with the building administrator. In
addition, the student will be required to serve a one-day, in-school suspension. Additional violations
will result in increasing levels of disciplinary action.
State & Local Testing
The purpose of the district’s standardized testing program is to assess student performance, as well as
to help determine the appropriateness of the curriculum on an annual basis. Information is sent home
to parents advising them of specifics regarding the tests. Reports are also sent home to notify parents
of their child’s performance on the PARCC—grades 3 through 8.
Textbooks
The Board of Education provides books to all students. This is done with the hope that this major
investment will be properly safeguarded. Reasonable wear is expected as a result of daily use.
Unreasonable damage to textbooks and/or calculators will result in fines. Students will be expected to
pay for any lost textbooks. If payment is not made, a student’s report card will be withheld until
payment is received.
Violence, Vandalism and Threats
The school district will do all that it can to develop a sense of respect and responsibility in all
students. The Board charges each student with the responsibility of proper care of school property and
the school supplies or equipment entrusted to the student for educational use.
Violence, in any form, will not be tolerated. This can be characterized by physical or verbal actions
and may result in discipline, suspension or expulsion. Threats in any form are considered violent acts
and will result in disciplinary action. The police will be notified as appropriate.
Visitors to School
The Board of Education welcomes and encourages visits to the school by parents, and adult residents
of the community and interested educators. The district requires that you follow the established
procedures:
1. All visitors are required to report to the main office with identification, sign in, obtain a visitor’s
badge, and receive further instructions.
2. Visitors are only authorized to go to the area of the building that is approved for their visit.
3. Return to the main office at the conclusion of the visit to sign out and return the visitor’s badge.
4. If you wish to visit a classroom, please make an appointment in advance through the school
office.
5. Articles to be delivered to children during school hours must be left in the school office. In this
way, we can limit interruptions and focus on learning.
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Volunteers
The district encourages the spirit of volunteerism within its two schools. Parents/guardians or other
interested community members who have time to donate are asked to consider volunteering their
services within our schools. Interested individuals are requested to contact the respective building
Principals/Assistant Principal for additional information
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
A student may not possess, handle or transmit anything that can be considered a weapon, used as a
weapon or a weapon look alike in school, at any school function or while traveling to and from
school.
Anything that can be used to inflict bodily harm is considered a weapon. Such items include, but are
not limited to: gun, knife, razorblade, box cutter, ice pick, explosives, fireworks, chuca sticks or other
karate weapons.
Look-alike weapons will be treated in the same manner as real weapons for purposes of discipline and
are prohibited for students of every grade level.
Possession of any weapon or look-alike weapon may be cause for suspension or expulsion. The
police department will be immediately informed of any incident involving a weapon.
World Language—Spanish
Spanish has been introduced into the curriculum. The intent of the program is to provide students
with formal experience in learning the process of communication in Spanish, increasing student
awareness and appreciation of world cultures, and the long-term goal of providing our students with
the opportunity to take higher levels of Spanish in high school. It is anticipated that students
participating in the Wanaque Public Schools Spanish program might be eligible for Spanish II upon
entrance to high school. This is dependent upon the student passing the high school’s World
Language proficiency test.
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Selected Board of Education Policies, Procedures, and Notifications
Policy 2260—Affirmative Action Program for School and Classroom Practices
The Board of Education shall provide equal and bias-free access for all pupils to all school facilities,
courses, programs, activities, and services, regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry,
age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion, disability, or socioeconomic
status, by:
1. Ensuring equal and barrier-free access to all school and classroom facilities;
2. Attaining minority representation within each school, which approximates the district's overall
minority representation. Exact apportionment is not required, however, the ultimate goal is a
reasonable plan achieving the greatest degree of racial balance, which is feasible and consistent
with sound educational values and procedures;
3. Utilizing a State approved English language proficiency measure on an annual basis for
determining the special needs and progress in learning English of language-minority pupils
pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:15-1.3(c);
4. Utilizing bias-free multiple measures for determining the special needs of pupils with disabilities,
pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.4;
5. Ensuring that support services, including intervention and referral services and school health
services pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16, are available to all pupils; and
6. Ensuring that a pupil is not discriminated against because of a medical condition. A pupil shall
not be excluded from any education program or activity because of a long-term medical condition
unless a physician certifies that such exclusion is necessary. If excluded, the pupil shall be
provided with equivalent and timely instruction that may include home instruction, without
prejudice or penalty.
The Board of Education shall ensure that the district's curriculum and instruction are aligned to the
State's Core Curriculum Content Standards and address the elimination of discrimination by
narrowing the achievement gap, by providing equity in educational programs and by providing
opportunities for pupils to interact positively with others regardless of race, creed, color, national
origin, ancestry, age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion, disability, or
socioeconomic status, by:
1. Ensuring there are no differential requirements for completion of course offerings or programs of
study solely on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status,
affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion, disability, or socioeconomic status;
2. Ensuring courses shall not be offered separately on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin,
ancestry, age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion, disability, or
socioeconomic status;
a. Portions of classes, which deal exclusively with human sexuality, may be conducted in
separate developmentally appropriate sessions for male and female pupils, provided that the
course content for such separately conducted sessions is the same.
3. Reducing or preventing the underrepresentation of minority, female, and male pupils in all classes
and programs including gifted and talented, accelerated, and advanced classes;
4. Ensuring that schools demonstrate the inclusion of a multicultural curriculum in its instructional
content, materials and methods, and that pupils understand the basic tenet of multiculturalism;
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5. Ensuring that African American history, as well as the history of other cultures, is infused into the
curriculum and taught as part of the history of the United States, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:35-1
and the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards; and
6. Ensuring that instruction on the Holocaust and other acts of genocide is included in the
curriculum of all elementary and secondary schools, as developmentally appropriate, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:35-28.
The Board of Education shall ensure all pupils have access to adequate and appropriate counseling
services. When informing pupils about possible careers, professional or vocational opportunities, the
Board shall not restrict or limit the options presented to pupils on the basis of race, creed, color,
national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion,
disability, or socioeconomic status. The district will not use tests, guidance, or counseling materials,
which are biased or stereotyped on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age,
marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion, disability, or socioeconomic status.
The Board of Education shall ensure that the district's physical education program and its athletic
programs are equitable, co-educational, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color,
national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender, religion,
disability, or socioeconomic status, as follows:
1. The district shall provide separate restroom, locker room, and shower facilities on the basis of
gender, but such facilities provided for pupils of each gender shall be comparable;
2. A school within the school district may choose to operate separate teams for both genders in one
or more sports or single teams open competitively to members of both genders, so long as the
athletic program as a whole provides equal opportunities for pupils of both genders to participate
in sports at comparable levels of difficulty and competency; and
3. The activities comprising such athletic programs shall receive equitable treatment, including, but
not limited to, staff salaries, purchase and maintenance of equipment, quality and availability of
facilities, scheduling of practice and game time, length of season, and all other related areas or
matters.
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-20
N.J.A.C. 6A:7-1.7
Adopted: 22 July 2008
Revised: 15 February 2011
Policy 2361—Acceptable Use of Computer Network/Computers and Resources
The Board of Education recognizes as new technologies shift the manner in which information is
accessed, communicated, and transferred; these changes will alter the nature of teaching and learning.
Access to technology will allow pupils to explore databases, libraries, Internet sites, and bulletin
boards while exchanging information with individuals throughout the world. The Board supports
access by pupils to these information sources but reserves the right to limit in-school use to materials
appropriate for educational purposes. The Board directs the Superintendent to effect training of
teaching staff members in skills appropriate to analyzing and evaluating such resources as to
appropriateness for educational purposes.
The Board also recognizes technology allows pupils access to information sources that have not been
pre-screened by educators using Board approved standards. The Board therefore adopts the following
standards of conduct for the use of computer networks and declares unethical,
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unacceptable, or illegal behavior as just cause for taking disciplinary action, limiting or revoking
network access privileges, and/or instituting legal action.
The Board provides access to computer networks/computers for educational purposes only. The
Board retains the right to restrict or terminate pupil access to computer networks/computers at any
time, for any reason. School district personnel will monitor networks and online activity to maintain
the integrity of the networks, ensure their proper use, and ensure compliance with Federal and State
laws that regulate Internet safety.
Standards for Use of Computer Networks
Any individual engaging in the following actions when using computer networks/computers shall be
subject to discipline or legal action:
A.
Using the computer networks/computers for illegal, inappropriate or obscene purposes, or in
support of such activities. Illegal activities are defined as activities that violate Federal, State,
local laws and regulations. Inappropriate activities are defined as those that violate the
intended use of the networks. Obscene activities shall be defined as a violation of generally
accepted social standards for use of publicly owned and operated communication vehicles.
B.
Using the computer networks/computers to violate copyrights, institutional or third party
copyrights, license agreements or other contracts.
C.
Using the computer networks in a manner that:
1.
2.
3.
Intentionally disrupts network traffic or crashes the network;
Degrades or disrupts equipment or system performance;
Uses the computing resources of the school district for commercial purposes,
financial gain, or fraud;
4.
Steals data or other intellectual property;
5.
Gains or seeks unauthorized access to the files of others or vandalizes the data of
another person;
6.
Gains or seeks unauthorized access to resources or entities;
7.
Forges electronic mail messages or uses an account owned by others;
8.
Invades privacy of others;
9.
Posts anonymous messages;
10.
Possesses any data which is a violation of this Policy; and/or
11.
Engages in other activities that do not advance the educational purpose for which
computer networks/computers are provided.
Internet Safety Protection
As a condition for receipt of certain Federal funding, the school district shall be in compliance with
the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, and has
installed technology protection measures for all computers in the school district, including computers
in media centers/libraries. The technology protection must block and/or filter material and visual
depictions that are obscene as defined in Section 1460 of Title 18, United States Code; child
pornography, as defined in Section 2256 of Title 18, United States Code; are harmful to minors
including any pictures, images, graphic image file or other material or visual depiction that taken as a
whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion; or depicts,
describes, or represents in a patently offensive way, with respect to what is suitable for minors, sexual
acts or conduct; or taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to
minors.
This Policy also establishes Internet safety policy and procedures in the district as required in the
Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act. Policy 2361 addresses access by minors to
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inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web; the safety and security of minors when
using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications; unauthorized
access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online; unauthorized disclosures,
use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors; and measures
designed to restrict minors’ access to materials harmful to minors.
Notwithstanding blocking and/or filtering the material and visual depictions prohibited in the
Children’s Internet Protection Act and the Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act, the
Board shall determine other Internet material that is inappropriate for minors.
In accordance with the provisions of the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Superintendent of
Schools or designee will develop and ensure education is provided to every pupil regarding
appropriate online behavior, including pupils interacting with other individuals on social networking
sites and/or chat rooms, and cyber bullying awareness and response.
The Board will provide reasonable public notice and will hold one annual public hearing during a
regular monthly Board meeting or during a designated special Board meeting to address and receive
public community input on the Internet safety policy - Policy and Regulation 2361. Any changes in
Policy and Regulation 2361 since the previous year’s annual public hearing will also be discussed at a
meeting following the annual public hearing.
The school district will certify on an annual basis, that the schools, including media centers/libraries
in the district, are in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act and the Neighborhood
Children’s Internet Protection Act and the school district enforces the requirements of these Acts and
this Policy.
Consent Requirement
No pupil shall be allowed to use the school districts’ computer networks/computers and the Internet
unless they have filed with the main office a consent form signed by the pupil and his/her parent(s) or
legal guardian(s).
Violations
Individuals violating this Policy shall be subject to the consequences as indicated in Regulation
2361 and other appropriate discipline, which includes but are not limited to:
1.
Use of the network only under direct supervision;
2.
Suspension of network privileges;
3.
Revocation of network privileges;
4.
Suspension of computer privileges;
5.
Revocation of computer privileges;
6.
Suspension from school;
7.
Expulsion from school; and/or
8.
Legal action and prosecution by the authorities.
N.J.S.A. 2A:38A-3
Federal Communications Commission: Children’s Internet Protection Act
Federal Communications Commission: Neighborhood Children’s Internet Protection Act
Revised: August, 2012
Policy 5111—Eligibility Of Resident/Nonresident Pupils
The Wanaque Board of Education shall admit to its schools, free of charge, persons over five and
under twenty years of age, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1, or such younger or older pupil as is
otherwise entitled by law to a free public education.
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Eligibility to Attend School
The Board shall admit pupils eligible to attend school free of charge that are domiciled within the
district as defined in N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.1 et seq.
The Board shall also admit any pupil that is kept in the home of a person other than the pupil’s parent
or guardian, where the person is domiciled in the school district and is supporting the pupil without
remuneration as if the pupil were his or her own child in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.2 et seq.
A pupil is only eligible to attend school in the district pursuant to this provision if the pupil’s parent
or guardian files, together with documentation to support its validity, a sworn statement that he or she
is not capable of supporting or providing care for the pupil due to family or economic hardship and
the pupil is not residing with the other person solely for the purpose of receiving a free public
education. In addition, the person keeping the pupil must file, if so required by the district, a sworn
statement that he or she: is domiciled within the district; is supporting the child without remuneration
and intends to do so for a time longer than the school term; will assume all personal obligations for
the pupil relative to school requirements; and provides a copy of his or her lease if a tenant, or a
sworn landlord’s statement if residing as a tenant without a written lease. Pursuant to N.J.S.A.
18A:38-1(c), any person who fraudulently allows a child of another person to use his or her residence
and is not the primary financial supporter of that child and any person who fraudulently claims to
have given up custody of his or her child to a person in another district commits a disorderly persons
offense.
A pupil is eligible to attend school free of charge pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1(b) if the pupil is kept
in the home of a person domiciled in the district, other than the parent or guardian, where the parent
or guardian is a member of the New Jersey National Guard or the reserve component of the United
States armed forces and has been ordered into active military service in time of war or national
emergency. Eligibility under this provision shall cease at the end of the current school year upon the
parent or guardian’s return from active military duty.
A pupil is eligible to attend school free of charge pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1(d) if the pupil’s
parent or guardian temporarily resides within the district and elects to have the pupil attend school in
the district of temporary residence, notwithstanding the existence of a domicile elsewhere. Where
required by the district, the parent or guardian shall demonstrate that such temporary residence is not
solely for purposes of a pupil attending school within the district of temporary residence. Where one
of a pupil’s parents or guardians temporarily resides in the district while the other is domiciled or
temporarily resides elsewhere, eligibility to attend school shall be determined in accordance with the
criteria of N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.1(a)1.i.
A pupil is eligible to attend school in the district free of charge:
1. If the pupil’s parent or guardian moves to another district as the result of being homeless, subject to
the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:17-2 - Education of Homeless Children;
2. If the pupil is placed in the home of a district resident by court order (as defined in N.J.A.C. 6A:223.2(e)) or by a society, agency, or institution pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-2;
3. If the pupil had previously resided in the district and if the parent or guardian is a member of the New
Jersey National Guard or the United States reserves and has been ordered to active service in time of
war or national emergency, resulting in the relocation of the pupil out of the district, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:38-3(b). The district shall not be obligated for transportation costs; and
4. If the pupil resides on Federal property within the State pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-7.7 et seq.
The physical condition of an applicant’s housing, an applicant’s compliance with local housing
ordinances, or terms of lease shall not affect eligibility to attend school.
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A pupil’s immigration/visa status and their eligibility to attend school shall be in accordance with
N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.3(b) and Regulation 5111.
Proof of Eligibility
The district shall accept forms of documentation from persons attempting to demonstrate a pupil’s
eligibility for enrollment in the district in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.4 et seq. The district
shall consider the totality of information and documentation offered by an applicant, and shall not
deny enrollment based on failure to provide a particular form of documentation, or a particular subset
of documents, without regard to other evidence presented.
The district shall not require or request any information or document protected from disclosure by
law, or pertaining to criteria that are not a legitimate basis for determining eligibility to attend school.
However, these protected documents or information, or pertinent parts thereof, may be voluntarily
disclosed by the person(s) seeking enrollment in the district. However, the district may not, directly
or indirectly, require or request such disclosure as an actual or implied condition of enrollment.
Initial Assessment and Enrollment
Registration, initial determinations of eligibility, and enrollment will be in accordance with N.J.A.C.
6A:22-4.1 et seq. The district shall use registration forms provided by the Commissioner of
Education or locally developed forms that are consistent with the forms provided by the
Commissioner. A district level school administrator designated by the Superintendent will be
available and clearly identified to applicants, to assist persons who are experiencing difficulties with
the registration/enrollment process.
Initial determinations of eligibility shall be made upon presentation of an application for enrollment
and enrollment shall take place immediately in all cases except those of clear, uncontested denials.
Where an applicant has provided incomplete, unclear or questionable information, enrollment shall
take place immediately, but the applicant will be placed on notice that removal will result if defects in
the application are not corrected, or an appeal is not filed, in accordance with subsequent notice to be
provided pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.2 et seq.
Where an applicant appears ineligible based on the information provided in the initial application, a
preliminary written notice of ineligibility shall be provided, including an explanation of the right to
appeal to the Commissioner of Education. Enrollment shall take place immediately if the applicant
clearly indicates disagreement with the district’s determination and intent to appeal to the
Commissioner. A pupil enrolled pursuant to this provision shall be notified that he or she will be
removed, without a hearing before the Board, if no appeal is filed within the twenty-one day period
established by N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1.
Where enrollment is denied and no intent to appeal is indicated, applicants shall be advised that they
shall comply with compulsory education laws. In this case, the parent(s) or guardian(s) shall, where
the pupil is between the ages of six and sixteen, be asked to complete a written statement that the
pupil will be attending school in another district, attending a nonpublic school, or receiving
instruction elsewhere than at a school pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25. In the event this written
statement is not provided, the district level administrator designated by the Superintendent shall
notify the school district of actual domicile or residence, or the Department of Children and Families
to report a potential instance of “neglect” pursuant to N.J.S.A. 9:6-1, with the pupil’s name, the
name(s) of the parent/guardian/resident, the pupil’s address to the extent known, and shall indicate
that admission to the district has been denied based on residency or domicile, and that there is no
evidence of intent to arrange for the child to attend school or receive instruction elsewhere.
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Enrollment or attendance in the district shall not be denied based upon absence of the certified copy
of birth certificate or other proof of a pupil’s identity required within thirty days of initial enrollment
pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:36-25.1.
Enrollment in the district shall not be denied based upon absence of pupil medical information,
although actual attendance at school may be deferred as necessitated by compliance with rules
regarding immunization of pupils, N.J.A.C. 8:57-4.1 et seq.
Enrollment in the district, attendance at school, or educational services where attendance in the
regular education program appears inappropriate, shall not be denied based upon absence of a pupil’s
prior educational record. However, the applicant shall be advised that the initial educational
placement of the pupil may be subject to revision upon receipt of records or further assessment of the
pupil by the district.
Notice of Ineligibility
If the district finds the applicant ineligible to attend the schools of the district pursuant to N.J.A.C.
6A:22-1.1 et seq., or the application initially submitted is found to be deficient upon subsequent
review or investigation, notice shall immediately be provided to the applicant consistent with sample
form(s) to be provided by the Commissioner. Notices shall be in writing, in English and in the native
language of the applicant, issued by the Superintendent and directed to the address at which the
applicant claims to reside. The Notice of Ineligibility shall be provided and shall include information
as required in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.2 et seq.
Removal of Currently Enrolled Pupils
Nothing in N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.3 et seq. and this policy shall preclude the Board from seeking to
identify, through further investigation or periodic requests for current validation of previously
determined eligibility status, pupils enrolled in the district who may be ineligible for continued
attendance due to error in initial assessment, changed circumstances or newly discovered information.
When a pupil, enrolled and attending school in the district based on an initial determination of
eligibility, is later determined to be ineligible for continued attendance, the Superintendent may apply
to the Board for removal of the pupil in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.3(b). No pupil shall be
removed from school unless the parent, guardian, adult pupil or resident keeping an "affidavit pupil"
(as defined in N.J.A.C. 6A:22-1.2) as the case may be, has been informed of his or her entitlement to
a hearing before the Board of Education. Once the hearing is held, or if the parent, guardian, adult
pupil or resident keeping an "affidavit pupil", as the case may be, does not respond to the
Superintendent’s notice within the designated time frame or appear for the hearing, the Board shall
make a prompt determination of the pupil’s eligibility or ineligibility and shall immediately provide
notice thereof in accordance with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.2 et seq. The hearings
required pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:22-4.3 et seq. may be conducted by the full Board or a Board
Committee, at the discretion of the full Board. If the hearing(s) is conducted by a Board Committee,
the Committee shall make a recommendation to the full Board for action. No pupil may be removed
except by vote of the Board taken at a meeting duly convened and conducted pursuant to N.J.S.A.
10:4-6 et seq., the Open Public Meetings Act.
Appeal to the Commissioner
The district’s determination that a pupil is ineligible to attend the schools of the district may be
appealed to the Commissioner by the parent, guardian, adult pupil or resident keeping an "affidavit
pupil", as the case may be. Such appeals shall proceed in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1 and
N.J.A.C. 6A:3-8.1 et seq. and shall proceed as a contested case pursuant to
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N.J.A.C. 6A:3. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1(b)1, appeals of "affidavit pupil" eligibility
determinations must be filed by the resident keeping the pupil.
Assessment and Calculation of Tuition
If no appeal to the Commissioner is filed following notice of a determination of ineligibility, the
Board may assess tuition for any period of a pupil’s ineligible attendance, including the twenty-one
day period provided by N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1 for appeal to the Commissioner. Tuition will be assessed
and calculated in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:22-6.3 et seq. The district may petition the
Commissioner for an order assessing tuition, enforceable in accordance with N.J.S.A. 2A:58-10,
through recording, upon request of the Board pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:3-12, on the judgment docket
of the Superior Court, Law Division.
Nonresident Pupils
The admission of a nonresident child to school free of charge must be approved by the Board. No
child otherwise eligible shall be denied admission on the basis of the child’s race, color, creed,
religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, affectational or sexual orientation or sex, social
or economic status, or disability. The continued enrollment of any nonresident pupil shall be
contingent upon the pupil’s maintenance of good standards of citizenship and discipline.
Children Who Anticipate Moving to or from the District
A nonresident child otherwise eligible for attendance whose parent(s) or guardian(s) anticipates
district residency and has entered a contract to buy, build, or rent a residence in this district may be
enrolled with payment of tuition for a period of time not greater than 12 weeks prior to the anticipated
date of residency. Tuition charges will be paid monthly, in advance, and will be refunded, in full, if
the parent or guardian becomes a resident of the Borough by the end of the 12-week period. If any
such pupil does not become a resident of the district within 12 weeks after admission to school,
tuition will be charged for attendance commencing the beginning of the first week and until such time
as the pupil becomes a resident or withdraws from school.
Children of District Employees
Children of Board employees who do not reside in this school district may be admitted to school in
this district with payment of tuition, provided that the educational program of such children can be
provided within district facilities. The District will not be responsible for transportation.
Other Nonresident Children
Other nonresident children, otherwise eligible for attendance, may be admitted to school in this
district with payment of tuition if their admission is warranted by the inaccessibility of school in their
home district, the singular availability of an appropriate educational program in this district, the
avoidance of transfer and readmission of a child whose legal custody is shared by a parent(s) or
guardian(s) residing in this district, or other good cause.
N.J.S.A. 18A:38-1 et seq.; N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.3; 6A:17-2.1 et seq.; 6A:22-1.1 et seq.
Adopted: 22 July 2008; Revised:
27 July 2010
Policy 5330—Administration of Medication
The Board of Education disclaims any and all responsibility for the diagnosis and treatment of the
illness of any pupil. However, in order for many pupils with chronic health conditions and
disabilities to remain in school, medication may have to be administered during school hours. Parents
and legal guardians are encouraged to administer medications to children at home whenever possible
as medication should be administered in school only when necessary for the health and safety of
pupils. The Board will permit the administration of medication in school in accordance with
applicable law.
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Medication will only be administered to pupils in school by the school physician, a certified or
noncertified school nurse, a substitute school nurse employed by the district, the pupil’s parent(s) or
legal guardian(s), a pupil who is approved to self-administer in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.3
and 12.4, and school employees who have been trained and designated by the certified school nurse to
administer epinephrine in an emergency pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.5 and 12.6.
Self-administration of medication by a pupil for asthma or other potentially life-threatening illness or
a life threatening allergic reaction is permitted in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:4012.3.
Medication no longer required must be promptly removed by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
The school nurse shall have the primary responsibility for the administration of epinephrine.
However, the certified school nurse may designate, in consultation with the Board or the
Superintendent, additional employees of the district who volunteer to be trained in the administration
of epinephrine via a pre-filled auto-injector mechanism using standardized training protocols
established by the Department of Education in consultation with the Department of Health and Senior
Services when the school nurse is not physically present at the scene.
The school nurse or designee shall be promptly available on site at the school and at school-sponsored
functions in the event of an allergic reaction. In addition, the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must be
informed that the school district, its employees and agents shall have no liability as a result of any
injury arising from the administration of epinephrine to the pupil.
The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the pupil must sign a statement acknowledging their
understanding the district shall have no liability as a result of any injury arising from the
administration of the epinephrine via a pre-filled auto-injector mechanism to the pupil and the
parent(s) or legal guardian(s) shall indemnify and hold harmless the district and its employees or
agents against any claims arising out of the administration of the epinephrine via a pre-filled autoinjector mechanism to the pupil.
The permission for the emergency administration of epinephrine via a pre-filled auto-injector
mechanism containing epinephrine to pupils for anaphylaxis is effective for the school year it is
granted and must be renewed for each subsequent school year.
Each school in the district shall have and maintain for the use of pupils at least one nebulizer in the
office of the school nurse or a similar accessible location. Each certified school nurse or other
persons authorized to administer asthma medication will receive training in airway management and
in the use of nebulizers and inhalers consistent with State Department of Education regulations. Every
pupil that is authorized to use self-administered asthma medication pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.3
or a nebulizer must have an asthma treatment plan prepared by the pupil’s physician which shall
identify, at a minimum, asthma triggers, the treatment plan and other such elements as required by the
State Board of Education.
All pupil medications shall be appropriately maintained and secured by the school nurse, except those
medications to be self-administered by pupils. In those instances the medication may be retained by
the pupil with the prior knowledge of the school nurse. The school nurse may provide the Principal
and other teaching staff members concerned with the pupil’s educational progress with such
information about the medication and its administration as may be in the pupil’s best educational
interests. The school nurse may report to the school physician any pupil who appears to be affected
adversely by the administration of medication and may recommend to the Principal the pupil’s
exclusion pursuant to law.
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The school nurse shall document each instance of the administration of medication to a pupil. Pupils
self-administering medication shall report each incident to a teacher, coach or other individual
designated by the school nurse who is supervising the pupil during the school activity when the pupil
self-administers. These designated individuals shall report such incidents to the school nurse within
twenty-four hours of the self-administration of medication. The school nurse shall preserve records
and documentation regarding the self-administration of medication in the pupil’s health file.
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-1.1; 18A:40-3.1; 18A:40-6; 18A:40-7; 18A:40-12.3; 18A:40-12.4; 18A:40-12.5;
18A:40-12.6; 18A:40-12.7; 18A:40-12.8; N.J.S.A. 45:11-23; N.J.A.C. 6A:16-2.3(b)
Samples of the forms used by the school’s health offices to authorize the taking of medication during
school hours and to grant permission for the self-administration of medication are provided on the
next two pages. The actual forms are available in each school’s health office.
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Policy 5331—Management of Life-Threatening Allergies In Schools
The Board of Education recognizes pupils may have allergies to certain foods and other substances
and may be at risk for anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe, serious, systemic allergic
reaction that can involve various areas of the body (such as the skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal
tract, and cardiovascular system). Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that may be rapid in
onset and may cause death. Policy 5331 has been developed in accordance with the Guidelines for
the Management of Life-Threatening Food Allergies in Schools developed by the New Jersey
Department of Education.
An Individualized Healthcare Plan (IHP) and an Individualized Emergency Healthcare Plan (IEHP)
will be developed for each pupil at risk for a life-threatening allergic reaction. Self-administration of
medication, the placement and the accessibility of epinephrine, and the recruitment and training of
designees who volunteer to administer epinephrine during school and at school-sponsored functions
when the school nurse or designee is not available shall be in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12
and Board Policy and Regulation 5330. School staff will be appropriately trained by the school nurse
or designee to understand the school’s general emergency procedures and steps to take should a lifethreatening allergic reaction occur.
The school district will develop and implement appropriate strategies and prevention measures for the
reduction of risk of exposure to food allergens throughout the school day, during before- and afterschool programs, at all school-sponsored activities, in the cafeteria, or wherever food is present.
A description of the roles and responsibilities of parent(s) or legal guardian(s), staff, and pupils to
prevent allergic reactions and during allergic reactions are outlined in Regulation 5331.
Every incident involving a life-threatening allergic reaction and/or whenever epinephrine is
administered throughout the school day, during before- and after-school programs, and/or at all
school-sponsored activities shall be reported to the school nurse or designee. The school nurse or
designee shall be responsible to notify emergency responders, the Principal or designee, the school
physician, and the Superintendent of Schools. The Superintendent shall inform the Board of
Education after every incident including a life-threatening allergic reaction or whenever epinephrine
is administered by the school nurse or designee. In addition, in accordance with the provisions of
N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.5.e.(3), the school nurse or designee shall arrange for the transportation of a pupil
to the hospital emergency room by emergency services personnel after the administration of
epinephrine, even if the pupil’s symptoms appear to have resolved.
There will be occasions where food and/or beverages will be served as part of a classroom
experience, field trip, and/or celebration. Because the ingredients of these food and beverage
products may be unknown to the food preparation person and/or server, a pupil with anaphylaxis to
food should not consume any food products that he/she is unsure of the ingredients. The teacher will
provide, whenever possible, advance notice of the classroom experience, field trip, or celebration in
order for the pupil to bring a food or beverage product from their home so they may participate in the
activity.
When a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) informs the Building Principal and the school nurse the pupil
may have an anaphylactic reaction to a substance other than food, the Building Principal will work
with school staff to determine if these substances are on school grounds. The Building Principal will
inform and work with the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and the pupil to avoid the pupil’s exposure to
these substances if present on school grounds.
School staff will be appropriately trained by the school nurse or designee to understand the school’s
general emergency procedures and steps to take should a life-threatening allergic reaction occur. The
school nurse or designee will provide appropriate training to school staff to understand allergies to
food and other substances, to recognize symptoms of an allergic reaction,
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and to know the school’s general emergency procedures and steps to take should a life threatening
allergic reaction occur. The school nurse will work with appropriate school staff to eliminate or
substitute the use of allergens in the allergic pupil’s meals, educational/instructional tools and
materials, arts and crafts projects, or incentives.
Policy and Regulation 5331 should be annually reviewed, evaluated, and updated where needed.
Policy and Regulation 5331 will be disseminated and communicated to all parent(s) or legal
guardian(s) of pupils in the school in the beginning of each school year and when a pupil enters the
school after the beginning of the school year.
N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.3 through 18A:40-12.6
New Jersey Department of Education - Guidelines for the Management of Life-Threatening Food
Allergies in Schools – September 2008
Adopted: 22 July 2008
Revised: 24 March 2009
Policy 5350—Pupil Suicide Prevention
The Board of Education recognizes that depression and self-destruction are problems of increasing
severity among children and adolescents. A pupil under severe stress cannot benefit fully from the
educational program and may pose a threat to himself or herself or others.
The Board directs all school personnel to be alert to the pupil who exhibits behavioral warning signs
of potential self-destruction or who threatens or attempts suicide. Any such signs or the report of such
signs from another pupil or staff member should be taken with the utmost seriousness and reported
immediately to the Building Principal, who shall notify the pupil’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and
other professional staff members in accordance with administrative regulations.
A potentially suicidal pupil shall be referred to the Child Study Team for appropriate evaluation
and/or recommendation for independent medical or psychiatric services. In the event that the
parent(s) or legal guardian(s) objects to the recommended evaluation or indicates an unwillingness to
cooperate in the best interests of the pupil, the Child Study Team may contact the New Jersey
Division of Youth and Family Services to request that agency’s intervention on the pupil’s behalf.
In accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:6-111 and 18A:6-112, as part of the required
professional development for teachers as outlined in N.J.A.C. 6A:9-15.1 et seq., every teaching staff
member must complete at least two hours of instruction in suicide prevention, to be provided by a
licensed health care professional with experience in mental health issues, in each professional
development period. The instruction in suicide prevention shall include information on the
relationship between the risk of suicide and incidents of harassment, intimidation, and bullying and
information on reducing the risk of suicide in pupils who are members of communities identified as
having members at high risk of suicide.
The Superintendent shall prepare and disseminate regulations for the guidance of staff members in
recognizing the pupil who contemplates suicide, in responding to threatened or attempted suicide, and
in preventing contagion when a pupil commits suicide.
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-111; 18A:6-112; N.J.A.C. 6A:9-15.1 et seq.
Adopted: 22 July 2008; Revised: 28 June 2011
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Policy 5410- Promotion and Retention
5410- PROMOTION AND RETENTION (M)
Section: Pupils Date Created: July, 2008 Date Edited: July, 2013
The Board of Education recognizes that each child develops and grows in a unique pattern and that
pupils should be placed in the educational setting most appropriate to their social, physical, and
educational needs. Each pupil enrolled in this district shall be moved forward in a continuous
program of learning in harmony with his/her own development.
Standards for pupil promotion shall be related to the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards
and district goals and objectives and to the accomplishments of pupils. A pupil in the elementary
grades will be promoted to the next succeeding grade level when he/she has completed the course
requirements at the presently assigned grade; has achieved the instructional objectives set for the
present grade; has demonstrated the proficiencies required for movement into the educational
program of the next grade; and has demonstrated the degree of social, emotional, and physical
maturation necessary for a successful learning experience in the next grade.
Promotion policies and procedures will be provided to parent(s) or legal guardian(s) as appropriate.
Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and pupils shall be regularly informed during the school year of the
pupil’s progress toward meeting promotion standards. A teacher who determines that a pupil’s
progress may not be sufficient to meet promotion standards shall notify the parent(s) or legal
guardian(s) and the pupil and offer immediate consultation to the pupil’s parent(s) or legal
guardian(s). Every effort shall be made to remediate a pupil’s deficiencies before retention is
recommended. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and, where appropriate, the pupil shall be notified
of the possibility of the pupil’s retention at grade level in advance and, whenever feasible, no later
than eight weeks prior to the end of the school year.
Pupils who have not met course requirements shall make up the work in summer school and/or repeat
the grade. Specifically, pupils who have failed one or two subjects for the school year shall be
required to make up the work in summer school. Written documentation of successful completion of
the course will be required and submitted to the Principal upon the conclusion of the course. Failure
to meet the requirements of summer school will result in retention.
Classroom teachers shall recommend to the Building Principal the promotion or retention of each
pupil. Pupils who have failed more than two subjects for the school year will automatically be
required to repeat the grade. Parent (s) or legal guardian (s) will be informed of the possibility of
summer school attendance or retention no later than the middle of the fourth marking period of each
year. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and adult pupils may appeal a promotion or retention decision to
the Building Principal and the Superintendent whose decision shall be final.
N.J.S.A. 18A:35-4.9
Revised: August 2013
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Policy 5512- Harassment, Intimidation, And Bullying
Table of Contents
Section
Section Title
A.
Policy Statement
B.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Definition
C.
Pupil Expectations
D.
Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions
E.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Off School Grounds
F.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Reporting Procedure
G.
Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Anti-Bullying Specialist and School Safety Team(s)
H.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Investigation
I.
Range of Responses to an Incident of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying
J.
Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited
K.
Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Action for False Accusation
L.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Publication and Dissemination
M.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Training and Prevention Programs
N.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Reevaluation, Reassessment and Review
O.
Reports to Board of Education and New Jersey Department of Education
P.
Reports to Law Enforcement
Q.
Collective Bargaining Agreements and Individual Contracts
R.
Pupils with Disabilities
A.
Policy Statement
The Board of Education prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a pupil. A
safe and civil environment in school is necessary for pupils to learn and achieve high
academic standards. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying, like other disruptive or violent
behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to
educate its pupils in a safe and disciplined environment. Since pupils learn by example,
school administrators, faculty, staff and volunteers should be commended for demonstrating
appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate
harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
For the purposes of this Policy, the term "parent," pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.3, means the
natural parent(s) or adoptive parent(s), legal guardian(s), foster parent(s), or parent
surrogate(s) of a pupil. Where parents are separated or divorced, "parent" means the person or
agency which has legal custody of the pupil, as well as the natural or adoptive parent(s) of the
pupil, provided such parental rights have not been terminated by a court of appropriate
jurisdiction.
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B.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Definition
“Harassment, intimidation, or bullying” means any gesture, any written, verbal or physical
act, or any electronic communication, as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, whether it be a
single incident or a series of incidents that:
1. Is reasonably perceived as being motivated by either any actual or perceived
characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual
orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability; or
2. By any other distinguishing characteristic; and that
3. Takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, on a school bus, or off
school grounds, as provided for in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.3, that substantially disrupts or
interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other pupils; and that
4. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have the
effect of physically or emotionally harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s property, or
placing a pupil in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her person or
damage to his/her property; or
5. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils; or
6. Creates a hostile educational environment for the pupil by interfering with a pupil’s
education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the pupil.
“Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic
device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager.
C.
Pupil Expectations
The Board expects pupils to conduct themselves in keeping with their levels of development,
maturity and demonstrated capabilities with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other
pupils and school staff, the educational purpose underlying all school activities and the care
of school facilities and equipment consistent with the Code of Pupil Conduct.
The Board believes that standards for pupil behavior must be set cooperatively through
interaction among the pupils, parents, school employees, school administrators, school
volunteers, and community representatives, producing an atmosphere that encourages pupils
to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect for self and
others, as well as for school district and community property on the part of pupils, staff, and
community members.
Pupils are expected to behave in a way that creates a supportive learning environment. The
Board believes the best discipline is self-imposed, and it is the responsibility of staff to use
instances of violations of the Code of Pupil Conduct as opportunities to help pupils learn to
assume and accept responsibility for their behavior and the consequences of their behavior.
Staff members who interact with pupils shall apply best practices designed to prevent pupil
conduct problems and foster pupils’ abilities to grow in self-discipline.
The Board expects that pupils will act in accordance with the pupil behavioral expectations
and standards regarding harassment, intimidation, and bullying, including:
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1. Pupil responsibilities (e.g., requirements for pupils to conform to reasonable standards of
socially accepted behavior; respect the person, property and rights of others; obey
constituted authority; and respond to those who hold that authority);
2. Appropriate recognition for positive reinforcement for good conduct, self-discipline, and
good citizenship;
3. Pupil rights; and
4. Sanctions and due process for violations of the Code of Pupil Conduct.
Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15(a) and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)1, the district has involved a
broad-base of school and community members, including parents, pupils, instructional staff,
pupil support services staff, school administrators, and school volunteers, as well as
community organizations, such as faith-based, health and human service, business and law
enforcement, in the development of this Policy. Based on locally determined and accepted
core ethical values adopted by the Board, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)2, the Board must
develop guidelines for pupil conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1. These guidelines for
pupil conduct will take into consideration the developmental ages of pupils, the severity of
the offenses and pupils’ histories of inappropriate behaviors, and the mission and physical
facilities of the individual school(s) in the district. This Policy requires all pupils in the
district to adhere to the rules established by the school district and to submit to the remedial
and consequential measures that are appropriately assigned for infractions of these rules.
Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1, the Superintendent must annually provide to pupils and their
parents or guardians the rules of the district regarding pupil conduct. Provisions shall be made
for informing parents or guardians whose primary language is other than English.
The district prohibits active or passive support for acts of harassment, intimidation, or
bullying. Pupils are encouraged to support other pupils who:
1. Walk away from acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying when they see them;
2. Constructively attempt to stop acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;
3. Provide support to pupils who have been subjected to harassment, intimidation, or
bullying; and
4. Report acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying to the designated school staff
member.
D.
Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions
The Board of Education requires its school administrators to implement procedures that
ensure both the appropriate consequences and remedial responses for pupils who commit one
or more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, consistent with the Code of Pupil
Conduct, and the consequences and remedial responses for staff members who commit one or
more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The following factors, at a minimum, shall
be given full consideration by school administrators in the implementation of appropriate
consequences and remedial measures for each act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying by
pupils. Appropriate consequences and remedial actions are those that are graded according to
the severity of the offense(s), consider the developmental ages of the pupil offenders and
pupils’ histories of inappropriate behaviors, per the Code of Pupil Conduct and N.J.A.C.
6A:16-7.
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Factors for Determining Consequences
1. Age, developmental and
maturity levels of the parties
involved and their relationship
to the school district;
7. Hobbies;
2. Degrees of harm;
10. Academic performance; and
3. Surrounding circumstances;
11. Relationship to pupils and the
school district.
4. Nature and severity of the
behavior(s);
8. Extra-curricular activities;
9. Classroom participation;
Environmental
5. Incidences of past or continuing
patterns of behavior;
1. School culture;
6. Relationships between the
parties involved; and
3. Pupil-staff relationships and
staff behavior toward the pupil;
7. Context in which the alleged
incidents occurred.
4. General staff management of
classrooms or other educational
environments;
Factors for Determining Remedial
Measures
Personal
1. Life skill deficiencies;
2. Social relationships;
3. Strengths;
4. Talents;
5. Traits;
2. School climate;
5. Staff ability to prevent and
manage difficult or
inflammatory situations;
6. Social-emotional and behavioral
supports;
7. Social relationships;
8. Community activities;
9. Neighborhood situation; and
6. Interests;
10. Family situation.
Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a pupil or staff member who commits one
or more acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may range from positive behavioral
interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion of pupils, as set forth in the
Board’s approved Code of Pupil Conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1. Consequences for
a pupil who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be varied and
graded according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the pupil and the
pupil’s history of problem behaviors and performance, and must be consistent with the
Board’s approved Code of Pupil Conduct and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7, Student Conduct. Remedial
measures shall be designed to correct the problem behavior, prevent another occurrence of
the problem, protect and provide support for the victim of the act, and take corrective action
for documented systemic problems related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The
consequences and remedial measures may include, but are not limited to, the examples listed
below:
Examples of Consequences
1. Admonishment;
2. Temporary removal from the
classroom;
3. Deprivation of privileges;
4. Classroom or administrative
detention;
5. Referral to disciplinarian;
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6. In-school suspension during the
school week or the weekend;
7. After-school programs;
8. Out-of-school suspension
(short-term or long-term);
9. Reports to law enforcement or
other legal action;
10. Expulsion; and
11. Bans from providing services,
participating in school-districtsponsored programs, or being in
school buildings or on school
grounds.
Examples of Remedial Measures Personal
1. Restitution and restoration;
2. Peer support group;
3. Recommendations of a pupil
behavior or ethics council;
13. Pupil treatment; or
14. Pupil therapy.
Examples of Remedial Measures –
Environmental (Classroom, School
Building or School District)
1. School and community surveys
or other strategies for
determining the conditions
contributing to harassment,
intimidation, or bullying;
2. School culture change;
3. School climate improvement;
4. Adoption of research-based,
systemic bullying prevention
programs;
5. School policy and procedures
revisions;
6. Modifications of schedules;
7. Adjustments in hallway traffic;
4. Corrective instruction or other
relevant learning or service
experience;
8. Modifications in pupil routes or
patterns traveling to and from
school;
5. Supportive pupil interventions,
including participation of the
Intervention and Referral
Services Team, pursuant to
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8;
9. Supervision of pupil before and
after school, including school
transportation;
6. Behavioral assessment or
evaluation, including, but not
limited to, a referral to the Child
Study Team, as appropriate;
7. Behavioral management plan,
with benchmarks that are
closely monitored;
8. Assignment of leadership
responsibilities (e.g., hallway or
bus monitor);
9. Involvement of school
disciplinarian;
10. Pupil counseling;
11. Parent conferences;
12. Alternative placements (e.g.,
alternative education programs);
10. Targeted use of monitors (e.g.,
hallway, cafeteria, locker room,
playground, school perimeter,
bus);
11. Teacher aides;
12. Small or large group
presentations for fully
addressing the behaviors and the
responses to the behaviors;
13. General professional
development programs for
certificated and non-certificated
staff;
14. Professional development plans
for involved staff;
15. Disciplinary action for school
staff who contributed to the
problem;
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16. Supportive institutional
interventions, including
participation of the Intervention
and Referral Services Team,
pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-8;
17. Parent conferences;
21. Development of a general
bullying response plan;
22. Recommendations of a pupil
behavior or ethics council;
23. Peer support groups;
18. Family counseling;
24. Alternative placements (e.g.,
alternative education programs);
19. Involvement of parent-teacher
organizations;
25. School transfers; and
20. Involvement of communitybased organizations;
26. Law enforcement (e.g., safe
schools resource officer,
juvenile officer) involvement or
other legal action.
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.9(a)2.vi requires appropriate consequences and remedial actions for any
staff member who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of a pupil. The
consequences may include, but not be limited to, verbal or written reprimand, increment
withholding, legal action, disciplinary action, and/or termination. Remedial measures may
include, but not be limited to, in or out-of-school counseling, professional development
programs, and work environment modifications.
E.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Off School Grounds
This Policy and the Code of Pupil Conduct shall apply to instances when a school employee
is made aware of alleged harassment, intimidation, or bullying occurring off school grounds
when:
1. The alleged harassment, intimidation, or bullying has substantially disrupted or interfered
with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other pupils; and either
2. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the alleged behavior will
have the effect of physically or emotionally harming a pupil or damaging the pupil’s
property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her
person or damage to his/her property; or
3. The alleged behavior has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of
pupils; or
4. The alleged behavior creates a hostile educational environment for the pupil by
interfering with a pupil’s education or by severely or pervasively causing physical or
emotional harm to the pupil.
F.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Reporting Procedure
The Board of Education requires the Principal at each school to be responsible for receiving
complaints alleging violations of this Policy. All Board members, school employees, and
volunteers and contracted service providers who have contact with pupils are required to
verbally report alleged violations of this Policy to the Principal or the Principal’s designee on
the same day when the individual witnessed or received reliable information regarding any
such incident. All Board members, school employees, and volunteers and contracted service
providers who have contact with pupils, also shall submit a report in writing to the Principal
within two school days of the verbal report. The Principal will inform the parents of all pupils
involved in alleged incidents, and, as appropriate, may discuss the availability of counseling
and other intervention services.
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The Principal, upon receiving a verbal or written report, may take interim measures to ensure
the safety, health, and welfare of all parties pending the findings of the investigation.
Pupils, parents, and visitors are encouraged to report alleged violations of this Policy to the
Principal on the same day when the individual witnessed or received reliable information
regarding any such incident. Pupils, parents, and visitors may report an act of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying anonymously. Formal action for violations of the Code of Pupil
Conduct may not be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report.
A Board member or school employee who promptly reports an incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying and who makes this report in compliance with the procedures set
forth in this Policy, is immune from a cause of action for damages arising from any failure to
remedy the reported incident.
In accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-18, the harassment, intimidation, and
bullying law does not prevent a victim from seeking redress under any other available law,
either civil or criminal, nor does it create or alter any tort liability.
The district may consider every mechanism available to simplify reporting, including
standard reporting forms and/or web-based reporting mechanisms. For anonymous reporting,
the district may consider locked boxes located in areas of a school where reports can be
submitted without fear of being observed.
A school administrator who receives a report of harassment, intimidation, and bullying from a
district employee, and fails to initiate or conduct an investigation, or who should have known
of an incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and fails to take sufficient action to
minimize or eliminate the harassment, intimidation, or bullying, may be subject to
disciplinary action.
G.
Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Anti-Bullying Specialist and School Safety Team(s)
1. The Superintendent shall appoint a district Anti-Bullying Coordinator. The
Superintendent shall make every effort to appoint an employee of the school district to
this position.
The district Anti-Bullying Coordinator shall:
a. Be responsible for coordinating and strengthening the school district's policies to
prevent, identify, and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;
b. Collaborate with school Anti-Bullying Specialists in the district, the Board of
Education, and the Superintendent to prevent, identify, and respond to harassment,
intimidation, or bullying of pupils in the district;
c. Provide data, in collaboration with the Superintendent, to the Department of
Education regarding harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;
d. Execute such other duties related to school harassment, intimidation, or bullying as
requested by the Superintendent; and
e. Meet at least twice a school year with the school Anti-Bullying Specialist(s) to discuss
and strengthen procedures and policies to prevent, identify, and address harassment,
intimidation, and bullying in the district.
2. The Principal in each school shall appoint a school Anti-Bullying Specialist. When a
school guidance counselor, school psychologist, or another individual similarly trained is
currently employed in the school, the Principal shall appoint that individual to be the
school Anti-Bullying Specialist. If no individual meeting this criteria is
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currently employed in the school, the Principal shall appoint a school Anti-Bullying
Specialist from currently employed school personnel.
The school Anti-Bullying Specialist shall:
a. Chair the School Safety Team as provided in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21;
b. Lead the investigation of incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in the
school; and
c. Act as the primary school official responsible for preventing, identifying, and
addressing incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying in the school.
3. A School Safety Team shall be formed in each school in the district to develop, foster,
and maintain a positive school climate by focusing on the on-going, systemic process and
practices in the school, and to address school climate issues such as harassment,
intimidation, or bullying. Each School Safety Team shall meet at least two times per
school year. The School Safety Team shall consist of the Principal or the Principal’s
designee who, if possible, shall be a senior administrator in the school and the following
appointees of the Principal: a teacher in the school; a school Anti-Bullying Specialist; a
parent of a pupil in the school; and other members to be determined by the Principal. The
school Anti-Bullying Specialist shall serve as the chair of the School Safety Team.
The School Safety Team shall:
a. Receive any complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils that have
been reported to the Principal;
b. Receive copies of any report prepared after an investigation of an incident of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying;
c. Identify and address patterns of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils in the
school;
d. Review and strengthen school climate and the policies of the school in order to
prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;
e. Educate the community, including pupils, teachers, administrative staff, and parents,
to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils;
f.
Participate in the training required pursuant to the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13
et seq. and other training which the Principal or the district Anti-Bullying
Coordinator may request;
g. Collaborate with the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator in the collection of districtwide data and in the development of district policies to prevent and address
harassment, intimidation, or bullying of pupils; and
h. Execute such other duties related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying as requested
by the Principal or district Anti-Bullying Coordinator.
The members of a School Safety Team shall be provided professional development
opportunities that address effective practices of successful school climate programs or
approaches. Notwithstanding any provision of N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21 to the contrary, a parent
who is a member of the School Safety Team shall not participate in the activities of the team
set forth in 3. a., b., or c. above or any other activities of the team, which may compromise
the confidentiality of a pupil.
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H.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Investigation
The Board requires a thorough and complete investigation to be conducted for each report of
an alleged incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The investigation shall be
initiated by the Principal or the Principal’s designee within one school day of the verbal
report of the incident. The investigation shall be conducted by the school Anti-Bullying
Specialist. The Principal may appoint additional personnel who are not school Anti-Bullying
Specialists to assist the school Anti-Bullying Specialist in the investigation.
The investigation shall be completed and the written findings submitted to the Principal as
soon as possible, but not later than ten school days from the date of the written report of the
alleged incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Should information regarding the
reported incident and the investigation be received after the end of the ten-day period, the
school Anti-Bullying Specialist or the Principal shall amend the original report of the results
of the investigation to ensure there is an accurate and current record of the facts and activities
concerning the reported incident.
The Principal shall proceed in accordance with the Code of Pupil Conduct, as appropriate,
based on the investigation findings. The Principal shall submit the report to the
Superintendent within two school days of the completion of the investigation and in
accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act (N.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.). As
appropriate to the findings from the investigation, the Superintendent shall ensure the Code of
Pupil Conduct has been implemented and provide intervention services, order counseling,
establish training programs to reduce harassment, intimidation, or bullying and enhance
school climate, or take or recommend other appropriate action, as necessary.
The Superintendent shall report the results of each investigation to the Board of Education no
later than the date of the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting following the
completion of the investigation. The Superintendent’s report also shall include information on
any consequences imposed under the Code of Pupil Conduct, intervention services provided,
counseling ordered, training established or other action taken or recommended by the
Superintendent.
Parents of the pupils who are parties to the investigation shall be provided with information
about the investigation, in accordance with Federal and State law and regulation. The
information to be provided to parents or guardians shall include the nature of the
investigation, whether the district found evidence of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, or
whether consequences were imposed or services provided to address the incident of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying. This information shall be provided in writing within
five school days after the results of the investigation are reported to the Board of Education.
A parent or guardian may request a hearing before the Board of Education after receiving the
information. When a request for a hearing is granted, the hearing shall be held within ten
school days of the request. The Board of Education shall conduct the hearing in executive
session, pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A. 10:4-1 et seq.), to protect the
confidentiality of the pupils. At the hearing, the Board may hear testimony from and consider
information provided by the school Anti-Bullying Specialist and others, as appropriate,
regarding the alleged incident, the findings from the investigation of the alleged incident,
recommendations for consequences or services, and any programs instituted to reduce such
incidents, prior to rendering a determination.
At the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting following its receipt of the report or
following a hearing in executive session, the Board shall issue a decision, in writing, to
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affirm, reject, or modify the Superintendent’s decision. The Board’s decision may be
appealed to the Commissioner of Education, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:3, Controversies
and Disputes, no later than ninety days after issuance of the Board of Education’s decision.
A parent, pupil, legal guardian, or organization may file a complaint with the Division on
Civil Rights within one hundred eighty days of the occurrence of any incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying based on membership in a protected group as enumerated in the
"Law Against Discrimination," P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-1 et seq.).
I.
Range of Responses to an Incident of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying
The Board authorizes the Principal of each school, in conjunction with the Anti-Bullying
Specialist, to define the range of ways in which school staff will respond once an incident of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying is confirmed, and the Superintendent shall respond to
confirmed harassment, intimidation, and bullying, according to the parameters described in
this Policy. The Board recognizes that some acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may
be isolated incidents requiring the school officials respond appropriately to the individual(s)
committing the acts. Other acts may be so serious or parts of a larger pattern of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying that they require a response either at the classroom, school building
or school district level or by law enforcement officials.
Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a pupil who commits an act of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to
and including suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1, Discipline of
Pupils and as set forth in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2, Short-term Suspensions, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.3,
Long-term Suspensions and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.5, Expulsions.
In considering whether a response beyond the individual level is appropriate, school officials
shall consider the nature and circumstances of the act, the degree of harm, the nature and
severity of the behavior, past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, and the
context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred. Institutional (i.e., classroom, school
building, school district) responses can range from school and community surveys, to
mailings, to focus groups, to adoption of research-based harassment, intimidation or bullying
prevention program models, to training for certificated and non-certificated staff, to
participation of parents and other community members and organizations, to small or large
group presentations for fully addressing the actions and the school’s response to the actions,
in the context of the acceptable pupil and staff member behavior and the consequences of
such actions, and to the involvement of law enforcement officers, including safe schools
resource officers.
For every incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, the school officials must respond
appropriately to the individual who committed the act. The Board is encouraged to set the
parameters for the range of responses to be established by the Principal and for the
Superintendent to follow. The range of responses to confirmed harassment, intimidation, or
bullying acts should include individual, classroom, school, or district responses, as
appropriate to the findings from each incident. Examples of responses that apply to each of
these categories are provided below:
1. Individual responses can include positive behavioral interventions (e.g., peer
mentoring, short-term counseling, life skills groups) and punitive actions (e.g.,
detention, in-school or out-of-school suspension, expulsion, law enforcement report,
or other legal action).
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2. Classroom responses can include class discussions about an incident of harassment,
intimidation or bullying, role plays, research projects, observing and discussing audiovisual materials on these subjects, and skill-building lessons in courtesy, tolerance,
assertiveness, and conflict management.
3. School responses can include theme days, learning station programs, parent programs,
and information disseminated to pupils and parents or guardians, such as fact sheets or
newsletters explaining acceptable uses of electronic and wireless communication devices
or strategies for fostering expected pupil behavior.
4. District-wide responses can include community involvement in policy review and
development, professional development programs, adoption of curricula and school-wide
programs, coordination with community-based organizations (e.g., mental health, health
services, health facilities, law enforcement officials, faith-based organizations), and
disseminating information on the core ethical values adopted by the district Board of
Education’s Code of Pupil Conduct, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)2.
The district will identify a range of strategies and resources, which could include, but not be
limited to, the following actions for individual victims: counseling; teacher aides; hallway
and playground monitors; schedule changes; before and after school supervision; school
transportation supervision; school transfers; and therapy.
J.
Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited
The Board prohibits a Board member, school employee, contracted service provider who has
contact with pupils, school volunteer, or pupil from engaging in reprisal, retaliation, or false
accusation against a victim, witness, one with reliable information, or any other person who
has reliable information about an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or who reports
an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The consequence and appropriate remedial
action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the
administrator after consideration of the nature, severity and circumstances of the act, in
accordance with case law, Federal and State statutes and regulations and district policies and
procedures.
All suspected acts of reprisal or retaliation will be taken seriously and appropriate responses
will be made in accordance with the totality of the circumstances. Examples of consequences
and remedial measures are listed in the Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Actions
section of this policy.
K.
Consequences and Appropriate Remedial Action for False Accusation
The Board prohibits any person from falsely accusing another as a means of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying.
1. Pupils - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a pupil found to have falsely
accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a means of
retaliation may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including
suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq., Discipline of
Pupils and as set forth in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2, Short-term Suspensions, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7,
Long-term Suspensions and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.5, Expulsions.
2. School Employees - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school
employee or contracted service provider who has contact with pupils found to have
falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying or as a means
of retaliation could entail discipline in accordance with district policies, procedures, and
agreements which may include, but not be limited to, reprimand, suspension, increment
withholding, or termination.
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3. Visitors or Volunteers - Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a visitor or
volunteer found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation,
or bullying or as a means of retaliation could be determined by the school administrator
after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act, including law
enforcement reports or other legal actions, removal of buildings or grounds privileges, or
prohibiting contact with pupils or the provision of pupil services.
L.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Publication and Dissemination
This Policy will be disseminated annually by the Superintendent to all school employees,
contracted service providers who have contact with pupils, school volunteers, pupils, and
parents who have children enrolled in a school in the district, along with a statement
explaining the Policy applies to all acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 that occur on school property, at school-sponsored functions, or on a
school bus and, as appropriate, acts that occur off school grounds.
The Superintendent shall ensure that notice of this Policy appears in the pupil handbook and
all other publications of the school district that set forth the comprehensive rules, procedures,
and standards for schools within the school district.
The Superintendent shall post a link to the district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying
Policy that is prominently displayed on the homepage of the school district’s website. The
district will notify pupils and parents this Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy is
available on the school district’s website.
The Superintendent shall post the name, school phone number, school address, and school
email address of the district Anti-Bullying Coordinator on the home page of the school
district’s website. Each Principal shall post the name, school phone number, address, and
school email address of both the Anti-Bullying Specialist and the district Anti-Bullying
Coordinator on the home page of each school’s website.
M.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Training and Prevention Programs
The Superintendent and Principal(s) shall provide training on the school district’s
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy to school employees, contracted service
providers, and volunteers who have significant contact with pupils. The training shall include
instruction on preventing bullying on the basis of the protected categories enumerated in
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14 and other distinguishing characteristics that may incite incidents of
discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The school district’s employee training
program shall include information regarding the school district’s Policy against harassment,
intimidation, or bullying, which shall be provided to full-time and part-time staff members,
contracted service providers, and school volunteers who have significant contact with pupils.
Each public school teacher shall be required to complete at least two hours of instruction in
harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention in each professional development period as
part of the professional development requirement pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18:37-22.d.
The required two hours of suicide prevention instruction for teaching staff members shall
include information on the relationship between the risk of suicide and incidents of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:6112.
Board members shall be required to complete a training program on harassment, intimidation,
and bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:12-33.
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The school district shall annually observe a “Week of Respect” beginning with the first
Monday in October. In order to recognize the importance of character education, the school
district will observe the week by providing age-appropriate instruction focusing on the
prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14.
Throughout the school year the district will provide ongoing age-appropriate instruction on
preventing harassment, intimidation, or bullying, in accordance with the Core Curriculum
Content Standards, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-29.
The school district will annually establish, implement, document, and assess harassment,
intimidation, and bullying prevention programs or approaches, and other initiatives in
consultation with school staff, pupils, administrators, volunteers, parents or guardians, law
enforcement, and community members in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A.
18A:37-17 et seq.
N.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy Reevaluation, Reassessment and Review
The Superintendent shall develop and implement a process for annually discussing the school
district’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy with pupils.
The Superintendent and the Principal(s) shall annually conduct a reevaluation, reassessment,
and review of the Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Policy, with input from the
schools’ Anti-Bullying Specialists, and recommend revisions and additions to the Policy as
well as to harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention programs and approaches based
on the findings from the evaluation, reassessment and review.
O.
Reports to Board of Education and New Jersey Department of Education
The Superintendent shall report two times each school year at a public hearing all acts of
harassment, intimidation, and bullying in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:1746. The information shall also be reported to the New Jersey Department of Education in
accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. The information reported shall be used to grade each
school and each district in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. The grade
received by a school and the district shall be posted on the homepage of the school’s website
and the district’s website in accordance with the provisions of N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46. A link to
the report that was submitted by the Superintendent to the Department of Education shall also
be available on the school district’s website. This information shall be posted on the websites
within ten days of receipt of the grade for each school and the district.
P.
Reports to Law Enforcement
Some acts of harassment, intimidation, and bullying may be bias-related acts and potentially
bias crimes and school officials must report to law enforcement officials either serious acts or
those which may be part of a larger pattern in accordance with the provisions of the
Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law Enforcement Officials.
Q.
Collective Bargaining Agreements and Individual Contracts
Nothing in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13.1 et seq. may be construed as affecting the provisions of any
collective bargaining agreement or individual contract of employment in effect on the AntiBullying Bill of Rights Act’s effective date (January 5, 2011). N.J.S.A. 18A:37-30.
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R.
Pupils with Disabilities
Nothing contained in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13.1 et seq. may alter or reduce the rights of a pupil
with a disability with regard to disciplinary actions or to general or special education services
and supports. N.J.S.A. 18A:37-32.
The school district shall submit all subsequent amended Harassment, Intimidation, and
Bullying Policies to the appropriate Executive County Superintendent of Schools within
thirty days of Board adoption.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 through 18A:37-32
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1 et seq.; 6A:16-7.9 et seq.
Model Policy and Guidance for Prohibiting Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying on School
Property, at School-Sponsored Functions and on School Buses – April 2011
Adopted: 22 July 2008
Revised: 28 June 2011
Policy 5512.02—Cyber-Bullying
Policy Statement
A safe and civil environment in school is necessary for pupils to learn and achieve high academic
standards. Cyber-bullying by a pupil in the district directed toward another school district pupil or
school staff member is conduct that disrupts both a pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to
educate its pupils in a safe environment.
The Board of Education prohibits acts of cyber-bullying by school district pupils through the use of
any school district owned, operated, and supervised technologies. The Building Principal or designee
may report allegations of cyber-bullying to law enforcement authorities.
Definitions
“Cyber-Bullying” is the use of electronic information and communication devices, to include but not
be limited to, e-mail messages, instant messaging, text messaging, cellular telephone
communications, internet blogs, internet chat rooms, internet postings, and defamatory websites, that:
1. Deliberately threatens, harasses, intimidates an individual or group of individuals; or
2. Places an individual in reasonable fear of harm to the individual or damage to the individual’s
property; or
3. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
“School district owned, operated, or supervised technologies” is any computer, networking system,
electronic equipment, or any other equipment or device that may be used by a person to communicate
to another which is owned, leased, operated, or under the control or supervision of the school district
and/or school district staff.
Reporting Procedure and Investigation
Any pupil or school staff member who believes he/she has or is being subjected to cyber-bullying, as
well as any person who has reason to believe a pupil or school staff member has knowledge or reason
to believe another pupil or school staff member is being subjected to or has been subjected to cyberbullying shall immediately make a report to the Building Principal or designee.
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The Building Principal or designee shall investigate all reports of such conduct. If the investigation
results indicate cyber-bullying was not committed, the Building Principal or designee will inform the
affected parties of the investigation results. In the event the investigation results indicate cyberbullying was committed by a school district pupil on school grounds and/or using school district
technologies, the pupil will be subjected to appropriate discipline.
In the event the investigation results indicate cyber-bullying was committed by a school district pupil
using non-school district technologies away from school grounds, the Building Principal or designee
may report the investigation results to local law enforcement. In addition, school authorities have the
right to impose a consequence on a pupil for conduct away from school grounds, including on a
school bus or at a school-sponsored function pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6. This authority shall be
exercised only when it is reasonably necessary for the pupil’s physical or emotional safety, security,
and well-being or for reasons relating to the safety, security, and well-being of other pupils, staff, or
school grounds, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:25-2 and 18A:37-2. This authority shall be exercised only
when the conduct, which is the subject of the proposed consequence, materially and substantially
interferes with the requirements of appropriate discipline in the operation of the school.
Consequences shall be handled in accordance with Policy and Regulation 5600, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1,
and as appropriate, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7-2, 6A:16-7.3, or 6A:16-7.5.
Any investigation regarding an allegation of cyber-bullying will provide all parties the appropriate
due process rights, including the right to appeal the determination of the Building Principal or
designee as outlined in Regulation 5512.
Discipline and Consequences
Some acts of cyber-bullying may be isolated incidents requiring the school district to respond
appropriately to the individual committing the acts. Other acts may be so serious or part of a larger
pattern of cyber-bullying that require a response either at the classroom, school building, or school
district level or by law enforcement officials.
Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for pupils who commit an act of cyber-bullying range
from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion, as permitted
under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1, Discipline of Pupils. In addition, cyber-bullying using district technology
violates Policy 2361 – Acceptable Use of Computer Network/Computer and Resources and subjects
the pupil to discipline and sanctions of Policy and Regulation 2361.
Prevention and intervention techniques to prevent cyber-bullying and to support and protect victims
shall include appropriate strategies and activities as determined by the Building Principal or designee.
Reprisal or Retaliation Prohibited
The school district prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of cyberbullying. The consequence and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or
retaliation shall be determined by the Building Principal or designee after consideration of the nature
and circumstances of the act, in accordance with case law, Federal and State statutes and regulations,
and district policies and procedures.
Consequences for False Accusation
Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a pupil found to have falsely accused another of an
act of cyber-bullying range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or
expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1, Discipline of Pupils.
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Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee found to have falsely accused
another of an act of cyber-bullying shall be disciplined in accordance with district policies and
procedures.
Policy Publication
This Policy will be disseminated annually to all school staff, pupils, and parent(s) or legal
guardian(s).
Adopted: 22 July 2008
Policy 5513—Care of School Property
The Board of Education believes that the schools should help pupils learn to respect property and to develop
feelings of pride in community institutions. The Board charges each pupil enrolled in this district with
responsibility for the proper care of school property and the school supplies and equipment entrusted to his/her
use.
Pupils who cause damage to school property will be subject to disciplinary measures. The Board authorizes
the imposition of a fine for the loss, damage, or defacement of a textbook and reserves the right to withhold a
report card or diploma from any pupil whose payment of a fine is in arrears.
A pupil who demonstrates chronic and/or serious disregard for property may be referred to the Child Study
Team.
The Superintendent shall develop rules for the safekeeping and accounting of textbooks and prepare a schedule
of fines for lost and damaged textbooks.
N.J.S.A.
N.J.A.C.
18A:34-2; 18A:37-3
6A:23-6.6
Policy 5530—Alcohol and Other Drugs
The Board of Education recognizes that a pupil’s abuse of harmful substances seriously impedes that pupil’s
education and threatens the welfare of the entire school community. The Board is committed to the prevention
of alcohol and other drug abuse and to provide school based assistance by appropriately certified staff for
abusers of alcohol and other drugs. The Board will take the necessary and appropriate steps to protect the
school community from harm and from exposure to alcohol and other drugs. To this end, the Board of
Education states that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and
harmful. Accordingly, the Board will establish and maintain a comprehensive substance abuse intervention,
prevention, and treatment referral program in the schools of this district.
Definitions
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.3; 6A:16-4.1
For the purposes of this policy:
“Substance” or “drugs” or “alcohol and other drugs” means alcoholic beverages, controlled dangerous
substances, including anabolic steroids, as defined at N.J.S.A. 24:21-2 and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-2, any chemical or
chemical compound which releases vapors or fumes causing a condition of intoxication, inebriation,
excitement, stupefaction, or dulling of the brain or nervous system, including, but not limited to, glue
containing a solvent having the property of releasing toxic vapors or fumes as defined at N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10.4
and over-the-counter and prescription medications which are improperly used to cause intoxication,
inebriation, excitement, stupefaction, or dulling of the brain or nervous system. In addition, “imitation drugs”
or “look-alikes” are included.
“Paraphernalia” means any items used to package, distribute and use drugs, such as rolling papers, pipes, small
zip-lock baggies, capsules, envelopes, etc.
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“Substance abuse” means the consumption or use of any substance for purposes other than for the treatment of
sickness or injury as prescribed or administered by a person duly authorized by law to treat sick and injured
human beings.
“Evaluation” means those procedures used by a certified or licensed professional to determine a pupil’s need
for an alcohol or drug educational program or treatment that extends beyond the regular school program by
virtue of learning, behavior or health difficulties of the pupil or the pupil’s family.
“Intervention and referral treatment” means those programs, services offered to help a pupil because of the use
of substances by the pupil or a member of the pupil’s family.
“Parent” means the natural parent(s) or adoptive parent(s), legal guardian(s), foster parent(s) or parent
surrogate(s) or a pupil. Where parents are separated or divorced, “parent” means the person or agency who has
legal custody of the pupil, as well as the natural or adoptive parent(s) of the pupil, provided such parental
rights have not been terminated by a court of appropriate jurisdiction.
Discipline
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-10; 18A:40A-11 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)2.; 6A:16-6.3(a)
The Board prohibits the use, possession, being under the influence of and/or distribution of a substance on
school premises, at any event away from the school premises that is sponsored by this Board, on any
transportation vehicle provided by this board, and while traveling to and from school and other school activity.
Pupils suspected of being under the influence of drugs/alcohol will be identified, evaluated, and reported in
accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1-4.3. A pupil who uses, possesses, is under the influence of or suspected
of being under the influence of, or distributes a substance, on or off school premises, will be subject to medical
examination including testing for drugs and subject to discipline. Discipline will be graded to the severity of
the offenses, the nature of the problem and the pupil’s needs. The possession, use, or distribution of
paraphernalia shall be considered, as “under the influence” for disciplinary purposes and a medical
examination shall be required. Discipline may include suspension or expulsion. The Board shall establish
consequences for a pupil not following through on the recommendations of an evaluation for alcohol or other
drug abuse and related behaviors. The Superintendent and/or designee may notify the appropriate law
enforcement agency pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3.
Instruction
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.1
The Board shall provide a comprehensive program of instruction on the nature and effects of substance and
tobacco. The program will be included in the health education curriculum and conducted in accordance with
law, rules of the State Board of Education, and Policy No. 2422.
Identification, Evaluation, and Intervention
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-11 through 18A:40A-17 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.1; 6A:16-4.1; 6A:16-4.2; 6A:16-4.3
Anabolic Steroids: Whenever any teaching staff member, certified or non-certified nurse or other educational
personnel have reason to believe a pupil has used or may be using anabolic steroids that person must report the
matter as soon as possible to:
1. The Principal (or in the Principal’s absence, to a person designated by the Principal); and
2. Either the certified or non-certified school nurse or the Substance Awareness Coordinator, whichever is
immediately available.
The Principal or his/her designee, in response to every report, must immediately:
1. Notify the pupil’s parent(s);
2. Notify the Superintendent; and
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3. Arrange for the immediate examination of the pupil by a physician selected by the parent(s).
3.1. If the physician selected by the parent(s) is not available to perform the examination, the examination
will be conducted by the school physician or other physician identified by the Principal.
3.2. The examination conducted by the physician selected by the parent will not be at district expense.
3.3. The pupil shall be examined as soon as possible for the purpose of determining whether the pupil has
been using anabolic steroids.
3.4. A written report of the examination of the pupil shall be furnished by the examining physician to the
pupil’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and to the Superintendent.
If it is determined the pupil has been using anabolic steroids, the pupil and others, as necessary, shall be
interviewed by a Substance Awareness Coordinator or individual who holds a school nurse psychologist,
school social worker, or pupil personnel services endorsements on the Educational Services Certificate and are
trained to assess alcohol and other drug abuse for the purpose of determining the extent of the pupil’s
involvement with substances and the possible need for referral for treatment. In order to make this
determination, the staff member may conduct a reasonable investigation, which may include interviews with
the pupil’s teachers and school staff. The school staff member may also consult with physicians and such
experts in the field of substance abuse as may be appropriate.
If it is determined the pupil’s use of steroids represents a danger to the pupil’s health and well-being,
certificated staff as per N.J.A.C. 6A:16A:16-4.3(b)4 will initiate a referral for treatment to:
1. Appropriate community agencies as defined in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(b); or
2. Out-of-State agencies licensed by the appropriate State regulatory agency for alcohol and other drug
services; or
3. Private practitioners certified by appropriate drug and alcohol licensing board.
Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse: All staff members shall be alert to signs of substance by pupils and shall
respond to those signs in accordance with administrative regulations. Any staff member to whom it appears
that a pupil may be under the influence of alcohol or other drugs other than anabolic steroids on school
property or at a school function, or while traveling to or from school and other school activities, shall report the
matter as soon as possible to:
1. The Principal (or in the Principal’s absence, to a person designated by the Principal) and either:
2. The school nurse or the school physician or the Substance Awareness Coordinator.
3. If neither the school nurse or school physician or the Substance Awareness Coordinator is available, the
staff member responsible for the function shall be notified.
The Principal or his/her designee shall immediately notify the pupil’s parent(s) and the Superintendent.
The Principal must arrange for an immediate medical examination of the pupil:
1. By a physician selected by the parent(s) or,
2. If the physician selected by the parent(s) is not immediately available, then by the school physician.
3. If neither the physician selected by the parent(s) nor the school physician is immediately available, the
pupil shall be taken to the emergency room of the nearest hospital for examination.
The pupil shall be accompanied by the pupil’s parent(s) if available, and will be accompanied by a member
of the school staff designated by the Principal.
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4. An examination conducted by a physician other than the school physician or the emergency room of the
nearest hospital shall not be at district expense. Treatment will not be at Board expense.
5. A plan shall be developed for the appropriate supervision of the student while waiting for a parent to take
the student or while the student is waiting for and receiving the medical examination by the school
physician or a physician in an emergency room.
The school district, in cooperation with the medical professional licensed to practice medicine or osteopathy
will establish the minimum requirements to be used for these medical examinations conducted in accordance
with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3 et seq. The minimum requirements for the examination will be periodically reviewed
and updated as needed. Any substance screening conducted by the school nurse and/or other staff is not a
substitute for the required medical examination required in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-12.
If there is a positive determination from the medical examination of the pupil indicating the alcohol or drug use
interferes with the pupil’s physical or mental ability to perform in school:
1. The pupil will be returned to the care of the parent(s) or legal guardians(s) as soon as possible; and
2. Attendance at school will not resume until a medical report verifies the pupil’s alcohol or drug use no
longer interferes with the pupil’s physical or mental ability to attend school.
When a pupil’s substance abuse or suspected substance abuse threatens the pupil’s life or places the pupil
and/or others in imminent peril, all procedures shall be expedited in accordance with the emergency. Policy
No. 8441, Care of Injured and Ill Persons, may be implemented as appropriate, provided no component of the
procedures implementing this policy is omitted.
The Board will provide services for intervention, assessment, and referral for agency evaluation and treatment
by staff members who are properly and appropriately certified and trained to render such services.
Such services will include any of the following:
1. Instruction, counseling, and related services to a pupil who is receiving medical treatment for a diagnosed
alcohol or other drug dependency problem; and
2. Referral to a community agency licensed by the NJ Department of Health, Division of Addiction Services,
out-of-State agencies licensed by the appropriate State regulatory agency for alcohol and other drug
services or private practitioners certified by the appropriate drug and alcohol licensing board; and
3. Support services for pupils who are in or returning from medical treatment for alcohol and other drug
dependency; and
4. A special class or course designed to meet the needs of pupils with alcohol or other drug use problems.
5. Evaluations by the child study team to determine students’ eligibility for special education and related
services, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.5 and 3.6.
In-Service Training
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-15(b)
The Board directs the Superintendent to develop a program to ensure that all educational staff members receive
in-service training in alcohol and other drug abuse prevention and intervention. The in-service training shall
be updated annually in order to ensure educational staff members have the most current information available
on the subject of substance abuse and the school district’s comprehensive alcohol, tobacco and other drug
abuse program, policies and procedures.
Outreach to Parents
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-16; 18A:40A-17 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1(c)7.
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The Board will provide a program of outreach to parent(s) of pupils that includes information on the district’s
substance abuse curriculum and policies and procedures, the identification of substance abusers, prevention
organizations and treatment agencies. The Superintendent is directed to develop the program in consultation
with local agencies recommended by the Commissioner and to offer the program at times and in places
convenient to parent(s) on school premises or in other suitable facilities.
Records
§408 of the Drug Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act, 42 U.S.C., and Implementing
Regulations, 42 CFR Part 2
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-7.1
Information regarding a pupil’s involvement in a school intervention or referral for treatment or a school-based
alcohol and other drug counseling program shall be kept strictly confidential in accordance with §408 of the
Drug Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act, 42 U.S.C. 290 ee-3, and implementing regulations,
42 CFR Part 2. Any discipline-related notations may be entered on the pupil’s records subject to Policy No.
8330 regarding confidentiality and limited access. All such notations shall be expunged when the pupil leaves
school.
If an elementary or secondary pupil involved in a school-based alcohol or other drug counseling program
provides information during the course of a counseling session in that program which indicates that the pupil’s
parent(s) or other person residing in the pupil’s household is dependent upon or illegally using a substance as
that term is defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9, that information shall be kept confidential and may be disclosed
only with the pupil’s written consent to another person
or entity whom the pupil specifies in writing in the case of a secondary school pupil, or to a member of the
pupil’s immediate family or the appropriate school personnel in the case of an elementary school pupil;
pursuant to a court order; to a person engaged in a bona fide research purpose, except that no names or other
information identifying the pupil or the person with respect to whose substance abuse the information was
provided, shall be made available to the researcher; or to the Division of Youth and Family Services or to a law
enforcement agency, if the information would cause a person to reasonably suspect that the elementary or
secondary pupil or another child may be an abused or neglected child.
Nonpublic School Pupils
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-5; 18A:40A-17c
The Board will lend to pupils attending nonpublic schools located in this district and to the parent(s) of such
pupils educational materials on substance abuse prepared and supplied by the Commissioner. The loan of such
materials shall be at no cost to the district.
Civil Immunity
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-13, 18A:40A-14; and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.3(c)
No civil action of any kind shall lie against any employee, officer or agent of the Board because of actions
taken under the education statutes on substance abuse, N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq., provided the skill and care
given is that ordinarily required and exercised by other such employees, officers and agents of the Board.
Any employee who in good faith reports a pupil to the Principal, the Principal’s designee, the school physician,
or the School Nurse in an attempt to help such pupil cure his/her abuse of substances shall not be liable in civil
damages as a result of making any such a report.
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Reporting Pupils to Law Enforcement Authorities
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-6.3(a)
The Superintendent, or designee, will immediately report pupils to law enforcement authorities if the staff
member has reason to believe a pupil is unlawfully possessing or in any way involved in the distribution of
controlled dangerous substances, anabolic steroids, or drug paraphernalia, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-6.3(a).
The Superintendent will not report a pupil who has voluntarily sought school-based counseling for a substance
abuse problem or who voluntarily and on his or her own initiative gives any alcohol or drugs or paraphernalia
in their possession to a Substance Awareness Coordinator or other individual who holds either a school nurse,
school nurse/non instructional, school psychologist, school counselor, school social worker or student
personnel service endorsement, provided the pupil is not involved or implicated in a current drug distribution
activity and the pupil participates in an appropriate school- or community-based alcohol or drug abuse
program..
Policy Review and Accessibility
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-10; 18A:40A-11 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.2(a) & (b)
The Board will annually review the effectiveness of Policy and procedures. The Board shall solicit parent,
pupil and community input, as well as consult with local substance abuse prevention, intervention and
treatment agencies licensed by the New Jersey Department of Human Services.
This policy and its implementing regulations shall be made available annually, at the beginning of the school
year, to all school employees, pupils, and parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Each newly hired employee and
transferred pupil will be offered this policy and implementing regulations on his/her arrival in the district.
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq.; 18A:40A-7.1 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-4.1 et seq
Policy 5600—Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct
The Board of Education adopts this Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct Policy to establish standards and
procedures for positive pupil development and behavioral expectations on school grounds, including on a
school bus or at school-sponsored functions, and as appropriate, for conduct away from school grounds.
Every pupil enrolled in this district shall observe promulgated rules and regulations and submit to the
discipline imposed for infraction of those rules. Regulation 5600 shall include a description of school
responses and consequences to violations of the behavioral expectations established by the Board that, at a
minimum, are graded according to the severity of the offenses, considering the developmental ages of the pupil
offenders and pupils’ histories of inappropriate behaviors pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(c)5.
The development, annual review, and update of this Policy shall involve parent, pupil, and community
involvement which represents, where possible, the composition of the schools and community and shall be
based on locally determined and accepted core ethical values.
The Board will review this Policy and Regulation after considering the findings of the annual reports of pupil
conduct, including suspensions and expulsions, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)5 and 6, and the incidences
reported under the Electronic Violence and Vandalism Reporting System, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:165.3.
The Superintendent shall report annually on the implementation of the Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct
Policy to the Board at a public meeting pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a)5. The Superintendent shall submit a
report annually to the New Jersey Department of Education on pupil conduct, including all pupil suspensions
and expulsions, and the implementation of the Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct Policy in accordance with the
format prescribed by the Commissioner of Education and the Electronic Violence and Vandalism Reporting
System, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-5.3(e).
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For pupils with disabilities, subject to Individualized Education Programs in accordance with 20 U.S.C. §1400
et seq., the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, and accommodation plans under 29
U.S.C. §§794 and 705(20), pupil discipline and the code of conduct shall be implemented in accordance with
the components of the applicable plans.
The Building Principal or designee shall have the authority to assign discipline to pupils. School authorities
also have the right to impose a consequence on a pupil for conduct away from school grounds, including on a
school bus or at a school-sponsored function pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6. This authority shall be exercised
only when it is reasonably necessary for the pupil’s physical or emotional safety, security, and well-being or
for reasons relating to the safety, security, and well-being of other pupils, staff, or school grounds, pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 18A:25-2 and 18A:37-2. This authority shall be exercised only when the conduct which is the subject
of the proposed consequence materially and substantially interferes with the requirements of appropriate
discipline in the operation of the school. Consequences shall be handled in accordance with Policy and
Regulation 5600, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1, and as appropriate, in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7-2,
6A:16-7.3, or 6A:16-7.5.
Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a pupil who commits one or more acts of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or
expulsion. The factors for determining consequences and remedial measures and examples of consequences
and remedial measures are listed in Policy 5512 – Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying.
Consequences for a pupil who commits an act of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be varied and
graded according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the pupil and the pupil’s history of
problem behaviors and performance, and shall be consistent with this Policy and the school district’s pupil
discipline/code of conduct pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1.
Remedial measures shall be designed to correct the problem behavior; prevent another occurrence of the
problem; protect and provide support for the victim of the act; and take corrective action for documented
systemic problems related to harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
Any pupil to be disciplined shall be provided the due process procedures for pupils and their families as set
forth in N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.2 through 7.6.
When a pupil transfers to a public school district from another public school district, all information in the
pupil’s record related to disciplinary actions taken against the pupil by the school district and any information
the school district has obtained pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60, Disclosure of Juvenile Information, Penalties
for Disclosure, shall be provided to the receiving public school district, in accordance with the provisions of
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-19(a), N.J.A.C. 6A:32(e)10.iv., and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.10.
Regulation 5600 shall include a description of pupil responsibilities that include expectations for academic
achievement and behavior, a description of behaviors that will result in suspension or expulsion pursuant to
N.J.S.A. 37-2, and a description of pupil rights pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(c)3.i through vii.
Comprehensive behavioral supports that promote positive pupil development and the pupil’s abilities to fulfill
the behavioral expectations established by the Board will include: positive reinforcement for good conduct and
academic success including the programs as outlined in Policy 5440; supportive interventions and referral
services including those services outlined in Policy 2417; remediation of problem behaviors that take into
account the nature of the behaviors, the developmental ages of the pupils and the pupil’s histories of problem
behaviors and performance; and for pupils with disabilities, the behavior interventions and supports shall be
determined and provided pursuant to the requirements of N.J.A.C. 6A:14.
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The Building Principal shall maintain a current list of community-based health and social service provider
agencies available to support a pupil and the pupil’s family, as appropriate, and a list of legal resources
available to serve the community.
Pupil discipline and code of conduct in the district will be applied without regard to race, color, religion,
ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or
sensory disability or by any other distinguishing characteristic, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:5.
The Pupil Discipline/Code of Conduct Policy and Regulation shall be disseminated annually to all school staff,
pupils, and parent(s) or legal guardian(s). School staff shall be trained annually on the Pupil Discipline/Code of
Conduct Policy and Regulation, which shall include training on the prevention, intervention, and remediation
of pupil conduct in violation of the district’s Policy and Regulation. Information on this Policy and Regulation
shall be incorporated into the orientation program for new employees.
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-1; 18A:36-25.1; 18A:25-2; 18A:36-19a;
18A:37-1 et seq.; 18A:37-13.1 et seq.
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1 et seq.; 6A:14-1.1 et seq.
Cross reference: Policy Guide Nos. 2460, 5500, 8330
Adopted: 22 July 2008
Revised: 28 June 2011
Policy 5751—Sexual Harassment (Students)
The Board of Education will not tolerate sexual harassment of pupils by school employees, other pupils, or third
parties. Sexual harassment of pupils is a form of prohibited sex discrimination. School district staff will
investigate and resolve allegations of sexual harassment of pupils engaged in by school employees, other pupils
(peers), or third parties.
The Board shall establish a grievance procedure through which school district staff and/or pupils can report
alleged sexual discrimination, including sexual harassment, which may include quid pro quo harassment and
hostile environment.
Definitions:
1. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a school employee explicitly or implicitly conditions a pupil’s
participation in an educational program or activity or bases an educational decision on the pupil’s
submission to unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other favors, or other verbal,
nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Quid Pro Quo Harassment is equally unlawful whether
the pupil resists and suffers the threatened harm or submits and thus avoids the threatened harm.
2. Hostile environment sexual harassment is sexually harassing conduct (which can include unwelcomed
sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other favors, or other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct
of a sexual nature) by an employee, by another pupil, or by a third party that is sufficiently severe,
persistent, or pervasive to limit a pupil’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or
activity, or to create a hostile or abusive educational environment.
This Policy protects any “person” from sex discrimination; accordingly both male and female pupils are
protected from sexual harassment engaged in by school district employees, other pupils, or third parties. Sexual
harassment, regardless of the gender of the harasser, even if the harasser and the pupil being harassed are
members of the same gender is prohibited. Harassing conduct of a sexual nature directed toward any pupil,
regardless of the pupil’s sexual orientation, may create a sexually hostile
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environment and therefore constitute sexual harassment. Nonsexual touching or other nonsexual conduct does
not constitute sexual harassment.
The regulation and grievance procedure shall provide a mechanism for discovering sexual harassment as early
as possible and for effectively correcting problems.
The Superintendent, or designee, will take steps to avoid any further sexual harassment and to prevent any
retaliation against the pupil, who made the complaint, was the subject of the harassment, or against those who
provided the information or were witnesses. The school district staff can learn of sexual harassment through
notice and any other means such as from a witness to an incident, an anonymous letter or telephone call.
This policy and regulation on sexual harassment of pupils shall be published and distributed to pupils and
employees to ensure all pupils and employees understand the nature of sexual harassment and that the Board
will not tolerate it. The Board shall provide training for all staff and age-appropriate classroom information for
pupils to ensure the staff and the pupils understand what type of conduct can cause sexual harassment and that
the staff know the school district policy and regulation on how to respond.
In cases of alleged harassment, the protections of the First Amendment must be considered if issues of speech or
expression are involved. Free speech rights apply in the classroom and in all other programs in the public
schools. The Superintendent, or designee, will formulate, interpret, and apply the policy so as to protect free
speech rights of staff, pupils and third parties.
In addition, if the Board accepts federal funds, the Board shall be bound by Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972 prohibiting sexual harassment of pupils. Title IX applies to all public school districts that
receive federal funds and protects pupils in connection with all the academic, educational, extra-curricular,
athletic, and other programs of the school district, whether they take place in the school facilities, on the school
bus, at a class or training program sponsored by the school in a school building or at another location.
United States Department of Education - Office of Civil Rights Sexual Harassment Guidance: Harassment of
Pupils by School Employees, Other Pupils, or Third Parties (1997)
Policy 5770—Pupil Right of Privacy
The Board of Education recognizes that a pupil’s right of privacy may not be violated by unreasonable search
and seizure and directs that no pupil be searched without reason or in an unreasonable manner.
Teaching staff members are charged with the responsibility of maintaining order and discipline in the schools
and of safeguarding the safety and well being of the pupils in their care. In the discharge of that responsibility,
a teaching staff member may search or request the search of the person or property of a pupil as authorized by
this policy, with or without the pupil’s consent, whenever he/she has reasonable grounds to suspect that the
search is required to discover evidence of a violation of law or of school rules. The extent of the search will be
governed by the seriousness of the alleged infraction, the pupil’s age, and the pupil’s disciplinary history.
Except in exigent circumstances, an intrusive search of a pupil’s person or intimate personal belongings shall be
conducted by a person of the pupil’s gender.
The Board acknowledges the need for the in-school storage of pupils’ possessions and shall provide storage
places, including desks and lockers, for that purpose. Where locks are provided for such storage places, pupils
may lock them against incursion by other pupils. In no storage place provided by the Board shall pupils have
such an expectation of privacy as to prevent examination by a school official. Pupils shall be notified in writing
at the beginning of each school year that inspections of their lockers, desks, and other storage facilities on
school district property may be conducted. The school Principal or designee is directed to conduct, without
further notice, the regular inspection of such facilities provided to pupils for the storage of property.
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Except as required by exigent circumstances, a request for the search of a pupil or a pupil’s private possessions
will be directed to the Building Principal or designee who shall, whenever feasible, first request the freely
offered consent of the pupil to the inspection.
The Superintendent shall be notified of the proposed search of a pupil’s person or intimate personal belongings.
Whenever possible, a search will be conducted by the Principal in the presence of the pupil, the pupil’s parent(s)
or legal guardian(s) or a representative of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s), and a teaching staff member other
than the Principal. Under no circumstances shall any pupil be subjected to a strip search or a body cavity
search.
A search prompted by the reasonable belief that the circumstances are exigent and pose an immediate threat,
will be conducted by any teaching staff member with as much speed and dispatch as may be required to protect
persons and property.
The Principal shall conduct a pupil search on the request of a law enforcement officer only on presentation of a
duly authorized search warrant or on the voluntary and knowing consent of the pupil or when the Principal has
independent grounds to suspect the presence of an incriminating object.
The Principal shall be responsible for the prompt recording in writing of each pupil search, including the
reasons for the search; information received that established the need for the search and the name of the
informant, if any; the persons present when the search was conducted; any substances or objects found; and the
disposition made of them. The Principal shall be responsible for the custody, control, and disposition of any
illegal or dangerous substance or object taken from a pupil.
N.J.S.A.
18A:36-19.2, 18A:37-6
Policy 7422—School Integrated Pest Management Plan
The New Jersey School Integrated Pest Management Act of 2002 requires school districts to implement a
school integrated pest management policy that includes an Integrated Pest Management Plan. In accordance
with the requirements of the Act, the Board shall ensure implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
procedures to control pests and minimize exposure of children, faculty, and staff to pesticides. These
procedures shall be applicable to all school property in the Wanaque School District.
IPM Coordinator (IPMC)
The Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds shall be designated as the district’s Integrated Pest Management
Coordinator (IPMC) and is responsible for the implementation of the school integrated pest management policy.
Integrated Pest Management Procedures in Schools
Implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) procedures will determine when to control pests and
whether to use mechanical, physical, cultural, biological, or chemical methods. Applying IPM principles
prevents unacceptable levels of pest damage by the most economical means and with the least possible hazard
to people, property, and the environment.
The Integrated Pest Management Coordinator (IPMC) shall consider the full range of management options,
including no action at all. Non-pesticide pest management methods are to be used whenever possible. The
choice of using a pesticide shall be based on a review of all other available options and a determination that
these options are not effective or not reasonable. When it is determined that a pesticide must be used, low
impact pesticides and methods are preferred and shall be considered for use first.
Development of IPM plans
The Superintendent, in collaboration with the school Building Principal(s) and the IPMC, shall be responsible
for the development of the IPM Plan for the school district. The school district’s
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Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan is a blueprint of how the school district will manage pests through IPM
methods. The school district’s IPM Plan will state the school district’s goals regarding the management of pests
and the use of pesticides for all school district property. The Plan will reflect the school district’s site-specific
needs and a description of how each component of the school district’s Integrated Pest Management Policy and
Regulation will be implemented for all school property.
Education/Training
The school community will be educated about potential pest problems and IPM methods used to achieve the
pest management objectives.
The IPMC, other school staff, and pesticide applicators involved with implementation of the district’s IPM
policy will be trained in appropriate components of IPM as it pertains to the school environment.
Students and parents/legal guardians will be provided information on this policy and instructed on how they can
contribute to the success of the IPM program.
Recordkeeping
Records of pesticide use shall be maintained on site to meet the requirements of the State regulatory agency and
the Board.
Records shall also include, but are not limited to, pest surveillance data sheets and other non-pesticide pest
management methods and practices utilized.
Notification/Posting
The Building Principal of each school, working with the IPMC, is responsible for timely notification to
students, parents or legal guardians and the school staff of pesticide treatments pursuant to the School Integrated
Pest Management Act.
Re-entry
Re-entry to a pesticide treated area shall conform to the requirements of the School Integrated Pest Management
Act.
Pesticide Applicators
The IPMC shall ensure that applicators follow State regulations, including licensing requirements and label
precautions, and must comply with all components of the School Integrated Pest Management Policy.
Evaluation
The Superintendent will report annually to the Board on the effectiveness of the IPM Plan and make
recommendations for improvement as needed.
The school district’s Integrated Pest Management Plan, Policy and Regulation shall be implemented not later
than
June 12, 2004. The Board directs the Superintendent to develop Regulations/Procedures for the
implementation of School Integrated Pest Management Plan.
N.J.S.A. 13:1F-19 through 13:1F-33
If you have any questions, please contact the IPM Coordinator:
Mr. Frank Sierra, Maintenance of Buildings and Grounds
973A Ringwood Avenue
Haskell, NJ 07420
(973) 835-8200
(973) 835-1316 (Fax)
Pesticides used in the past 12 months:
Haskell School: Minimal use—spot treat only;
Wanaque School: Minimal use—spot treat only.
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Policy 7441—Electronic Surveillance in School Buildings and On School Grounds
The Board of Education authorizes the use of electronic surveillance systems in school buildings and
on school grounds to enhance the safety and security for school district staff, pupils, community
members, and other building occupants and to protect the school district’s buildings and grounds.
The content produced by the surveillance system under certain circumstances may be considered a
student record, in which it will be subject to the Board of Education policy and regulations regarding
confidential student records. If the content of the surveillance system becomes the subject of a
disciplinary proceeding, it shall be treated like other evidence in the proceeding, and the district
declares such use to be a legitimate educational interest.
The following statement shall be posted in a prominent, public place in buildings and on school
grounds where electronic surveillance equipment may be used:
The Board of Education authorizes the use of electronic surveillance monitoring devices in school
buildings and on school grounds. Therefore, all school buildings and school grounds within this
school district may be monitored using such devices in accordance with Board Policy.
In addition to posting, the district shall notify school staff members, parent(s) or legal guardian(s),
and pupils that electronic surveillance may be used in school buildings and on school grounds through
publication in student and staff handbooks, school calendars, notice sent home with pupils, or any
other effective means to publish the district’s use of electronic surveillance equipment in school
buildings and on school grounds.
Adopted: 22 July 2008
Policy 8420—Emergency and Crisis Situations
The Board of Education recognizes its responsibility to provide for the safety and security in each
school building in the district. The district will develop and implement written plans and procedures
to provide for the protection of health, safety, security, and welfare of the school population; the
prevention of, intervention in, response to and recovery from emergency and crisis situations; the
establishment and maintenance of a climate of civility; and supportive services for staff, pupils, and
their families.
The Superintendent of Schools or designee shall consult with law enforcement agencies, health and
social services provider agencies, emergency management planners, and school and community
resources, as appropriate, in the development of the school district’s plans, procedures, and
mechanisms for school safety and security. The plans, procedures, and mechanisms shall be
consistent with the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-5.1 and the format and content established by the
Domestic Security Preparedness Task Force, pursuant to N.J.S.A. App. A:9-64 et seq., and the
Commissioner of Education and shall be reviewed annually, and updated as appropriate.
A copy of the school district’s school safety and security plan shall be disseminated to all school
district employees. New employees shall receive a copy of the school district’s safety and security
plan, as appropriate, within sixty days of the effective date of their employment. All employees shall
be briefed in writing, as appropriate, regarding updates and changes to the school safety and security
plan.
The school district shall develop and provide an in-service training program for all school district
employees to enable them to recognize and appropriately respond to safety and security concerns,
including emergencies and crisis, consistent with the school district’s plans, procedures, and
mechanisms for school safety and security and the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-5.1. New employees
shall receive this in-service training, as appropriate, within sixty days
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of the effective date of their employment. This in-service training program shall be reviewed annually
and updated, as appropriate.
In accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:41-1, at least one fire drill and one school security drill will be
conducted each month within school hours, including any summer months, which the school is open
for instructional programs. A school security drill means an exercise, other than a fire drill, to practice
procedures that respond to an emergency situation including, but not limited to, a non-fire evacuation,
lockdown, bomb threat, or active shooter situation that is similar in duration to a fire drill. Schools are
required to hold a minimum of two active shooter, non-fire evacuation, bomb threat, and lockdown
security drills annually. Fire alarm systems shall be initiated only during a fire drill evacuation.
Responses made necessary by the unplanned activation of emergency procedures or by any other
emergency shall not be substituted for a required school security drill.
The Principal or designee will provide local law enforcement or other emergency responders, as
appropriate, with a friendly notification at least forty-eight hours prior to holding a school security
drill. Although these outside agencies are not required to observe school security drills, the Principal
is encouraged to invite representatives from local law enforcement and emergency responder agencies
to attend and observe at least four different security drills annually.
Such drills and in-service training programs shall be conducted in accordance with a building security
drill guide and training materials that educate school employees on proper evacuation and lockdown
procedures in a variety of emergency situations on school grounds as provided by the New Jersey
Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness.
The school district will be required to annually submit a security drill statement of assurance to the
New Jersey Department of Education by June 30 of each school year. Each school in the district will
be required to complete a security drill record form as required by the New Jersey Department of
Education.
N.J.S.A. 2C:33-3
N.J.S.A. 18A:41-1 et seq.
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-5.1; 6A:27-11.2
Adopted: 22 June 2010
Revised: 27 July 2010
Revised: 15 February 2011
Policy 8505—School Nutrition
The Board of Education recognizes child and adolescent obesity has reached epidemic levels in the
United States and that poor diet combined with the lack of physical activity negatively impacts on
pupils’ health and their ability and motivation to learn. The Board is committed to: providing pupils
with healthy and nutritious foods; encouraging the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, low fat
milk and whole grains; supporting healthy eating through nutrition education; encouraging pupils to
select and consume all components of the school meal; and providing pupils with the opportunity to
engage in daily physical activity.
All reimbursable meals shall meet Federal nutrient standards as required by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture Child Nutrition Program regulations. All items served as part of an After School Snack
Program shall meet the standards as outlined within this Policy.
The following items may not be served, sold, or given out as free promotion anywhere on school
property at anytime before the end of the school day:
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1. Foods of minimal nutritional value (FMNV) as defined by U.S. Department of Agriculture
regulations;
2. All food and beverage items listing sugar, in any form, as the first ingredient; and
3. All forms of candy.
Schools shall reduce the purchase of any products containing trans fats. Federal labeling of trans fats
on all food products is required by January 1, 2006.
All snack and beverage items sold or served anywhere on school property during the school day,
including items sold in a la carte lines, vending machines, snack bars, school stores, and fundraisers,
or served in the reimbursable After School Snack Program, shall meet the following standards:
1. Based on manufacturers’ nutritional data or nutrient facts labels:
1.1. No more than eight grams of total fat per serving, with the exception of nuts and seeds.
1.2. No more than two grams of saturated fat per serving.
2. All beverages shall not exceed 12 ounces, with the following exceptions:
2.1. Water.
2.2. Milk containing 1% or less fat.
3. Whole milk shall not exceed 8 ounces.
In elementary schools, 100% of all beverages offered shall be milk, water, or 100% fruit or vegetable
juices.
In middle and high schools, at least 60% of all beverages offered, other than milk and water, shall be
100% fruit or vegetable juices. No more than 40% of all ice cream/frozen desserts shall be allowed to
exceed the standards in this Policy for sugar, fat, and saturated fat.
Food and beverages served during special school celebrations or during curriculum related activities
shall be exempt from this Policy, with the exception of foods of minimal nutritional value as defined
by USDA regulations.
This Policy does not apply to: medically authorized special needs diets pursuant to 7 CFR Part 210;
school nurses using FMNVs during the course of providing health care to individual pupils; or special
needs pupils whose Individualized Education Plan (IEP) indicates their use for behavior modification.
Adequate time shall be allowed for pupil meal service and consumption. The school district shall
provide a pleasant dining environment for pupils, and schools shall attempt to schedule physical
education or recess before lunch whenever possible.
The school district’s curriculum shall incorporate nutrition education and physical activity consistent
with the New Jersey Department of Education Core Curriculum Standards.
The Board of Education is committed to promoting this School Nutrition Policy with all food service
personnel, teachers, nurses, coaches, and other school administrative staff so they have the skills
needed to implement this Policy and promote healthy eating practices. The Board will work toward
expanding awareness about this Policy among pupils, parent(s) or legal guardian(s), teachers, and the
community at large.
N.J.A.C. 2:36-1.7(a); 2:36-1.7(b)
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Policy 8601—Pupil Supervision after School Dismissal
The Board of Education adopts this Pupil Supervision After School Dismissal Policy as a result of the
New Jersey Supreme Court’s decision in Joseph Jerkins, an infant by his Guardian Ad Litem, Charles
Jerkins; Charles Jerkins and Toni Jerkins, individually, v. Soweto Anderson; Kemba N. Anderson;
John Does 1-10 (fictitious individuals) and ABC Corporations 1-10 (fictitious entities), and Board of
Education of Pleasantville Public Schools and Rosemay Clarke.
The New Jersey Supreme Court, in Jerkins, indicated dangers exist for younger pupils at dismissal, as
children are susceptible to numerous risks, including negligent conduct, when leaving school
property. Because of these risks, the Board of Education adopts and requires the implementation of
Policy 8601 for the supervision of younger pupils after dismissal. The supervision provisions of
Policy Guide 8601 are applicable to parents or legal guardians of pupils attending district-operated
schools or programs who are not eligible for district-provided transportation after dismissal or are
eligible and elect not to use district-provided transportation after dismissal.
Any parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a pupil attending a district-operated school or program in grades
where the pupil is not eligible for district-provided transportation or is eligible and elects not to use
district-provided transportation after dismissal may request the school or program not release the
pupil to walk home after dismissal unless the pupil is released to the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or
escort(s) designated by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
requesting their child(ren) only be released to a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or parent(s) or legal
guardian(s)-designated escort after dismissal must submit a completed Request for Supervision at
Dismissal from School Form to the Principal or designee, or program administrator.
The Form shall be made available in the Main office of the school building or the location of the
program.
Only those parents or legal guardians requesting the school or program not release their child(ren) to
walk home after school dismissal unless the child(ren) is released to the parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
or designated escort need to complete the Request Form.
In order for the school administration to effectively implement the requirements of this Policy and to
ensure the safety and security of pupils that will be released to a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or
designated escort, the parental request shall be applicable for every school day and shall apply for a
duration period of the entire school year. The Request Form must be re-submitted at the end of the
duration period. In addition, a parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may rescind their Request by submitting
a written request to the Principal or program administrator indicating the date in which the parent(s)
or legal guardian(s) no longer requests the school provide supervision of their child(ren) after school
dismissal. The child(ren) will be dismissed in accordance with typical dismissal protocol effective
the date indicated in the rescinding request.
The Principal or designee, or program administrator upon receiving the Request for Supervision at
Dismissal from School Form, shall notify the appropriate school staff member(s) who has supervision
of the pupil at dismissal time at the end of the school day of the parent’s or legal guardian’s request.
The supervising staff member that receives such notice shall retain supervision of the pupil when
other pupils are dismissed from school at the end of the school day.
Each Principal or program administrator will develop and implement a written Pupil Supervision
After School Dismissal Plan for their school building or program location. This Plan shall include the
school building’s or program’s supervision procedures for pupils at the end of the school day to the
designated area in the school building or program and the location of the designated area in the school
building or program. The Plan shall be based on the school’s or
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program’s ability to provide supervision, the accessibility for the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or
designated escort to pick-up the child without disrupting dismissal of the remaining school
population, and other considerations unique to the school building or program location. The school’s
or program’s Pupil Supervision After School Dismissal Plan shall be provided to all parent(s) or legal
guardian(s) that have submitted a Request Form.
In the event the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or designated escort does not arrive to pick up their
child(ren) after the dismissal time of school, the Principal or designee will attempt to contact the
parent(s) or legal guardian(s) using the district’s emergency call procedures. In the event the
parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or designated escort are not able to be reached using emergency call
procedures and do not arrive to pick up their child(ren) by 4:00 p.m., the Wanaque Police Department
will be notified and custody of the child(ren) will be transferred to the police or child welfare
authorities.
The pupil(s) shall be supervised by school staff in the designated area of the building and will only be
released when the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or designated escort arrives to pick up the pupil and
signs the pupil out of school.
In order to ensure the safety of other pupils being dismissed from school in accordance with typical
school dismissal protocol, to limit interaction of parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or designated escorts
with other pupils within the building, and to avoid traffic and vehicular safety problems outside the
school building, the Principal or program administrator may prohibit the parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
or designated escort from entering the school building until a time period after school has dismissed
or until school buses and other vehicular traffic have cleared the school site. This determination shall
be made by each Principal or program administrator after considering the unique circumstances at the
school building and the building’s typical dismissal protocol.
In the event of an emergency such that, when an unforeseen event prevents a parent or legal guardian
or designated escort from arriving for the child(ren) at dismissal within the time period designated by
the Principal or program administrator, the pupil will be relocated to the Main Office in the school
building and will remain in the Main Office supervised by the Main Office staff until the parent(s) or
legal guardian(s) or designated escort arrives and signs the pupil out of school.
This Policy shall be published in pupil/school handbooks. In addition, the school district shall
provide to parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the beginning of the school year, the school’s calendar to
include the starting and dismissal times for full session, half-session, and early dismissal days due to
weather or other emergencies. Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) shall be required to return to the school a
signed acknowledgement of receipt of the pupil/school handbook, which shall include this Policy and
the school calendar. In addition, any changes to the school’s calendar made during the school year
shall also be provided to parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
Policy 9560—Administration of School Surveys
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) requires written consent for certain pupil surveys,
analysis and/or evaluations funded in whole or in part by a program of the United States Department of
Education. The district will comply with the PPRA consent requirements and Policy 2415.05 for certain pupil
surveys, analysis, and/or evaluations.
The district will also comply with the requirements of
34 CFR Part 98 – Student Rights in Research,
Experimental Programs and Testing for certain programs administered by the Secretary of the United States
Department of Education:
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1. Instructional material used in connection with any research or experimentation program and project shall
be made available for inspection by parents/legal guardians of pupils engaged in such program or project
in accordance with the requirements of 34 CFR Part 98.3.
2. Prior written parental/legal guardian consent is required for any surveys, analysis, and/or evaluations that
involve psychiatric or psychological examination, testing, or treatment; if the primary purpose is to reveal
information as specified in 34 CFR Part 98.4(a)(1).
2.1. Psychiatric or psychological examination or test means a method of obtaining information, including
a group activity, that is not directly related to academic instruction and that is designed to elicit
information about attitudes, habits, traits, opinions, beliefs or feelings.
2.2. Psychiatric or psychological treatment means an activity involving the planned, systematic use of
methods or techniques that are not directly related to academic instruction and that is designed to affect
behavioral, emotional, or attitudinal characteristics of an individual or group.
However, academic and nonacademic surveys, assessments, analyses, and/or evaluations may be administered
to pupils for programs or activities that are not funded in whole or in part by a program of the United States
Department of Education and/or programs not administered by the Secretary of the United States Department
of Education as defined in 34 CFR Part 98.1. In accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:36-34, the district shall
receive prior written informed consent from a pupil’s parent or legal guardian before administering these
academic and nonacademic surveys, assessments, analyses, and/or evaluations that reveal information
concerning:
1. Political affiliations;
2. Mental or psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the pupil or the pupil’s family;
3. Sexual behavior and attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom a respondent has a close family relationship;
6. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
7. Income, other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for
receiving financial assistance under a program; and
8. Social security number.
When administering an academic and/or nonacademic survey, assessment, analysis, and/or evaluation that
concern the issues listed in 1 through 8 above, the Superintendent shall request written informed consent at
least two weeks prior to the administration of the survey. The request for consent shall provide the
parent/legal guardian the opportunity to view a copy of the document at a convenient location and time. The
pupil shall not participate in the administration of the academic and/or nonacademic surveys, assessments,
analyses, and/or evaluations if the requested written informed consent is not obtained.
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-34
34 CFR Part 98
Policy 9700—Special Interest Groups
The Board of Education recognizes that the contributions of persons and organizations outside the
schools may from time to time take the form of materials, activities, and awards that tend to serve the
interests of the contributor as well as benefit the school district generally and pupils individually.
The Board reserves the right to review all such proposed contributions and to reject those that have
the primary effect of advancing the name, product, or special interest of a person,
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corporation, or organization; fail to meet district standards of accuracy and good taste; are of little or
no educational value to pupils; make unreasonable demands upon the time and energies of staff and
pupils or upon the resources of the district; interrupt or interfere with the regular school program; or
involve a direct cost to the district.
The approval of the use of any material or the conduct of any activity offered by an agency outside
the schools shall not under any circumstances be construed as an endorsement by this Board of any
interest, cause, or organization.
Permission to solicit funds on school premises will be granted only to those persons and organizations
whose purposes are consistent with the goals of this district and the interests of the community.
Solicitation may not interfere with the orderly operation of the schools. The Board will not be
responsible for the protection of or accounting for such funds, nor may any such funds be deposited in
any district account.
Any materials whether school or community related, a government agency, and/or a non-profit
organization, must be devoid of any advertising and must be approved by the Superintendent prior to
distribution.
The Board forbids the distribution of political literature to or through the pupils of this district;
further, no pupil under the jurisdiction of this Board shall be requested or directed to engage in any
activity that tends to promote, favor, or oppose a candidate for political office or a public question
submitted at any election.
The Board will only prohibit the distribution of literature or material to pupils on school premises that
tends to advance or is inimical to the interests of a religious sect or religion if the distribution method
is inconsistent with the governing principles of the First Amendment of the United States
Constitution.
The Board will permit the award of scholarships or prizes to deserving pupils provided that
information regarding pupils is released only in accordance with Policy No. 8330 on Pupil Records,
the manner of selection of the recipient is approved by the Superintendent or designee and includes
consultation with appropriate staff members, the nature of the prize or award is approved by the
Superintendent or designee, and the Board determines the manner of presentation.
N.J.S.A.
18A:42-4
United States Department of Education - Guidance on Constitutionally Protected Prayer in Public
Elementary and Secondary Schools
Notification of Rights under FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years
of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights
are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the
school receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school Principal (or appropriate school
official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official
will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and
place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible
student believes are inaccurate.
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Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is
inaccurate. They should write the school Principal (or appropriate school official), clearly
identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the
school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the
school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right
to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the
hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right
to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the
student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without
consent.
One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials
with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as
an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical
staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or
company with whom the school 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 school discloses education records without consent to officials of another
school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
(Note: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or
student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to
forward records on request)
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures
by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the
office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
Pupil records contain only that information which is relevant to the education of the pupil. In cases
where the parental rights of one or the other parent/guardian are terminated by a court of appropriate
jurisdiction, it will be the responsibility of the person/agency having had custody to notify the
building Principal that the right to review pupil records should be denied the person whose rights
have been terminated.
When a request is made from the Superintendent or his/her designee of a school system to which a
student has transferred, pupil records will be forwarded in accordance with New Jersey code. Pupil
records will also be forwarded to the appropriate secondary schools when students have graduated
from the Wanaque School System.
Notice and Consent/Opt-Out for Specific Activities
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), 20 U.S.C.-C1232h, requires the Wanaque Public
Schools to notify you and obtain consent or allow you to opt your child out of participating in certain
school activities. These activities include a student survey, analysis, or evaluation that concern one or
more of the following eight areas (“protected information surveys”):
1. Political affiliation or belief of the student or student’s parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
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3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning acts;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliation, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
Computer Network Acceptable Use Guidelines
The following district guidelines for the appropriate use of district computer and information technology
resources by students are expected from Wanaque Board of Education Policy No. 6141.10 (Technology).
All students who use computers in the district must adhere to these guidelines. All parents must indicate
that they understand and agree to these guidelines by signing and returning the attached form to a school
main office.
Any students whose parent or guardian has not agreed to these terms by completing the attached form will
not be permitted to use computers for any reason.
Limitation of Liability
•
•
•
•
It is not possible to completely control the resources that students may locate on the Internet.
It is not possible to guarantee the accuracy or appropriateness of materials that may be
encountered on the Internet
It is not possible to guarantee that students will not suffer damage including, but not limited to,
data loss or interruption of services
The Board of Education will not be held responsible for financial obligations that may arise
through unauthorized use of the system.
District Rights and Responsibilities
•
•
•
•
The district has the right to monitor all access and use of the Internet.
A qualified staff person will provide students with system access through individual and class
accounts, designate data storage space / usage, establish a document retention schedule, and
establish virus protection along with other measures necessary for maintenance of the system.
Building principals will ensure that all students are adequately supervised while using the system.
Building principals will interpret this acceptable use policy at the building level.
Access to the System
•
•
•
•
Student use of the system will be governed by this acceptable use policy.
Sanctions for student misuse of the system will be included in the disciplinary code for students.
The Board will maintain content filtering / blocking software to deny student access to certain
areas of the Internet.
All students who have an acceptable use policy form signed by their parent / guardian on file will
be granted access to the World Wide Web through the district’s computer network; parents or
guardians who wish to revoke said access must notify the district in writing.
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•
•
•
Students shall be granted e-mail access only through accounts provided to them by the district;
parents or guardians who wish to deny their child access to such an account must notify their
building principal in writing.
Students may have access to individual e-mail accounts at the request of teachers and with
consent of their parent / guardian; an individual account for any such student shall require an
agreement signed by the student and his/her guardian.
Student use of the Internet shall be supervised by qualified staff.
Parental Notification and Responsibility
•
•
Parents shall sign an agreement to allow their child(ren) to have an individual system account.
Parents / guardians who do not wish their child(ren) to have access to the Internet must notify the
principal in writing.
Acceptable Use
Student Safety Practices
•
•
Students shall not use the system to post personal contact information about themselves or others;
personal contact information includes but is not limited to names, homes/school/work addresses,
telephone numbers, or personal photographs.
Students shall not engage in personal contact with individuals they meet on line; students shall
report any attempts at contact from such individuals to the staff person supervising their
activities.
Prohibited Activities
•
•
•
•
•
•
Users shall not attempt to gain unauthorized access to the district system or to any other computer
system through the district system, nor shall they go beyond their authorized access; this includes
attempting to log in through another individual’s account or accessing another’s files.
Students shall not deliberately attempt to disrupt the district’s computer system performance or
destroy data by spreading computer viruses, worms, “Trojan Horses”, trap door program codes or
any similar product that can damage computer systems, firewalls, servers or network systems.
Students shall not use the district system to engage in illegal activities.
Students shall not access material that is profane or obscene, that advocates illegal acts, or that
advocates violence or hate; inadvertent access to such material should be reported immediately to
the supervising staff person.
Students shall not plagiarize material that is available on the Internet; plagiarism is presenting
another’s ideas/words as one’s own.
Users shall not infringe on copyrighted material and shall follow all dictates of copyright law and
the applicable policies of this district.
Prohibited Language
•
Prohibited language applies to public messages, private messages, and material posted on web
pages.
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•
•
Students shall not send or receive messages that contain obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude,
inflammatory, or threatening language.
Students shall not use the system to spread messages that can reasonably be interpreted as
harassing, discriminatory or defamatory.
System Security
•
•
•
•
Students are responsible for their accounts and should take all reasonable precautions to prevent
unauthorized access to them; in no case should a user provide his/her password to another
individual.
Students shall immediately notify the supervising staff person or data processing department if
they detect a possible security problem; students shall not access the system solely for the
purpose of searching for security problems.
Students shall not install or download software or other applications without permission of the
supervising staff person.
Students shall follow all district virus protection procedures when installing or downloading
approved software.
System Limits
•
Students shall access the system only for educational activities.
Privacy Rights
•
•
Students shall respect the privacy of messages that they receive and refrain from reposting
messages without the approval of the sender.
Students shall not publish private information about another individual.
Notes
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Wanaque Public School District
School Calendar
2015-2016
September (18S/19T)
M
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
4
October (21S/22T)
M
T
W
November (16)
December (17)
T
F
M
T
W
T
F
1
2
2
3
4
5
6
M
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
4
8
9
10
11
7
8
9
10
11
5
6
7
8
9
9
10
11
12
13
7
14
15
16
17
18
12
13
14
15
16
16
17
18
19
20
14
15
16
17
18
21
22
23
24
25
19
20
21
22
23
23
24
25
26
27
21
22
23
24
25
28
29
30
26
27
28
29
30
30
28
29
30
31
January 2016 (19S/20T)
M
4
11
18
25
T
W
5
T
6
12
19
26
13
20
27
7
14
21
28
F
February (19)
M
T
W
T
March (22)
F
1
1
2
3
4
5
8
8
9
10
11
12
15
22
29
15
22
16
17
23
24
18
25
19
26
29
May (21)
June (18)
M
T
W
T
F
2
3
4
5
6
M
9
10
11
12
13
6
16
17
18
19
20
23
24
25
26
27
30
31
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
7
8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
20
21
22
23
24
27
28
29
30
September 2015
1
First Day for Teachers-(Schools Closed for
Students
2
First Day for Students
2-3
Kindergarten Only—1:16 Dismissal
4
Labor Day Recess (Schools Closed)
7
Labor Day—(Schools Closed)
15
BTS Night—Wanaque Only 1:16
Dismissal
16
BTS Night—Haskell Only 1:16 Dismiss
23
Yom Kippur—(Schools Closed)
October
7
Mid-Marking Period
12
Columbus Day—(Staff Development—
Schools Closed for Students)
School Violence Awareness Week
30
Staff Dev.—1:16 Dismissal
November
3
Election Day—School Closed
5-6
Teacher’s Convention( Schools Closed)
10-12 K-8 Parent-Teacher Conferences—
1:16 Dismissal
11
Wanaque 3-8 Evening Parent-Teacher Conf.
12 Haskell 3-8 Evening Parent-Teacher Conf.
13 End of First Marking Period (Grades 3-8)
M
April (16)
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
4
M
T
W
T
F
1
7
8
9
10
11
4
5
6
7
8
14
15
16
17
18
11
12
13
14
15
21
22
23
24
25
18
19
20
21
22
28
29
30
31
25
26
27
28
29
Five snow/emergency days are included in this calendar. In the event that
fewer than five snow/emergency days are used during the school year, the school
calendar will be shortened by those unused days.
Should the district exceed the allotted five emergency closing days, the remaining
days will be made up during the Spring Recess with the days working
backwards, beginning with Friday, April 15, 2016. Therefore, no plans which
cannot be changed should be made for the April vacation.
Whenever school is in session during a State-recognized religious holiday, every
effort will be made to restrict testing or other major project presentations.
Students required to miss school on these days for religious reasons will be
counted as excused under the attendance policy and will be given a reasonable
amount of time to make up any missed assignments. Prior notice of a religious
absence is requested.
25
Minimum Session Day —1:16 Dismissal
26-27 Thanksgiving Recess (Schools Closed)
30
1st MP Report Cards Sent Home
December
7
Staff Dev. 1:16 Dismissal
18
Mid-Marking Period
23
Early Dismissal 1:16 p.m.
24-31 Winter Recess (Schools Closed)
January 2016
1
Winter Recess (Schools Closed)
4
School Reopens
18
Martin Luther King Jr. Day—(Staff
Development—Schools Closed for
Students)
February
1
End of Second Marking Period
15-16 Presidents’ Day Recess (Schools Closed)
17
2nd MP Report Cards Sent Home
22
Staff Dev. 1:16 Dismissal
March
7
Mid-Marking Period
25
Good Friday (Schools Closed)
April
8
3rd Marking Period Ends
11-15 Spring Recess (Schools Closed)
28
May
18
30
June
7
14-16
14
15
23
24
3rd MP Report Cards Sent Home
Mid-Marking Period
Memorial Day (Schools Closed)
Staff Development 1:16 Dismissal
K-3 Parent-Teacher Conferences—
**1:16 Dismissal for K-3 Only**
Wanaque K-2 Evening Parent-Teacher Conf.
Haskell K-2 Evening Parent-Teacher Conf.
Minimum Session Day—1:16 Dismissal
Last Day of School for Students and
School Staff—1:16 Dismissal Graduation
The Superintendent reserves the right to make
adjustments to the
calendar if deemed necessary.
Students in grades K-5 may bring a substantial
snack to school on 1:16 dismissal days.
Total Days
Students
Faculty
With Snow
187
190
Minus 5 Snow
182
185
Board of Education Approved Revision: June, 23 2015
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