New Hartford Senior High School Student Handbook

Table of Contents

Mission Statement

New Hartford Central School Community (i.e. students, teachers, staff, administrators, Board of Education Members, and residents) will ensure a stimulating educational environment where everyone can learn, can succeed and is valued.

We will enable all students to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to be lifelong learners and productive members of a changing society. We are committed to:

• a student-focused program
• an empowered, motivated and caring school
• continuous innovation
• integrity
• sensitivity to all

We will continually strive for excellence.

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We Believe

1. All people should be treated with respect.
2. Trust, caring and nurturing should pervade the entire community.
3. All people should be responsible for their actions.
4. Rewards and consequences for actions should be applied consistently and fairly within the entire school community.
5. Learning is possible for all. When failure occurs it should be treated as only a temporary setback.
6. Students vary in the amount of time required to learn; therefore, time should be adjusted accordingly.
7. Consistent energy and resources should be directed toward student success.
8. When appropriate, learning should be cooperative in nature.
9. While recognizing that learning is not finite, students should know what they are to learn, why they should learn it, how they will learn it and how they will be evaluated.
10. Students should be provided the opportunity to participate in all district programs.
11. In order to progress and enhance a program, it is important to take reasonable risks. Change and renewal should be based on research, knowledge and local experience.
12. Actions should be consistent with the mission, beliefs and desired outcomes.

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Public Information Program

Parents and members of the community are encouraged to attend and participate at public Board of Education meetings.

Notes and flyers regarding school activities are often sent home with students. Parents and community members wishing to obtain further information about the school district should inquire first through the office of the Building Principal.

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Alma Mater

To thee our dear New Hartford High,
We pledge our hearts and hands, 

Our loyal sons are gathered here,
The finest in the land. 

Though years may part us far and wide,
Our hearts will ere be true. 

All hail to thee New Hartford High
The mighty red and blue. 

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Senior High Time Schedule

Warning Bell
7:42 AM

Block 1
7:45 – 9:08 AM

Block 2
9:13 – 10:38 AM

Lunch

Block 3
11:29 AM – 12:52 PM

Block 4
12:57 – 2:20 PM

Special Help/Detention Period
2:25 – 3:15 PM

Late Run Bus
3:35 PM

Learn more about bell schedules at New Hartford Senior High School.

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School Calendar

View the district calendar.

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General Senior High Building Policies

1. Classrooms open at approximately 7:42 AM and students are supervised by the teacher during this pre-school period. 
2. Any willful disobeying of a teacher’s reasonable directive will be considered insubordination. Insubordination to a teacher or any adult in authority will result in immediate suspension from one to five days. 
3. Students are to leave the building promptly after school so that the buses may leave on time. 
4. Students who have remained after school for some reason should wait for the late bus in the main foyer. 
5. No smoking is permitted anywhere on the Senior High School campus. The use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) and/or the possession of substances for use in electronic cigarettes are also prohibited. Use of “smokeless” tobacco products, such as chewing tobacco, is also prohibited. The prohibition includes the area near or around homes fronting the high school and the elementary school on Daly Place and the area around the New Hartford Recreation Center. One day of in-school suspension is the consequence. Trespassing charges may also result from loitering around homes or the Recreation Center. 
6. Snowmobiles, mini-bikes, motorcycles, or any other recreational vehicles are prohibited from school property. Criminal charges for trespass may result. 
7. Running in hallways is prohibited. 
8. School dances are open to New Hartford High School students only. Guests are permitted at the semi-formal, junior prom and senior ball with the prior approval of the Dean of Students. 
9. Students are prohibited from wearing clothing that promotes the use of drugs or alcohol or interferes with the health, safety, or learning process of others. This includes, but is not limited to, chains and spikes. 
10. Possession or sale of fireworks on school property will result in school suspension. Possession and sale of fireworks is illegal in the state of New York. Criminal charges may also result. 
11. Fighting, threatening, or intimidating others is prohibited. 
12. Foul language is prohibited. 
13. Cheating in any form may result in serious consequences. This may include “0” on a test or quiz and administrative action. (See also Policy on Cheating) 
14. Throwing snowballs, ice, snow, chunks, etc. is prohibited. Handling, kicking, or propelling snow is also prohibited. Detention and/or suspension may result. 
15. When a student has committed some act of vandalism in the school or on school property, the student must pay the cost of damages. Suspension may result. 
16. Skateboards, scooters and in-line skates are prohibited from school and school property. 
17. All electronic devices, including but not limited to I Pods, MP3 Players, pagers, and cameras, are prohibited during instructional hours unless expressly allowed by the instructor, including study halls. Loud music playing in cars is also prohibited. These items will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day. Repeated offenses will result in detention and/or suspension. 
18. Lockers are the property of the school and should the school authorities have reasonable cause, a search of a locker may be conducted without the permission or consent of the student. 
19. Occasionally, students will have disputes that begin in school and are continued outside of the school property. The school reserves the right to act in an effort to ensure the safety of any students involved. 
20. All forms of gambling are prohibited. 
21. Hats, caps, bandanas, etc. are allowed at the discretion of the classroom instructor. 
22. Students are to remain in classrooms during internal breaks. This includes lockers, telephones, etc. 
23. Bathroom passes are limited to one male and one female at a time. 
24. Passing time between classes will be five minutes. Students must remain in the building. A warning bell will sound at the fourth minute. 
25. The possession of a weapon on school property is strictly prohibited, except by law enforcement personnel. Any person possessing a weapon for educational purposes must have written authorization of the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee. Consistent with the Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994 (GFSA), any student who is determined to have brought a firearm to school shall be suspended pursuant to a hearing according to Education Law 3214, for not less than one year. 

Security Camera Surveillance 

Security cameras monitor the school 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The recordings from these cameras may be used in disciplinary matters. 

Visitors to the Schools 

Parents and other citizens are encouraged to visit the school periodically during the course of the school year. Persons who are not students or staff MUST report immediately to the reception window upon entering the school building. Student visitors from other schools, unless they have a specific reason and prior approval of the Building Principal, are NOT permitted to enter school buildings. 

Visitors to the schools of the District shall be governed by the following rules: 

1. The Building Principal must be contacted by the person or group wishing to visit and prior approval must be obtained for the visit. 
2. All visitors must report to the reception desk in the foyer, sign in, and be issued a visitor’s permit, which must be displayed at all times. The permit must be returned to the reception desk and the visitor must sign out at the conclusion of the visit. 
3. Parents are encouraged to visit teachers, counselors, school nurse, school psychologist and other support personnel by appointment. 

Parental Involvement 

New Hartford Central School District believes that student achievement is directly linked to parental involvement in educational planning and daily operations. The Board of Education also encourages direct parental involvement at home (for example, planned home reading time, informal learning activities, and/or homework “contracts” between parents and children). 

For further information on how parents can be involved in the schools, contact the New Hartford Parent Teacher Student Association. For information on how parents can assist their children academically, contact the Counseling Department. 

Assemblies 

Student assemblies are seen as part of the overall educational process. School assemblies, at all instructional levels, are often held to provide information or instruction concerning drug/alcohol abuse, HIV or other health-related concerns.

Assemblies will be appropriate to the educational experience and reflect our school’s educational mission. Students are reminded of proper conduct at assemblies to ensure responsible audience participation: 

• Take an assigned seat quietly 
• Do not speak above a whisper, and then only when necessary 
• Pay attention to the speaker/performer 
• Applaud only when appropriate 

Physical Education Policy

The following Physical Education Department policies and procedures are in place at New Hartford Senior High School. 

Gym Uniforms

All students taking gym must wear the appropriate uniform. Due to extenuating circumstances, students might, at times, come to gym unprepared, i.e., no gym uniform, sneakers, etc. Physical Education teachers will loan extra uniforms to students. Students are expected to return uniforms so that they may be used again by other students. Once a uniform has been used, it will be washed and sanitized. The Fee for a girl’s/boy’s gym uniform (shirt and shorts, $8.00 each) is $16.00. If a student cannot afford to buy a uniform, a uniform will be provided at no cost to the student. 

All students will change for gym/swim unless he/she has a medical excuse. For reasons of safety, no jewelry will be allowed in Physical Education classes. 

Grading

Student grading will be based on the following: 

• Participation – May be measured in a number of ways: willingness to participate, being properly dressed for class, being on time for class, etc. 
• Written Test – Each student will take a written test at least once every quarter. The written test may be short answer, but it must test the knowledge of the student regarding the physical education activities of that quarter. 
• Skills Test – These are the skills performed in the various learning activities. Grades are determined by application of skills, strategies, rules and conventions. Students will be assessed on their improvement in ability and not by comparing one student to another. 
• Quarter Grades – The gym and swim grade will be combined to obtain a quarterly grade. 

Attendance

All gym/swim classes up to a maximum of four must be made up. 

Exceptions to the rule: 

1. Classes missed due to school related absences need not be made up. However, any written work (quizzes, tests or other written assignments) must be made up. 
2. If a student becomes ill before gym class or if a parent sends a note regarding a student’s health, the student should report to the nurse’s office before his/her gym period. The nurse will communicate, before the class, with the physical education teacher regarding the health of the student. 
3. Medical excuses from participation for longer than a week must be verified by a physician on his/her letterhead or on a form provided by the school. Students who have an approved medical excuse that prohibits them from physically participating in class will write a paper on a related topic approved by the teacher. Students must report to class for attendance. The paper will count towards the participation and skill grades, but students will be expected to take the written tests. Students will be allowed to use the library during their scheduled PE block, but must return to class with their written work. 

Make Up Policy for Missed Physical Education Classes

• Any classes that are skipped (truant) cannot be made up.
• In extenuating circumstances, two classes may be made up by writing papers approved by the teacher. Attending any physical education class during the day is allowed to make up the missed classes. Gym make up classes will not be offered after school although written tests, skill tests, and swim make ups will be presented on dates and times to be posted.
• When attending a makeup class, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain a makeup form from one of the physical education teachers. The teacher that taught the makeup class will grade and sign the form.
• Students missing class, including pre-signed passes from other teachers, will be subject to the physical education make up policy.
• Should a student fail physical education, he/she will be scheduled for an additional class during the subsequent school year. An incomplete in physical education automatically becomes a failure if not made up.

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The Grading System

During the school year, there are four (4) grading periods, each consisting of approximately ten (10) weeks. The grades of each marking period are given in numerical form. 

Advanced Placement courses represent a significant academic challenge. Teachers of Advanced Placement and Honors level courses will grade students as they do all classes. Once the grades are reported, the full incentive will be added to the student’s Grade Point Average (GPA) for each marking period as well as the cumulative GPA. The incentive is 10 points for Advanced Placement courses, and 5 points for Honors level courses. Weighted Grade Point Averages will be allowed to exceed 100. Both the weighted and unweighted Grade Point Averages will appear on transcripts. The weighted Grade Point Average will be used to calculate honor roll achievement. 

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Transcripts

It is the philosophy of the New Hartford Counseling Department that a transcript is a reflection of all courses and Regents Exams a student has completed. For this reason, all courses failed and repeated appear on a transcript. In addition, all Regents examination scores are recorded on a student’s transcript. 

When a student repeats a course, only the higher grade will be used in the computation of the cumulative average. When a student retakes a Regents examination, the higher grade will be used to refigure the final course average. 

PSAT and AP scores will not appear on the transcript. Students may select to show either all or none of their SAT/ACT test scores on the transcript. 

Students may receive an unofficial copy of their transcripts, which will be so marked. 

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Report Cards

The following is the approximate schedule for (the week of) issuing report cards:

• November 14
• January 30
• April 9 
• June 26 

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Final Exams

Final exams, school and Regents, will be given in January and June. Teachers will also give more frequent weekly/biweekly evaluations of student progress along with unit (10 week) tests. 

Regents Exam “Walk-In” Qualifications

1. To be eligible for a walk-in exam, a student must have previously been enrolled in and passed the corresponding course. 
2. A student must have completed all required labs in science courses. 
3. If a student’s walk-in grade is lower than the previous exam grade, the score must be recorded on the permanent record card. It will not be recorded on the transcript. 
4. If a student’s walk-in grade is higher than the previous exam grade, the higher score will be used to recalculate a final course grade. Both Regents exam grades will appear on the permanent record card, as well as the transcript. 
5. Previous Regents exam grades and final course grades are never removed from a student’s record. 
6. Students are strongly encouraged to have a structured review plan for the exam. 
7. Students intending to take a walk-in Regents must notify their counselor by the end of the 1st marking period for January, by the end of the 3rd marking period for June and one week before the start of summer school for August

Calculation of Final Course Grades

All courses (except Physical Education) will have a final exam or project. 

The final average for all full year courses will be calculated as follows: 

Fall part (Q1 + Q2) /2 = Final Grade 

Spring part (Q3+ Q3+ Q4 + Q4 + (Final Exam) 

/5=Final Grade. 

All semester courses will be calculated as follows: (Q1 + Q1 + Q2 + Q2 + Final Exam)/5 = Final Grade (Q3 + Q3 + Q4 + Q4 + Final Exam)/5 = Final Grade 

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AP Examination Policy

As part of the Advanced Placement program, each May, a nation-wide exam is given. Students scoring 3, 4, or 5 have the opportunity to receive college credit. All AP students are required to take the AP Exam associated with the AP course they are taking. The College Board requires payment early in the school year. Any student with monetary hardship should contact the principal. The principal will only grant test exemptions for extenuating circumstances. 

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Policy on Cheating

Student cheating in any area – from copying another student’s homework to copying another student’s answers on an exam – is unacceptable student behavior and serious consequences will result. The student who cheats will not derive the full benefit of the learning 

experience. The steps in the process, along with the consequences are as follows: 

1. Teacher gathers all pertinent information i.e., quiz/test papers, crib sheets of those suspected as well as the quiz/test papers from those around the suspected student(s). 
2. Teacher evaluates the data. 
3. If the teacher’s suspicions remain, the teacher meets with student(s) to discuss the matter. 
4. Teacher informs the counselor and the Dean of Students. With data in hand, meets with the counselor and Dean of Students to discuss the issue. 
5. Teacher, counselor and Dean of Students meet with student(s) to explain the consequences (“0” for the quiz/test on which the student(s) cheated). 
6. Parents may be informed of the incident. A parent conference may be held. 
7. The incident will become part of the student’s disciplinary record if student(s) are found guilty. In case of fraud on a New York State Regents Exam, the student should be made aware that these exams are governed by rules and regulations as outlined in a manual titled “Regents Examinations and Competency Tests”, published by the University of the State of New York, the State Education Department. 

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Policy on Plagiarism

At New Hartford Central School, a code of academic integrity is applied to all undertakings. In the case of written work – including essays, independent study reports, research papers, computer work, homework, examinations and laboratory or field work – it is incumbent upon the student to be author of the work he/she submits. Any student who hands in plagiarized work will receive a zero. Plagiarism is the use of someone else’s words or ideas without acknowledgement of the source. It is a violation of the principle of academic integrity. Accordingly, when someone else’s language is used, a student must provide quotation marks and either a reference to the source or a footnote. When someone else’s ideas or reasoning are paraphrased, the student must acknowledge the source. In addition, a student who uses another student’s written work is guilty of a lack of academic integrity and will receive a zero for the assignment. Equally guilty is the student who is a party to this form of cheating. He/she, too, will receive a zero for his/her work. 

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Recognition of Graduating Seniors

1. Any student achieving a 90+ cumulative weighted Grade Point Average at the end of 8 semesters will be awarded his/her diploma “With Honors” as a separate and distinct designation. 
2. Any student achieving a 94+ cumulative weighted Grade Point Average at the end of 8 semesters will be awarded his/her diploma “With High Honors” as a separate and distinct designation. 
3. Any student achieving a 96+ cumulative weighted Grade Point Average at the end of 8 semesters will be awarded his/her diploma “With Highest Honors” as a separate and distinct designation. 

All students achieving designated levels of excellence will be honored. Past Honors such as pictures in the paper and any other special publicity, will be awarded to those students achieving either “With High Honors” or “With Highest Honors” designation. Those students achieving “With Highest Honors” designation should receive the accolades and honors formerly reserved for the Valedictorian/Salutatorian. The achievement of standards becomes the goal rather than competition among students. The school is not arbitrarily indicating a finite number of scholars, but is setting various standards for students to achieve. The motivation and quality of the students will determine how many are honored in any given year. 

The senior class traditionally makes some remarks upon the presentation of the senior gift. Any senior wishing to be designated as the senior spokesperson at graduation would apply in writing to a committee composed of a senior high administrator, a senior high faculty member and a student representative. The committee would select no more than five (5) students from the applicants to audition. The committee would then select one of those five to be the designated speaker at graduation. The Senior High Principal would review the commencement speech before graduation. 

The policy is for District recognition purposes only. Each student’s official transcript from New Hartford will accurately reflect his or her actual cumulative grade average. 

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National Honor Society

The object of the Sanger Chapter of the National Honor Society is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote worthy leadership, and to encourage the development of character in students. The Sanger Chapter follows the National Honor Society Constitution as stipulated on their website (http://www.nhs.us). Selected students must follow the New Hartford High School Code of Conduct as outlined in the Student Handbook, approved by the Board of Education. Students who have demonstrated strength in leadership, service, character and scholarship will be considered for membership in the Sanger Chapter of National Honor Society. Students do not apply for membership but are selected to receive this honor by a committee of five faculty members (Faculty Council) annually appointed by the Principal. 

Selection Criteria: 

Scholarship – To be considered for membership students must have maintained a minimum of 92% GPA from the beginning of credit-bearing courses through the end of the eleventh grade. 

Service – A person who has undertaken actions and/or activities which are done on behalf of others without any direct financial or material compensation to the individual performing the service. Service hours may not have been performed for a family member. 

Character – A person who exemplifies one of the attributes or features that make up and distinguish an individual, having demonstrated the following qualities: respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship. 

Leadership – A person who is resourceful, dependable, takes initiative, appropriately challenges ideas, inspires positive influence on peers, and maintains a loyal school attitude. 

Maintaining Membership: 

Members will maintain a minimum of a 92 GPA or better. If a quarterly average drops below a 92, the student will receive a warning letter. If a cumulative GPA drops below 92 at the end of the following marking period the student will have a dismissal hearing with the NHS Faculty Council. 

Service – members are required to complete a minimum of four hours per quarter. Students not meeting this minimum amount of service will receive a warning letter. The second incident of failure to meet the requirement will result in an immediate dismissal hearing with the NHS Faculty Council. Service hours must be documented on the form provided at the first meeting of the NHS; the advisor will also assist in providing possible service activities. 

Character and Leadership – members are required to adhere to the New Hartford High School Student Code of Conduct (see the above amendment of Article X, Sections 2 and 3 of the NHS Constitution). Non- flagrant violations that require any disciplinary action by the school will result in a warning letter. Repeat non-flagrant offenders will be required to have a dismissal hearing with the NHS Faculty Council. Members are required to attend all NHS meetings unless excused by the advisor prior to the meeting. Failure to attend is considered a non-flagrant violation. 

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Student Attendance Policy

Attendance is important! It is each student’s basic responsibility as a member of the school community. In addition, regular attendance is directly related to academic and career success. 

Every student is expected to be on time and attend all classes, except in those instances listed below. Attendance is taken by teachers each period. 

The attendance secretary makes daily telephone calls to parents/guardians to report unauthorized class absences, and regular attendance reports are sent to parents/guardians. Although we contact many parents by phone each day to ascertain the reason for their child’s absence, it is advisable for parent/guardian to call the school attendance office when he/she knows the child is going to be absent. Also, for all absences other than truancy, the student is required to submit a note from the parent/guardian explaining the absence. The note should include the date and reason for absence. 

There are two reasons for absence. 

1. Excused Reason: The District recognizes the following “excused absences” as defined by Section 175.6 of the Commissioner’s Regulations: personal illness, serious illness or death in the family, impassable roads due to weather conditions, religious observance, quarantine, court appearances, attendance at health clinics, approved cooperative work programs, approved college visits, military obligations, disciplinary detention of an incarcerated youth or any other reason approved by the Commissioner. Additionally, the Building Principal has the discretion to excuse a student’s absence for certain limited family reasons (such as a wedding or graduation). All instances of excused absences require a written parent/guardian excuse. The excuse must identify the date/time of absence, reason for the absence, tardiness, or early departure and parent/guardian signature. Students failing to present an excuse prior to an early departure or upon reporting back to school following an absence or tardiness will be subject to a warning. Subsequent offenses will result in progressive discipline measures. 
2. Unexcused Reason: Most absences not mentioned above are interpreted under the law as “unexcused absences” including but not limited to non-school sponsored activities, vacation, shopping, babysitting, oversleeping, needed at home, cold weather, or missing the bus. Any reason not listed as excused will be deemed unexcused unless the Building Principal determines otherwise. The two categories of unexcused absences are: 
   • Illegal absence: Illegal absence occurs when the pupil is absent with the knowledge and consent of his/her parent/guardian for other than an excused absence. 
   • Truancy: A student who is absent for all or part of a day without the consent of his/her parent/guardian for other than an excused absence is considered truant. Truancy is a violation of New York State Law and is subject to disciplinary measures imposed both by the school and Family Court. 

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Truancy & Tardiness

Under the compulsory education laws of New York State, a minor who becomes six (6) years of age on or before the 1st of December in any school year shall be required to attend school and must remain in attendance until the last day of session in the school year in which the minor becomes 16 years of age. We believe it is important to ensure students are attending class as well as arriving to class on time, since these are essential aspects of ensuring an orderly environment for learning. Chronic tardiness and truancy are disruptive to both teachers and fellow students and therefore will not be tolerated. Parents may be asked to meet with school administrators. 

A note explaining the cause of lateness is required. Since excessive tardiness and absences are not conducive to good work habits of learning, parents/guardians should make every effort to have their children in school every day and on time. Students are allowed one free late per quarter. All other unexcused tardiness will result in assigned detention. 

Tardy to School or Class: 

• The classroom door closes when the second bell rings. Tardy students will report to the reception desk to receive a tardy slip. 
• If a student arrives to school or class after the second bell, but within 10 minutes, he/she will be considered tardy and receive a lunch detention. Students who arrive later than 10 minutes will receive an after-school detention. 
• A student who is repeatedly tardy and/or truant after lunch may be assigned to alternate education in In School Suspension. 
• Any act of truancy (absence without good reason, or permission of parents, and/or school authorities) will result in the following: 
• One period missed will receive two (2) detentions, two periods missed will receive three (3) detentions, three periods missed will receive four (4) detentions. All day truancy will result in In School Suspension. 
• A letter will be sent to you, the parent, informing you of the truancy and serving as a record of the action taken. 
• Since truancy is illegal, court action may result if the truancy continues. (Students of compulsory school age only). 
• Any scheduled EXAMINATION OR ASSIGNMENT missed because of truancy may not be made up and will receive a grade of zero. 

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Part Day Excuses

If you are to be absent for part of a day use the following procedure: 

1. Bring a note from home stating the specific reason for being absent and the date. 
2. Bring the note to the Attendance Office, leave it with the attendance secretary before school. 
3. If you return to school the same day, come to the Attendance Office to be readmitted to class. 

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Pass System

The Senior High uses E-Hallpass. E-Hallpass allows educators and administrators to give hallway permissions to learners, and to track activity in the school’s hallways. The device is intended to improve both the accountability of learners and staff, and learner security. 

Learners access e-hallpass via any web browser and write up a request to leave the classroom. This request includes both their planned destination and the reason they wish to leave. Learners show the pass to their educator, who approves it by entering his/her unique pin number. When the learner arrives at his/her destination, the receiving educator enters her/his pin, and the first educator receives a notification that the learner has arrived. 

e-hallpass also enables staff to track data on learner hallway activity. A timer tracks how long the learner spent in between being checked out and checked in, and this information is sent to both educators. The tool will operate an online queue for problems for visiting the nurse, and allow librarians to send feedback on learner behavior back to the classroom educator. 

Finally, staff receive alerts for learners who are not checked in to their final destination, improving school security. 

The pass system allows student movement in the building. It is based on the assumption that a student can handle the responsibility that goes along with the privilege. To help keep the building reasonably quiet for classes, and to fulfill the faculty’s obligation for student safety, the guidelines listed below must be followed: 

1. When leaving a study hall the student must obtain an e-hallpass to the destination or sign out to the library on the list provided. 
2. If the student wishes to see a teacher, an appointment must be made ahead of time, so that the teacher will be free and expect you. A pre- signed or pre-arranged pass must be shown in order to be excused. 
3. Areas in the building that are unsupervised are off limits and students who frequent these areas receive detention. 
4. Wandering in the halls and wasting time in the rest rooms will result in detention. 

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Attendance at School Events

To participate in after school extra-curricular activities, students must be in school by 11:29 AM. 

Senior Skip Day

Each year there are inquiries from parents of seniors about senior skip day. There is no such activity recognized by the school.

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Making Up Work After an Absence

1. The student is responsible for all work covered during the period of any absence other than a truancy. An absence is defined as missing one or more periods during a school day, i.e. – sickness, doctor’s appointment, funeral, a school activity/field trip, being in counseling or nurse’s office, or attending an athletic contest. The student is responsible for initiating communication with all teachers regarding missed instruction and assignments. If the student is unable to contact a teacher, it is the student’s responsibility to communicate with the teacher through e-mail or the main office mailbox. 
2. The allowable time for turning in make-up work or taking make-up tests is one school day for each day missed to a maximum of ten (10) consecutive school days. The allowable time begins the day the student returns whether or not the class is scheduled to meet. The allowable time continues even if the student is absent for additional days during the make-up period. 
3. If a student is absent the day a long-term assignment is due, the student must turn in the assignment the day he/she returns whether or not the class is scheduled to meet. 
4. If the marking period grades are due within the allotted make-up period, a grade of incomplete will be issued on the report card and an actual grade will be assigned at the termination of the make-up period. 
5. If a student is absent for a midterm or school final exam, the student will take a make-up exam to be scheduled by the teacher. Scheduled appointments are not reasons for missing an exam. If a student misses a scheduled make-up examination, he/she will receive a grade of “zero.” In the case of a missed Regents final exam due to illness, alternatives must be arranged through the counseling office. 
6. In the case of a planned absence, such as a family vacation which does not coincide with a school vacation, the make-up policy is in effect. It is the student’s responsibility to contact his/her teachers regarding missed instruction and assignments. The school also requires:
   • The student submits a note from the parent/guardian to the attendance office in sufficient time in advance of the vacation. 
   • In return, a student is issued a three- part form explaining the policy and providing room for all assignments due during the period of absence. 
   • Upon completion of this form, the student keeps the original, and copies are sent to the counseling office and attendance. 
7. In the case of a part day planned absence, it is required that the student, prior to leaving school, contact those teachers whose classes will be missed. 
8. If a student misses one or more periods due to truancy, missed assignments or examinations may not be made up and a grade of “zero” will be assigned. 
9. If a student is assigned an In School Suspension (ISS) or an Out of School Suspension (OSS), all assignments are due no later than the day after the suspension ends. 
10. More than one missed physical education class per marking period due to absences other than truancy must be made up. All missed swim classes must be made up. 

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Extracurricular Activities

There are many clubs and organizations to which students may belong in addition to numerous athletic teams. We urge students to participate in as many activities as they reasonably can without damaging their academic work. These activities are positive ways for students to invest time, thought, and energy. 

Learn more about Clubs & Activities at New Hartford Senior High School.

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Parental Organizations

Marching Band Parents Organization 

The New Hartford Marching Band Parents, Inc., is a non-profit organization that exists for the benefit of the Marching Spartans Band. 

The objective of the group is to promote the development of growth of the band and to aid in activities aimed at helping the band’s progress in general. Any interested person is eligible for membership in the group. 

PTSA Parent/Teacher/Student Association 

PTSA is the secondary school link to National PTA. However, the difference is not only that parents and teachers but also students are eligible to become members of this active and helpful organization. PTSA is comprised of individuals who are vitally concerned about the education program. New Hartford strongly encourages active membership and financial support of this program. 

Sports Boosters 

The New Hartford Boosters was formed to encourage and support our sports activities. Activities include printed football programs, athletic banquet for all varsity players and cheerleaders. The Boosters reward all championship teams with a special dinner and gifts to each team member. Anyone interested in sports and youth welfare are invited and urged to join the Boosters. 

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Student Publications

Students have the right to express their views in speech, writing, or through any other medium or form, limited solely by those restrictions imposed on all citizens generally and those specifically applicable to children and youths in a school setting. The school encourages student publications not only because they offer an educational activity through which students gain experience in reporting, writing, editing, and understanding responsible journalism, but also because they provide an opportunity for students to express their views and a means of communicating both within and beyond the school community. All student publications must comply with the rules for responsible journalism. Libelous statements, unfounded charges and accusations, obscenity, false statements, materials advocating racial or religious prejudice, hatred, violence, the breaking of laws and school policies and/or regulations, or materials designed to disrupt the educational process will not be permitted. Expressions of personal opinion must be clearly identified as such and must bear the name of the author. Opportunity for the expressions of opinions differing from those of the student publishers must be provided. In addition, student newspapers and/or publications which are paid for by the school district and/or produced under the direction of a teacher as part of the school curriculum are NOT considered a public forum. 

In such cases, the Board of Education reserves the right to edit or delete such student speech which it feels is inconsistent with the District’s basic educational mission. 

Distribution of Literature

Students have a right to distribute literature on school grounds and in school buildings provided such distribution does not interfere with or disrupt the educational process. No literature may be distributed unless a copy is submitted in advance to the Superintendent of Schools and the Building Principal.

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Dignity for All Students Act

The Dignity for All Students (herein referred to as the Dignity Act) is designed to provide all public school students with an environment free from harassment, bullying and discrimination, as well as to foster civility. State Education Law Section 801- a has been amended regarding instruction in civility, citizenship, and character education by expanding the concepts of tolerance, respect for others, and dignity including instruction of safe, responsible use of the Internet and electronic communications. The Dignity Act states that students will be provided with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, taunting, harassment and bullying on school property, on a school bus, or at a school function by other students or school employees. The Dignity Act specifically protects students from being harassed, bullied or discriminated against based on their actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity or expression), or sex. The Dignity Act establishes that at least one staff member in each school building will be thoroughly trained to handle human relations in these areas. This staff member will be referred to as The Dignity Act Coordinator. There is a Dignity Act Coordinator in each school building in the District. At the High School, the Dean of Students, Mr. Romanow, shall act as the Dignity Act Coordinator. 

The Dignity Act requires the principal or the principal’s designee to address issues related to cyberbullying and/or conduct that occur off school property if the harassing conduct creates or would foreseeably create a risk of substantial disruption within the school environment. Where it is foreseeable that the conduct, threats, intimidation or abuse might reach school property, the school may discipline the harasser for such conduct. 

Further, it is required that the principal, superintendent, or the principal’s designee notify promptly the appropriate local law enforcement agency when he/she believes that any harassment, bullying or discrimination constitutes criminal conduct. 

Remedies and procedures for addressing Dignity Act related incidents must follow a progressive model promoting a safe and supportive school climate while discouraging harassment, bullying and discrimination. Responses should include: adoption of research-based prevention programs, modification of schedules, adjustment in hallway traffic and other student routes of travel, targeted use of monitors, staff professional development, parent conferences, involvement of parent-teacher organizations, and/or peer support groups. 

As the Dignity Act Coordinator, Mr. Romanow has been trained in methods to respond to human relations in the areas of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practices, disability, sexual orientation, gender, and sex. He is available to speak with any person who has witnessed possible discrimination or harassment, or if that person has experienced treatment that may be prohibited discrimination or harassment. Potential Dignity Act violations can also be reported on the school homepage; click on Dignity for All Students – Bullying Reporting. 

Age Appropriate Summary of DASA:

Students: 

You should never feel that it is not safe for you to come to school and participate in all school activities. You should never be prevented from concentrating on your schoolwork because another student or a school staff member is teasing you, making fun of you, pushing you around, or threatening you in some way because of your actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity or expression), or sex or any other reason. 

You may not act toward another student in a way that might reasonably make them feel threatened or 

unsafe, or that might reasonably make them unable to concentrate on their schoolwork because of what you might think about their actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity or expression), or sex or any other reason. It is against school rules to do this by your physical actions or by your verbal statements, including electronic messages. 

You should report acts of bullying, discrimination, harassment and other inappropriate actions that harm others to your Dignity Act Coordinator, Mr. Romanow, Dean of Students. 

The Crown Act 

New York State Law prohibits race discrimination based on natural hair or hairstyles; defines “race” for certain specific purposes to include, but not be limited to, ancestry, color, ethnic group identification, and ethnic background, and to include traits historically associated with race, including but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles; and defines “protective hairstyles” to include, but not be limited to, such hairstyles as braids, locks, and twists. 

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Code of Conduct

The District establishes this Code of Conduct for the maintenance of public order on school property and at school functions to govern the conduct of students, teachers and other school personnel, and visitors.

View the New Hartford Central School District Code of Conduct in our Board of Education Policies.

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Cell Phone Usage

1. Definitions
   1. “Cell phone and wireless communication devices” (hereinafter referred to as “cell phones”) shall be defined to include portable two-way telecommunication devices, including but not limited to, cellular phones, walkie-talkies, personal digital assistants (PDA), pagers, laptops with two-way messaging, and other personal mobile computing devices (when such is being used as a communication device). This definition will also include any new telephonic device developed for similar purposes. Note: Excluded from this definition is any device with communication capabilities that has been approved for instructional purposes and district- issued cell phones designed for professional use.
   2. The term mobile device as used in this policy includes smart phones and other mobile phones, laptop computers, tablet devices such as iPad or Android OS devices, e-readers such as Kindle or Nook, iPod Touch devices or any similar mobile electronic device that can either access District network or an independent Internet connection.
   3. The term “instructional day” shall include, but is not limited to, structured or non-structured instructional activity that occurs during the school day, as well as class changes.
   4. The term “premises” shall include, but is not limited to, school property, school buses/vehicles, and/or any locations where school sponsored/supervised events may be taking place.
2. Use of Cell Phones/Mobile Devices
   1. The use of mobile devices on school grounds is permitted before school, during a student’s change of classes, during a study hall (at the teacher’s/supervisor’s discretion), during a student’s scheduled lunch period, and after school, provided such use does not create a disturbance or disruption and is according to the policy. Students may not receive or make phone calls (including Skype or other video chat or face time applications) during instructional periods (blocks) in class, in the library, or in study hall. Mobile devices may only be used in classes for instructional purposes and with teacher consent. 
   2. All cell phone/mobile device usage is prohibited in restrooms, locker rooms, and shower facilities. 
   3. Cell phone/mobile device usage by students while riding to and from school on a bus, or on a bus during school-sponsored activities, is to be at the discretion of the bus-driver and/or the staff member in charge. Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated. 
   4. Parents who need to contact their children who have cell phones/mobile devices should 
   5. Students who need to make calls during instructional periods should obtain permission to use the phones located in the main office. 
   6. If there exists an emergency situation where the parent or legal guardian needs to contact their child(ren), they are to contact the school’s main office, and staff will assist in contacting their child(ren). 
   7. remind him/her to turn the cell phone off during school hours, and check for messages during their scheduled lunch period or after school is dismissed. 
   8. Students should not use District electrical outlets to charge personal electronic devices of any kind. 
3. Use of Mobile Device Camera/Video Functions
   1. The use of a cell phone/mobile device to take, store, or transmit photos, video, or digital images of any kind is not allowed at any time on school premises, without prior approval. 
4. Student Discipline
   1. If a student is found using a cell phone/mobile device or having a cell phone/mobile device visible to a teacher and/or school employee, when otherwise restricted, the teacher or school employee will ask the student to immediately relinquish the cell phone or mobile device. Failure to do so shall constitute insubordination, and will result in a referral to school administration for disciplinary action. 
   2. The teacher and/or school employee will deliver the cell phone/mobile device to the main office by the end of the school day. The teacher or school employee will attach the following written information to the cell phone/mobile device when delivering it, to include:
      • Student’s name
      • Teacher or school employee’s name
      • Reason for and time of confiscation 
5. Penalties
   1. 1st Offense: The student’s cell phone will be confiscated and given to the school administrator. The student will receive the cell phone/mobile device back at the conclusion of the school day following a meeting with the Dean of Students, school Principal or their designee where the cell phone/mobile policy will again be discussed. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified. 
   2. 2nd Offense: The cell phone will be confiscated by staff, given to the school administrator, and the student’s parents or legal guardian will be notified. The cell phone/mobile device will not be returned to the student; the parent or guardian may retrieve the cell phone from administration. A second violation will result in an office detention. 
   3. 3rd Offense and subsequent: The cell phone/mobile device will be confiscated by staff, given to the school administrator, and the student’s parents or legal guardian will be notified. The cell phone/mobile device will not be returned to the student; the parent or guardian may retrieve it from administration. A third violation shall result in a one-day “In-School Suspension.” The student will be prohibited from possessing a cell phone on school property for a period of two (2) weeks. 

Subsequent violations shall result in such disciplinary action as deemed prudent by the school administration, including possible out-of-school suspension. The student may lose cell phone/mobile device privileges for the remainder of the school year. 

6. Other
   1. Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones. The New Hartford Central School District shall not assume any responsibility for theft, loss, or damage of a cell phone or for any unauthorized calls made on a cell phone. 

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Gun Free Schools

1. In accordance with the Gun-Free Schools Law (20 U.S.C.A. Section 3351), the Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994 (20 U.S.C.A. Section 8921), New York State Education Law Section 3214(3), and this Board policy, the punishment for violation of Section IV subsection (B(2)(h) shall be a suspension from attendance upon instruction for a period of not less than one calendar year, unless the superintendent shall determine to modify such punishment. The superintendent’s determination shall be on a case-by-case basis. 
2. The term “firearm” as used in Section IV subsection (B)(2)(h) is defined in 18 U.S.C.A. Section 921 (3) and shall include any weapon, including a starter gun, which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; the frame or receiver of any such weapon; any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or any destructive device. Such term does not include an antique firearm. The term “destructive device” means any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge or more than one-quarter ounce, mine or any device similar to any of those devices already described in this paragraph. Except that “destructive device” shall not mean any device not designed or redesigned for use as a weapon. 
3. The superintendent shall refer a pupil who has been determined to have violated Section IV subsection (B)(2)(h) as follows: 
   1. If the pupil is under 16 years of age, to a presentment agency for a juvenile delinquency proceeding: except a pupil 14 or 15 years of age who qualifies for juvenile offender status in accordance with the Family Court Act, Article 3. 
   2. If the pupil is 16 years of age or older, or 14 or 15 years of age who qualifies for juvenile offender status, to the appropriate law enforcement agency. 

VI. Disciplinary Responses to Student Misconduct

The purpose of all discipline is to teach students appropriate and constructive behaviors. Disciplinary measures shall be appropriate to the seriousness of the offense and, where applicable, to the previous discipline record of the student. 

This code divides types of misbehaviors into four levels of increasing seriousness, with more stringent disciplinary measures provided for at each level. If an infraction appears to fall between two levels, it should be categorized and dealt with at the less stringent level. At each level there are examples of infractions to be treated at that level. The list is intended to be descriptive rather than exhaustive. Each level also has a description of procedures which school officials should follow in administering discipline, and a menu of disciplinary choices. Because each child and each misbehavior is different, school officials should tailor the discipline for each infraction to best encourage the child to make better choices in the future. 

Level A

These misbehaviors constitute minor infractions of school rules which cause little harm and minimal disruption. 

Examples of Infractions:

1. Failure to follow instructions
2. Classroom disturbance
3. Minor act of fighting
4. Neglect of safety rules
5. Violations of bus rules
6. Violations of library rules
7. Litter/graffiti
8. Disturbance outside class
9. Violation of study hall privilege
10. Abuse of hall, locker, or library privileges
11. Tardiness
12. Inappropriate language
13. Failure to bring in a note for absence
14. Repeated taunting and/or teasing of others
15. Inappropriate cell phone use/possession (1st offense)

Optional Disciplinary Responses:

1. Verbal reprimand
2. Seat change
3. Behavioral contract
4. Strict supervised study hall
5. Restriction and/or loss of privileges
6. Special written assignments
7. Recommend and refer for counseling
8. Parental contact and/or conference
9. Clean-up after school and/or payment of damages
10. Detention
11. Warning letter, referral to in-school or out-of-school agency
12. Any combination of the above

Level B

Misbehaviors included at this level are frequent and/or serious enough to disrupt the learning climate of the school and affect the student’s own ability to learn.

Examples of Infractions:

1. Unmodified Level A misbehavior
2. Continued harassment of other students
3. Repeated misbehavior on the school bus
4. Petty theft
5. Gambling
6. Use of profanity or obscenity
7. Possession or distribution of pornographic materials
8. Leaving school without permission
9. Defiance and insubordination
10. Forgery
11. Cutting scheduled classes or detention
12. Harassment graffiti
13. Truancy
14. Inappropriate cell phone use/possession (2nd and subsequent offenses)

Optional Disciplinary Responses:

1. Continuation of the more stringent Level A options
2. Recommend or refer for sustained counseling 
3. Parental conference
4. Temporary withdrawal of certain privileges or participation in school activities 
5. Teacher removal of a student from classroom
6. Suspension of school bus transportation 
7. In-school suspension
8. Out-of-school suspension (except for truants) 
9. Any combination of the above 

Level C

Classified at this level are behaviors which may cause lasting harm to the misbehaving student or which may threaten the health, safety, or emotional well-being of others in the school. Such removal shall be consistent with Section IV (D) of this code. 

Examples of Infractions:

1. Unmodified Level B misbehavior
2. Repeated truancy
3. Use of tobacco products on school property or a school bus
4. Extortion
5. Stealing and/or possession and/or sale of stolen property
6. Physically threatening other students
7. Serious acts of defiance, harassment or threatening a teacher or support staff
8. Fighting (physical harm)
9. Vandalism
10. Possessing, using, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on school property or at school sponsored activities
11. Serious disruptive behavior
12. Leaving school grounds without permission
13. Interference in the execution of duties of school personnel
14. Written or electronic communication which demeans or ridicules others
15. Possessing or using a pellet or BB gun on school property or at school-related events

Optional Disciplinary Responses:

1. Continuation of appropriate Level B options
2. Full withdrawal from participation in school activities
3. Restitution for damages
4. Referral to outside agency
5. In-school suspension
6. Out-of-school suspension (accept for truants)
7. Referral to superintendent for possible hearing
8. Referral
9. Any combination of above to judicial system

Level D

Except for unmodified Level C behavior, the acts listed at this level are clearly criminal.

Examples of Infractions:

1. Unmodified Level C misbehavior
2. Possession and/or sale of stolen property
3. Extortion from other students
4. Indecent exposure
5. Sexual offenses
6. Tampering with a fire alarm
7. Pulling a false alarm
8. Starting a fire on school property
9. Major vandalism
10. Grand theft
11. Possession and/or use of explosives
12. Arson
13. Providing, selling, and use of illegal chemical substances and/or alcohol on school property and/or at school- sponsored activities
14. Making a bomb threat
15. Assault and battery
16. Possession, use, and/or transfer of lethal weapons on school property or at school- related activities
17. Hate crimes (incidents targeting individuals or groups with threats, ridicule, or violence, including written and electronically displayed ridicule)

Optional Disciplinary Responses:

1. Full restitution of damages
2. In-school suspension
3. Out-of-school suspension
4. Alternative school
5. Superintendent’s hearing
6. Referral to appropriate agencies
7. Any combination of the above

VII

1. Removal of disruptive students from the classroom and school property
   1. Teacher Removal of a Disruptive Student from the Classroom
      1. Teachers have a limited authority to remove disruptive pupils from the classroom. Such removal shall be consistent with this code of conduct. Disruptive students are defined as elementary or secondary pupils, under the age of 21, who are “substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interfere with the teacher’s authority over the classroom.
      2. A disruptive pupil may be removed from a teacher’s classroom by the teacher for no more than two (2) instructional periods (as defined in addendum 1) for each incident of substantial disruption of the educational process or substantial interference with a teacher’s authority. The “removal” begins the second consecutive day that the student is absent from class. The class period that is missed on the first day a student is asked to leave the class will be considered a “time-out” period. In addition, teacher removal of a pupil from the classroom for behavior which warrants a more significant penalty, such as out-of-school suspension, does not preclude the greater discipline
      3. Within one school day of the removal, the Principal or his/her designee (another administrator) must inform the parent of the reasons for the removal from class. On request, the student/parent must be given an opportunity to discuss reasons with Principal or his/her designee. The teacher shall be involved in the conference, unless the Principal decides based upon extenuating circumstances that it is not beneficial to have the teacher involved in such conference.
2. 1. If the student denies the charges, the student/parent must be given explanation of basis for removal and an opportunity to represent his/her version. This must take place within two school days of the removal.
   2. The Principal or his/her designee must decide, by the close of business on the day following the opportunity to be heard by the Principal, whether the discipline will be set aside. The Principal or his/her designee may only set aside discipline if:
      1. The charges against the student are not supported by substantial evidence.
      2. The student’s removal is in violation of law.
      3. The conduct warrants an out-of-school suspension and a suspension will be imposed.
3. The District shall provide continued educational programming to students who are removed from class by a teacher. Such programming shall include placement in an alternative educational program appropriate to individual student needs. Teachers will provide appropriate instructional materials for students removed from class and placed in an alternative educational program.
4. The suspension of pupils for a period in excess of five (5) school days shall be conducted in accordance with the regulations of Section 3214 of the Education Law.
5. Minimum Suspension for Pupils who repeatedly are Substantially Disruptive
   Pupils who repeatedly are substantially disruptive to the educational process or who substantially interfere with the teacher’s authority in the classroom shall be subject to a minimum suspension of two (2) days. A student who “repeatedly is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority in the classroom” is defined as one who is removed from the classroom by a teacher more than four (4) times in a semester. Any suspension period may be reduced on a case-by-case basis consistent with law.
6. Minimum Suspension for Violent Pupils
   1. Teachers shall immediately report and refer a violent pupil to the Principal or Superintendent for a violation of this code of conduct.
   2. Students who are deemed to be “violent pupils” as defined by Education Law Section 3214 (2-a) (a) shall be subject to a minimum out-of-school suspension of at least five (5) days. A violent pupil is an elementary or secondary student under twenty-one (21) who:
      1. commits an act of violence upon a teacher, administrator or other school employee;
      2. commits, while on school district property, an act of violence upon another student or any other person lawfully upon said property;
      3. possesses, while on school district property, a gun, knife, explosive or incendiary bomb, or other dangerous instrument capable of causing physical injury or death;
      4. or any other instrument capable of causing physical injury or death with the intent to use same against another.
      5. displays, while on school district property, what appears to be a gun, knife, explosive or incendiary bomb or other dangerous instrument, capable of causing death or physical injury;
      6. threatens, while on school district property, to use or uses any instrument that appears able to cause physical injury or death;
      7. knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys the personal property of a teacher, administrator, other school district employee, or any person lawfully upon school district property; or
      8. knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys school district property.

X.E.2. In accordance with Part 100.0 (ii) of the Regents Regulations, each building in the New Hartford Central School District will publicize and explain to students and make available in writing to all parents a discipline code for student behavior. This code will set forth prohibited student conduct and a range of penalties which may be imposed for violation of such code and describe the roles of teachers, administrators, board of education members, and parents.

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Student Conduct Expectations at School Sponsored Dances

Students attending school sponsored dances will be subject to the following expectations:

• Evening bags or boys’ jackets worn into the dance will be subject to search.
• Once inside the dance, students may only go to their vehicle if escorted by a chaperone, no exceptions. Once a student leaves the dance, he/she will not be readmitted.
• Students must arrive within 30 minutes of the scheduled beginning of the dance. If a student does not arrive within 30 minutes of the beginning of the dance, he/she will not be admitted into the dance and parents will be notified.
• The school district will not be responsible for students who leave early from the dance. Parents/guardians should know that their child/ren chose to leave the dance early; the school will be unable to notify them.
• The New Hartford Central School District Code of Conduct will be in effect and will be enforced at all school sponsored dances. Disciplinary consequences include possible school suspension and, if applicable, an Athletic Hearing and/or an Honor Society Hearing.
• If a District representative has reasonable suspicion that a student on school property, on a school bus, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored function is under the influence of a controlled substance, the District representative has the right to request that the student take a saliva-based drug test, a Breathalyzer, or Alco-Sensor test. Should the student refuse to comply with the request, the student shall be presumed guilty of being under the influence based on the observations that led to the request.
• If a district representative has reasonable suspicion that a student is in possession of a controlled substance, the Principal or his/her designee may, with a witness, conduct a search of the student’s person, the student’s locker(s) and/or the student’s personal possessions. A student who refuses to be personally searched shall be confined, under observation, until a parent/guardian is informed and grants permission, or is present to conduct such a search him/herself. Where there is reasonable evidence to support the allegation that a student knowingly possessed a controlled substance, the Principal will notify law enforcement authorities as required by law.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in helping to ensure the safety of all students attending New Hartford High School dances.

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Student Substance Abuse Policy

The Board recognizes its share of the responsibility to provide for the health, welfare and safety of the students who attend the District’s schools. The Board is concerned about the community problem of substance abuse and further recognizes that the illegal, inappropriate use of controlled substances constitutes a hazard to the positive development of students. 

DEFINITIONS

• The term “controlled substances” shall be construed throughout this policy to refer to the use of all substances, including but not limited to: alcohol,inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, ephedrine, heroin, steroids, prescription or over-the-counter drugs when possession is unauthorized or such are inappropriately used or shared with others, “look-alike drugs” and any of those substances commonly referred to as “designer drugs.” 
• The term “under the influence” is as follows: A student shall be considered “under the influence” if he or she has consumed a controlled substance within a time period reasonably proximate to his/her presence on school property, on a school bus, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored function.

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Administrative Regulations for Implementing Board Policy Relating to Controlled Substances

Board of Education Policy 6043.1

The following procedures will be used in implementing the Board of Education’s policies relating to controlled substances. As the policy notes, these regulations apply on school property, in drug free zones near any school, on school buses, in school vehicles and at all school-sponsored activities, regardless of location.

Being Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance

Any District representative who observes a student whose behavior, appearance, and/or scent (for example smell of alcohol or marijuana) suggest that the student is under the influence of a controlled substance shall immediately notify the Principal or his or her designee. Depending on the circumstances, the school nurse may talk with and/or examine that student in the nurse’s office or wherever the student happens to be.

Professional staff members who suspect that a student is an alcohol/drug abuser and report that information to school officials or to the student’s parents have immunity from civil liability that might otherwise be incurred as a result of making such report.

The Principal or his/her designee, after evaluating the evidence, upon a finding of reasonable suspicion, may, with a witness, conduct a search of the student’s person, the student’s locker(s) and/or the student’s personal possessions. As student lockers are District property, the District reserves the right to inspect school lockers at any time. A student who refuses to be personally searched shall be confined, under observation, until the parent/guardian is informed and grants permission or is present to conduct such a search him/herself.

If a District representative has reasonable suspicion that a student on school property, on a school bus, in a school vehicle, or at a school-sponsored function is under the influence of a controlled substance, the District representative has the right to request that the student take a saliva-based drug test, a breathalyzer, or Alco-Sensor test. Should the student refuse to comply with the request, the student shall be presumed guilty of being under the influence based on the observations that led to the request.

When there is reasonable evidence to support the allegation that a student knowingly possesses(ed) a controlled substance, the Principal shall notify law enforcement authorities as required by law. Whatever legal charges can be justified will be brought by the Principal.

On the first occasion, a secondary student (grades 7- 12) shall be suspended from school in accordance with Education Law and Board Policy for a period of five (5) days. Students under sixteen (16) years of age will be required to attend alternate education from 2:30 p m. to 4:30 p.m. for the duration of the suspension.

Prior to the student’s return to school following suspension for possession of a controlled substance, arrangements shall be made by the Principal, in concert with the parent(s)/guardian(s) and school staff, for relevant specialized counseling. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will be urged to educate themselves concerning controlled substances and their abuse.

Should there be any recurrence, the student will be automatically suspended for a period of five (5) days at the secondary level (grades 7-12). The Principal shall then recommend that the Superintendent suspend the student for a period in excess of five (5) days. Such expulsion of a student shall only be made in accordance with the procedures set forth in Education Law Section 3214.

In all cases, the Building Principal will confiscate any drugs or alcohol in the possession of the student. The parent(s) will be notified and a conference will be scheduled.

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Student’s Right to Due Process

Anytime an action is taken by a teacher, staff member or administrator under any policy dealing with attendance, academic or disciplinary matters, the student shall have the right of review and should begin with an informal appeal to the Principal. The Principal’s decision may then be appealed to the Superintendent of Schools. The student may then appeal the Superintendent’s decision to the Board of Education.

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Sexual Harassment Policy

Because all students have a right to be educated in an environment free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment in the New Hartford Central School District is strictly prohibited.

Definition: Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for favors, and other verbal, written or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

The following examples are some, but not all, types of sexual harassment:

• Offensive verbal sounds or comments of a sexual nature (e.g.: threats, name calling, rumor spreading, initiating conversation that is too personal, whistling, etc.)
• Offensive written or electronically transmitted messages, comments or pictures of a sexual nature (e.g. notes, letters, e-mails, web postings, text messages, jokes, cartoons, pictures, graffiti, posters, magazines, etc.)
• Offensive physical conduct of a sexual nature (e.g. touching another’s body, clothing, jewelry, pins, name tags, or anything else affixed to another’s body, making gestures, leering, staring, threatening or blocking body movements, etc.)

Reporting Procedures

Students should immediately report any and all incidents of sexual harassment to any teacher, counselor or administrator at the school site or any other personnel with whom the student feels comfortable.

Any school personnel receiving a complaint or report of sexual harassment will report the incident immediately to the school administration.

Each complaint shall be promptly and thoroughly investigated in a way that respects the privacy of all parties concerned to the extent permitted by law and to the extent practical and appropriate under the circumstances.

Retaliation, in any form, against any person who has filed a complaint or report of sexual harassment is illegal and, therefore, strictly prohibited. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.

Discipline

Any student who is found guilty of sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action consistent with the New Hartford Central School District’s Discipline Code which may include suspension and/or expulsion under New York State Education Law Section 3214.

Any student who is found guilty of retaliating, in any way, against any person who has filed a complaint or report of sexual harassment will be subject to disciplinary action consistent with the New Hartford Central School District Discipline Code which may include suspension and/or expulsion under New York State Education Law Section 3214.

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Vehicle Parking Regulations

New Hartford only allows seniors to use school parking facilities. When parking on campus, please abide by the following rules:

1. Seniors are to use the designated student parking lot only. Students may not take cars out of the lot during lunch. Senior privilege to drive at lunch may be granted in the spring.
2. The speed limit in the parking lot is 5 mph.
3. Students are not to sit in parked cars at any time.
4. All cars must be registered in the main office with the completion of the registration forms provided by the school. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, immobilizing and/or towing at the student’s expense.
   • A parking permit provided by the school must be affixed to the rear bumper of the car.
5. Any non-seniors who park in the school lot or any student who parks illegally will be towed at his/her expense. Detention or other disciplinary action may also result.
6. Playing of loud music from car radios is also not permitted. Loss of parking privilege or other disciplinary action will result.
7. When the lot is full, it is the student’s responsibility to park in another legal parking spot off school grounds.

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Drug Free School Zone

The enactment of the “Drug Free School Zone” Local Law, made pursuant to the Laws of the State of New York 1986, Chapter 280, enacted in 1986, a provision of the State’s Criminal Law, creates a felony (class B) drug offense for the criminal sale of a controlled substance to a person less than nineteen (19) years of age in or on the property of an elementary or high school or within one thousand (1000) feet of the school’s boundary lines. This “Drug Free School Zone” applies to all of the school buildings of the New Hartford Central School District.

Under Federal Criminal law, penalties for drug offenses committed within a one thousand (1000) feet radius of school property can be double the usual penalty for the same offense (21 U.S.C. 845A). In New York State, sale of a controlled substance to a minor less than nineteen (19) years of age, on or near school grounds, can incur a minimum of one (1) to eight and one half (8-1/2) years sentence (N.Y.P.L. Chapter 280, Section 220.44, 1986.)

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Locker Searches, etc.

The District will give notice to all students that lockers, desks and other school storage places may be subject to inspection at any time by school officials.

Student lockers are the property of the District and remain at all times under the control of the District. Students have no expectations of privacy therein. Students are expected, however, to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers, and the District is not responsible for stolen items. A list of the locker or lock combinations to all student lockers shall be kept in the office of the Building Principal.

The District retains the right to inspect student lockers at any time without a search warrant, without notice, and without student consent.

Inspections may be conducted by authorized school personnel and/or law enforcement officials, and may be conducted with the assistance of drug detecting dogs, with prior approval of the plan by the Building Principal and Superintendent.

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Detention

Students, for various offenses, may receive detention from the Dean of Students and the Principal. This office detention is held during the student lunch hour/after school.

Teachers may also require students to remain after school in their own room. This may be a shorter detention for lesser offences. Students must have transportation home.

Failure to report for teacher detention may result in office referral for additional disciplinary action or additional detention with the teacher or both.

Failure to report to office detention will result in: a written notice will be sent home and/or phone call will be made to the parent/guardian stating that the student missed detention again and in-school suspension has been assigned.

Detention Conduct

Any student receiving a detention will report to the proper location on the day assigned. The following rules must be obeyed while a student is in the detention room:

1. Report to the detention room ON TIME.
2. Face the front of the room and not turn around.
3. Use of electronic devices is not permitted.
4. No talking or making of distracting sounds.
5. No texting, writing and/or passing any notes.
6. Obey any additional rules that the teacher enacts to make detention run more efficiently.
7. Bring schoolwork to do during detention. Students must be working or reading. Sleeping is not allowed.

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Study Hall Conduct

1. Students must bring books and study materials.
2. This is a study period. Quiet is required.
3. Seating is assigned by the teacher.
4. NO passes are signed nor permission given until roll call is taken.
5. Going to the library: A limited number of students are allowed to go to the library during study halls. Students are required to observe library rules. The library will use progressive discipline policy to enforce rules.
6. Going to a teacher: Students should present a pre-signed pass to the study hall teacher. Arrangements should be made with a teacher prior to the actual period.
7. Going to restrooms: It is required that students sign out using e- hallpass when going to the rest rooms, nurse, etc. A limited amount of time will be allowed to each student for this privilege.
8. Students are to pass from study halls in a manner that will not disrupt any class.
9. Game playing (including cards) is not allowed.

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School Lunch/Cafeteria Behavior

The Board of Education provides a cafeteria for school lunch services. Every day the school lunch provides a complete lunch with at least six (6) choices. This lunch provides 1/3 of the daily nutritional requirements of the students. The lunch may be purchased or the student may bring his/her lunch and buy milk, ice cream and snacks. The lunch consists of 5 components, namely: Meat or alternate, Bread or alternate, Vegetables, Fruit, and Milk. Due to the fact that some students cannot or do not wish to eat a large lunch and to eliminate waste, the offer vs. serve program was enacted. This program allows the student the opportunity to select any three or four of the five food groups offered for lunch.

There will be one (1) lunch period. The dining room supervisors expect cooperation with the following rules:

1. All students are to carefully take enough time to eat and promote food digestion.
2. Students are responsible to lunch monitors and are expected to comply with their directions.
3. All students are to keep in straight, single file, orderly lines while waiting to be served.
4. Students will not litter.
5. Boisterous behavior is prohibited (e.g. food throwing or throwing any object in the room, pushing, shoving, shouting, etc.)

Students who are chronic violators of these rules may be:

1. Confined to the cafeteria – these students will sit at a designated table and will not be allowed out of the cafeteria for any reason. These students must ask and receive permission to get their lunch, snacks, properly dispose of their garbage, and be out of their seat for any reason.
2. Suspension from the cafeteria – these students will be assigned to eat in the office or a designated room. They must bring their own lunch.

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Bus Service & Safety

Students in grades 7-12 are picked up so as to arrive at school between 7:30 and 7:40 a m. and are taken home after school on a schedule which begins at 2:20 and runs approximately until 3:40 p m. All students are eligible for transportation.

Below are the necessary rules that students will follow:

1. Be on time at your stop. During inclement weather, driving conditions warrant extreme safety measures. Therefore, to maintain our time schedule it is advisable to expect your bus early, especially if your stop is at the beginning of the trip.
2. Parents should bring their child to school, if the bus is missed. Don’t attempt running at the side of the bus to catch the bus at the next stop. Driving visibility is limited at the sides of the bus. (Don’t hit sides of bus to attract driver’s attention at any time.)
3. Wait until the bus comes to a full stop before attempting to get on or off.
4. Go immediately to a seat and stay there until the bus comes to a complete halt at your stop or at the school. (Seating of students is the individual bus driver’s responsibility.)
5. No objects shall be passed through open windows.
6. Keep arms, head and hands inside bus windows.
7. No bundles or large parcels should be carried in a school bus (except musical instruments). However, due to the design of the school buses with restricted space, etc. instruments excluded are baritone, tuba, cello and bass drum. Trombones may be supported between the legs with end down on the floor. The French horn is to be allowed only if it can be kept on the lap of the student.
8. Glass containers are NOT allowed on the bus. This pertains to items such as science projects, soda bottles and other glass containers students might have.
9. Do not leave books, lunches, etc. on the bus.
10. Do not talk with the driver while the bus is in motion.
11. No smoking on buses – suspension will result. All school rules apply while students are riding the buses.
12. Be a courteous and responsible passenger at all times.
13. Drivers will report individual problems to Building Principals and head bus driver. Generally on the first offense, a letter of warning is sent to the parent or legal guardian stating that subsequent referrals to the Principal or dean of students may result in transportation privileges being suspended for the student. Persistent problems may cause denial of transportation privilege altogether.
14. Cell phone use on school buses will be at the discretion of the driver and/or supervising adult.

Shuttle Bus

Students riding shuttle buses shall ride the same number bus in the P.M. as in
A. M. (daily basis). Students who miss shuttle shall follow same procedures applied to missing bus at pick-up points

School Bus Stops

Students requesting permission to board or be dropped at other usual stops are to present the Principal with note signed by a parent. This note should be brought to the main office before school and the student will receive a permission slip, which will be presented to the bus driver. Emergency requests phoned in by parents should be cleared with Building Principal or dean of students.

Only students attending supervised, school sanctioned, after school activities may take the late run bus. Buses leave at 3:35 P.M. from the high school. Since only two (2) buses take the limited number of students they do not make all the normal stops. Therefore, some students may have to be left at a bus stop farther from home than their normal stop.

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Athletic Code of Conduct

View the Athletic Code of Conduct.

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New Hartford Central School Health Services

The Senior High School Health Office can be reached at (315) 624-1235.

The purpose of the school health service is to make sure each student is physically and emotionally ready to receive the benefits of education, to protect against the spread of contagious disease, to care for medical emergencies that may arise and to consult with school administrators, teachers, parents and health care providers on health matters.

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Policy Relating to Student Use of Medications/Controlled Substances

1. Students Use of Medications
   1. The administration of prescribed medications to a student during school hours is permitted only when necessary to allow the student’s attendance or when failure to administer the medication would seriously affect the health of the student.
   2. The term “medications” shall include all substances requiring a prescription, as well as those available over the counter such as aspirin, vitamins, diet pills, antihistamines, etc.
   3. The parent(s) or other person(s) in parental relation must complete and present a written request form giving the school staff permission to administer the medication, accompanied by the written direction of the student’s attending physician. The physician’s statement must contain the following information: Student’s name and date of the prescription, prescription name, dosage and time of administration(s) and a list of possible side effects.
   4. The parent(s) must bring the medication to the school nurse’s office in the original container. The medication(s) will be labeled and kept locked in the school nurse’s office until dispensed.
   5. We do not stock medications. All medical treatments required in school, including crutches, require medical authorization.

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Guidelines for School Medical Exams

The function of the physical examination is to appraise the student’s current health status, determine the student’s fitness to participate in the school program and to refer any significant findings to the parent. This examination is required by New York State Education Law when a student enters a school district, in grades K,1,3,5,7,9 and 11, every 12 months when participating in interscholastic sports, for working papers and when referred to the Committee on Special Education. This examination must be performed by a “duly licensed physician” authorized to practice or by a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant working in collaboration with a physician.

The school is required to provide physicals for those students for whom a physical report is not provided by parents or for those who request a school physical.

Sports Physicals, which differ significantly from the mandated physicals, are provided several times per year prior to each sports season at school. There is a specific Sports Physical form available from the Health Office. Ideally, the family physician is in a better position to provide an informed physical exam due to their knowledge of history, family and home. The family physician may also institute treatment without delay for any problems.

It is important that our records of home and work phone numbers are up to date. If there is a change, please call guidance office (315) 624-1224.

Emergencies

Our school Health Service is equipped to provide first aid, not treatment. It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to obtain treatment and transportation in the event of illness or injury. Situations requiring immediate emergency care are handled through the Town of New Hartford Emergency Services, EMT’s, and transport to one of the local hospital’s emergency room.

Health Histories

The school health service needs to be kept informed of any health problems that need special care, for example, asthma, allergies, diabetes, or seizure disorders, and changes in health status of the student. This will assist us in providing the best health care possible. All health records are kept confidential; information is only released with permission or on a need-to-know basis, per Education Law. If there has been any change in your child’s health status, please inform the health office. A health history is required before each sport season.

Immunizations

Written proof of immunization, with dates of each immunization, is required by New York State to be admitted to school. The required immunizations are: Diphtheria vaccine – 3 doses or more, Tetanus & Pertussis vaccine – 3 doses, Polio vaccine – 3 doses or more, Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine – 2 doses measles, 1 dose each of mumps & rubella, Hepatitis B – 3 doses, and Varicella vaccine – 1 dose if born on or after January 1, 1998, 1 dose if born on or after 1/1/94 and enrolled in 6th grade or written documentation of disease by a physician or positive serology. 2 meningitis vaccines- one when entering 7th grade, one when entering 12th grade.

Illness

The parent/guardian is the best judge of whether the student is ill. Students should be kept at home with fevers above 100˚, vomiting, or contagious diseases. Pink eye, strep throat, impetigo, scabies, lice and chicken pox are included but not limited to, the types of conditions that will exclude students from school until treatment or doctor approval. If the student becomes ill in school, he/she should report to the Health Office after obtaining a pass from the teacher. The nurse will determine the seriousness of the complaint and take action accordingly. Parents/guardians will be notified if the student needs to go home. Students will not be permitted to stay in the Health Office for long periods of time; the intention of being in school is being in class.

Screenings

Depending on their grade level, your child will visit the Health Office for screening procedures per NYS guidelines. These may include: height & weight, vision, hearing and scoliosis screening.

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Teaching About Drugs/Tobacco

New Hartford Central School believes that education is an important preventative measure against student involvement with drugs, tobacco and alcohol. Instruction will include sessions about the causes and effects of drug, alcohol and tobacco abuse. In addition, all high school students will receive information on the dangers of driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Parents and students who want more information on substance abuse or would like to ask questions about a specific problem, may call and/or visit the school social worker. New Hartford believes that individuals with problems should feel comfortable to seek help without fear of punishment.

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Student Insurance

The school district does not carry student accident insurance. Parents may want to explore purchasing such insurance through their own carrier.

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Student Records

The procedures for the confidentiality of student records shall be consistent with federal statutes, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and its implementing regulations, and the Commissioner’s Regulations.

Each year, parents/guardians will receive letters from the school district regarding a parental request to limit student’s directory information and a parental request to limit military access. To enact parental requests to observe these limits, the accompanying form must be filled out, signed, dated, and returned to the school.

The district shall arrange to provide translations of the following notice to non-English speaking parent(s)/guardian(s) in their native language:

To Parent(s)/Guardian(s)/Eligible Students:

This section is intended to advise you of your rights with respect to the school records relating to (your son) (your daughter) (you) pursuant to the Federal “Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.”

Parents of a student under 18, or a student 18 or older, have a right to inspect and review any/all official records, files, and data directly related to their children or themselves, including all material that is incorporated into each student’s cumulative record folder, and intended for school use or to be available to parties outside the school or school system, and specifically including, but not necessarily limited to, identifying data, academic work completed, level of achievement (grades, standardized achievement test scores), attendance data, score on standardized intelligence, aptitude, and psychological tests, interest inventory results, health data, family background information, teacher or counselor ratings and observation, and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.

A parent of a student 18 years of age or a student 18 years of age or older shall make a request for access to that student’s school records, in writing, to the Superintendent of Schools, Counselor or Principal. Upon receipt of such request, arrangements shall be made to provide access to such records within a reasonable period of time, but in any case, not more than forty-five (45) days after the request has been received.

Such parents and students are also entitled to an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of such records, to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein. Any questions concerning the procedure to be followed in requesting such a hearing should be directed to the Superintendent.

Student records and any material contained therein, which is personally identifiable, are confidential and may not be released or made available to persons other than parents or student without the written consent of such parents or student. There are a number of exceptions to this rule, such as other school employees and officials, and certain state and federal officials, who have a legitimate educational need for access to such records in the course of their employment.

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Working Papers

All boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 18 must have working papers if they intend working after school hours or during school vacations. To obtain working papers, the procedure is as follows:

1. Go to the Office of the Dean of Students and ask for a regular application form.
2. Take this form to your parent/guardian for his/her signature.
3. See the school nurse to complete a form stating you are physically fit. If necessary, make an appointment with the school doctor or family doctor so that he/she may fill out a report showing that you are physically fit for the job you have chosen.
4. Bring the completed application blank to the office, and the Dean of Students or designee provide you with your working papers. Always remember that a work permit is for your protection, to safeguard you from harm caused by physical labor beyond your capacity. Please note: Your school responsibilities always take precedence over such jobs.

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Student Fees, Fines & Charges

Students are expected to exercise reasonable care in the use of school equipment and any damage done to library books, textbooks or other school equipment due to misuse or negligence must be paid for by them. Lost or damaged textbooks will be immediately reported to the Building Principal, who will determine if negligence on the part of the student was the cause of the damage. If so, the student and the student’s parent/guardian will be expected to pay for such damage.

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Textbooks

Textbooks are issued to all students in the high school. Since there is no charge for these books, the responsibility for their condition and safekeeping rests directly with the student. Any damage or loss will be charged to the student.

Failure to return borrowed books or materials or school equipment, or failure to pay for damaged property will result in parent(s)/guardian(s) being billed. Subsequent disciplinary action may result should obligations go unpaid.

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Locks & Lockers

Locks and lockers are issued to students during the first week of school. Please observe the following rules in the use of your lock and locker:

1. Only school issued locks are permitted on lockers.
2. Keep your locker locked at all times.
3. Do not change lockers without permission from the main office.
4. Do not share your combination, or locker, with anyone.
5. Should you have a locker problem, please report the problem to staff in the main office.
6. Missing articles (lost or stolen) should be reported to the main office immediately. A form is provided for this purpose.

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Field Trips

From time-to-time students will be taken on trips as part of their course work. When this occurs outside of school hours, we ask your permission via a permission slip. Trips during school hours are considered normal school day activities. If you have any questions about proposed trips, please call. Students will be told about the type of clothing they are to wear depending on the nature of the trip.

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Telephone

The telephones in the High School main office are available for student use if there is an urgent need.

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High School Library

1. The Library Media Center, which consists of approximately 16,000 print and electronic resources, aims to provide an approachable, comfortable atmosphere that fosters and promotes a learning environment, thereby enabling patrons to perform to the best of their ability.
2. Patrons may use the Library for research and library-related work during study halls, at lunch and before and after school.
3. All materials are circulated in the Library, ranging from a minimum of 24 hours for reference materials to a maximum of two weeks for general materials. A due date card will be issued indicating the due date for all materials.
4. Patrons must follow the procedures set forth in the Library to maintain the Library environment outlined above in number one. A failure to follow procedures will result in the student being asked to leave for the remainder of the period. If a patron repeatedly fails to follow Library procedures he/she will be removed from the Library for a determined period of time (excludes visits made with a classroom teacher).
5. Patrons who lose or damage Library materials will be charged for the repair or replacement of the materials.

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Library Obligation Procedure

1. Overdue materials are the responsibility of the patron and are to be returned or renewed on their due date.
2. Library overdue notices will be given to the patron (student):
   1. in a study hall or first block class
   2. patron (student) may be called to come to the Library for processing
3. A notice will be sent home to the attention of the parent or guardian if the above actions have not been taken care of by the student.
4. Library detention will be assigned to students if they have not followed the above.
5. Lost or Damaged materials follow the District Board Policy Manual, Section 7012, stating that monetary restitution shall be made promptly for their repair or replacement.

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Copyright Policy

Copyright: Use of works produced by another person is governed by copyright laws. Copies of “Fair Use Guidelines” are available in each classroom, office and building library.

Student Work: Original student work is the property of the student. Permission must be given in order for a teacher to publish, reproduce, retain or display in public arenas. Exemplary work kept from year to year is included and requires permission.

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Information Technology Policies

New Hartford CSD Acceptable Use Policy

View the New Hartford CSD Acceptable Use Policy

Protection of Network Resources

View the Protection of Network Resources

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Emergency Plans

In accordance with regulations of the Commissioner of Education, the district has developed an Emergency Management Plan to safeguard the safety and health of students and staff, as well as district property, in the event of a true emergency. Each year, the school will stage drills of the Emergency Management Plan, including practice in lockdowns, evacuation and sheltering students and staff, and an early dismissal at a time not more than 15 minutes earlier than the normal dismissal time.

The district Emergency Management Plan includes the following:

1. Definitions of “emergency” and procedures to be followed to activate the Plan
2. Designation of a control center in anticipation of, or in response to an emergency
3. Identification of sites of potential emergencies
4. Identification of appropriate responses to emergencies
5. Procedures for coordinating the use of district resources and personnel during emergencies
6. Identification of district resources which may be available for use during an emergency
7. A system for informing all schools within the district of the emergency
8. Plans for taking the following actions, if appropriate: lockdown; school cancellation; early dismissal; evacuation; and sheltering
9. Pertinent information about each school (including information on school population, number of staff, transportation needs and the business and home telephone numbers of key employees of the district and others, as appropriate and
10. Procedures for obtaining advice and assistance from local government officials.

View the District-wide School Safety Plan.

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Fire Drills

The Building Principal is responsible for conducting fire drills in order to instruct students and staff in exiting the school building in an emergency in the shortest time possible and without confusion and panic. Fire drills shall include instruction of fire drill exits and fire alarm boxes, as well as fire drill procedures. All students are expected to cooperate with staff members during the fire drills, and to leave the buildings in a quiet and orderly manner. The exit route is posted in each room. Students must stay with their teacher. Distracting behavior will be subject to either teacher or administrative discipline, and may merit a penalty.

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Emergency Closings & Delays

The Superintendent of Schools may close the schools or dismiss students/staff early when hazardous weather or other emergencies threaten health or safety. Parents are requested to avoid calling schools on days of poor weather; it is important to keep school phone lines open. School closing and delayed starting times will be announced over local television and radio stations.

The following stations will carry information regarding emergency closings:

If no report is heard, it can be assumed that schools are OPEN. You may also visit the district website to check for posted announcements.

Bell Schedules (for days where school runs on delay)

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