SUSQUENITA SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK

2018/2019 SCHOOL YEAR PURPOSE OF THE DISTRICT HANDBOOK 2 SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES 2 TITLE IX STATEMENT 2 SUSQUENITA SCHOOL DISTRICT BELIEF STATEMENT 2 ADMISSION AND KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION 3 SCHOOL DAY 3 CYCLE DAYS 3 BUILDING CONTACT INFORMATION 3 COMMUNCATION GUIDELINES 3 FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS 3 AUTOMATIC DIALING NOTIFICATION SYSTEM 4 CHANGES OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER 4 EMERGENCY DRILLS EVACUATION OR FIRE DRILLS 4 SEVERE WEATHER PROCEDURES 4 ADMISSION AND KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION 4 POWERSCHOOL (PS) 5 INSPECTION OF RECORDS 5 FAMILYEDUCATIONAL RECORDS PRIVACYACT & PUPILRIGHTSAMENDMENT (PPRA) 5 ATTENDANCE 7 SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES 8 CAFETERIA 11 BUS TRANSPORTATION 12 VISITATION PROCEDURES 15 SPECIAL EDUCATION 16 IDENTIFYING GIFTED STUDENTS 16 ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE 17 STUDENT VALUABLES 17 EXCLUSIONS FROM SCHOOL: SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS 17 VIOLENCE 19 TERRORISTIC ACTS AND/OR THREATS 19 CO-CURRICULAR AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 19 HOW TO CONTACT SCHOOL DISTRICT STAFF 23

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PURPOSE OF THE DISTRICT HANDBOOK

The purpose of this Handbook is to provide important general information about the Susquenita School District. It is not intended to be all encompassing. A separate handbook exists for the Elementary School, Middle School, and High School. Each handbook contains specific information that relates directly to the rules and practices of that school.

SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES All of the District’s School Board Policies may be access on the District website at www.susq.k12.pa.us, on the School Board page, under School Board Policies. For questions regarding policies, contact the School Board Secretary at (717) 957-6000, Option 5.

TITLE IX STATEMENT Susquenita School District shall not discriminate in their educational programs, activities or employment practices based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, ancestry or any other legally protected classification. This policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act. Information relative to special accommodation, grievance procedure, and the designated responsible official for compliance with Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 may be obtained by contacting the Title IX Coordinator, District Office, 1725 Schoolhouse Road, Duncannon, PA, 17020

SUSQUENITA SCHOOL DISTRICT BELIEF STATEMENT

• The student is the center of the educational process.

• All students can learn.

• Learning is a life-long process.

• Each person has inherent worth.

• Educational experiences should be grounded in the rigorous study of curriculum aligned with Pennsylvania Academic Standards.

• Education in a safe environment is the responsibility of the entire com-munity.

• Education will in turn promote responsible citizenship.

• Through effective leadership, and educational best practices, all individuals can learn beyond what is expected.

• The world is rapidly changing and each individual must be prepared to effectively think, communicate, and learn in order to prosper.

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SCHOOL DAY

High School - 7:45 AM to 2:45 PM Middle School - 7:50 AM to 2:50 PM Elementary School - 8:45 AM to 3:45 PM

CYCLE DAYS High School and Middle School

The High School and Middle School operate on a 6-day cycle throughout the school year. The first day of school is Day 1 in the cycle. Each school day thereafter is numbered 2 - 6, with the cycle starting over after Day 6. Holidays and vacations do not interrupt the days of the cycle. Example: If the last day before a vacation or snow day is Day 3, it will be Day 4 the first day the students return to school. The 6-day cycle continues from that point in time.

BUILDING CONTACT INFORMATION

District Office 1725 Schoolhouse Road Duncannon, PA 17020 P: (717) 957-6000, Option 5 F: (717) 957-2463 Kent R. Smith, Superintendent

High School 309 Schoolhouse Rd. Duncannon, PA 17020 P: (717) 957-6000, Opt. 3 F: (717) 957-1792 Craig Funk, Principal

Middle School 200 Susquenita Dr. Duncannon, PA 17020 P: (717) 957-6000, Opt. 2 F: (717) 957-6022 William Quigley, Principal

Elementary School 101 Susquenita Dr. Duncannon, PA 17020 P: (717) 957-6000, Opt. 1 F: (717) 957-3229 Rebecca Lorfink, Principal

COMMUNCATION GUIDELINES

The Susquenita Board of School Directors and the professional staff have a deep commitment to providing the very best educational services and opportunities for each student. Mutual support, a wholesome trust, understanding, and good communications are needed to help each student reach his or her full potential. Problems or concerns are best addressed and resolved at the level where they occur. To help facilitate good communications, the following guidelines are recommended:

I. STUDENTS Concern First Contact Second Contact

Basic School Parent Teacher Classroom Concerns Parent Counselor, Principal Registration Attendance Officer Withdrawal Attendance Officer Rules, Policies, Emergency Principal

II. PARENTS/GUARDIANS

Concern First Contact Second Contact Third Contact Academic Teacher Counselor Principal Health School Nurse Counselor Principal Adjustment Teacher Counselor Principal Behavior Teacher Principal Principal Peers Teacher Counselor Principal Registration Attendance Officer Withdrawal Attendance Officer Rules, Policies, Emergency Principal

FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS

Our goal is to use these pages as another way to keep our school community informed. You can subscribe to the District page and any of the schools that are relevant to you and your family by clicking on the links and liking the pages. Susquenita School District: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Susquenita-School-District/1403457833255234?ref=h1 Susquenita High School: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Susquenita-High-School/782208961806643?ref=h1 Susquenita Middle School: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Susquenita-Middle-School/588837981209316 Susquenita Elementary School: https://www.facebook.com/SusquenitaElem/?fref=ts This site is a free tutorial on using and understanding Facebook: http//www.gcflearnfree.org/facebook101

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NOTIFICATION OF CLOSINGS, DELAYS AND EARLY DISMISSALS

As soon as a decision is made to close school, delay opening, or dismiss early, we will work to notify community members in the following ways:

• Television Stations: WGAL, ABC17, and CBS21• Radio Stations: 93.5, 94.9, 99.3, 104.1, and 106.7

We will also utilize the District’s Facebook pages, listed above, and the Automatic Dialing Notification System, described below.

AUTOMATIC DIALING NOTIFICATION SYSTEM The Susquenita School District uses Blackboard Mass Notification to send emails/text messages and automated phone calls to Parents/guardians and community members. It allows us to effectively communicate with families on a large scale. Blackboard Mass Notification also gives registered users the flexibility to choose which channels to receive notifications through.

Blackboard Mass Notifications automatically sends email and phone call notifications to up to two primary contacts. In order to make sure you receive emergency notifications, including weather-related school closings, always notify your child’s school if a contacts phone number or email changes. In order to receive text messages, or register additional contacts for the mass notification system, you will need to sign up for a Blackboard account. To sign up, go to our website,www.susq.k12.pa.us, and look for the Notification Signup. NOTE: Text messaging users will be charged according to their own cellular telephone service plan. In addition to the mass notifications, the Susquenita School District will also communicate to families and community members using our webpage and Facebook. With all of these channels for notification we understand that there may be times you may think you are being over informed. That said, we would rather you receive multiple notifications than take a chance of you not being notified at all.

CHANGES OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER Please inform the school office any time your residence, home telephone, cellular telephone, or work telephone numbers change. This information is critical to your child’s safety in an emergency situation

EMERGENCY DRILLS EVACUATION OR FIRE DRILLS A diagram on the bulletin board of each classroom indicates the direction students are to go for a quick and safe exit from the building. If there is a blocked exit, students are to take directions from their teacher. At the sound of the fire alarm, all students must form a double line and leave the building at once. There is to be no talking so that instructions can be heard. The teacher will be the last person to leave the room.

SEVERE WEATHER PROCEDURES Each school building within the Susquenita School District has plans and procedures in place in accordance with the recommendation of the National Weather Service. Information regarding this Emergency Plan are posted in each classroom. In the event this plan must be activated, students must follow all directions given by staff members. They are to move to an interior wall on the lowest floor of the building, sitting with their backs toward the wall, and staying away from glass areas and doorways. Legs and feet are not to block the passage of personnel.

ADMISSION AND KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

I. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Pennsylvania School law is very clear. It states a student has the right to attend school in the school district in which his or her parent or legal guardian resides.

Beginners – Beginners are children entering the District at the lowest grade of the primary school above the kindergarten level. All beginners are eligible for admission to school at any time during the school year providing they meet appropriate age requirements. A beginner is eligible for admission to first grade if the child has reached the age of six (6) years on or before September 1 of that school year. Kindergarten – A child is eligible for admission to kindergarten if he or she has attained the age of five (5) years on or before September 1 of that school year.

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II. KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION Full day kindergarten classes are held at the elementary school for eligible children of the district. Enrollment is limited to the first ten (10) days of school. Kindergarten pupils must be five (5) years old before September 1. Children entering first grade must be six (6) year old before September 1. Registration will be conducted for kindergarten in March (see the District calendars for specific dates). Parents must present a birth or baptismal certificate, immunization record, and proof of residence as part of a child’s eligibility to enroll.

POWERSCHOOL (PS) Student Information Management System

PowerSchool is a computerized student information management system that is in place in the Elementary School, Middle School and High School. Many of our students’ parents and guardians have taken advantage of opportunities to become trained in the computer software system to monitor their child’s grades and academic progress at their convenience from the privacy of their own computer. You may access PowerSchool at: https://psssq.susq.k12.pa.us/public/. It is worthwhile to mention the following points about PowerSchool is not intended to be a “homework hotline.” Information in PS is constantly changing as attendance and grades are entered. The best way to receive a current, accurate, and complete report of your child’s progress in school continues to be direct contact with his or her teacher(s) through either e-mail or telephone communications. Because a quality education is so important, parents are encouraged to use a day in which school is not in session to take their child to work.

INSPECTION OF RECORDS The parent/guardian or eligible student shall be permitted to inspect and review the education record of the student within a reasonable period of time, but in no case more than ten (10) days after the request has been made. Requests should be directed to the building principal. The principal will arrange a meeting at a mutually agreeable time. Copies of the records will be provided to the parent/ guardian or eligible student upon request at a fee of $.25 per copy for each item not previously provided to the parent or student. A professional employee will be available to explain items in the record. Stepparents do not hold parental rights regarding access to student records. Parents moving from the Susquenita School District are requested to provide their new address to each of their children’s schools at least three days before moving. This provides the necessary time to transfer all necessary information to the child’s new school before the child arrives. A professional employee will be available to explain items in the record. The types and locations of records maintained by the school and designated personnel responsible for these are as follows:

Records Locations Professional Attendance Main Office Principal Health Nurse’s Office Nurse Discipline Main Office Principal Education Guidance Office Principal, Teacher Special Education Sp.Ed. Office Director of Special Education

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RECORDS PRIVACY ACT & PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)

I. NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over eighteen (18) years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a

request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

• The right to request the amendment of a student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the School principal [or appropriate official], clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional

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information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.

A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a per-son or company with whom the School has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon appropriate request, the administration discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or eligible student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605.

II. NOTICE FOR DIRECTORY INFORMATION The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), requires Susquenita School District, with certain exceptions, to obtain parental written consent prior to disclosing personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. Susquenita School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Susquenita School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include: A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production; The annual yearbook; Honor roll or other recognition lists; Graduation programs; and Sports activity sheets, for example, wrestling - showing weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, may also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, three directory information categories -names, addresses, and telephone listings unless parents have advised the LEA they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. If you do not want Susquenita School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing. Susquenita School District has designated the following as directory information: [Note: An LEA may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below:

• Student’s name • Address • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports • Telephone listing • Weight and height of members of athletic teams • Electronic mail address • Photograph • Degrees, honors, and awards received • Date and place of birth • Major field of study

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• Dates of attendance • Grade level • The most recent educational agency or institution attended

III. NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER PROTECTION

PPRA affords parents and students who are eighteen (18) or emancipated minors (eligible students) certain rights regarding conducting surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical examinations. These include the right to consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (protected information survey) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED).

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships; such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of:

1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered

by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical ex-am or screening permitted or required under State law;

3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

Inspect, upon request and before administration or use:

1. Protected information surveys of students 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above 3. Marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and 4. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum

Susquenita School District will develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy-cy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. Susquenita School District will directly notify parents and eligible students of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. Susquenita School District will also directly notify parents and eligible students through U.S. Mail or email, at least annually at the start of each school year of the specific or approximate dates of the following activities and provide an opportunity to opt a student out of participating in: • Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution. • Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by U.S. Dept. of Education. • Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above. Parents/guardians and eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20202-4605.

ATTENDANCE Attendance in school and class is mandatory for all students once they enter kindergarten and until they reach the age of seventeen. Because it is the first step toward success in school, school personnel will work closely with parents/ guardians to better ensure regular school attendance of their child. Individual student attendance records are kept by the attendance officer and will appear on each report card.

I. ABSENCES Absences will be classified as “excused” for only legal reasons as defined by the Pennsylvania school code. These reasons include: personal illness, death in the immediate family, participation in authorized school activities, preapproved educational travel, bona fide religious observance/instruction, legal proceedings (with verification), or out of-school suspension. All other absences are considered unlawful/illegal (students under age 17) or unexcused (students who have reached their seventeenth birthday). All unlawful absences are also considered unexcused. Student must present a written excuse for his or her absences within three days of returning to school. If a written excuse is not received within three days of the student returning to school, the absence becomes unlawful and/or unexcused. A written parental excuse does not

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guarantee an absence will be classified as excused. If a student accumulates three unlawful/illegal absences, an official notice will be sent to his or her parent/guardian. Any additional unlawful/illegal absences shall (by Pennsylvania state law) result in a citation issued through the District Magistrate’s office. Under the law, parents/guardians and/or students can receive fines of up to $750, and the student’s driver’s license or permit can be suspended or postponed. Students who have more than ten absences (under any classification) may be required to submit a door’s excuse for all additional absences in order to have them classified as excused. This action will be taken on a case-by-case basis. Parents/guardians will be notified when their child is absent from school. This action does not eliminate the parent’s and student’s responsibility to submit a written excuse, signed by the parent/guardian giving the date(s) and reason for the absence. This excuse must be turned in within three (3) days of the student’s return to school. If no excuse is received within three days, the student’s day or days of absence will be considered unexcused or unlawful.

II. ATTENDANCE ISSUES

For a student who leaves and comes back to school, the absence will be coded according to the time the student is out of school. If the student is out of school for 90 minutes or less, the absence will be coded as an early dismissal. If the student is out of school for more than 90 minutes, but less the 195 minutes, the absence will be marked as half-day absence. If the student is out of school greater than 195 minutes, the student’s absence will be coded as a full day’s absence. Students are recognized for good school attendance. In order for a student to be recognized for perfect attendance during a school year, the student may not have an absence of any kind, tardy, or may he or she arrive after the start of the instructional day, nor be dismissed before the end of the instructional day (excused or unexcused).

III. EDUCATIONAL FAMILY TRAVEL

Reference School Board Policy 231.1.

Students are permitted five (5) cumulative school days per year for educational trips with his or her parents/guardians and receive an excused absence provided parents/guardians comply with the program requirements. Because of the added importance of the beginning and the end of the school year, educational travel will not be approved for either the first or the last ten (10) days of the school year. (Exceptions can be allowed in the event the school year is extended because of weather or other school related complications.) Because of the increasing emphasis on students’ state and standardized test scores, educational travel will not be approved during the testing windows for those tests. Dates for state and standardized testing windows are included in this calendar. Educational travel will not be approved for students who have been cited for unexcused or unlawful absences. An Educational Trip Request Form (available on the District’s website) must be completed and returned to school five (5) school days prior to the planned trip. Neglecting to obtain prior approval will result in the recording of unexcused/ unlawful absences for those days of absence.

IV. TARDINESS

Habitual tardiness is not acceptable and will be closely monitored by District administrators. Tardies will be considered excused or unexcused using the same guidelines used for attendance purposes. The time for habitual tardies will be ac-cumulated until the time equals one school day. The student will then be charged with one unlawful and/or unexcused school absence. Examples of unexcused tardiness are “overslept,” “ride was late,” “alarm clock malfunctioned,” “flat tire,” or “missed the bus.”

V. TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK DAY

Parents desiring to have their child participate in Take Your Child to Work Day must submit an Educational Trip Request Form (available on the District’s web- site) to the building principal following the rules for an educational trip before participating. Students must provide a written confirmation of attendance from the parent’s employer upon their return to school. Since a student does not attend school on Take Your Child to Work Day, the day is counted as a school absence. Because a quality education is so important, parents are encouraged to use a day in which school is not in session to take their child to work.

SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES

Good health is a prerequisite to learning and is essential to life’s most successful activities. A full-time health professional is available in each of our schools to assist students during the course of the day with acute and chronic health needs. Health services are organized and developed in accordance with the Pennsylvania School Code. The services are designed to assure an educational

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environment conducive to achieving a high standard of health for our students and to assist parents/guardians in assuming the primary responsibility for their children’s health through programs and communications related to good health and hygiene. On the first day of school, your child will be given an emergency information card. Please complete that card promptly and return it to school with your child the next school day. This card is important to school personnel because the information it contains will be used to contact you or your designee in case your child experiences an emergency while at school. Please notify the school of any changes regarding information on the card throughout the school year.

I. IMMUNIZATIONS AND SCREENINGS

A. IMMUNIZATIONS For attendance in all grades, students need the following immunizations:

ü 4 doses of tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis Usually given as DTP or DTaP or DR of Td

ü 4 doses of polio 4th dose must be on or after the 4th birthday and at least 6 months after the previous dose.

ü 2 doses of measles, mumps and rubella Usually given as MMR

ü 3 doses of hepatitis B

ü 2 doses of varicella (chickenpox) or evidence of immunity

In addition to the immunizations stated above for entry into the 7th grade, all students must have the following immunizations:

ü 1 dose of tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap) ü 1 dose of the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV) usually given between 11-15 years of age.

In addition to all of the immunizations stated above for entry into 12th grade, all students must have the following:

ü A 2nd dose of meningococcal vaccine (if the child has received a dose on order after the 16th birthday that dose will count toward the 12th grade dose)

The 2017 updated Pennsylvania immunization amendments require a child, upon original entry into school, to have a single dose vaccine upon entry or risk exclusion from school. For multiple-dose vaccine, the amendments require that the child have at least one dose of the vaccine upon school entry. If additional doses are required and are medically appropriate within the first 5 days of school, the child must have either the final dose during that 5-day period or risk exclusion from school. If the student has the first dose but the next dose is not medically appropriate during the first 5 days of school, then the next dose must be scheduled and a medical certificate setting out the schedule for the remaining doses must be provided to the school. The medical certificate can be obtained at any of the district’s schools. If the schedule of vaccines is not followed (unless there is medical contraindication), the student risks exclusion from attending school. These requirements allow for the following exemptions: medical reason, religious belief, or philosophical/strong moral or ethical conviction. Even if your child is exempt form immunizations, he or she may be excluded from school during an outbreak of vaccine preventable disease.

B. PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS The Pennsylvania school code requires children to receive a physical examination before entering kindergarten, in grade 6, and in grade 11. A dental exam is required for entry into kindergarten, 3rd and 7th grades. Dental forms are sent home with children at the end of their 2nd and 6th grade year. Physical forms are given at kindergarten registration, and sent home at the end of 5th and 10th grade. Forms to be completed can also be obtained at school or on the school website under the nurse’s webpage

C. DENTAL EXAMINATIONS

Upon original entry into school and grades 3 and 7. Forms to be completed at these examinations are available in the Health Room and on the school website under the quick link, Registering Your Student. The school dentist visits the district yearly and offers screenings to Elementary School and Middle School students who are otherwise unable to visit a private dentist. Children are only examined with a parent’s signature. Please contact the nurse if you feel this program will be beneficial to your children.

D. SCREENINGS

The school provides screening programs to detect possible vision, hearing, or growth and development problems. Parents/guardians are notified in writing when a need exists for further evaluation. If you receive such notification

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you are requested to have the form completed by the examiner and returned to the school nurse so that your child’s school health record can be kept current. If you need help in securing further evaluation, please contact the school nurse who will direct you to the appropriate agency. Pennsylvania State Law also requires schools to complete a body mass index screening on all students (BMI). This information is mailed home and not given to the student. Screenings are completed as listed. Vision – grades K-12, Hearing – grades K-3 and 7 & 11. Height and weight – K-12.

An important aspect of school health services is to ensure contagious diseases in the schools are kept to a minimum. The assistance and cooperation of all parents/guardians is essential. It is suggested that parents consult their child’s physician if any symptoms of such illnesses are present. School nurses are not licensed to diagnose or prescribe medical treatment. They provide first aid services for injuries that occur on school property during the school day and for illnesses that occur suddenly during school hours.

When a child exhibits symptoms of possible communicable diseases (e.g. impetigo, head lice, pinkeye), state regulations require that he/she be excluded from school until confirmed by a physician that his/her condition is no longer considered contagious. It also is necessary for the school nurse to verify every child who has been treated for head lice and/or bedbugs is “nit free” before the child is permitted to resume riding the school bus or attending school. Your cooperation is sincerely appreciated in this sometimes-sensitive area. You are encouraged to call the school nurse anytime you have questions pertaining to this issue.

These requirements allow for the following exemptions: medical reason, religious belief, or philosophical/strong moral or ethical conviction. Even if your child is exempt form immunizations, he or she may be excluded from school during an outbreak of vaccine preventable disease.

II. STUDENT MEDICAL TREATMENT

A. STUDENT BECOMES ILL AT SCHOOL

He or she is to report to the Nurse’s Office with a pass from the teacher. If the nurse d eems it necessary, she will contact parents/guardians to arrange for the student to go home. Students are not to make arrangements to leave school without first contacting the school nurse. Students will not be sent home without administrative approval and no student will be permitted to drive when he or she is excused from school for medical reasons unless parent or guardian con-sent has been given and extenuating circumstances exist.

B. STUDENT IS TAKING MEDICATION Medication taken in school must be prescribed by a physician and re-quested in writing by the parent/guardian and physician. The medication must be in a properly labeled prescription bottle and must be brought to school by an adult with the exception of inhalers and eye drops that must be trans-ported daily between home and school and must be taken immediately to the nurse’s office or the main office upon entering the school building. It will be kept and administered in the nurse’s office as directed by the physician. At the High School, specific non-prescription medications may be administered by the school nurse, when needed, but only with prior written consent of the parent or guardian. This consent is part of the “Annual Health Update” form, which High School students are given at the beginning of each school year.

C. STUDENT IS UNDER A DOCTOR’S CARE

Parents/Guardians are to contact the Nurse’s Office with this information so that the student’s medical needs can be met at school.

D. ACCIDENTS AND INSURANCE

The school is responsible for immediate aid. The Board of School Directors is not responsible for a medical or hospital bill incurred as a result of an accident to a student at school. The parent/guardian is responsible for the payment of such bills.

Susquenita School District makes student accident insurance available to parents/guardians for all students. Two types of policies are available. Parents are urged to avail themselves of the protection afforded to them through school insurance. Insurance information may be obtained by calling the District Office or by visiting one of the following websites: h t t p s : / /w w w .su sq .k 1 2 .p a .u s /P ag e /1 2 9 7(District page under the parent’s tab) or http://www.amastudentplans.com Students should report any accident immediately to the nurse, an administrator, or teacher regardless of how minor it may be. In the case of severe accidents or acute illness, emergency care will be provided immediately and parents/guardians notified.

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CAFETERIA

Susquenita School District works together with The Nutrition Group (a food and facilities management company founded in 1975) to provide a well- balanced nutritious meal for all students of every grade level. The Nutrition Group also offers a catering menu for any onsite special event you are interested in having professionally catered. For any questions about our food service program or catering event please contact:

Jenn Zeigler, Food Service Director 717-957-6025 jzeigler@susq.k12.pa.us

I. MEAL CHOICES & COST

A. BREAKFAST Students may choose from cold cereals, fresh fruit or juice, assorted bread products and milk. Students who receive free or reduced lunches will also receive a free or reduced-price breakfast. No additional paperwork is required.

Cost Elementary school: $1.25 (reduced breakfast $0.30) Middle School: $1.25 (reduced breakfast $0.30) High School: $1.60 (reduced breakfast $0.30)

B. LUNCH School cafeterias meet tough federal nutrition standards for school meals, ensuring that meals are well-balanced and provide students all the nutrition they need to succeed at school. School meals offer students milk, fruits and vegetables, proteins and grains, and they must meet strict limits on saturated fat and portion size. Effective with the 2013-2014 school year, school meals were required to meet the following standards:

• Age-appropriate calorie limits • Larger servings of vegetables and fruits (students must take at least one serving of produce) • A wider variety of vegetables, including dark green and red/orange vegetables and legumes • Fat-free or 1% milk (flavored milk must be fat-free) • More whole grains • Less sodium

We do offer choices at lunch. An assortment of different sandwiches is available as well as chef salads and a variety of canned and fresh fruit. Soup is available at the H.S. The lunch prices this year are:

Cost Elementary: $2.25 (Reduced Lunch - $0.40) Middle School and High School: $2.50 (Reduced Lunch - $0.40) Milk: $0.65

Gluten Free We offer a Gluten Free menu for any child in our district who has an intolerance to Gluten. Our menus are supplied with entrees such as flour, starch, bread, and pasta that are gluten free. If your child is in need of a gluten free meal you must have a medical statement form completed by your family physician and returned to the school nurse. The statement must include identification of the medical condition which restricts the diet, the foods to be omitted from the child's diet, and an allowable list of food substitutions.

PARENTS ARE INVITED AND WELCOME TO HAVE LUNCH WITH THEIR CHILD(REN) IN EACH CAFETERIA!

II. PAYMENT FOR LUNCH

A. PAYMENT PROCESS

Each cafeteria has a computerized accounting system. Students and staff need to use their PIN # (student I.D. #) when coming through the cafeteria lines to purchase breakfast or lunch. No cash is used during the lunch period in the cafeteria lines. Student customers need to deposit money into their private accounts prior to their lunch period. Students do need cash at all vending machines. Students are encouraged to prepay breakfasts and/or lunches for at least one week. However, that is a suggestion and is not mandatory.

When adding monies to your child’s cafeteria account, please place your check or cash in an envelope clearly marked with your child’s name, PIN #, and the total amount of money enclosed. Students may stop by the cafeteria any time before lunch, give their envelope to a cafeteria staff member, and inquire about their ac-count balance. Checks are strongly encouraged and should be made out to the Susquenita Cafeteria Fund.

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You may also pay for school meals by using a credit card. For information and instructions, please go to www.CafePrepay.com. The CAFÉ Prepay webpage states the School District may charge a fee for this service. The School District charges no fee for this service. However, CAFÉ Prepay charges a $2.50 transaction fee each time you use your credit card to prepay your child’s meal regardless of the prepayment amount made to your child’s account. CAFÉ Prepay uses this fee to cover the costs associated with this service. If you are unwilling to pay this fee you should not use this service. You should pay by check or cash using the above procedures.

B. DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS - 356

Please refer to Policy 808.1, which is posted on the District website. Parents/Guardians are expected to adequately fund their child's meal account and ensure funds are available to purchase meals. No purchases of ala carte items will be permitted while a student’s account is delinquent. Parents/Guardians of students that have unpaid charges of more than $5 as of 3:00 PM on Friday, will receive a phone call and email notifying them of unpaid charges and instructing them to replenish the respective meal account. Unpaid charges from a prior school year will be carried over to the new school year and the student will receive an alternative lunch until the unpaid charges are paid-in-full. When unpaid cafeteria charges exceed $50, the debt may be sent to a collection agency; when unpaid charges exceed $100 the district may refer the matter, as possible parental neglect, to the Dauphin or Perry County Children and Youth office. Parents/Guardians of students that have accumulated significant cafeteria debt will be advised of the free and reduced meal program that is available to all qualified students.

C. FREE/REDUCED MEAL

Families experiencing difficulty paying for their child’s meals are encouraged to apply for free or reduced meals. The Free/Reduced Meal Application may be completed online and can be accessed at the Cafeteria page on the District website (https://www.susq.k12.pa.us/Page/753). A paper application is available in each building office and the District Office.

D. CLEANLINESS AND SANITATION

Our food service facility is inspected regularly by the Department of Agriculture. The District’s cafeterias have received outstanding marks for cleanliness and food safety in past years. The cafeteria staff has been trained in safety and sanitation and works very hard each day to provide nutritious meals for students and staff.

BUS TRANSPORTATION

In order to provide additional bus security, audio/video cameras are in place on District buses. Students should be made aware that their actions, as well as their words, are being recorded as they are traveling to and from school. All District school buses are subject to electronic monitoring. All bus drivers also have direct radio contact with the School and District office during the time students are on the bus. The District provides transportation to and from school for all students based on state approved guidelines. Bus stops are established by the School District and cannot be changed without the consent of the school authorities. The Transportation Secretary is located in the District Office and can be reached during normal school hours at (717) 957-6000 option 5. (7:30 AM—3:30 PM).

I. BUS EMERGENCIES High School – If you are calling after 3:30 PM please telephone Rohrer Bus Service at (717) 957-3811 or (717) 957-5102. After 5:00 PM (717) 957-4774. Middle School – If you are calling after 4:00 PM please telephone Rohrer Bus Service at (717) 957-3811 or (717) 957-5102. After 5:00 PM (717) 957-4774. Elementary School – If you are calling after 4:30 p.m. please telephone Rohrer Bus Service at (717) 957-3811 or (717) 957-5102. After 5:00 PM (717) 957-4774.

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II. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A. ASSIGNMENTS, DROP-OFF & PICKUP

What time should my student be at the bus stop? Students should be at the stop and ready to board 10 minutes prior to their scheduled pick-up time. A complete Bus Schedule can be found on the Transportation page of our District website.

What if the bus doesn’t arrive on time? Traffic and road conditions are unpredictable. While bus drivers make every effort to run on schedule, any number of circumstances can cause them to run 10 or 15 minutes late. Know what time your student’s bus is scheduled to arrive. After the scheduled arrival time, allow 10-15 minutes to pass before taking action. After 10-15 minutes, contact the Transportation Office at 957-6000, option #5.

What if the bus pulls away as my student is in route to the stop? Buses are not required to wait for students who are not at the stop and ready to board when they arrive. If your student is for example, running through the front lawn toward the bus, the bus has no obligation to wait for them to arrive at the stop and board. The driver must make every effort to run on schedule for the remaining stops on their route. Know what time your student’s bus is scheduled to arrive. Make sure your student is at the stop 10 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time, and ready to board.

What if my student misses the bus? If a student misses the bus due to reasons beyond the control of the District, it becomes the parent/guardian’s responsibility to see that the student gets to school. Missing the bus is NOT considered an excused absence from school. Make sure your student is at the stop 10 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time. Do not allow your student to miss school. Take your student to school, or find another safe and reliable means of transportation.

Elementary Students – What if l can’t be at the bus stop for my student? Please accompany your elementary student to the bus stop in the morning. If you go to work before the bus arrives, please make plans for another adult to keep a watchful eye on your child. Equally as important, please meet your child at the bus stop in the afternoon or make arrangements for a responsible adult to meet your child. If you would like a sibling to walk a kindergarten student home, please contact the elementary school office to complete the appropriate paperwork. Bus drivers WILL NOT allow a kindergarten student off the bus until an adult is present at the bus stop. In the event that no one is at the bus stop, the bus driver will contact the elementary school and they will try to make additional contact to the family. If no one responds, the child will be brought back to school for the parent to pick up. If you are not available, make plans for another responsible adult to be present at the bus stop with your student for drop-off and/or pick-up. If you would like a sibling to walk your student home, please contact the elementary school office to complete the appropriate paperwork. My student is enrolled in School Age Child Care (SACC) program. May they take the bus home from time to time? If your student is enrolled in the School Aged Childcare Program, we strongly recommend that you and your student adhere to a consistent transportation schedule. We recommend that you only deviate from this schedule in emergency situations. When it is necessary to do so, it is your responsibility to communicate clearly with:

1. Your Student 2. SACC Personnel 3. The School Office

Do not rely on any one of these parties to inform the other. Adhere to a consistent transportation schedule. If you must deviate from the regular transportation schedule, communicate clearly with your student, SACC personnel and the elementary office.

B. CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE Who is responsible for bus discipline? Students must obey the bus driver at all times while under his or her supervision. The driver, however, may not remove a student from the bus for disciplinary reasons. The driver shall report all violations of safety regulations, as well as any behavior problems to a building administrator upon arriving at school.

What is appropriate student conduct on the bus? The following are considered unacceptable behaviors: § Rude, discourteous, and/or disobedient behavior toward the bus driver. § Profane or indecent language.

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§ Unnecessarily loud talking/laughter which may divert the driver’s attention. § Pushing, shoving, fighting, or scuffling. § Defacing the bus and/or tampering with the emergency door. § Throwing objects through the air, on the floor, or out the window. § Waving to, shouting at, or signaling pedestrians from the windows. § Extending body parts out of the windows. § Smoking § Food, drink, pets and flammable materials are NOT permitted.

How is bus misconduct addressed by the school? If your student does not adhere to the bussing rules of conduct, a Bus Misconduct Report shall be filled out by the bus driver and given to the building administrator. A copy of the misconduct report is placed in the student’s file you will be notified. The following action will be taken if misconduct continues:

1st Level | - Conference between the administrator and offender; - Warning issued; or disciplinary action taken depending on offence; - Parent/guardian notified. 2nd Level | - Conference between the administrator and offender; - Disciplinary action taken; - Parent/guardian notified. 3rd Level | - Riding privileges will be suspended for a period of three (3) school days; - Parent/guardian notified. 4th Level | - Riding privileges will be suspended for a period of five (5) school days; - Parent/Guardian notified. 5th Level | - Riding privileges will be suspended for an indefinite period of time, to resume only when the student and parent/guardian meet with the administrator and demonstrate that the student is prepared to adhere to the rules of conduct. 6th Level | - Case will be referred to the Superintendent with a possible recommendation to the - Board of Susquenita School District that the offender’s riding privileges be revoked for the remainder of the school year.

C. MODIFYING BUS ROUTES OR STOPS How may I add a new stop to an established bus route, or a change to the location of an established bus stop? The District (not the bus company) is responsible for finalizing all bus routes and stops prior to the start of the school year. Requests to add a new stop to an existing bus route, or change the location of an established stop, must be made directly to the district (not the bus company). Such requests will not be accepted after July 30th, except in the case of extreme hardship or emergency.

Before July 30th, submit a Request to Establish NEW Bus Stop Form to the Transportation Secretary in the District Office. After July 30th, do not request additions or changes except in the case of extreme hardship or emergency.

May my student ride a bus they are not assigned to, or get off a stop they are not assigned to? Only once per marking period, will a student be permitted to get off at a bus stop that is not their assigned bus stop, or ride home on a bus that is not their regularly assigned bus stop. Written request and approval is required, as well as an official emergency bus pass. The written request must be submitted by both the parent/guardian AND the responsible adult at the drop-off point. Verbal requests will be denied except in the case of extreme emergency. In such an emergency, an emergency pass must be approved and signed by the building administrator. Submit to the building office, a note of request which has been signed by the parent/guardian AND the responsible adult at the pick-up/drop-off point. Do not assume the request is approved until you receive written approval from the building principal.

May I temporarily reassign my student to another bus or bus stop? NO. Students may not be temporarily assigned to another bus or bus stop, and may not be assigned to more than one at a time. The District will NOT approve pick-up or drop-off locations that are not consistent and a full school year in length. Requests will not be considered for parent’s fluctuating work schedule, social events, fluctuating childcare arrangements, early dismissal or delay, cancellation of school events, change in student’s employment or any other reason.

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How do I permanently reassign my student to another bus or bus stop? Submit the Request to Modify a Student’s Assigned Bus or Stop to the building principal at least five (5) days prior to the requested date for the proposed reassignment. If approved, the principal will forward the request to the transportation department. Exceptions will NOT be made to the following guidelines:

§ There will be a waiting period. Reassignment requests require approval, and appropriate time to process. Requests will NOT be granted in the two (2) weeks prior, or two (2)weeks following, the first student day of the school year. Requests must be submitted at least five (5) school days in advance the date of the proposed transportation change.

§ You are responsible to arrange transportation during the waiting period. If you child requires other transportation arrangements while a reassignment is in process, you are responsible for the arrangements.

§ You are responsible to communicate with your student regarding changes. Once the change is in effect, it is your responsibility to communicate with your student.

§ All changes must be consistent and permanent. All reassignment requests will be in effect through the end of the school year.

§ Custody matters will be considered. Requests specific to custody issues will be considered on an individual basis. Legal Documentation related to custody arrangements will be requested and reviewed by administration prior to making a final determination. In the case of joint legal custody, both parties must be in agreement of the transportation change, so designated by both parties signing the Address/Bus Stop Change Request Form.

§ Childcare matters may be considered. The School District has no obligation to provide transportation services to daycare or babysitting services. The District does however, honor parental requests for transportation to and from daycare or babysitters as long as there is no additional cost to the District. This may involve a student riding two (2) different buses, one to school and a different bus after school. The assignment will be considered permanent.

Submit your request at least five (5) days prior to the requested date for the proposed reassignment. Plan ahead and make transportation arrangements for the waiting period while the request is processed. Do not assume the request is approved until you receive written approval. Communicate with your student, so they understand their new schedule.

III. SCHEDULE CHANGES As soon as a decision is made to close school, delay opening, or dismiss early, we will work to notify community members in the following ways:

• Television Stations: WGAL, ABC17, and CBS21• Radio Stations: 93.5, 94.9, 99.3, 104.1, and 106.7

We will also utilize the District’s Facebook pages, listed above, and the Automatic Dialing Notification System, described below.

IV. ACTIVITY BUS

Students must have a transportation pass with an authorized signature by School District personnel, or be participating in a supervised co-curricular activity, in order to ride an activity bus. The normal departure time for the Activity Bus is approximately 5:00 PM.

VISITATION PROCEDURES

When teachers, parents/guardians, and children understand and agree on the importance and value of what is occurring in the District’s classrooms, children benefit. Accordingly, parents/guardians and citizens must have an open opportunity to know what is occurring in their schools so that they can support the teaching effort. Along with the maintenance of openness, staff members have a responsibility for the safety of the children. All school and class room visitations are to be accomplishments a manner in which the educational process is uninterrupted.

I. DEFINITION A visitor is an individual who seeks admission to the school who is not a staff member.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT Visitors, while welcome in District schools, shall visit in accordance with the following procedures in order to minimize the disruption of instruction.

III. PROCEDURE FOR CLASSROOM VISITS

A. Only those persons listed in permanent records as the parent/guardian of a student may visit the student’s classroom unless approved by the building principal.

B. Parents/Guardians or other citizens shall complete a Non-Staff Visitation Form available in the building office.

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C. Parents/Guardians wishing to visit their child’s classroom shall submit a Visitation Form to the principal at least three (3) school days prior to the visit. An appointment shall be made by the principal. The time and date of the visitation shall be mutually agreed upon by the teacher, principal, and parent/guardian.

D. Classroom visits shall last no longer than one instructional period unless additional time is established with the principal prior to that visit.

E. Electronic recording in any form is prohibited.

F. Parents/Guardians will act as observers and will maintain proper decorum at all times.

G. Visitors shall report to the office prior to the visit to sign in and receive a visitor’s pass. Visitors shall report to the office after the visit and sign out.

H. For safety purposes, and in lieu of appropriate clearances, a parent/ guardian will be escorted to and from the visitation by a District employee or identified adult volunteer.

I. Anyone failing to comply with these guidelines will be requested to leave the building.

J. The principal is ultimately responsible for the safety, security, health, and welfare of the children, staff, and school.

K. All persons requesting a Visitation Form will be given a copy of the Non-Staff Visitation Procedures. Routinely, student visitors are not permitted in classes.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

According to state and federal special education regulations, annual public notice to parents of children who reside within a school district is required regarding child find responsibilities. School districts (SDs), intermediate units (IUs) and charter schools (CSs) are required to conduct child find activities for children who may be eligible for services via Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For additional information related to Section 504/Chapter 15 services, parents may refer to Section 504, Chapter 15, and the Basic Education Circular entitled Implementation of Chapter 15. Also, school districts are required to conduct child find activities for children who may be eligible for gifted services via 22 Pa Code Chapter 16. For additional information regarding gifted services, parents may refer to 22 PA Code Chapter 16. If a student is both gifted and eligible for Special Education, the procedures in IDEA and Chapter 14 shall take precedence. This notice shall inform parents throughout the school district, intermediate unit, and charter school of the child identification activities and of the procedures followed to ensure confidentiality of information pertaining to students with disabilities or eligible young children. In addition to this public notice, each school district, intermediate unit, and charter school shall publish written information in the handbook and on the web site. Children age three through twenty-one can be eligible for special education programs and services. If parents believe that their child may be eligible for special education, the parent should contact the staff member identified for their school district of residence, listed at the end of this public notice. Children age three through the age of admission to first grade are also eligible if they have developmental delays and, as a result, need Special Education and related services. Developmental delay is defined as a child who is less than the age of beginners and at least 3 years of age and is considered to have a developmental delay when one of the following exists: (i) The child’s score, on a developmental assessment device, on an assessment instrument which yields a score in months, indicates that the child is delayed by 25% of the child’s chronological age in one or more developmental areas. (ii) The child is delayed in one or more of the developmental areas, as documented by test performance of 1.5 standard deviations below the mean on standardized tests. Developmental areas include cognitive, communicative, physical, social/emotional and self-help. For additional information you may contact Eric Bostick, Supervisor of Preschool/Early Intervention, Capital Area Intermediate Unit #15, at ebostick@caiu.org, or at 717-732-8400, ext. 8619.

IDENTIFYING GIFTED STUDENTS Teachers and parents can request that a child be screened for giftedness. Susquenita utilizes a screening process for students up to the eighth grade. If a request is made for a high school student, a file review is completed to determine whether or not a permission to evaluate will be issued. Screenings require parent/guardian permission and letters are sent home letting parents/guardians know whether or not a gifted evaluation is recommended. Screenings consist of a teacher rating scale (Gifted Rating Scale or Scales for Identifying Gifted Students), a parent questionnaire and the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (KBIT 2) which is an individually administered measure of verbal and non-verbal intelligence. A gifted eligibility matrix of these data sources is used to determine if permission to evaluate for gifted will be issued. The school psychologist administers standardized ability and achievement assessments to add to the data that was collected in the screening process. Teachers and parents are also asked about the child’s specialized interests and skills, and any intervening factors are documented as part of the process. The school psychologist uses these multiple factors to determine if the child should be identified as a gifted student. A matrix is used to organize the multiple criteria information as part of the final decision and recommendations.

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ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE In accordance with federal and state law, the Susquenita School District pro- vides English a s a Second Language (ESL) instruction for students who are identified as English Language Learners (ELL). Upon the student’s registration with the District, all parents or guardians are asked to complete a Home Language Survey to determine a primary or home language other than English. If one or more of the answers is a language other than English, or the country of birth is other than the United States, the student may be referred for further screening. Otherwise, the student is considered English Language Proficient and no further action is required. A copy of the completed Home Language Survey is placed in each student’s permanent file. The Susquenita School District contracts with the Capital Area Intermediate Unit to provide ESL or ELL instruction for students who qualify for services. Information regarding the ESL or ELL program may be obtained by contacting the Director of Curriculum and Instruction in the District Office (957-6000 option 5) Complaint Resolution Process Parents of students receiving English as a Second Language instruction are given the opportunity to meet with teachers, principals, district administration, and Capital Area Intermediate Unit personnel to resolve any complaint that might arise. Parents are encouraged to work through the proper channels by first contacting the classroom teacher or English as a Second Language teacher, depending on the situation. If the parent and teacher are unable to come to an agreement or resolution on the issue, or if the situation continues, the next step is the building principal. In some cases, the assistance of a guidance counselor may be helpful. The Director of Curriculum and Instruction may be contacted, if necessary, at the District Office. In addition, the Pennsylvania Department of Education provides an Assistance Request Line at 717-787-8913.

STUDENT VALUABLES Students are not to bring large amounts of money, valuable jewelry, and/or other prized personal possessions to school. If they wear glasses, contact lenses, watches, retainers, etc., they are reminded to keep track of them at all times. The School District is not responsible for personal property. A student may take valuables to the school office for safekeeping during the school day if there is reason to believe they may be taken or misplaced while valuables are in school. The following items are not permitted to be in the possession of a student during the normal school day: cellular telephones, electronic games or de-vices, headphones (unless authorized by the school administration or class-room teacher), radios, or a walkman type piece of electronic equipment. Such items may be confiscated by a teacher or administrator and held in the office until a parent or guardian makes arrangements to secure the electronic equipment.

EXCLUSIONS FROM SCHOOL | SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS The Board of School Directors has defined the types of offenses that would lead to exclusion from school. Exclusions affecting certain exceptional students shall be governed by 22 Pa. Code §341.9 and 13.62. Exclusion from school may take the form of suspension or expulsion.

I. SUSPENSION

A. Suspension is exclusion from school for a period of one (1) to ten (10) consecutive school days.

B. Suspensions may be given by the principal or person in charge of the public school.

C. No student shall be suspended until the student has been informed of the rea-sons for the suspension and given an opportunity to respond. Prior notice of the intended suspension need not be given when it is clear that health, safety, or welfare of the school community is threatened.

D. The parent/guardian and the superintendent of the District shall be notified immediately in writing when the student is suspended.

E. When the suspension exceeds three (3) school days, the student and parent/guardian shall be given the opportunity for an informal hearing consistent with the requirements set forth in § 12.8(c).

F. Suspensions may not be made to run consecutively beyond a ten (10) school day period of time.

G. Students shall have the responsibility to make up exams and work missed while being disciplined by suspension and shall be permitted to complete these assignments, within guidelines established by the board of school directors.

H. During a period of out-of-school suspension, a student may not be on school property and may neither participate in nor attend school activities. Violation may result in a defiant trespass charge being filed.

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II. EXPULSION

A. Expulsion is exclusion from school by the Board of School Directors for a period of time exceeding ten (10) school days and may become a permanent expulsion from school membership.

B. All expulsions require a prior formal hearing in front of a committee of the Board in accordance with the procedures of § 12.8. All expulsions require a majority vote of the Board at a formal meeting.

C. During the period of time between the hearing and decision of the Board of School Directors in an expulsion case, the student shall be placed in his or her normal class except for the following.

1. It is determined after an informal hearing that a student’s presence in his or her normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals, or welfare of others, and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the student may be excluded from school for more than ten school days, provided the formal hearing is not unreasonably delayed. Any student so excluded shall be provided with alternative education which may include home study. Students who are less than 17 years of age are still subject to compulsory school attendance laws even though they may have been expelled. The student must be provided an education.

2. The initial responsibility for providing the required education rests with the student’s parents or guardian, either through placement in another school, tutorial or correspondence study or other educational program approved by the district’s superintendent.

3. If upon written evidence, but in no event longer than 30 instructional days, the parents or guardian are unable to secure an approved educational program, the student’s school district has the responsibility to make some provision for the child’s education.

4. If the approved educational program is not complied with, the School District may take action in accordance with the provisions of the Juvenile Act of 1972 to ensure that the child receives a proper education. (See §12.1[b]).

Education is a fundamental right and students must be afforded all appropriate elements of due process if they are to be excluded from school. In a case involving a possible expulsion, the student is entitled to a formal hearing, which is a fundamental element of due process.

I. HEARINGS

A. FORMAL HEARING A formal hearing is required in all expulsion cases. A hearing may be held before the Board of School Directors or a duly authorized committee of the Board, or a qualified hearing examiner appointed by the Board. When the hearing is conducted by a committee of the Board or a hearing examiner, a majority vote of the entire School Board is required to expel a student. The following due process requirements are to be observed with regard to the formal hearing:

1. Notification of the charges shall be sent to the student’s parents or guardian by certified mail.

2. Sufficient notice of the time and place of the hearing must be given.

3. The hearing shall be held in private unless the student or parent/guardian requests a public hearing.

4. The right to be represented by counsel.

5. The right to be presented with the names of witnesses against the student, and copies of the statements and affidavits of those witnesses.

6. The right to request that any such witnesses appear in person and answer questions or be cross-examined.

7. The right of the student to testify and present witnesses on his/her own be-half.

8. A record must be kept of the hearing, either by a stenographer or by tape recorder. The student is entitled, at the student’s expense, to a copy of the transcript.

9. The proceeding must be held with all reasonable speed.

10. Where the student disagrees with the results of the hearing, recourse is avail- able in the appropriate state court. If it is alleged that a constitutional issue is involved, the student may file a claim for relief in the appropriate federal district court.

B. INFORMAL HEARING The purpose of the informal hearing is to enable the student to meet with the appropriate school official to explain the circumstances surrounding the event for which the student is being suspended, or show why the student should not be suspended.

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The informal hearing is meant to encourage the student’s parents or guardian to meet with a school administrator to discuss ways by which future offenses can be avoided. The following due process requirements are to be observed in regard to the informal hearing:

1. Notification of the reasons for the suspension shall be given in writing to the parents or guardian and to the student.

2. Sufficient notice of the time and place of the informal hearing must be given.

3. The right to question any witnesses present at the hearing.

4. The right of the student to speak and produce witnesses on his/her own be-half.

5. The district shall offer to hold the informal hearing within the first three (3)days of the suspension.

VIOLENCE The first priority of the Susquenita School District is to provide a safe environment in which our students and teachers may facilitate learning. In order to ensure that this goal is met, the School Board has adopted a Zero Tolerance for Violence. To ensure the enforcement of this policy, each building follows a disciplinary policy to curb misbehavior. That policy includes a specific set of behavior guidelines, as well as consequences for those individuals who disrupt the normal flow and atmosphere of our schools. It is the District’s intent to allow students and staff to engage in the learning process and the total educational experience without having to fear the actions of a few disruptive students. In certain situations, a student(s) may blatantly go beyond the normal scope of the disciplinary plan. These offenses include, but are not limited to, violation of drug, alcohol and/or tobacco policies; theft; willful destruction of school property; arson; extortion; possession of weapons; and/or any type of violence. In such cases, the administration may choose to issue a complaint to be filed with the District Magistrate in addition to school and/or District sanctions. This action will re-quire those parties named in the complaint to appear before the District Magistrate with the option of having legal counsel present. Fines and costs may be issued as a result of the District Magistrate’s findings. This policy is intended to be a deterrent against the actions listed above, especially for acts of violence. Each incident, however, will be treated on an individual basis. Information gathered from all eye witnesses, as well as from those involved, will be considered prior to the filing of the complaint with the District Magistrate. At the discretion of the administration, out of school suspension, in school suspension or detention may or may not run concurrently with the filing of the complaint.

TERRORISTIC ACTS AND/OR THREATS (reference Policy #218.2) Terroristic acts and/or threats are a clear danger to the safety and welfare of our students, staff, and community. A terroristic threat means a threat to commit violence, with the intent to terrorize another, to cause the evacuation of the school, or to cause a serious inconvenience in reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience. A terroristic act is an offense against property or involving danger to another person. Students clearly are prohibited from communicating such threats or committing such acts directed at any student, employee, community member, or School District facility. Students who pose or make a verbal or written threat of violence are subject to immediate suspension, may be referred for expulsion, and shall be referred to law enforcement officials. In all cases the student will be required to provide documentation from a certified mental health provider that they do not pose a danger to themselves or others be- fore being permitted to return to school. The student will also be subject to random searches upon his or her return to school. All staff members and students are responsible for informing a building administrator of any information or knowledge they may have relevant to a possible or actual terroristic threat or act.

CO-CURRICULAR AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES CODE OF CONDUCT Please note: Participation of activity in public forum may result in image, name, and/or likeness may appear in media. This Code of Conduct applies to student behavior in school and off campus during normal school hours as well as when school is not in session. COMPLETE CODE AVAILABLE ON SCHOOL WEBSITE www.susq.k12.pa.us

I. EXPECTATIONS In addition to the Susquenita School District Discipline Code, the following rules have been developed for co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.

II. GENERAL RULES

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A. Students will not practice or participate in any activity during a period of in-school or out-of-school suspension. If a student is suspended on a day at the end of an academic week, he or she will not be permitted to participate in any co-curricular or extra-curricular activities until school resumes. Students may be dismissed from the team for a second in-school or out-of-school suspension.

B. Equipment issued for practice and competition should be cared for properly. Loss or failure to turn in materials belonging to the co-curricular or extra-curricular organization at the end of the school year will result in payment to be assessed to a student for the replacement of the item(s). In addition, a student will not be issued equipment for another sport or activity until the equipment from the previous season has been returned. Any awards due to the student will be withheld until restitution is made.

C. The student must participate in and finish the activity as a member in good standing for the year to qualify for any awards sponsored by the School District, booster club, and co-curricular or extra-curricular organization. Advisors and coaches will determine the types and numbers of awards to be presented.

D. Students will stand at attention during the playing of the National Anthem and Alma Mater. Talking, laughing, and horseplay will not be tolerated, and will result in consequences.

E. Participation in all activities is a privilege, not a right. Therefore, the advisors or coaches have the responsibility to prohibit any student from leaving class on an early dismissal for an activity due to poor academic performance. Advisors or coaches may decide to increase their individual group’s rules on unacceptable academic performance, but it must at least meet District requirements.

F. If a student quits a sport, he/she will not be permitted participate in another sport during the same season unless all coaches and the Athletic Director are in agreement to allow this.

G. When traveling away from school as an organization/team, students are the responsibility of the advisors or coaches until the organization returns to the High School or Middle School. Participants must travel to events on District provided transportation. Exceptions should be cleared with the Principal or Athletic Director. If students wish to be released to their parent(s) or guardian(s) following an event away from school, they should follow established guide-lines. The final decision to allow parents or guardians to transport their child home from an activity or from a central drop off point will be a decision made by the advisor/ coach, and/or team and may vary from time to time among activities. These guidelines will be included in each organization(‘s)/team(‘s) expectations.

H. The rules listed below are to be read both in addition to and in conjunction with the District’s discipline policy. The actions listed below represent SERIOUS violations of the Code of Conduct and may result in the consequences as listed with each action in addition to any penalties imposed pursuant to the District’s discipline code. Offenses are cumulative for the year except in case #1 (below), which is cumulative for the student’s discipline as provided for in other District policies.

1. Possessing, using, delivering, or selling alcohol, or any controlled sub-stance as defined by the

Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act while on school property or at a school sponsored activity or while on the way to or from a school sponsored activity or in uniform regardless of location. The term possession includes but is not limited to having previously ingested alcohol, a controlled substance or drug while on the way to school or school sponsored activity (See District Policy 227 and 227.1).

Consequence:

a. Immediate suspension from the activity for a minimum of forty-five (45) calendar days as per District Policy 227.1. Violators will be referred to the school’s Student Assistance Team (SAT) for possible assessment recommendation. An athlete may not participate in the sport until the assessment has been completed, and until any assessment recommendations have been followed.

b. If the student is at a school event, they may receive up to ten (10) days out-of-school suspension as per District Policy 227 and may include expulsion from school.

c. In addition to the penalties set forth in (b) above, a second offense will result in suspension from participation for one calendar year.

d. In addition to all above penalties a third offense will result in the expulsion of the student in ANY school co or extra-curricular activities for the remainder of the student’s school career.

2. Action as stated in #1 above occurring offsite and not at, on the way to or from any school sponsored

activity during the athletic season of the team on which the student participates.

Consequence: a. Immediate suspension from the activity for fifteen (15) calendar days and refer-ral to

the school’s SAT. Should the offense occur when the SAT is not func-tioning, the

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Principal and/or Athletic Director and coach will make a referral to a licensed provider appropriate to the offense for an assessment and recommen-dation. Failure to complete an assessment will result in continued suspension from the activity until the assessment is conducted.

b. Second offense results in suspension from the activity for the remainder of the season. c. A subsequent offense will result in expulsion of the student in ANY school co or extra-

curricular activities for the remainder of the student’s school career.

3. Action as stated in #1 above occurring offsite and not at, on the way to or from a school sponsored activity during off-season.

Consequence:

a. Fifteen (15) calendar day suspension from activity beginning on the first day of the season.

b. Second offense results in suspension from activity for one season.

c. A subsequent offense will result in expulsion of the student in ANY school co or extra-curricular activities for the remainder of the student’s school career.

4. Possessing or using tobacco in any form, whether on or off school property (off property only applies

if the athlete was in uniform) as applies to Policy 222. Consequence:

a. An activity participant who violates the tobacco policy of the School District will be suspended from participation for fifteen (15) calendar days from the date of the incident.

b. A second offense will result in a thirty (30) calendar days suspension.

c. A third offense will result in a one calendar year suspension from the date of the third violation.

5. Intentional damage (vandalism) or theft of school or person’s property from any location on school

property or off school property during any school sponsored event or related to any school sponsored activity.

Consequence: a. See District discipline policy for possible penalties including administrative probation,

suspension or expulsion depending on the severity of the offense and other penalties, including referral to law enforcement authorities as allowed by District policy.

b. Immediate suspension from the activity for up to seven (7) calendar days, de-pending on severity of the incident, payment of restitution or return of property.

c. Subsequent offenses could lead to expulsion from all co and extra-curricular activities.

6. Failure to return District equipment.

Consequence: Suspension from program participation until equipment is returned or paid for.

7. Acts that constitute a violation of the Pennsylvania Criminal Code, regard-less of whether or not

criminal charges are filed and whether or not delineated as part of the student code of conduct.

Consequence:

a. Immediate suspension from the activity for the remainder of the season or the school year depending upon the severity of the offense.

b. The student must petition to have the suspension lifted after the period of sus-pension.

8. Failure to carry out the directions or rules and regulations established by the advisor/coach. (Such

rules and regulations must be distributed in writing to all athletes and be approved by the Principal and Athletic Director).

Consequence: As established by each advisor/coach.

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9. Students are expected to show respect for all in authority as well as the proper care for school facilities, property, and equipment. Disrespect to-ward any staff member, faculty member, support staff, or administrator will not be permitted.

Consequence: a. The first offense is a three (3) day suspension from participation in the events of the activity. b. The second offense will result in the expulsion of the student from the activity.

10. Any improper conduct, which either violates District policy or constitutes behavior inappropriate for a District student representative, including but not limited to, disrespect of opponents, officials, or coaches.

Consequence: a. Any action resulting in ejection from a contest will result in student being suspended for a

MINIMUM of the next contest.

b. Severe or continuous behavior issues and/or ejections may result in expulsion from the activity.

11. Use of Anabolic Steroids. The use of anabolic steroids is prohibited. A violation of this policy or

School Board Policy 123.1 shall result in immediate suspension from the group for the remainder of the season and may result in expulsion from athletics.

12. Whenever offenses occur outside of school and/or out of season, the investigative committee consisting of a building administrator, the activity advisor/coach, and the Athletic Director will review the individual situation and recommend appropriate action.

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HOW TO CONTACT SCHOOL DISTRICT STAFF MEMBERS

E-mail is available for individual staff members. Generally, the e-mail address is: first initial/last name followed by @susq.k12.pa.us

WEBSITE ADDRESS www.susq.k12.pa.us

DISTRICT OFFICE

1725 Schoolhouse Road • Duncannon, PA 17020 717-957-6000; Telephone Menu Option appears in ( ) after each name.

Superintendent, Mr. Kent R. Smith (5) Office Manager/Secretary to the Superintendent, Mrs. Shannon Reed (5)

Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Mr. Mark W. Maldet (5) Secretary to the Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Mrs. Dee Balsbaugh (5)

Director of Financial Affairs, Mr. Roger Carl (5) Director of Special Education, Miss Sonja L. Brunner (4)

Special Education Secretary, Mrs. Kathy Fackler (4) Director of Technology, Mrs. Christine Matash (5)

Attendance Officer, Mrs. Angela Schlusser (5) Transportation Secretary, Mrs. Tammy Feltenberger (5)

Director of Food Services, Ms. Jennifer Zeigler (3) Office Hours:

7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

SUSQUENITA HIGH SCHOOL 309 Schoolhouse Road • Duncannon, PA 17020

717-957-6000, Menu Option #3 Principal, Mr. Craig Funk

Assistant Principal, Mrs. Shannon Wevodau Director of Athletics and Facilities, Mr. Scott Acri

Guidance Counselors, Mrs. Lisa Mertz and Dr. John Rubisch Nurse, Mrs. Jennifer Phoenix

School Hours: Student Hours: 7:45 a.m.–2:45 p.m. • Teacher Hours: 7:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. • School Office Hours: 7:00 a.m. –3:30 p.m.

SUSQUENITA MIDDLE SCHOOL

200 Susquenita Drive • Duncannon, PA 17020 717-957-6000, Menu Option #2 Principal, Mr. William Quigley

Assistant Principal, Mr. Jesse Snyder Guidance Counselor, Mr. Mark Snitzer

Nurse, Mrs. Amy Reed School Hours:

Student Hours: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m. (Grades 5-8) • Teacher Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. • School Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

SUSQUENITA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 717-957-6000 – Menu Option #1

101 Susquenita Drive • Duncannon, PA 17020 Precious Little Angels Day Care - 957-2020

Principal, Dr. Rebecca Lorfink Assistant Principal, Dr. Patricia Woods

Guidance Counselor, Mr. Andrew Shaffer Nurse, Mrs. Denise Boaz

School Hours: Student Hours: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. (Grades K-4) • Teacher Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. • School Office Hours: 8:15 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS Brenda K. Myers, President

Phillip C. Lehman, Vice President Stephen Smith, Treasurer

Stephanie K. Dorman, Michael G. Jones, Donald D. Kauffman, Tina M. Kelly, Heather A. Rudy and Robert F. Staver Kent R. Smith, Superintendent, and Shannon E. Reed, Board Secretary