Part IV: School & District Policies and Procedures

The following are selected policies, rules and regulations of the West Hartford Public Schools. A complete set of the policies, rules and regulations are maintained in the Library Media Center and the Main Office, and can be accessed upon request. They are also available online: West Hartford Board of Ed Policies.

Non-Discrimination Policy

“The West Hartford Public School System does not knowingly condone discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, or handicap in employment of assignments in programs or services provided or operated by the West Hartford Board of Education.” Mr. Richard Ledwith and Dr. Andrew Morrow, 50 South Main Street, West Hartford, Connecticut 06107 are designated as the employees who will coordinate compliance with Title IX, Title VI, and Sec. 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 respectively.

The intent of the Board’s policy is to encourage student expression in school sponsored, classroom, and other activities.

The Board of Education recognizes that students have the right to express themselves verbally, in writing, and by posting of materials in the schools.

Such expressions shall be subject to review by the appropriate authority to determine that the content and the form are not obscene, libelous, vulgar or substantially disruptive to the educational process.

1. The administration is charged to create an oversight process that would disallow only those forms of expression that would be judged obscene, libelous, seriously disruptive, or vulgar, and thus, interfere with legitimate pedagogical process.

2. If a staff member or principal’s designee decides to disallow the student’s expression, the student may appeal such action to the principal. The appeal should take place within three school days of the student’s request.

3. Should the principal uphold the original decision, the student may request a review of the decision to a panel consisting of the Assistant Superintendent, the Department Supervisor of English of the other high school, and the student representative to the Board from the other high school that is involved in the review question. A majority vote of the panel is required for an action. A hearing shall be held within five school days except under extenuating circumstances, and a decision shall be rendered within five school days after the conclusion of the hearing.

4. The appeal process must be completed in a timely fashion so that the mechanics of due process do not accomplish a rejection de facto.

5. The regulations will be published in the student handbook annually.

For administrative guidance, herein are illustrated terms used in #1:

Obscene: 

• overt or explicit displays of sex

Libelous: 

• unsubstantiated character assaults on individuals or groups of people
• statements that are personally insulting

Seriously Disruptive*:

• advocate violence, use of alcohol or drugs
• attack individuals, races, religions, creeds. Ethnic or sexual groups, or others

Vulgar:

• sex, anatomy or slurs in the form of “jokes,” parodies or other forms that are
• degrading of individuals, racial, ethnic, religious or sexual groups
• expletives
• lewdness

* In the opinion rendered in Tinker v. Des Moines Indep. Cmty. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969), the judges stated that the criteria for determining what is seriously disruptive must be concrete. “Undifferentiated fear or apprehension is not enough to overcome the right of freedom of expression.”
Revised: June 6, 2006

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232h, affords parents and eligible students (i.e. students over 18 or emancipated minors) certain rights with respect to the administration of student surveys, the collection and use of personal information, and the administration of certain physical exams. These rights include:

1. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed by a school to a student;

2. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any survey concerning one or more of the following confidential topics:

A. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent;
B. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
C. sex behavior or attitudes;
D. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
E. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
F. legally recognized privileged relationships, such as those with lawyers, doctors, physicians, or ministers;
G. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent; or
H. income, other than as required by law to determine eligibility for certain programs or for receiving financial assistance under such programs;

3. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum;

4. The right of a parent to inspect, upon request, any instrument used in the collection of personal information from students gathered for the purpose of marketing, selling or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose. Personal information means individually identifiable information including, a student or parent’s first and last name, a home or other physical address; a telephone number or a social security number;

5. The right of a parent to be notified of the specific or approximate dates of the following activities, as well as the right of a parent or eligible student to opt-out of participation in these activities:

A. activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information (or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose);

B. the administration of any survey containing confidential topics (see #2, above, a-h); or

C. any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening that is required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school and unnecessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student. Such examinations do not include a hearing, vision, or scoliosis screening or other examinations permitted or required by State law.

Parents and eligible students may not opt-out of activities relating to the collection, disclosure, and/or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing education products or services for, or to students or educational institutions, such as the following:

A. college or other post-secondary education recruitment, or military recruitment;

B. book clubs, magazines, and programs providing access to low-cost literary products;

C. curriculum and instructional materials used by elementary and secondary schools;

D. tests and assessments used by elementary and secondary schools to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, clinical, aptitude, or achievement information about students;

E. the sale by students of products or services to raise funds for school-related or education-related activities;

F. student recognition programs.

To protect student privacy in compliance with the PPRA, the West Hartford school district has adopted policies regarding these rights. Parents and/or eligible students who believe their rights have been violated under the PPRA may contact:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington DC 20202-4605, Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232h

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, et seq., affords parents and eligible students (i.e., students over 18, emancipated minors, and those attending post-secondary educational institutions) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) calendar days of the day the District 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 principal [or appropriate school official] will make arrangements for access and notify the parents or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
    
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parents or eligible student believe are inaccurate or misleading, or otherwise violates the student’s privacy rights.
   
   Parents or eligible students may ask the District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise violates the student’s privacy rights. Parents or an eligible student should write the school principal [or appropriate school official], clearly identifying the part of the record the parents or eligible student want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading, or otherwise violates the student’s privacy rights.
   
   If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parents or eligible student, the District will notify the parents or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parents or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
    
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
   
   One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to a school official with legitimate interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the Board of Education; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing their task. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill their professional responsibility. 
   
   Upon request, the District will disclose a student’s education record without consent to officials of another public school, including a public charter school, in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.
    
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington DC 20202-4605

Unless notified in writing by a parent or eligible student to the contrary within two weeks of the date of this notice, the school district will be permitted to disclose “Directory Information” concerning a student. Directory Information means information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. It includes, but is not limited to, the parent’s name and/or e-mail address, the student’s name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, photographic and video images, date and place of birth, major field(s) of study, grade level, participation in school-sponsored activities or athletics, weight and height (if the student is a member of an athletic team), dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended.

The written objection to the disclosure of directory information shall be good for only one year. School districts are legally obligated to provide military recruiters and institutions of higher learning, upon request, with the names, addresses and telephone numbers of secondary school students, unless a parent or eligible student objects to such disclosure in writing. Such objection shall be in writing and shall be effective for one year. In all other circumstances, information designated as directory information will not be released when requested by a third party unless the release of such information is determined by the administration to be in the educational interest of the school district and is consistent with the district’s obligations under both state and federal law. Ref. 34 CFR § 99.37

• Regular attendance is expected in all classes.
• It is expected that parents will call the attendance office each morning the student is absent.
• It is the responsibility of the student and the parent to verify any absence from school within ten (10) days of its occurrence. If the absence is not verified within ten (10) days, the absence will be considered unexcused.
• Students are expected to be in attendance during the school day in order to participate in after-hours school sponsored activities.

A parent or guardian should call the attendance line at 860-232-4561, ext. 6599 or the attendance office at 860-232-4561, ext. 5142 to report their child’s absence. An absence note signed by the parent/guardian must be submitted to the attendance clerk within 10 days of the student’s return to school. A student’s absence from school shall be considered excused if written documentation of the reason for the absence has been submitted within 10 school days of the student’s return to school or in accordance with Section 10-210 of the Connecticut General Statues or the state’s guidelines for excused and unexcused absences.

Connecticut law requires that children attend school regularly during the hours and terms that the public school is in session, unless specifically exempted from attendance by law. The superintendent of schools shall establish such procedures as deemed necessary to determine the causes of habitual truancy, including medical verification for excessive absence, and shall cooperate with other private and governmental agencies in correcting the causes thereof.

Experience indicates the students who fail are often those who arrive late or “cut” classes. These regulations reflect our belief that classroom learning activities are an essential part of the curriculum for all students and are intended to reduce tardiness and absence from class. (Section 5310 of School Code) In June 2012, the Connecticut State Board of Education adopted new definitions for an absence to be considered excused (see table below). It is important to note that while the first nine absences in a school year can be deemed excused for any reason the parent or guardian provides, the tenth and each subsequent absence follow a more stringent and specific set of reasons for the absence to qualify as excused.

Level Total # of Days Absent* Acceptable Reasons for a Student Absence to Be Considered Excused Documentation Required within 10 Days**

Level 1: One through nine

• Any reason that the student’s parent or guardian approves.

Documentation Required within 10 Days**

• Parent or guardian note or phone call.

Level 2: 10 and above

• Student illness (Note: to be deemed excused, an appropriately licensed medical professional must verify all student illness absences, regardless of the absence’s length).
• Student’s observance of a religious holiday.
• Death in the student’s family or other emergency beyond the control of the student’s family.
• Mandated court appearances (additional documentation required).
• The lack of transportation that is normally provided by a district other than the one the student attends (parental documentation is not required for this reason).
• Extraordinary educational opportunities preapproved by district administrators. Opportunities must meet certain criteria.

Documentation Required within 10 Days**

• Parent or guardian note and in some cases additional documentation (see details of specific reason).

* Note: The total number of days absent includes both excused and unexcused absences. **Suspensions do not require documentation.
Unexcused Absence - an absence that occurs for no legitimate reason. The following are considered unexcused absences:

1. Truancy-an unexcused absence from all classes on a given day;

2. Class cut-an unexcused absence from class when a student is present in the building or is tardy 15 minutes or more;

3. Missing scheduled school activities without permission;

4. Car trouble;

5. Missing a ride or the bus;

6. Oversleeping;

7. Failure to produce an absence note signed by student’s parent within 24 hours after the student returns to school from an absence;

8. Attending any school activity or event during class time without prior notification of the teacher (e.g. blood drives, optional assemblies or performances).

In cases of excused absences other than family-initiated travel, appropriate provisions will be made by school staff regarding assistance with missed assignments, homework and tests. When an excused absence is the result of family initiated travel, teachers are under no obligation to provide advance assignments or to review work missed during the period of absence. Students must be allowed to take make-up tests. The student’s assistant principal must be notified in writing of extended absences due to family-initiated travel.

According to the State of Connecticut, a child enrolled in a public or private school is considered to be “truant” when they have four or more unexcused absences from school in any single month or ten or more unexcused absences in any school year.

West Hartford Public Schools’ Truancy Policy states, in part, that:

Regular student attendance in school is essential to the educational process. Connecticut law requires that children ages five through eighteen attend school regularly during the hours and terms that the public school is in session, unless specifically exempted from attendance by law. Responsibility for assuring that students attend school rests by statute with the parent or other person having control of the child.

To assist parents/guardians in meeting this responsibility, Hall High School has implemented policies to promptly identify those students who meet the regulatory definition of “truant”, to inform the parents/ guardians to that effect, and to assist the student and their family in rectifying the situation/improving the student’s attendance.

Students must receive prior written permission from the Attendance Office in order to leave school property anytime between 7:30 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. (12:48 p.m. on early Wednesdays). Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.

Students should present a written request for early dismissal from a parent or guardian to the Attendance Office before first period.
Approved reasons for early dismissal:

• community school;
• volunteer activities;
• emergency medical appointments;
• college interviews;
• participation in work experience programs.

Note: The student’s assistant principal will review all late arrival and early dismissal records quarterly and withdraw early dismissal privilege for those students who abuse the privilege.

Students who plan to be absent from school must make arrangements with their assistant principal and teachers for that absence at least 48 hours beforehand.

• The student’s assistant principal will review the request from the parent/guardian and will use professional judgment in excusing a pre-arranged absence based on such factors as the educational value of the proposed experience, the personal or family benefit, and the impact of the absence on the student’s learning.
• After receiving approval of a pre-arranged absence, the student should speak with their teachers about the assignments that will be missed. Approval for pre-arranged absences provides the student with time to complete the missed assignments while away and the opportunity to keep pace with the class. This avoids the requirement to complete make-up work and regular work at the same time after the absence.
• Students are expected to be fully prepared on the day of return (i.e., homework) and must request assignments before leaving.

Assignments given by a teacher before an approved pre-arranged absence begins will be due upon the student’s return.

I. Students who have four (4) unexcused absences or twelve (12) or more total absences (excused and unexcused) during a semester will receive the academic grade earned but will not receive credit for the semester. An opportunity will be given to appeal this loss of credit.

II. Students who lose credit are expected to remain in class for possible reinstatement of credit. (See Appeals Process)

III. For a full year course, the student will start the second semester with a new attendance record.

IV. The administrator or administrator’s designee will conduct an administrative review in each situation where a student has accumulated twelve (12) or more absences (either excused or unexcused) in a given class and/or four (4) or more unexcused absences.

V. As part of the Administrative Review and the Appeals Process, school officials may require documentation other than a parental note, in order to determine if credit is granted or withheld.

Exceptions

• If the class meets 3 times per week per semester, students who have three (3) unexcused absences or seven (7) excused absences will not receive credit for the semester.
• If the class meets 2 times per week per semester, students who have two (2) unexcused or four (4) excused absences will not receive credit for the semester.

Upon the first unexcused absence in a class in a single semester:

• The administrator or administrator’s designee will issue the student an After School Detention for one hour.
• The administrator or administrator’s designee will discuss the situation with the student and will contact the parent.
• The teacher will discuss the absence with the student and may contact the parent.

Upon the second unexcused absence in a class in a single semester:

• The administrator or administrator’s designee will assign the student a two hour Extended Wednesday Detention.
• The administrator or administrator’s designee will notify the parent. The student’s counselor will be informed.
• The teacher will discuss the absence with the student and may contact the parent.

Upon the third unexcused absence in a class in a single semester:

• The administrator or administrator’s designee will assign the student a four hour Extended Wednesday Detention and will review the circumstances with the student to avoid a loss of credit.
• The administrator or administrator’s designee will notify the parent by mail of the detention and of the potential loss of credit and may contact the parent by phone. The student’s counselor will be informed.
• The teacher will discuss the absence with the student and may contact the parent.
• In addition, the administrator will set up an action team meeting to discuss strategies and or a behavioral plan to address unexcused absences. Potential loss of credit in the course will be further discussed.

Upon the fourth unexcused absence in a class in a single semester:

Ongoing unexcused absences may include further disciplinary action as determined by an administrator during an action team meeting. A follow up action team meeting will be scheduled to determine additional interventions and loss of credit. During the action team meeting, it can be decided that:

• The assistant principal and the counselor, along with the student/parent will determine if the student is to remain in class with the possibility of having credit reinstated at the end of the semester (by appeal or administrative review) based upon positive evidence of improvement.
• The administrator will issue a day of internal suspension.
• The student may appeal to have the credit reinstated at the end of the semester.

Tardies - Excused and Unexcused

Tardy - not present in the classroom and prepared for learning when bell rings.
Excused Tardy - lateness to class with a legitimate reason and a pass

The following are acceptable reasons for being tardy to school or class. A note from a parent/guardian with a specified arrival time and the reason for being tardy is required.

1. Personal illness
2. Appointment with a health or legal professional
3. Family emergency
4. Late bus

Please note that tardiness will not be excused for oversleeping, unverified transportation problems, etc.

If the tardiness is at the beginning of the school day, the student must present a note to the attendance clerk to determine if the tardy is excused. If the tardy is excused, the student will receive an excused tardy pass.

Unexcused Tardy - lateness to periods 1-8 up to 15 minutes to class without a legitimate pass from a staff member or acceptable note from a parent/guardian. Three unexcused tardies are equivalent to one unexcused absence.

Teachers will admit tardy students and mark them as either excused or unexcused. Notes from parents regarding tardiness to school should be forwarded to the attendance office. Teachers may assign teacher detentions after the first and second occurrence in a semester. Students more than 15 minutes late to class without a legitimate reason or pass will be considered to have an unexcused absence for that class period.

Consequences for ongoing unexcused tardiness:

1. On the third occurrence per class per semester, the student will receive a one hour After School Detention.
2. On the sixth occurrence per class per semester, the student will receive a two hour Extended Wednesday Detention. In addition, the administrator will set up an action team meeting to discuss strategies and or a behavioral plan to address tardiness.

Ongoing unexcused tardiness may include:

• Further disciplinary action as determined by administrator
• Action Team Meeting to discuss additional interventions
• Potential loss of credit

Students wishing to appeal a loss of credit in a class due to excessive absences must file an appeal within the specified time period. The process will include:

1. A formal request for an attendance appeal delivered to the attendance office.
2. A written statement from the student.
3. Attendance record from date of loss of credit.
4. Subject teacher recommendation and semester grade to date.
5. Evidence of extenuating circumstances related to the absences, if appropriate.
6. A hearing may be required to review an appeal.

The Appeals Board is made up of an assistant principal not actively involved with the student, a neutral teacher and a neutral school counselor. A parent/guardian or other advocate may accompany the student to the appeal hearing.

Regulations West Hartford Public Schools
Revised April 2005 West Hartford, Connecticut

West Hartford Public Schools
Administrative Guidelines for Responsible Use of Technology

The use of computers and related technology supports the curriculum and enhances communication. Users, students and staff will access a vast scope of information available in the school system, as well as connections to global resources via the internet. Since neither the West Hartford Public Schools nor any of its staff controls the content of the information available on the internet, users must be aware that some of the information may be controversial or offensive. Users encountering such controversial or offensive information should exit the site and contact their teacher or school administration. Individual users are responsible for their own conduct. The use of computers is a privilege, not a right. As the owner of both the hardware and software, the West Hartford Public Schools reserves the authority to
withdraw this privilege. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in disciplinary action that may include loss of computer access, referral to legal authorities or other administrative action.

It is assumed that parents/guardians grant their child the right to access the network unless a permission denial form is signed and returned. Furthermore, please note that under no circumstances will PreK-12 student photos on the West Hartford Public Schools website be identified with first and last name unless explicitly agreed to by the parents/guardians or by students over the age of 18.

The District network includes wired and wireless devices and peripheral equipment, files and storage, email and Internet content (e.g. blogs, websites, email, apps). All use of the network must support student instruction, research and professional learning consistent with the mission of the District.

Connection of a personal electronic device to any network on school grounds is subject to all rules and guidelines in this document.

1. Use of the computers and related technology must be in support of education, business, or research within the educational goals and objectives of West Hartford Public Schools.
    
2. Users may access online services, use email and voicemail for school-related assignments, educational, administrative or other professional purposes.
    
3. Electronic communications (e.g. voicemail, email, Internet) should not be considered completely private and secure. Users should not, under any circumstances, transmit or reveal personal or confidential information about yourself or others, including but not limited to: home address, telephone number, password, social security number, credit card number, or confidential or sensitive information regarding students or staff.
    
4. The district has the ability and reserves the right to bypass individual user passwords and to monitor the use of such systems by students and staff. Therefore, students and staff should not expect to maintain personal privacy in the use of the system.
    
5. Users will comply with all school policies concerning acceptable behavior, state, federal and local laws, including copyright laws and those laws prohibiting harassment by computer (PA 95-143).
    
6. Users must not interfere with others’ work or with the performance of the technology, both hardware and software. These actions include but are not limited to: attempting to illicitly obtain passwords or usernames, entering closed areas of the network, introducing computer viruses, or accessing or altering educational records.
    
7. All users will abide by the generally accepted rules of user etiquette and all applicable school policies.
    
8. Users of district Email systems are responsible for their appropriate use. All illegal or improper use of the electronic mail system, including but not limited to: offensive language or pictures, harassment, solicitation, gambling, violating copyright or intellectual property rights are prohibited. Use of the Email system for which the district will incur an expense without written permission of an administrator is prohibited.
    
9. Bulk posting to individuals or groups to overload the system (i.e., spamming or any similar actions) is prohibited, including but not limited to chain letters and pyramid schemes (chain letters with money).
    
10. Students may not install personally owned or created software on networks or networked computers. Staff may not install personally owned or created software on networks or networked computers.
     
11. Reproduction of copyrighted electronic resources should not take place without appropriate source documentation and permission.
     
12. Official representation of the school or school district (e.g. Internet home page) may be established by obtaining prior written approval of school administration. Approved representations will comply with copyright law.
     
13. Users may access their own personal online accounts, for educational purposes only, with advance permission and when it does not interfere with school–related activities.
     
14. Users will abide by the rules of other computer resources accessed through the school telecommunications systems.
     
15. Teachers will monitor the use of the Internet by students for grade level appropriate use.
     
16. Prior to publishing photos or student work on the Internet, teachers will obtain necessary paperwork from a parent or guardian.
     
17. All staff members will exclusively use their WHPS district email account when communicating by email with students and parents. (Board Policy 4090).
     
18. WHPS technology shall not be used for the creation, publication, posting, or distribution of any personal and/or non-school related written, visual, and/or audio correspondence or materials. (Board Policy 4090)
     
19. All other Board policies regarding the confidentiality of student information are in effect.
     
20. All state and local laws regarding technology are upheld and applicable.

West Hartford Public Schools ensures that students receive ongoing, systematic education in safe, responsible and effective use of technology.
West Hartford Public Schools
Amended August 2016
Level 1: Extended Wednesday Detention; student restricted from using any computer in the school from 5-30 days*, notify labs, library, and all students’ teachers and parents of restriction. Examples: unauthorized site, games, using unauthorized software.

Level 2: 1-5 days suspension from school; student restricted from using any computer in the school from 5-90 days*, notify labs, library, and students’ teachers and parent of restriction. Examples: downloading inappropriate materials i.e., pornography, use of any software designed to capture passwords, or accessing unauthorized areas of the network, or accessing other students’ files.

Level 3: 1-10 days suspension/recommendation for expulsion, restitution for damages; student restricted from using any computer in the school from 30 days - year*, notify labs, library, and students’ teachers and parents of restriction. Examples: intentionally tampering with computer hardware, sending hate/threatening messages, deliberate deleting, erasure, or modification of system software or applications, tampering with computer software and/or data; attempting to access unauthorized data. This would include changing window settings, wallpaper, screen savers, etc.

*Student may be withdrawn from class if computer restriction occurs in a classroom where a computer is required for instruction (i.e., CAD, keyboarding.

The West Hartford Board of Education is dedicated to promoting and maintaining a positive learning environment where all students are welcomed, supported, and feel socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically safe in school.

The West Hartford Board of Education is dedicated to promoting and maintaining a positive learning environment where all students are welcomed, supported, and feel socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically safe in school.

A. Bullying is prohibited on school grounds, at all school-sponsored or school-related activities, functions or programs whether on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased, or used by a local or regional board of education, or through the use of an electronic device or an electronic mobile device owned, leased, or used by the local or regional board of education.

B. Bullying is also prohibited outside of the school setting if such bullying results in any of the following: (i) creates a hostile environment at school for the student against whom such bullying was directed, (ii) infringes on the rights of the student against whom such bullying was directed at school, or (iii) substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

C. Any form of discrimination and retaliation against an individual who reports or assists in the investigation of an act of bullying is strictly prohibited.

A. “Bullying” means (1) the repeated use by one or more students of a written, oral, or electronic communication, such as cyberbullying, directed at or referring to another student attending school in the same school district, or (2) a physical act or gesture by one or more students repeatedly directed at another student attending school in the same school district, that:

1. Causes physical or emotional harm to such student or damage to such student’s property,
    
2. Places such student in reasonable fear of harm to themselves, or of damage to their property,
    
3. Creates a hostile environment at school for such student,
    
4. Infringes on students’ rights of such student at school, or
    
5. Substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
    
6. Bullying shall include, but not be limited to, a written, oral, or electronic communication or physical gesture based on any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, socioeconomic status, academic status, physical appearance, or mental, physical, developmental, or sensory disability, or by association with an individual or group who has or is perceived to have one or more of such characteristics.

B. “Cyberbullying” means any act of bullying through the use of the Internet, interactive and digital technologies, cellular mobile telephone or other mobile devices or any electronic communications.

C. “Mobile electronic device” means any hand-held or other portable electronic equipment capable of providing data communication between two or more individuals, including, but not limited to, a text messaging device, a paging device, a personal digital assistant, a laptop computer, equipment that is capable of playing a video game or a digital video disk, or equipment on which digital images are taken or transmitted.

D. “Electronic communication” means any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo-electronic, or photo-optical system.

E. “Hostile environment” means a situation in which bullying among students is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the school climate.

F. “Out of the school setting” means at a location, activity, or program that is not school related, or through the use of an electronic device or a mobile electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by a local or regional board of education.

G. “Safe School Climate Coordinator” means the individual appointed by the Superintendent of Schools from existing staff who is responsible for:

1. Implementing the district’s Safe School Climate Plan;
    
2. Collaborating with the safe school climate specialists, the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Schools to prevent, identify, and respond to bullying in the schools of the district.
    
3. Providing data and information, in collaboration with the Superintendent of Schools of the district, to the State Department of Education regarding bullying, in accordance with state law; and
    
4. Meeting with the safe school climate specialists at least twice during the school year to discuss issues relating to bullying in the school district and to make recommendations concerning amendments to the district’s Safe School Climate Plan.

H. “Safe School Climate Specialist” means the principal of each school, or the principal’s designee, who is responsible for:

1. Investigating or supervising the investigation of reported acts of bullying in the school in accordance with the district’s Safe School Climate Plan;
    
2. Collecting and maintaining records of reports and investigations of bullying in the school; and
    
3. Acting as the primary school official responsible for preventing, identifying, and responding to reports of bullying in the school.

I. “School employee” means

1. A teacher, substitute teacher, school administrator, school superintendent, school counselor, psychologist, social worker, nurse, physician, school paraprofessional or coach employed by a local or regional board of education or working in a public elementary, middle, or high school; or
    
2. Any other individual who, in performance of their duties, has regular contact with students and who provides services to or on behalf of students enrolled in a public elementary, middle, or high school, pursuant to a contract with the local or regional board of education.

J. “School climate” means the quality and character of school life with a particular focus on the quality of the relationships within the school community between and among students and adults.

The district’s Safe School Climate Plan consists of this policy as well as the administrative regulations developed by the Superintendent of Schools to implement this policy. This policy clarifies the legal mandates regarding the district’s response to bullying in its schools. The administrative regulations shall address the broader topic of school climate and may incorporate the National School Climate Standards or other applicable evidence-based standards. Revisions to any part of the Safe School Climate Plan shall be approved by the Board of Education.

A. Reporting Procedures

1. Any student who believes he or she has been the victim of bullying may report the matter to any school employee. Students may anonymously report acts of bullying to school employees.
2. Parents or guardians of students may also file written reports of suspected bullying.
3. School employees who witness acts of bullying or receive reports of bullying are required to orally notify the Safe School Climate Specialist (or another school administrator if the Safe School Climate Specialist is unavailable), not later than one school day after such school employee witnesses or receives a report of bullying, and to file a written report not later than two school days after making such oral report.

B. Investigation

1. The Safe School Climate Specialist shall investigate or supervise the investigation of all reports of bullying and ensure that such investigation is completed promptly after receipt of any written reports.
2. The Safe School Climate Specialist shall review any anonymous reports. No disciplinary action shall be taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report.
3. The investigator shall assess whether there is a necessity to take immediate measures to prevent further allegations of bullying or retaliation of any kind while the investigation is pending.
4. The investigator shall remind involved parties that any form of discrimination and retaliation against an individual who reports or assists in the investigation of an act of bullying is strictly prohibited.
5. After a prompt investigation, the investigator should ascertain whether the alleged conduct occurred and whether such conduct constitutes bullying as defined by this policy.

C. Response to Verified Acts of Bullying

1. If it is determined that bullying has occurred, the school will take prompt corrective action that is reasonably calculated to stop the bullying and prevent any recurrence of such behavior. As part of such remedial action, the offender may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action which may include, but is not limited to one or a combination of the following: counseling, awareness training, warning, reassignment, transfer, suspension, or expulsion.
2. Each school shall notify the parents or guardians of students who commit any verified acts of bullying and the parents or guardians of students against whom such acts were directed not later than forty-eight hours after the completion of the investigation. This notification shall include a description of the response of school employees to such acts and any consequences that may result from the commission of further acts of bullying.
3. Each school is required to invite the parents or guardians of a student who commits any verified act of bullying and the parents or guardians of the student against whom such act was directed to a meeting to communicate to such parents or guardians the measures being taken by the school to ensure the safety of the student against whom such act was directed and to prevent further acts of bullying. This invitation shall also include the description of the response of school employees to such acts and any consequences that may result from the commission of further acts of bullying. Except in rare circumstances, such meetings with parents and guardians should be held separately.
4. A student safety support plan shall be developed for any student against whom an act of bullying was directed. The plan shall address safety measures that the school will take to protect such students against further acts of bullying.
5. Case-by-case interventions shall be developed to address repeated incidents of bullying against a single individual or recurrently perpetrated bullying incidents by the same individual that may include both counseling and discipline.
6. The principal of a school, or designee, shall notify the appropriate law enforcement agency when such principal, or designee, believes that any acts of bullying constitute criminal conduct.

D. Prevention and Intervention Strategy

1. Students shall be provided with a variety of prevention and intervention strategies which may include, but are not limited to:
2. Implementation of positive behavioral interventions and supports process or another evidence-based model approach for safe school climate or for the prevention of bullying identified by the State Department of Education;
3. School rules prohibiting bullying, harassment, and intimidation and establishing appropriate consequences for those who engage in such acts;
4. Inclusion of grade-appropriate bullying education and prevention curricula in kindergarten through high school;
5. Individual interventions with the bully, parents, and school employees, and interventions with the bullied child, parents, and school employees;
6. School-wide training related to safe school climate.

E. Documentation and Record Keeping

1. Safe School Specialists shall establish a procedure for each school to:
   a. Document and maintain records relating to reports and investigations of bullying in such school.
   b. Maintain a list of the number of verified acts of bullying in such school and make such list available for public inspection. The public list must not contain any personally identifiable information about any student or information that might reasonably lead to the identification of any student.
2. The district’s safe school climate coordinator shall annually report the number of verified acts of bullying in the district’s schools to the Department of Education in such manner as prescribed by the Commissioner of Education.

F. Training

1. All school employees must annually complete training on the prevention, identification, and response to bullying and the prevention of and response to youth suicide. The training will be provided to teachers, administrators, and pupil personnel who hold the initial educator, provisional educator, or professional educator certificate via in-service training. All other school employees shall receive such training as provided by the State Department of Education.
2. As part of the prevention and intervention strategies, schools may also implement school-wide training related to Safe School Climate and student peer training, education, and support.

G. Safe School Climate Committee

For the school year commencing July 1, 2012, and each school year thereafter, the principal of each school shall establish a committee (or designate at least one existing committee in the school) to be responsible for developing and fostering a safe school climate and addressing issues relating to bullying in the school. Such committee shall include at least one parent or guardian of a student enrolled in the school appointed by the school principal. Parents or guardians who serve on such committee shall not participate in the activities described in subparagraphs (1) and (2) below or any other activity that may compromise the confidentiality of a student. The Safe School Climate committee of each school shall:

1. Receive copies of completed reports following investigations of bullying;
2. Identify and address patterns of bullying among students in the school;
3. Review and make recommendations to amend school policies relating to bullying;
4. Review and make recommendations to the district safe school climate coordinator regarding the district’s safe school climate plan based on issues and experiences specific to the school;
5. Educate students, school employees, and parents and guardians of students on issues relating to bullying;
6. Collaborate with the district safe school climate coordinator in the collection of data regarding bullying, in accordance with the law;
7. Perform any other duties as determined by the school principal that are related to the prevention, identification, and response to school bullying for the school.

H. Periodic Assessment of School Climate

1. On and after July 1, 2012, and biennially thereafter, each school in the district shall complete an assessment using the school climate assessment instruments, including surveys, approved and disseminated by the State Department of Education so that the state can monitor bullying prevention efforts over time and compare each district’s progress to state trends.
2. Assessment tools may also be used by Safe School Climate Committees to review and make recommendations for revisions to the district’s Safe School Climate Plan.

Adopted: February 4, 2003, Revised: November 21, 2006, Revised: January 20, 2009, Revised: December 20, 2011
If you feel that you are a target of bullying behavior or know someone who is, please report it to an adult. You may remain an anonymous reporter if you choose.

Psychotrophic Drugs

The district maintains policy and procedures for the prohibition on recommending psychotropic medications in compliance with State Statutes 10-212B. The school health, mental health, and certain other school personnel may recommend a medical evaluation and/or support consultation with a student’s medical practitioner within a Planning and Placement Team’s (PPT) meeting, if appropriate and needed, and with the written consent of the parent.

It is the policy of the West Hartford Board of Education to maintain a learning environment free from discrimination and harassment where all students are treated in all respects without discrimination or harassment. Sexual harassment is forbidden by federal and state law and will not be tolerated in any form. While the law emphasizes that such behavior be unwelcome by the recipient, all employees and students are on notice that any such behavior is inappropriate in the school setting. Individuals have different personal standards and sensitivities in regard to behavior and comments of a sexual nature. Therefore, it is best to avoid any conduct which is sexual in nature.

Sexual harassment shall include, but not be limited to:

• unwelcome sexual advances
• direct or indirect demands or requests for sexual favors
• direct or indirect sexual comments, gestures or other physical
• conduct of a sexual nature
• implied or explicit threats related to sexual harassment

All reported incidents of sexual harassment will be promptly and thoroughly investigated in an appropriately confidential manner.

Each administrator and teacher shall be responsible for promoting understanding and acceptance of, and assuring compliance with, state and federal laws, and board policy and procedures governing sexual harassment within their school and department.

Any student who believes that he or she has experienced sexual harassment by a staff member or student(s) in the school district shall report the alleged harassment by notifying a staff member or administrator. The staff member contacted by the student will inform the building principal, who may discuss the reported incident(s) with the student. The building principal will offer assistance in resolving the complaint. If the accused is the building principal, the staff member assisting the student will bring the case to the Director of Human Resources.

In order to meet the individual needs of students in the West Hartford Public Schools, each sexual harassment complaint shall be treated in a manner that will ensure the highest level of comfort for the student reporting the incident(s).

Students should feel free to seek assistance if they are sexually harassed. Many students who confide in an adult staff member seek assistance to put an end to the harassment without causing the situation to escalate. Under certain circumstances it may be desirable to give a harassed individual the opportunity to tell the accused that their conduct is unwelcome and that it should cease immediately. It may also be appropriate for the teacher or staff member to act as an intermediary. Often the situation is resolved informally and the accused benefits from a frank discussion about the behavior that others find offensive. The administrator who handles a situation on the informal level may protect the identity of the victim by informing the accused that a complaint has been brought forward and needs to be discussed. The informal process must be supervised and documented by the administrator or designee.

If the case cannot be resolved informally, the student registering the complaint will be asked to file a written report of the harassment. The student will be advised that the information reported must be truthful and accurate. The building principal (or designee) will investigate the charges and, where necessary, take disciplinary action. Such disciplinary action may include suspension, a recommendation to the Board of Education for expulsion in the case of a student, or discharge in the case of an employee consistent with the Board of Education regulations.

Any staff member or student who retaliates against anyone who reports alleged harassment or who participates in an investigation, proceeding or hearing relating to a sexual harassment complaint is subject to disciplinary action. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment. Such disciplinary action may include suspension, a recommendation to the Board of Education for expulsion in the case of a student, or discharge in the case of an employee consistent with the Board of Education regulations.

In the absence of a victim’s complaint, the school administration, upon learning of or having reason to suspect, the occurrence of any sexual misconduct, will ensure that an investigation is promptly commenced by appropriate individuals. If an investigation results in a finding that a person has maliciously or recklessly or falsely accused another of sexual harassment, the accuser shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Such disciplinary action may include suspension, a recommendation to the Board of Education for expulsion in the case of a student, or discharge in the case of an employee consistent with the Board of Education regulations.

1. If a student believes that he or she is being harassed, that person, directly or through a teacher, counselor or administrator, should immediately inform the alleged harasser that their behavior is unwelcome and must cease
    
2. If the unwelcome behavior continues, the student may report the harassment in confidence to the building principal or to a trusted staff member who will assist the student in contacting the principal
    
3. The building principal, with the consent of the complaining student, will try to resolve the matter on an informal basis
    
4. If the matter cannot be resolved informally, the student will be asked to file a formal complaint that should state the name of the complainant, date of the complaint, date of the alleged harassment, and a detailed statement of the circumstances leading to the complaint
    
5. The administrator who conducts the investigation of the complaint shall do so in an unbiased and discreet manner. The administrator or designee shall make a preliminary written report summarizing the results of the investigation and proposed disposition of the matter. The investigation shall commence within five working days of the filing of the written compliant and be completed within fifteen working days
    
6. In cases where a student files a complaint of sexual harassment against a student, and the investigation supports those charges, the administrator will take appropriate disciplinary action up to and including suspension or recommendation for expulsion in accordance with the policies of the West Hartford Public Schools. Parents of students involved in the harassment incident shall be notified of any formal complaints made
    
7. In cases where a student files a complaint of sexual harassment against a staff member, and the investigation supports those charges, the staff member shall be subject to disciplinary action by the West Hartford Board of Education as outlined in its policy on sexual harassment for employees. Actions taken in response to such cases of sexual harassment may include a letter of reprimand, transfer, suspension or discharge from employment
    
8. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the result of the investigation, he or she may file a written appeal to the Superintendent of Schools, who will review the investigation and answer the appeal within a reasonable period of time.

The district maintains policy and procedures for the prohibition on recommending psychotropic medications in compliance with State Statutes 10-212B. The school health, mental health, and certain other school personnel may recommend a medical evaluation and/or support consultation with a student’s medical practitioner within a Planning and Placement Team’s (PPT) meeting, if appropriate and needed, and with the written consent of the parent.

The district maintains procedural guidelines for suicide prevention and intervention in response to at risk behaviors by students, (i.e. suicidal ideation, commentary, or self-injurious behavior). The school faculty receives information and in-service on suicide prevention annually.

All students are encouraged to access support staff, (school counselors, social workers, school psychologists, school nurses) for any number of issues relating to interpersonal conflicts, emotional crisis, family concerns, substance related matters, or other crises. The school support staff may assist in problem solving, direct counseling, and/or referring the students to an outside agency for appropriate follow through as the circumstance indicates. In case of an emergency, students may access support staff with or without an appointment.

Desks and school lockers are the property of the school, placed there for the temporary convenience of students. Parking personal vehicles is a privilege afforded to students. The right to inspect desks, lockers assigned to students, and personal automobiles parked on school property may be exercised by school officials to safeguard students, their property, and school property with reasonable care for the Fourth Amendment rights of students. An authorized school administrator may search a student’s locker, desk, or personal automobile parked on school property under the following conditions:

1. There is reason to believe that the student’s desk, locker, or personal automobile contains contraband material.
2. The probable presence of contraband material poses a serious threat to the maintenance of discipline, order, safety and health in the school.
3. The student has been informed in advance that the school board policy allows desks, lockers, and personal automobiles parked on school property to be inspected if the administration has reason to believe that materials injurious to the best interest of students and the school are contained herein.

A student may be searched if there are “reasonable grounds” for suspecting that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school.

Dress Code Philosophy & Values:

West Hartford Public Schools are professional centers of learning, and dress and behavior should reflect this while preparing students for college and career readiness. The intent of this policy is to encourage all students to dress, groom, and conduct themselves in keeping with an atmosphere which reflects a sensitivity to and respect for self and others and the overall functions of the school. West Hartford Public Schools student dress code supports equitable educational access and is intended to prevent stereotypes. To ensure effective and equitable enforcement of this dress code, school staff shall enforce the dress code consistently and in a manner that does not reinforce or increase marginalization or oppression of any group based on race, sex, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, household income or body type/size.

Our values are:

• All students should be able to dress comfortably for school without fear of or actual unnecessary discipline or body shaming.
• All students and staff should understand that they are responsible for managing their own personal "distractions" without regulating individual students' clothing/self-expression.
• Student dress code enforcement should not result in unnecessary barriers to school attendance.
• Reasons for conflict and inconsistent discipline should be minimized whenever possible.

Our goals are:

• Maintain a safe, professional, and respectful academic environment.
• Allow students to wear clothing of their choice that is comfortable.
• Allow students to wear clothing that supports their gender expression.
• Allow students to wear religious attire without fear of discipline or discrimination.
• Prevent students from wearing clothing with offensive images or language, including profanity, hate speech, and pornography. Clothing or accessories that reasonably can be construed as being or including content that is racist, lewd, vulgar or obscene, or that contains defamatory speech, or threats to others are not allowed
• Prevent students from wearing clothing or accessories with images or language depicting or advocating violence or the use of alcohol or drugs. Clothing or accessories worn to symbolize membership in a gang or clique are not permitted.
• Ensure that all students are treated equitably regardless of race, sex, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, household income or body type/size.
• Ensure that clothing is suitable for all scheduled classroom activities in classes where protective or supportive clothing is needed, such as chemistry/biology or Physical Education.

Dress Code:

“The Board of Education recognizes that each student has their personal style of dress and grooming. As such, the rights of students regarding their appearance will not be interfered with except when their choice disrupts the educational process or creates disorder by containing offensive or obscene language or symbols oriented towards violence, sex, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or degrades any gender, cultural, religious, or ethnic values” (WHBOE Policy, 5530).

Students are expected to wear clothing that is appropriate for school or for any school sponsored event. Students are encouraged to express themselves individually and artistically though their clothing as long as it remains appropriate for an academic environment. The primary responsibility for a student’s attire resides with the student and their parent(s) or guardian(s). The school district and individual schools are responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, and that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.

1. Basic Principle: Certain body parts must be covered for all students at all times.
Clothes must be worn in a way such that genitals, buttocks, breasts and midriff are covered with opaque material. All items listed in the “must wear” and “may wear” categories below must meet this basic principle.

2. Students Must Wear:*

• A Top (with fabric in the front, back, and on the sides under the arms), AND
• Bottom: pants/sweatpants/shorts/skirt/dress/leggings, AND
• Shoes: activity-specific shoes requirements are permitted (for example for Physical Education/sports)

* Courses and any school sponsored activity that include attire as part of the curriculum (for example, professionalism, public speaking, and job readiness) may include assignment-specific dress, but should not focus on covering bodies in a particular way or promoting culturally-specific attire.

3. Students May Wear:

• Hoodie sweatshirts (hoods cannot be up covering head in school).
• Fitted pants, including opaque leggings, yoga pants and “skinny jeans”
• Ripped jeans, as long as underwear and buttocks are not exposed.
• Tank tops, including spaghetti straps, halter tops, off shoulder shirts, and “tube” tops that cover the midriff.
• Athletic attire
• Visible straps on undergarments worn under other clothing, as long as done in a way consistent with Section 1 above.

4. Students Cannot Wear:

• Clothing with violent language or images.
• Clothing with images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity) or the use of same.
• Clothing with hate speech, profanity, pornography, gang affiliation.
• Clothing with images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class.
• Accessories that could be considered dangerous or could be used as a weapon
• Sunglasses and hats inside the school building (except for medical or religious reasons).
• Any item that obscures the face or ears (except as a religious observance).

5. Dress Code Enforcement

Administration and staff will engage in a dialogue with students who are inappropriately dressed (according to the above standards) regarding their attire. If the outcome of this dialogue finds the student to be in breach of the dress policy, the student will be asked to work with school staff to remedy the situation. If the student fails to remedy the situation, this may result in disciplinary consequences. If no alternate provisions can be found, the student’s parent(s) or guardian may be contacted to provide them with an appropriate article of clothing.

No student should be affected by dress code enforcement because of race, sex, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, household income or body type/size. Students should not be shamed or required to display their body in front of others in school. Shaming includes, but is not limited to:

• Kneeling, bending over, or any other movement to check fit
• Measuring straps or skirt length
• Calling out students about perceived dress code violations in front of others
• Accusing students of “distracting” other students with their clothing

These dress code guidelines shall apply to regular school days as well as summer school days and any school-related events and activities, such as field trips and graduation ceremonies.

Inspired in part by:
Oregon NOW Model Dress Code
Evanston Township HS Dress Code

Good behavior and a commitment to learning are the essential ingredients for success in high school. A spirit of cooperation and support helps us in establishing pride, school spirit, and an atmosphere conducive to learning. Hall students have a reputation for scholarship and school citizenship. We expect each student to be a positive contributor to the school community and to the community at large.

We expect each student to support and abide by the rules and regulations developed for the good of all. The key to maintaining the proper educational environment is respect: respect for self, for the adults who work with students, for the rights of others, and for the property and equipment provided for students’ use.

In general, standards of good conduct and respect for persons, property and the educational process are in effect. Disciplinary action may result when a student’s conduct endangers persons or property, disrupts the educational process or violates a publicized policy of the West Hartford Board of Education.

West Hartford’s Suspension and Expulsion Policy, Administrative Procedures for Suspension/ Expulsion, Student Drug Regulations and Sexual Harassment Policy are reviewed regularly. These documents list some of the rules of conduct and disciplinary procedures for students in all of West Hartford’s schools. The first two documents, which are quite lengthy, are available in the school offices.

Each school in West Hartford, in accordance with school board policies, develops other rules and procedures called “school rules”. These rules cover a wide variety of issues pertaining to safety, security, failure to report, building cleanliness and issues related to the teaching and learning environment. Violation of school rules carries disciplinary consequences. Among those consequences are denial of certain privileges, removal from class, After School Detention, Extended Wednesday Detention, restitution, In-School Suspension, and Out-of-School Suspension. Each teacher may also develop classroom rules and procedures, which they will explain to students.

The following rules and regulations were developed by the Student-Faculty Committee to ensure a safe and productive learning environment. Violation of school rules and regulations will result in disciplinary action. Serious violations will lead to suspension or expulsion. These rules apply to field trips and all other school sponsored events.

1. Fights/violence, vulgarity directed at a staff member, possession of a weapon or firearm, use of a dangerous instrument, possession of alcohol/drugs/ tobacco products or paraphernalia, theft, gang or mob action, or intentional damage to property may result in suspension and may result in further disciplinary action, including a recommendation for expulsion.
    
2. Mobile learning devices (cell phones) and electronic music devices/ear buds may not be used in the learning environment except at the discretion of the teacher when deemed useful as an instructional tool. If the use of these devices is deemed disruptive or unsafe (i.e., not kept at a safe volume in the hallway), they may be confiscated, and other disciplinary actions may be taken.
3. Books and equipment issued to students are their responsibility. Students are expected to reimburse the school for any assigned books or equipment lost/damaged.
    
4. Gambling and gambling paraphernalia are prohibited on campus.
    
5. The use of sports equipment (frisbees, basketballs, footballs, lacrosse sticks, etc.) in classrooms or hallways is prohibited. Larger sports equipment can be stored in the main office. Skateboarding is not allowed on school grounds.
    
6. Students are prohibited from throwing ice, snow or snowballs on school grounds.
    
7. All students are required to remain on school property during the regular school day. Students found leaving campus without permission may be subject to disciplinary action.
    
8. Before and after school hours, students are expected to remain in a supervised area for the purpose of extracurricular activities or extra help.
    
9. Students are expected to use appropriate and respectful language at all times.
    
10. Students are expected to refrain from inappropriate displays of affection.
     
11. Students are expected to give their name or present their ID card upon request, report directly to the office when told to do so, and follow directions from all staff.
     
12. Students are expected to respect school or private property and are responsible for loss or damages.
     
13. Students are expected to maintain a safe school climate. This includes maintaining respect for all persons. Students may not threaten to cause physical injury to another person or to that person’s property. Additionally, they may not intimidate, wrongfully obstruct, interfere with or inhibit any person’s access to or use of school facilities, or take part in hazing or bullying in person or online.
     
14. Students are responsible for providing authentic documents and signatures.
     
15. Students are expected to refrain from soliciting students/staff for money.
     
16. Students are expected to respect and follow the valid authority and reasonable standards of conduct determined by supervisors, teachers, administrators, and the rules and regulations published by the school and/or determined by the Board of Education.
     
17. Students are expected to obtain permission from an administrator for the use of the Hall High School name or the names of Hall High School publications.
     
18. Students are expected to obtain permission from a teacher or administrator before videotaping, recording audio/video or taking of pictures.

The Hall High School Academic Honor Code addresses issues when it is believed that a student’s work has been compromised. Compromised work includes, but is not limited to, academic cheating, academic plagiarizing, academic lying, and academic stealing.

Offenses

• Academic cheating is stealing and includes, but is not limited to, the following:the willful giving or receiving of an unauthorized, unfair, dishonest, or unscrupulous advantage in school work over other students;
• attempted cheating;
• the unauthorized use of technology and/or technology applications (which includes the sharing of digital documents without permission or authorization).

Some examples:

• deception;
• unauthorized communication, including talking, signs, or gestures, during a test or quiz;
• copying from another student or allowing the copying of an individual assignment;
• passing test or quiz information during a class period or from one class period to members of another class period;
• misrepresenting work that is not your own (for example, turning in an assignment/paper actually written by someone else);
• exceeding time limits on timed tests, quizzes, or assignments without permission
• improper or unauthorized use of telephone, online translators, graphing calculators, or other forms of technology;
• unauthorized use of study aids, notes, books, data, or other information;
• computer fraud, sabotaging the projects or experiments of other students, or improper collaboration without the teacher’s permission.

Academic plagiarizing includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• presenting as one’s own the works or opinions of someone else without proper acknowledgement (e.g. published or electronically generated sources);
• borrowing the sequence of ideas, the arrangement of materials, or the patterns of thought of someone else without proper acknowledgement;
• deriving a writing style that is not one’s own from a published or electronically generated source.

Some examples:

• having a parent or another person write an essay or do a project, which is then submitted as one’s own work;
• failing to use proper documentation and bibliography.

Academic lying includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• willful and knowledgeable telling of an untruth or falsehood, as well as any other form of deceit;
• attempted deception;
• forging a signature;
• fraud in an oral or written statement.

Some examples:

• lying or failing to give complete information to a teacher;
• feigning illness to gain extra preparation time for tests, quizzes, or assignments due.

Academic stealing includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Taking or appropriating, without the right or permission to do so and with the intent to keep or make use of wrongfully, the schoolwork or materials of another student or the instructional or assessment materials of a teacher.

Some examples:

• stealing copies of tests or quizzes;
• illegitimately accessing the teacher’s answer key for tests or quizzes;
• stealing the teacher’s edition of the textbook;
• stealing another student’s homework, notes, or handouts.

As a learning community, we believe that appropriate consequences can be valuable learning experiences. Because of the sensitive nature of this offense, consequences and penalties for violations of the Academic Honor Code are cumulative and are determined by the total number of offenses that have occurred while the student is enrolled at Hall High School. This means that offenses are not limited to one class or marking period, but will follow the student throughout their career at Hall High School.

First Offense

• The student receives no credit for the assignment, and a comment regarding the incident is included on the student’s next report card.
• The teacher calls the parent and files a behavioral report with the student’s assistant principal and school counselor.
• The student, the parent, the student’s assistant principal, and the student’s school counselor meet to discuss the incident, the ethics of academic dishonesty, and to remind the student of the consequences of a further offense.
• The student’s eligibility for membership in the school’s honor societies is jeopardized, as is their eligibility for leadership positions related to school activities.
• The student will receive a 4-Hour Extended Wednesday Detention.

Second Offense (in the same or different course)

• The student receives no credit for the assignment, and a comment regarding the incident is included on the student’s next report card.
• The teacher calls the parent and files a behavioral report with the student’s assistant principal and school counselor.
• The student, the parent, the student’s assistant principal, and the student’s school counselor meet to discuss this second incident, the ethics of academic dishonesty, and to remind the student of the consequences of a further offense.
• The student is referred to the appropriate committee of the Student Success Planning Team (SSPT).
• The student is removed from membership in any school honor society and is no longer eligible for such positions.
• The student will receive one day of In-School Suspension.

Third Offense (in the same or different course)

• The student receives an “F” for the semester (50%) in the class in which the violation occurred, and a comment regarding the incident is included on the student’s next report card.
• The teacher calls the parent and files a behavioral report with the student’s assistant principal and school counselor.
• The student, the parent, the student’s assistant principal, and the student’s school counselor meet to discuss this third incident, the ethics of academic dishonesty.
• The student will receive three days of In-School Suspension.

The student may appeal penalties for violations of the honor code to the administration. multiple incidents in a single class or a variety of classes are considered a serious disruption of the educational process and may result in further disciplinary action up to and possibly including expulsion. any additional violations beyond a third offense will carry the consequences of the third offense.

Classroom discipline is essential for effective teaching and learning. Students are expected to cooperate with their teachers in maintaining an orderly environment for learning. Students who show disrespect to a teacher or peers, refuse to obey a reasonable request by a staff member, or who disrupt the classroom environment will be referred for disciplinary action.

A. Teacher Detention: time assigned by a teacher in their room at the end of the school day: may range from 10 minutes to one hour. Failure to report will result in an After School Detention.

B. After School Detention: time assigned by an administrator or designee and served with the detention supervisor at the end of the school day, lasts for one hour, and will be held according to the following schedule:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 2:25 pm - 3:25 pm (1 hour detention)

C. Extended Wednesday Detention: time assigned by an administrator or designee and served after school on Wednesday. There are three types of Extended Wednesday Detention

Two-hour Extended Wednesday Detention 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Three-hour Extended Wednesday Detention 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Four-hour Extended Wednesday Detention 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Alternatives to an Extended Wednesday Detention may be offered by an administrator or designee.

D. Suspension: an exclusion from school (i.e., an Out-of-School Suspension or an In-School-Suspension), from school privileges, or from transportation services. Students suspended out/in of school may not be on school grounds, participate in activities, athletic play or practices or performances any time during the date(s) of suspension or expulsion.

• In-School Suspension - the exclusion of a student from classes and all regular school activities. The student will be assigned to the In-School Suspension room. ISS is served from 7:30 a.m. until 2:15 p.m. (until 12:48 p.m. on Wednesdays), regardless of early dismissal or after-school activities.
• Out-of-School Suspension - the exclusion of a student from school for up to ten (10) consecutive school days.

E. Expulsion: the exclusion from school and school privileges for more than ten (10) consecutive school days. Students suspended out/in of school may not be on school grounds, participate in activities, athletic play or practices or performances any time during the date(s) of suspension or expulsion.

• All current school rules/regulations shall be extended to apply during detentions (including but not limited to on-time arrival, no hats, no electronics, etc.).
• After-school activities, sports, job, etc. are NOT valid excuses for failing to serve detentions.
• Failure to serve any detention as scheduled and on time will result in additional consequences.

To ensure safety and security, students are expected to remain on campus after 2:45 p.m. only if they have a valid reason (activity, club, and extra help). All students who stay after school must be with and supervised by a staff member. Students who remain in the school after dismissal are to be in a classroom with a teacher present.

1. Student use of motor vehicles at Hall High is a privilege granted by the school to Grades 11 and 12 students only. Students are subject to the rules, regulations and administrative guidelines in the parking regulations agreement and must comply with all state laws and licensure requirements.
    
2. All motor vehicles must be registered with security staff. Temporary vehicles and visitors must be registered immediately in the Main Office upon arrival at the school.
    
3. Parking privileges will be granted to authorized students only. Students who wish to park on campus must submit an application and obtain a parking sticker from the Security Officer. Since there are a limited number of parking spaces, seniors will be given first priority through September 20. Parking privileges will be granted on a first-come first serve basis.
    
4. All vehicles must display a proper parking permit/sticker. Issued stickers for cars must be affixed to the back of the inside rearview mirror. Issued stickers for motorcycles must be affixed on the backside of the rearview mirror. Parking permits/stickers are color coded for the school year and are valid for the current school year only. Students without a permit/sticker may be subject to disciplinary action, including tickets and/or towing.
    
5. All student vehicles must park in the Student Parking Lot located to the west of the building between Karen Road and the tennis courts. Only those areas marked are to be used for parking. Tennis court aisles are reserved for townspeople playing tennis.
    
6. No sideways or angle parking is allowed.
    
7. Vehicles may leave the campus only when:
   a. the student has been granted permission by an assistant principal to leave school after the last scheduled class, or
   b. special circumstances have been approved by the assistant principal.
    
8. Students must drive in a safe, courteous and cautious manner. Excesses such as rapid starting and stopping, squealing and pealing of tires, noisy vehicles, loud radios, passengers riding other than inside the vehicle, and other such practices are not allowed and may result in a loss of parking privileges and/or referral for police action.
    
9. When leaving campus, students must identify themselves and passengers in cars when requested by security or staff members and provide proper authorization to leave campus.
    
10. Loitering in or around cars and motorcycles is not permitted.
     
11. In the event of accidents, cars must not be moved until police arrive.
     
12. Eisenhower Park is not an authorized parking area for students.

Penalties for Failure to Abide by Regulations:

1. Tickets as authorized by the West Hartford Police Department and town ordinances will be issued for infractions such as unauthorized vehicles, improper parking in fire lanes, parking in unauthorized areas such as the visitor, administrative, or teacher lot, or exiting or entering by other than proper driveways. Fines will be imposed.
    
2. Hazardous use of vehicles will result in police referral.
    
3. All vehicles are subject to towing when parked in areas other than assigned.
    
4. Students leaving campus in motor vehicles without permission will be subject to the penalties as defined in the School’s Rules and Regulations. Subsequent offenses may result in loss of car privileges on school property.
    
5. Final authority for the issuance of penalties rests with the administration’s interpretation of regulations.
    
6. Students disregarding regulations will be subject to loss of student driving and parking privileges.
    
7. Any unsafe or erratic operation of a motor vehicle on school property will result in disciplinary action and loss of parking privileges.

Students will receive an ID card at the beginning of the school year. Students are expected to carry their ID card to school daily and to all school-sponsored events and should be prepared to present their ID card upon request by a staff member. Each ID card is individually authorized as a library card, bus pass, and lunch card. ID cards may be replaced for a $5.00 fee by contacting a security officer.

Students are expected to have a pass when arriving late to class or reporting to an alternate location. Students are expected to report promptly to the area designated on the pass without loitering or disrupting classes. Passes to the library must be obtained from classroom teachers or librarians. Violations may result in disciplinary action.

In addition to mandatory class meetings and assemblies, students from all grades may take part in field trips, class outings, and other extra-curricular activities that may impact class seat time. If students miss school for any reason, it is their responsibility to coordinate any missed work with their teachers. For any extra-curricular activities that require a fee, financial assistance may be available to students upon request from the coordinating teacher and/or administrator.

Students are expected to present their ID cards before boarding school buses, as requested.
The rules of conduct also apply to any form of school transportation. Students granted the privilege receive a copy of the “Code of Conduct” for buses. Students who disregard behavioral expectations may be denied bus privileges on a limited or permanent basis.

Transportation Policy: Students are permitted one drop off and pick up location. Violations may result in the loss of transportation privileges.

Wednesday Bus Departure Schedule:
Regular bus 1:00 pm
Late bus 3:00

Students involved in co-curricular activities represent Hall High School, and both they and the school may be judged by their behavior. All rules and regulations pertaining to the school day apply to co-curricular events, both on and off school grounds. (Clubs & Activities)

Spectator Conduct at Athletic Events

Students are expected to behave in a courteous and polite manner at all athletic contests. Respect for spectators, cheerleaders, and teams, as well as coaches, supervisors, and officials, is expected at all times. Conference and league organizations suggest the following rules for responsible behavior during athletic contests:

• no signs, banners, or placards allowed
• no noisemakers allowed at contests
• obscene or derogatory cheers or gestures will not be tolerated
• “booing” officials or teams is unacceptable

Students disregarding the rules will be removed from the premises and will be considered for suspension from school and from future athletic functions. Regardless of the time or place of school events, all school rules and consequences remain in effect.

Disciplinary Consequences Leading to Suspension or Expulsion

Pupils may be suspended or expelled for conduct on school grounds, or at any school-sponsored activity that endangers persons or property, is seriously disruptive of the educational process, or that violates a publicized policy of the Board. Pupils may be suspended or expelled for conduct off school grounds if such conduct is seriously disruptive of the educational process and in violation of a publicized policy of the Board.

Mandatory Expulsion: The Superintendent shall recommend expulsion when they reasonably believe that a student:

1. was in possession on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity of a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, martial arts weapon, or firearm as defined in 18 USC 921 as amended from time to time; or
    
2. off school grounds was in possession of such a firearm in violation of Conn. Gen. Stat. 92-35 or did possess and use such a firearm, deadly weapon, dangerous instrument or a martial arts weapon in the commission of a crime; or
    
3. on or off school grounds offered for sale or distribution a controlled substance (as defined in Conn.Gen. Stat. 21a-240(9) whose manufacture, distribution, sale, prescription, dispensing, transporting or possessing with intent to sell or dispense, offering or administering is subject to criminal penalties under Sections 21a-277 and 21a-278.

Should the Board conclude, after hearing the matter, that the student engaged in conduct as described in subparagraphs (1), (2), or (3) above, the Board shall expel the student for one calendar year. The Board may modify the period of expulsion on a case-by-case basis.
As used in these paragraphs, a “firearm as defined in 18 USC 921” means (1) any weapon that will, is designed to, or may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, (2) the frame or receiver of any such weapon, (3) a muffler or silencer, or (4) any destructive device (any explosive, incendiary or poisonous gas, bomb, rocket, missile, mine, grenade or similar device, or any weapon (other than a shotgun or shotgun shell particularly suited for sporting purposes) that will or may be converted to expel a projectile by explosive or other propellant having a barrel with a bore of more than 1/2” in diameter). A “deadly weapon” means any weapon whether loaded or unloaded, from which a shot may be discharged, or a switchblade knife, gravity knife, billy, blackjack, bludgeon or metal knuckles. “Dangerous instrument” means any instrument, article or substance, which, under the circumstances in which it is used or attempted or threatened to be used, is capable of causing death or serious physical injury and includes a “vehicle”. “Martial arts weapon” means a nunchaku, kama, kasari-fundo, octagon sai, tonfa or Chinese star.

Conduct which may lead to disciplinary action (including but not limited to suspension and/or expulsion) includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Conduct, physical or verbal, causing a threat of danger to the physical or mental well-being of the student or other people; or
    
2. Striking or physically assaulting another person; or
    
3. Causing or attempting to cause damage to public property; or stealing or attempting to steal public property; or
    
4. Causing or attempting to cause damage to private property; or
    
5. Taking or attempting to take, personal property or money from another person or from their presence by means of stealth, force or fear; or
    
6. Possessing, transmitting, or distributing any weapon, deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, martial arts weapon or firearm, whether or not capable of firing a shot, firearm facsimile, compressed air gun, knife, billy, blackjack, bludgeon, metal knuckles, explosives, chains, or any other dangerous objects; or
    
7. Possessing a firearm as defined in 18 USC 921, in violation of Conn. Gen. Stat. 29-35, or possessing and using a firearm as defined in 18 USC 921, a deadly weapon, a dangerous instrument or a martial arts weapon in the commission of a crime; or
    
8. Possessing, using, transmitting, distributing, offering for sale or being under the influence of any non-prescribed controlled substance, unauthorized, illegal or dangerous drugs, narcotics, hallucinogenic drugs, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, alcoholic beverages, or intoxicants of any kind in violation of the Board’s Policy #5520; or
    
9. Knowingly or willfully being in the presence of those who are in possession of, using, transmitting, distributing, or under the influence of any non-prescribed controlled substance, illegal, unauthorized or dangerous drugs, narcotics, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, alcoholic beverages, or intoxicants of any kind; or
    
10. Participation in an unauthorized occupancy by any group of pupils or others of any part of any school or school premises or other building owned by any school district, and failure to leave such premises or other facility promptly after having been directed to do so by the principal or other person then in charge of such building or facility; or
     
11. Using or copying the academic work of another and presenting it as their own without proper attribution or allowing such use and/or copying of the pupil’s own work by another; or
     
12. Violation of any Federal or State law which would indicate that the violator presents a danger to any person in the school community or to school property; or
     
13. Open defiance of the authority of any teacher or person having authority over the pupil, including verbal abuse; or
     
14. Repeated unauthorized absence from school in violation of the Boards’ truancy policy; or
     
15. Falsely activating fire alarm or other safety systems including 911; or
     
16. Falsely reporting the presence of a bomb or other explosive device at the school; or
     
17. Unauthorized possession and/or use of paging devices, beepers, cellular phone, walkie-talkie, or other similar electronic communication devices without the written permission of the principal or their designee; or
     
18. Violation of a publicized policy of the Board including that dealing with conduct on school buses; or
     
19. Sexually harassing another person through word or action, in violation of the Board’s Sexual Harassment Policy #4011
     
20. Any behavior, verbal or physical, that harasses, threatens, intimidates, abuses or demeans certain individuals or groups on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, creed, national origin, or handicap that creates a substantial or material disruption of the school’s operation or is likely to incite a breach of peace
     
21. The wearing of any gang-related apparel or insignia

Contraband items may be seized by teachers or administrative staff, and shall be retained until all disciplinary procedures are completed.

West Hartford Public Schools
Regulation 5520

Drug(s): Any alcohol, tobacco products, controlled drug, illegal substances, inhalants or any medication for which the student does not have a prescription from a health professional, or a substance or medication which is misused. For purposes of these regulations, drugs may include facsimiles.

In case of medical emergency due to drug use, the standard emergency plan will be used.

Goal: To Eliminate Drug Use, Possession, Offer And Distribution By Students.

Drugs and other addictive substances are dangerous and are prohibited by the West Hartford Public Schools. This prohibition extends to students on or off school property.

Although disciplinary consequences are a necessary part of this policy, other efforts – among them prevention, assessment, help, intervention and counseling, are the major focus of this regulation. Students and others who possess, use, and/or offer/distribute drugs or drug paraphernalia may be experiencing personal and/or other problems. In addition, in many cases, they may be breaking the law.

Because of the dangers of repeated possession, use, offer or distribution, violations are cumulative while a student is enrolled in a school level (elementary level, middle school level, high school level). Records of violations at any level will be forwarded to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT) at the next school level. Violations may impact the student’s participation in student activities and athletics (see Student-Athlete Handbook).

These regulations will be implemented by administrators and staff in an attempt to assist the student in solving their problems and becoming more responsible in their decision-making and behavior.

Students and parents/guardians should be aware that the administration can and will use passive alcohol screening devices at school events or as needed during the school day to ensure student safety as well as compliance with the Board of Education’s drug and alcohol policy. Submission to a passive alcohol screening is a requirement for attendance at all Hall dances and proms (and other events as deemed appropriate by the Hall administration).

Actions To Be Taken When There Is Suspicion Of Alcohol, Drug Or Drug Paraphernalia, Possession, Use, Offer Or Distribution By A Student

The administrator or designee will inform the student the school suspects they possess, are using, and/or offering/distributing.
In the case of a student who appears to be under the influence of drugs during the school day, the health services office will evaluate the student’s condition and make recommendations for further medical involvement, if necessary.

The student will be asked to:

1. Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia on their person.
2. Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia that are stored in school or on school grounds, including vehicles.
3. Identify who the student gave/offered or from whom the student received/has been offered any drug(s) and/or drug paraphernalia.

• The administrator or designee will make a verbal report of the incident to the police when alcohol, controlled drugs, drug paraphernalia or suspicious materials are involved.
• The administrator or designee will contact a parent or guardian to inform them of the suspicion and may ask for a meeting with them.
• The administrator or designee will refer all concerns to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT). The DATT will provide the family with a list of potential help agencies.
• The school board policy allows the administrator or designee to conduct a search of the student and his or her belongings. This can and may include desks, lockers and personal vehicle parked on school premises to be inspected if the administration has reason to believe that the materials injurious to the best interests of students and the school are contained therein.

Actions To Be Taken When The Administrator Determines That Drug Or Drug Paraphernalia, Possession, Use, Offer Or Distribution By A Student Has Occurred

1st Offense
In the case of a student possessing or using alcohol, drug(s) or drug paraphernalia, or misusing other substances during the school day, the health services office will evaluate the student’s condition and make recommendations as to whether further medical intervention is required.

1. The student will be asked to:
   a) Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia on their person.
   b) Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia that are stored in school or on school grounds, including vehicles.
   c) Identify who the student gave/offered or from whom the student received/has been offered any drug(s) and/or drug paraphernalia.
    
2. The administrator or designee will conduct a search of the student and his or her belongings. This can and may include a vehicle parked on school premises.
    
3. The administrator will make a verbal report of the incident to the police when alcohol, controlled drugs, drug paraphernalia or suspicious materials are involved. The administrator will turn over to the police any of these confiscated items.
    
4. The administrator will make a reasonable effort to contact a parent or guardian to discuss the problem. When alcohol, controlled drugs, or drug paraphernalia, or suspicious materials are involved, a parent or guardian may be asked to come to school within 24 hours to meet with an administrator.
    
5. For the possession or use of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a minimum of a three day suspension. The administrator or administrator designee will follow up with the athletic director and student activities coordinator, if applicable, to determine loss of privileges and additional consequences as appropriate. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
6. For participation in a purchase, transfer, or acceptance of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a 10 day suspension and a recommendation to the Superintendent for a discretionary expulsion. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
7. For offer or distribution of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a 10 day suspension and a recommendation to the Superintendent for a mandatory expulsion. Student with parent/guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
8. The administrator will refer the student for an assessment by a qualified professional which may include the family primary care physician, Wheeler Clinic or other persons approved by the principal or designee. The family will pay to complete their own assessment, that is approved by the school, if the family refuses the school’s recommended assessment.
    
9. The administrator will refer the case to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT). The administrator will notify the student’s school counselor. The student will participate in certain required DATT activities.
    
10. Documentation of the completed assessment and required activities must be provided to DATT. Failure to successfully participate in the assessment and in the required activities will lead to further consequences, which may include an additional six days of suspension. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.

2nd Offense
In the case of a student possessing or using alcohol, drug(s) or drug paraphernalia, or misusing other substances during the school day, the health services office will evaluate the student’s condition and make recommendations as to whether further medical intervention is required.

1. The student will be asked to:
   a) Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia on their person.
   b) Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia that are stored in school or on school grounds, including vehicles.
   c) Identify who the student gave/offered or from whom the student received/has been offered any drug(s) and/or drug paraphernalia.
    
2. The administrator or designee will conduct a search of the student and his or her belongings. This can and may include a vehicle parked on school premises.
    
3. The administrator will make a verbal report of the incident to the police when alcohol, controlled drugs, drug paraphernalia or suspicious materials are involved. The administrator will turn over to the police any of these confiscated items.
    
4. The administrator will make a reasonable effort to contact a parent or guardian to discuss the problem. When alcohol, controlled drugs, or drug paraphernalia, or suspicious materials are involved, a parent or guardian may be asked to come to school within 24 hours to meet with an administrator.
    
5. For the possession or use of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a minimum of a five day suspension and 10 hours of community service. The student must obtain approval from the administrator or administrator designee prior to beginning their community service. The administrator or administrator designee will follow up with the athletic director and student activities coordinator, if applicable, to determine loss of privileges and additional consequences as appropriate. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
6. For participation in a purchase, transfer, or acceptance of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a 10 day suspension and a recommendation to the Superintendent for a discretionary expulsion. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
7. For offer or distribution of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a 10 day suspension and a recommendation to the Superintendent for a mandatory expulsion. Student with parent/guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
8. The administrator will refer the student for an assessment by a qualified professional which may include the family primary care physician, Wheeler Clinic or other persons approved by the principal or designee. The family will pay to complete their own assessment, which is approved by the school, if the family refuses the schools recommended assessment.
    
9. The administrator will refer the case to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT). The administrator will notify the student’s school counselor. The student will participate in certain required DATT activities.
    
10. Documentation of the completed assessment and required activities must be provided to DATT. Failure to successfully participate in the assessment and in the required activities will lead to further consequences, which may include an additional six days of suspension. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school

3rd Offense
In the case of a student possessing or using alcohol, drug (s) or drug paraphernalia, or misusing other substances during the school day, the health services office will evaluate the student’s condition and make recommendations as to whether further medical intervention is required.

1. The student will be asked to:
   a) Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia on their person.
   b) Give the administrator any drug(s) or drug paraphernalia that are stored in school or on school grounds, including vehicles.
   c) Identify who the student gave/offered or from whom the student received/has been offered any drug(s) and/or drug paraphernalia.
    
2. The administrator or designee will conduct a search of the student and his or her belongings. This can and may include a vehicle parked on school premises.
    
3. The administrator will make a verbal report of the incident to the police when alcohol, controlled drugs, drug paraphernalia or suspicious materials are involved. The administrator will turn over to the police any of these confiscated items.
    
4. The administrator will make a reasonable effort to contact a parent or guardian to discuss the problem. When alcohol, controlled drugs, or drug paraphernalia, or suspicious materials are involved, a parent/guardian may be asked to come to school within 24 hours to meet with an administrator.
    
5. For the possession or use of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a minimum of a seven day suspension and 10 hours of community service. The student must obtain approval from the administrator or administrator designee prior to beginning their community service. The administrator or administrator designee will follow up with the athletic director and student activities coordinator, if applicable, to determine loss of privileges and additional consequences as appropriate. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
6. For participation in a purchase, transfer, or acceptance of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a 10 day suspension and a recommendation to the Superintendent for a discretionary expulsion. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school. After the suspension and/or expulsion has been served, the parent or guardian may be required to accompany the student to all classes and other daily activities for three consecutive school days.
    
7. For offer or distribution of a drug or drug paraphernalia, the student will receive a 10 day suspension and a recommendation to the Superintendent for a mandatory expulsion. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
    
8. The administrator will refer the student for an assessment by a qualified professional which may include the family primary care physician, Wheeler Clinic or other persons approved by the principal or designee. The family will pay to complete their own assessment, that is approved by the school, if the family refuses the school’s recommend assessment.
    
9. The administrator will refer the case to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT). The administrator will notify the student’s school counselor. The student will participate in certain required DATT activities.
    
10. Documentation of the completed assessment and required activities must be provided to DATT. Failure to successfully participate in the assessment and in the required activities will lead to further consequences, which may include an additional six days of suspension. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
     
11. The family may be required to attend three meetings of either Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, Families Anonymous or attend an additional support program that is deemed appropriate by administration and the DATT.

Subsequent Offenses

1. The administrator will suspend the student for 10 days.
    
2. The administrator will refer the student to the Superintendent with a recommendation for mandatory expulsion.

When a student, privately and in confidence, discloses to a professional employee during a self-referral their use, possession, offer or distribution of a drug, the employee shall not be required to disclose the information unless the student agrees to disclosure and signs a release. Any physical evidence from the student, however, shall be turned over to school administrators or law enforcement officials within two school days.

If the self-referring student allows for disclosure of information about their use, possession, offer or distribution of a drug or, if in the discretion of the professional employee such disclosure is necessary, the professional employee may report the student’s name and problem to the school’s DATT (Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team) and the student’s administrator. (CGS Sec. 10-154a(b)).

Students who violate Board Policy #5520 (Drug and Alcohol Policy) are excluded from participation in extra-curricular, co-curricular and athletic activities for the duration of their suspension or expulsion. This regulation, however, is applicable whether the prohibited activity occurs on or off campus. In the case of a student being ineligible to participate in a co-curricular activity due to violation of these regulations, the student’s grade will not be affected due to missing a performance. If a student is involved in or has admitted to a drug and/or alcohol violation(s) during the academic year, exclusion from participation will begin immediately if the student is participating in an extra-curricular, co-curricular and/or athletic activity that meets at least two times a week when the violation occurs. In the case of athletics, if the violation occurs during the academic year when the student is not involved in an extra-curricular, co-curricular and/or athletic activity, the period of exclusion from participation will begin upon the commencement of the student’s next athletic season. (Please note that students who participate in a fall activity in which the first practice/meeting is held prior to the start of the academic year are subject to these regulations as of the first practice/meeting.) In addition to regular school discipline, the following consequences of violating these regulations will be enforced. Violation will be cumulative while a student is enrolled at a school level (i.e., high school):

First Offense
A. The student shall be suspended from the activity or team for a period of four consecutive calendar weeks. When applicable, days will carry over into the next activity or season.

1. The student will be referred to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT), and in a timely manner, the student and parent or guardian will meet with an approved drug and alcohol counselor for an assessment. If a student refuses to participate in the assessment or the recommended plan of assistance, the student will not be eligible to participate in the activity until both are completed. The family will pay to complete their own assessment, that is approved by the school, if the family refuses the school’s recommend assessment.
2. A student whose intention is to return to the team and/or co-curricular and extra-curricular activity at the end of the suspension must attend all practices. The student must also attend all contests and/or performances but may not participate.
3. The student is restricted or removed from all school leadership positions for one calendar year to run consecutively upon the completion of the activity or team suspension.

Subsequent Offenses

Should a subsequent violation occur, the following will apply:

A. The student shall be suspended from the activity or team for a period of sixteen consecutive calendar weeks. When applicable, days will carry over into the next activity/season.

1. The student will be referred to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT), and in a timely manner, the student and parent or guardian will meet with an approved drug and alcohol counselor for an assessment. If the student refuses to participate in the assessment or the recommended plan of assistance, the student will not be eligible to participate in the activity until both are completed.
    
2. The family will pay to complete their own assessment, that is approved by the school, if the family refuses the school’s recommend assessment.
    
3. A student whose intention is to return to the team and/or co-curricular and extra-curricular activity at the end of the suspension must attend all practices. The student must also attend all contests and/or performances but may not participate.
    
4. The student is restricted or removed from all school leadership positions for one calendar year to run consecutively upon completion of the activity or team suspension.
    
5. The student must complete 10 hours of community service by the completion of the DATT process. The student must obtain approval from the administrator or administrator designee prior to beginning their community service.

Self-Referral

When a drug dependency problem is identified by the student or by a parent’s referral and the dependency involves the use of substances that are in violation of the Board of Education’s Drug & Alcohol Policy, the student will not immediately be suspended from the team and/or activity. Self-referral may not be used to turn in oneself after violating the Drug & Alcohol Policy in an attempt to avoid penalty. The steps to be taken are:

1. The student will be referred to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT), and in a timely manner, the student and parent or guardian will meet with an approved drug and alcohol counselor for an assessment. The student and coach/teacher/advisor will collaborate with the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT) to develop a program of assistance utilizing the school’s resources and outside agencies. The DATT will then monitor and report progress.
    
2. If the student fails to complete the program of assistance and/or violates the Drug and Alcohol Policy, the consequences for a first offense will be applied.
    
3. Self-referral will be held in confidence if desired by the student.

Referral Procedures

When a substance problem has been identified by a team member, fellow student participant, teacher, coach, administrator or other concerned individual the following procedures will be followed:

1. The student will be referred to the appropriate coach, activity advisor, teacher or administrator, where he or she will be informed of the charges.
2. An administrator meeting will be held within five days of the student’s referral, where the student will be given the opportunity to present his or her side.
3. The administrator will investigate appropriately, and render a decision within five school days.
4. The student has the right to appeal the consequences of the violation of these regulations.

Appeals Process

1. The appeal of the designee’s decision should be made in writing to the school principal within three school days of the designee’s decision.
    
2. The student may appeal to the superintendent or designee within three school days providing there is new evidence to be submitted.
    
3. The superintendent will render a final decision within five school days.
    
4. During the appeals process, the original decision and/or consequences that are in place will continue, until the principal renders a final decision within five school days of the appeal.

In accordance with WHPS Board of Education policy, there will be no smoking, possession, or use of any tobacco related products at any school, school sponsored event, or on any school grounds in the town of West Hartford at any time.

NOTE: This rule also applies to school sponsored events off campus, sporting events, proms, etc.

All student infractions of the tobacco regulations are referred for review to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT). For violations of the tobacco regulations, the administrator will make a reasonable effort on all offenses to contact a parent or guardian to discuss the problem along with imposing the following sanctions:

Possession of tobacco will result in an extended 4 hour Wednesday Detention. A referral to DATT will be offered. Any subsequent offenses of possession of tobacco paraphernalia will be subject to additional consequences and require a referral to DATT.

1st Offense of Tobacco Usage:

1. The student will receive a minimum of an 1 day suspension, which may be a combination of in/out of school suspension and/or Extended Wednesday Detention*.
2. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
3. The DATT will require that the student participate in tobacco education related activities.
4. Failure or refusal to complete the DATT required activities will result in additional consequences.

2nd Offense of Tobacco Usage:

1. The student will receive a minimum of a 3 day suspension, which may be a combination of in/out of school suspension and/or Extended Wednesday Detention*.
2. Student with parent/guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
3. The DATT will require that the student participate in tobacco education related activities.
4. Failure or refusal to complete the DATT required activities will result in additional consequences.

3rd Offense of Tobacco Usage:

1. The student will receive a minimum of a 5 day suspension which may be a combination of in/out of school suspension and/or Extended Wednesday Detention*.
2. The student along with a parent or guardian may be required to attend a re-entry meeting with an administrator upon return to school.
3. The DATT will require that the student participate in tobacco education related activities.
4. Failure or refusal to complete the DATT required activities will result in additional consequences.
5. The student may be referred to the Superintendent for a discretionary expulsion.

Subsequent Offenses

• The student will receive a minimum of a 10-day suspension, which may be a combination of in/out of school suspension and/or Extended Wednesday Detention*.
• The student may be referred to the Superintendent for a discretionary expulsion.
  * Extended Wednesday Detention is not an option at middle school level.

1. Assessment: An evaluation conducted by a professional to determine the student’s overall health and condition in relation to substance use.
    
2. Tobacco: Any product made or derived from tobacco or nicotine that is intended for human consumption, including any component, part, or accessory of a tobacco product. This includes, among other products, cigarettes, cigarette tobacco, roll-your-own tobacco, e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco or tobacco/nicotine inhalants or vaporizers (vapes).
    
3. Drug(s): Any alcohol, controlled drug, illegal substances, inhalants or any medication for which the student does not have a prescription from a healthcare professional, or a substance or medication which is misused. For purposes of these regulations, drugs may include facsimiles.
    
4. Controlled Drug(s): Are those drugs which contain any quantity of a substance which has been designated as subject to the federal Controlled Substances Act, or which has been designated as a depressant or stimulant drug pursuant to federal food and drug laws, or which has been designated by the commissioner of consumer protection pursuant to Section 21a-243 of the Connecticut General Statutes as having a stimulant, depressant or hallucinogenic effect upon the higher functions of the central nervous system and as having a tendency to promote abuse and/or psychological or physiological dependence. Such controlled drugs are classified as amphetamine-type, barbiturate-type, cannabis-type, cocaine-type, hallucinogenic, morphine-type and other stimulant and depressant drugs.
    
5. Drug Paraphernalia: Refers to equipment, products and materials of any kind which are used, intended for use, designed for use or which could be reasonably perceived as designed for use in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, containing or concealing or, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or introducing into the human body controlled substances (e.g. bongs, pipes, roach clips, miniature cocaine spoons, crack vials, tobacco rolling papers) or any object or container used, intended for use, or designed for use in storing, concealing, or distributing controlled substances.
    
6. Drug Facsimile: Any substance and/or object which could be reasonably perceived as an illicit drug as defined in c or d.
    
7. Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team (DATT): A committee of the Student Success Planning Team, composed of a specially trained school staff members, including administrators, school health professionals, school counselors, and psychologists and/or social workers.
    
8. Possession: Any possession which is unlawful under Connecticut State Law or West Hartford Board of Education policy.
    
9. Distribution: Actual transfer or actions leading to the transfer from one person to another.
    
10. Confiscation: When there are reasonable grounds to believe that a student is in possession of drugs, or drug paraphernalia, there is an obligation on the part of school personnel to search for and seize such drugs. Such search and seizure may involve school lockers, cars on school property, clothing, purses, book bags, books and other personal property. Reasonable efforts will be made to secure the student’s voluntary agreement to the search and to have the student present at the time of the search. All confiscated drugs or drug paraphernalia will be turned over to the police.
     
11. Use: Ingesting, injecting, inhaling or otherwise causing a drug to reach the bloodstream or digestive tract.
     
12. Offer: Make available, present for acceptance or rejection.
     
13. First Offense: The first violation of this procedure to occur during the following time period: Grades K-5, 6-8, 9-12. For example, if a student violates this procedure once in grade 5, and again in grade 7, and again in grade 9, the grade 7 and 9 violations, because they occurred at a different school level, are also considered a first offense. Further violations during each school level are counted as second or third offenses. Because of the dangers and medical consequences of repeated use, violations are regarded as cumulative while the student is enrolled in each school level.

1. Meet with a community relations officer from the West Hartford Police Department who is assigned to the school to discuss the legal ramifications of substance abuse and possession of drugs and other substances.
    
2. Attend with parent/guardian or another adult, if appropriate, one of the substance - related group sessions/meetings listed below.
   To secure information on these meetings:
   Info line 211
   860-522-4636
   Alcoholics Anonymous 860-282-5924
   Al-A-Teen 888-825-2666
   Narcotics Anonymous 800-627-3543
   Families Anonymous 800-736-9805
   Cocaine Anonymous 860-522-4636
   Co-Anon 860-522-4636
   Consult the Info line directory of Community Services available in the West Hartford Public Libraries, or contact the school librarian.
    
3. Write a 3-5 page research paper and submit to the Drug Alcohol Tobacco Team. Materials are available at the town libraries, online services, school libraries and the Connecticut Clearinghouse, 334 Farmington Avenue, Plainville, CT.
   Suggested topics are:
   A. Addiction as a Disease
   B. Adult Children of Alcoholics
   C. Health Effects of Drug/Alcohol Abuse
   D. Addiction: Hereditary or Environmental?
   E. Substance Abuse as a Family Problem
   F. Other approved topics
    
4. Interview a recovering alcoholic/drug addict and make a written report. Contact Alcoholics Anonymous (860-282-5924) or Narcotics Anonymous (1-800-627-3543).
    
5. Attend Hartford Hospital Smoking Cessation Program
    
6. Participate in other activities as may be identified by the DATT (counseling sessions, meetings with coaches or advisors, etc.)