• Mr. John Evans, Superintendent

  • 845-439-4400 

  • Main Office Ext. 1201

  • john.evans@lmcs.us

• Mr. Adam Larson, MS/HS Principal

  • 845-439-4400, Ext. 1207

  • MS/HS Office

  • adam.larson@lmcs.us

• Mrs. Julie Buck, Elementary Principal

  • 845-439-4400, Ext. 1200

  • MS/HS Office

  • julie.buck@lmcs.us

• Mr. Christpoher Hubert, MS/HS Assistant Principal Director of Educational Programs, Services, & Athletics

  • 845-439-4400, Ext. 2417

  • MS/HS Office

  • christopher.hubert@lmcs.us

• Mrs. Lauren Nielsen, Director of Special Services

  • 845-439-4400

  • MS/HS Office Ext. 1216

  • lauren.marrero@lmcs.us

Our mission is to be the best school possible for all students by ensuring competent graduates who have a healthy, positive self-image and the desire for life-long learning. This will be done by providing a challenging, well-defined curriculum taught by a competent, caring and professional staff who stays current with the latest research. This will take place in a safe and nurturing environment that fosters success.

This parent/student handbook is our catalog of services offered to LMCS students and parents. Please take the time to read this handbook together so that you are clear on the academic and behavioral expectations for this school year. All of the procedures and information in this handbook are devoted to helping students achieve success. It is important that students be able to predict if they behave in a particular way that they will earn particular grades or receive certain consequences. The information contained herein has been prepared as accurately as possible at the time this handbook went to press. Please note that items may be subject to change throughout the school year due to circumstanced deemed necessary by the administration and/or the Board of Education, or to clarify a question of interpretation if required.

Success in school is easy to maintain. We expect student to be in school daily unless they are sick. It is expected that students will organize their books and materials so they can keep track of their homework assignments and other activities. The agenda is their passport throughout the building other than between class periods.

Communication is another key to success. Ask your student daily how school is going for them. Call the guidance office to learn how you can have access to SchoolTool to monitor your student's grades weekly. Call or send emails to teachers requesting more information about the work for your student or their effort in class. Progress reports and report cards will be distributed regularly. Take time to inspect those reports with your student and to set goals for improvement. We offer our very best wishes for success in school this year.

Staff: Room name

• Mary Davis, R.N.: Nurse                   

• Rosa Finkel, Registrar/Secretary: HS Office 

• Steven Livsey,: Tech Office

• Melanie Schwartz: Library               

• Yelena Lundquist: ALC Room

• Carlee Mills: ALC Room         

• Kim Niemann: Attendance         

• Daniel Smith (Instrumental): 311

• Jordana Maraj   (Vocal Music): 302

• Angelina Coriano (MS/Elem Art):   303    

• Jessica Mall (HS Art): 125

• David Hubert: 126        

• Kathy Poppo: 229      

• Shannon Anzenberger: 200

• Meagan Edwards: 203

• Janelle Jones: 204

• Chris Towsley: 203 

• Nicole Bishop: 119

•  Ariana Vidal: 226                      

• Tiffany Gillman: 209         

• Jillian Hoag: 212    

• Dylan Smith: 406A/Gym

• Jan LeMyre: 408A/Gym

• Nicholas Wyss: 127/Gym

• Julie Potosek: 220

• Susan Norton: 225          

• Tyler Emory: 215

• Jessica Freidenstine: 210 

• Paul Favata: 202   

• Michael Hill: 205

• Jeffrey Loeffler: 218

• Zackary Enoksen: 219   

• Laurie Allen - Kuehn: 227

• Joseph Clark: 301

• Joyce Hoag: 300

• YoMary Rodriguez: 227   

• TBD: 228

• Rhonda Bischert: TBD

• Agnes Piatek (TA)

• Jennifer Pisaniello (TA)

• Maria Wells (TA)

Students are NOT permitted in the building prior to 8 a.m. Students may be sent to the cafeteria as early as 7:45 a.m. Bus students desiring breakfast may receive a permanent pass from the office that allows them to be released off the bus upon arrival and go directly to the cafeteria. Students are not to use their breakfast pass to get off the bus and loiter outside the school building. Unsupervised students are to leave the building promptly at 2:45 p.m. once the dismissal bell has rung, unless other accommodations have been made (ie. tutoring, practices, etc.

Students are to immediately report any accident to their teacher. A report is to be filed with the school nurse. The school district has secondary insurance coverage for accidental injury suffered by students. Parents/guardians maintain primary responsibility for any insurance claims.

A change in your address, phone number or other contact information must be reported to the guidance office as soon as this information is available.

Students are expected to carry their Agenda with them to every class. Students are not permitted in the halls during class periods without their signed agenda, a signed pass, or accompanied by a teacher. Students who wish to see a teacher or counselor should request a pre-signed pass. Students who misuse their passes are subject to being placed on the pass restriction.

Announcements are submitted electronically from the office to staff members each morning to be read to their classes during homeroom. The Pledge of Allegiance and topical announcements are read at 8:06 each morning during homeroom.  Daily announcements are posted on the bulletin board outside the High School Office.  Staff and students with announcements to be read are to submit them to the secretary in the High School Office. Students or organizations wishing to put up posters in school must have administrative approval before doing so and are responsible for taking them down.

At all times the student's behavior should be respectful and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of a school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, uncalled-for-clapping, talking during a program, and wearing hats or caps. Students who do not abide by these general rules will be asked to leave and may not be permitted to attend future programs. Parents will be notified and further disciplinary measures may be necessary.

Whenever a child will not be coming to school, parents should phone to report pupil absences. The number for the attendance office is 845-439-4400, ext. 1245.  A message can be left at any time.

School attendance is a fundamental concern of the student, parent and school.  Quality education cannot take place without it.  Excuses for students being absent or late are expected when the student returns to school.  If the student does not bring the excuse, his absence will be coded unexcused.  Unexcused absences may lead to a denial of credit and/or legal action.  Illegal absences or truancies are cause for legal procedures based on EDUCATIONAL NEGLECT.  Procedure dictates that a letter will be sent home and CPS will be contacted. Moreover, the School Resource Officer, School Social Worker, or other employee may follow up on excessive unexcused absences, and may make a visit to the student’s home to determine the reason for the absence and develop a plan to improve attendance.

Students who are absent more than 20% of the time may lose academic credit for that course.  The principal, in accordance with the Board of Education’s policy determines exceptions to this policy.  Further, students who enter school after the end of first period without a doctor’s note, or are absent during the regular school day cannot attend any other school or evening activity without permission from the principal.  Students arriving late must sign in with the attendance officer. 

Whenever BOCES is canceled, BOCES students may go home if their parent provides such permission and the principal grants it. Students are required to use the transportation provided by the school to attend BOCES classes. NO driving of personal vehicles or riding with friends is allowable if the student misses the school transportation to BOCES. Students who miss the bus must report to the high school office. After the first offense, disciplinary measures will apply. Additionally, any students returning back to the building from PM BOCES are to report directly to their assigned classroom.

Students who report late to school will sign-in with the attendance officer.  Students who arrive late to school may be directed to ALC for the remainder of the period to prevent classroom disruptions, and shall be responsible for getting assignments and making up the work they missed. Students who report to school after the end of the first period without a legal excuse will be prohibited from attending or participating in any events after school including concerts, athletic contests, dances, etc.  Each illegally late student will have a call home indicating to the parent that their child was late to school. 

• All students who arrive late to school unexcused will have automatic lunch detention.

• Excessive unexcused tardies (three or more) may result in additional consequences.

• All students who have unexcused tardies to class will have automatic lunch detention.

Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds between classes or lunch   Students leaving school must sign out with the attendance officer. Confirmation must be given to the attendance office from the parent/guardian.

Back packs/book bags are to be stored in lockers and are not to be carried throughout the school during the school day. unless special/extenuating circumstances dictate otherwise. Such circumstances are appropriated through administrative approval.

The Dignity Act prohibits any discrimination based on actual or perceived characteristics.  Individuals in Public Schools in New York State are protected from discrimination, harassment and persecution on the basis of actual or perceived: race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, sex, gender, sexual orientation and disability.  The intent of the Dignity Act is to protect ALL individuals in schools.

Bullying is defined as systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students.  Bullying is a repetitive abuse of power by one or more people over another.  It is verbal, physical, social, or psychological.  Bullying can be either direct or indirect.  Direct verbal bullying includes taunting, teasing, and name-calling.  Indirect verbal bullying includes spreading rumors.

Direct physical bullying includes hitting, kicking, destruction or theft of property.  Indirect physical bullying includes enlisting a friend to assault someone for you.  Direct nonverbal/nonphysical bullying includes threatening or using obscene gestures toward a student.  Indirect nonverbal/nonphysical bullying includes excluding others from a group, manipulation of friendships, or threats via Facebook or other social networking sites.  All incidents of bullying must be reported directly to the Dignity Act Coordinator. The Dignity Act Coordinator for PK-8 is Ms. Meagan Edwards and Mr. Chris Towsley for grades 9-12.

Transportation to and from school is both a right and a privilege. The school is responsible for transporting students to and from their home and school. Any acts that threaten the safety and welfare of the occupants or cause damage to the bus may result in suspension or exclusion of riding privilege. (Example: moving from seat to seat, shouting, reaching or leaning out of windows, fighting, obscenity, throwing objects, etc.) There is no acceptable reason why the majority of students riding the bus should have to be submitted to the disruptive acts of a few inconsiderate individuals.

The cafeteria will be open for breakfast from 7:45 - 8:05. Bus students desiring breakfast may be released off the bus upon arrival and go directly to the cafeteria. Students are not to get off the bus and loiter outside the school building.  Breakfast is available ala carte for all students until 8:10 a.m. Students are not to leave classes to buy breakfast, except during the first ten minutes of a morning academic prep class.

All Middle and High School students have a specific time to enter the cafeteria for lunch. Students are not to enter the cafeteria except for their scheduled lunch time. Seniors, if eligible, may eat lunch in the senior lounge. Students may not congregate in the hallways or breezeway during lunch. Students are to be in the cafeteria at all times unless they receive permission from a teacher monitoring the lunch room. Students cannot go to their lockers or to a classroom teacher without written approval.  

Lunch money is payable on a daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis.  Cash or checks made payable to the LMCS Cafeteria may be brought to school by your child.  The funds will be added to your child’s lunch card account.   Payments may also be made at https://linqconnect.com/QSK3UK.  Free breakfast and lunch will be continued.  Income Forms for the CEP need to be filled out each year.

A dining room atmosphere is maintained at all times in the cafeteria.  Throughout your life, you will encounter many opportunities to eat in a cafeteria type dining area.  The proper manners expected of you while in school are nothing more than what will be expected of you elsewhere.  Talking is to be kept at a conversational level in the cafeteria.

 All food is to be eaten in the cafeteria, trash placed in the waste bins, and trays returned to the dish area. Soda and candy are not permitted in the cafeteria during lunch periods.

There is to be no food or drink taken out of the cafeteria, except to the senior lounge for lunch, or to picnic tables in the courtyard in good weather and with approval of cafeteria supervision staff.   New York State school law does not permit the fund-raising sale of sweets (candy, cake, soda, etc.) until after the last lunch period.

Cell phones are permitted, however usage is limited to lunch time (in the cafeteria) and in between classes. Cell phones are not allowed during class, in the bathrooms, locker rooms, or nurses office. should students need to contact a parent/guardian in case of an emergency, they should report to the office to do so.

Students found in violation of the Acceptable Use of Personally Owned Devices or Bring Your Own Device Policy will be subject to discipline.  The school wide rules are as follows:

1.  Students are to put their personal device in the classroom caddy.

2. Students are to remove ear buds/headphones in the classroom.

3. Students are not to take pictures, video or audio record staff or students.

4. Students are to hand over their phone to staff when requested for disciplinary action.

5. Students are permitted to use their phone for educational purposes at the discretion of the teacher.  

Students who come to school improperly groomed or attired will not be allowed to attend classes. The dress code is thoroughly defined in the Plain Language Code of Conduct that appears later in this publication.  Coats, hats, and book bags must be stored in lockers during the instructional day. Any staff member who witnesses improper dress during the school day is to request the student change from the inappropriate dress. If the student is witnessed wearing the improper dress again during that day, or refuses to change from the inappropriate dress s/he is to be referred to the office for insubordination which may result in ALC. A parent may be notified and asked to bring appropriate clothing from home.

Students driving to school must register their vehicle in the high school principal’s office. Students must complete the Alive at 25 course before they register.   S/he will be assigned a student parking tag that must be hung from the rear-view mirror. Students are to park in the rear parking lot, to the right of the entrance ramp. Students are not permitted in their or other students' vehicles during school hours without permission from the principal. Students are not permitted to drive to any activity for which school transportation is provided.

The use of drugs and alcohol is strictly forbidden on school property.  Students caught with either drugs or alcohol in their possession will receive an immediate out-of-school suspension and the authorities will be contacted.  Students found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at school or school sponsored activities will forfeit the right to attend future events and may be referred to legal agencies.

Any student found guilty of activating an alarm or falsely reporting an incident may be subject to a fine and imprisonment.  The administration may press charges.  (Under these circumstances, we are endangering the lives of the firemen who rapidly respond to our automatic alarm system that connects the school to the firehouse). 

New York State school law requires a minimum number of emergency, fire and lockdown drills per year. Each classroom has its designated exit route for these drills. Students are to walk quietly and rapidly, stand away from the building off of the roads, and return to their classes in a similar manner at the designated signal. Drills are to be treated seriously. Students who fail to adhere to drill procedures are subject to disciplinary action.

A daily pledge to the flag is given. Students are to show proper respect during this time. Students who choose not to participate are not to interfere with the rights of others to salute the flag nor be disrespectful.

The library and computer labs should be quiet areas for study and research. Those not abiding by these rules will have their privileges restricted. Teachers may also restrict students.

1. Lab use is limited to: school related work. If necessary, we will ask for written confirmation from your teacher(s).

2. Only class assignments may be printed. Offensive material will not be entered or printed. The computer lab staff has the right to examine and approve all work.

3. There will be no food or drink in any computer area.

4. There will be no game usage, unless approved by lab staff.

5. The library and computer lab are not to be used as social areas.

6. No one will be allowed to use personal software programs or computer equipment in any lab. No software or equipment will be removed from the computer lab.

7. Remember: The use of the computer lab is a privilege, not a right. Any abuse will result in the loss of this privilege.

8. Students are not to be in the computer labs without adult supervision.

A locker with a combination is assigned to each student at the beginning of the school year. Students’ lockers should be kept locked when the student is not at his or her locker. The lockers are the property of the Livingston Manor Central School and are subject to inspection by authorized school personnel. The school is not responsible for stolen items but gives all the assistance it can in trying to uncover a theft. Students are not to go to lockers during class time without a pass from a teacher.

The Main Office houses a lost and found area. Individuals who find lost items are requested to turn them in to the Main Office. Students having lost property may inquire about it at the Main Office.

Students may NOT carry ANY medication, including aspirin or Tylenol.  Parents must bring any necessary medication to the health office.  The nurse may dispense medications, including over-the-counter medications, provided a doctor’s prescription is on file in the nurse’s office.  Students with asthma may obtain permission to carry an inhaler by providing a doctor’s order for the school nurse.  Contact the school nurse if you have any doubts.

The annual Back to School Kickoff Celebration will occur early in September.  Parent/Teacher conferences will occur following the first marking period.

All students will be photographed early in the school year for school records, and parents may purchase packages from the school photographer in the fall and the spring.  Throughout the school year our students and staff are involved in many interesting learning experiences.  Because we are proud of the programs LMCS provides, we often share photos and news in our school newsletters and/or invite the press to print a story and/or photos of some of our activities.  This is our way of recognizing our students for their many accomplishments. Please fill out the appropriate paperwork should you not want your son/daughter’s photograph(s) to be used in school-related publications/postings.

Displays of affection, other than holding hands in school or on school property are in poor taste, thus unacceptable behavior.  There is a proper time and place for a show of affection and school is not that place.  (Example:  embracing or kissing in the halls is not proper public behavior.)

In the event of severely inclement weather, mechanical breakdown, etc., school may be closed early or the starting time delayed. School closings, delayed starting time or early dismissals will be announced via various social media outlets, the school Facebook page, the School Messenger system, and on the school website: http://www.lmcs.us. If no report is made, it can be assumed that school will be in session. Please do not call the school.

Textbooks, calculators, flash drives, technology equipment and other school purchased materials that are loaned to students are to be kept in good order.  Each student will be financially responsible for school materials that are lost, stolen or damaged beyond normal wear and tear.

Attaining the status of Senior indicates that an individual has successfully completed many of the requirements towards graduation set forth by the State of New York and the Livingston Manor Central School. These individuals are to be respected for their accomplishments. They can be afforded privileges beyond those given to the rest of the student body. These privileges include, but are not limited to:

1. Use of the center staircase    

2. Senior Lockers in center hallway (when available)

3.  Senior Class Trip                

4. Use of the Senior Lounge.

All privileges require that the senior be passing all of his or her classes. With every increased privilege, we all have increased responsibilities. Seniors are expected to set good examples. Not following school rules or failing to meet academic standards will mean loss of privileges.

Smoking, vaping or using smokeless tobacco in school or on school property by students, faculty or visitors is prohibited. Violation of the School Board’s policy banning smoking or possession of these products by a student may result in a suspension.

All visitors must sign-in at the Attendance Office and present photo identification such as their driver’s license or state-issued ID card.  Visitors are not allowed to enter classrooms without approval of the Principal. Visitors are not allowed into the building during final exams.

Weapons in school or on school property by students, faculty or visitors are prohibited. Violation of the School Board’s policy banning weapons by a student will result in a Superintendent’s hearing and suspension. (See Code of Conduct for definition of weapon.)

Everyone under the age of 18 needs working papers in order to be employed.  Students should obtain their applications from Mrs. Finkel in the High School Office.

Back to school presentations will be done by the administration. Such presentations will inform students of many of the finer details/expectations for the upcoming school year. The middle/high school will meet monthly for class/officer meetings and for Olweus/Meetings that Matter. Any available clubs will meet after school.

Class fund-raising projects are aimed at providing moneys for class-sponsored programs. Example: senior trip, cap and gown, etc. Class funds are the property of the class, not individuals. Refunds of cash disbursements are not permitted.  Accounting of class funds shall be done in accordance with procedures set forth in the Class Advisor’s Handbook.

Fund-raising projects and class activities must be approved through the Student Council. If the proper procedures are not followed, the project or activity will be canceled or rescheduled.

Students wishing to bring visitors to school dances/movie nights, sneaker nights, etc., must get prior permission from the principal. The group sponsoring the event is expected to clean up, supervise and be responsible the organization of the activity. The group sponsoring the activity is responsible for any damages to school property.

The following is a list of the clubs and organizations at Livingston Manor Middle/High School, as of the print date of this handbook. Clubs may be added or removed during the school year according to student interest.   

1. Middle School Art Club (Mrs. Coriano)-  

   • Grade Levels:  7-8

   • Meeting Times:  Tuesdays from 3-4PM

   • Club Description:  The Middle School art club is a space that allows students to learn new art skills, discover art from a variety of different cultures, and make new friends

2. Tech Club (Mr. Hubert)-

   • Grade Levels:  7-12

   • Meeting Times:  Assigned monthly meetings

   • Club Description: The LMCS Tech club will engage in several different activities throughout the year.  The club has the opportunity to take part in the annual soap box derby and qualify for the end of the year event held in Ohio.

3. Future Farmers of America (FFA) (Mrs. Freidenstine)-

   • Grade Levels:  7-12

   • Meeting Times:  Assigned monthly meetings

   • Club Description: The FFA continues to grow in membership  and encourages our students to give part in many agricultural based initiatives both inside and outside of the school building.  The group will take several trips that incorporate team building activities through various competitions.

4. Yearbook (Mrs. Mall)-

   • Grade Levels:  9-12

   • Meeting Times:  Assigned monthly meetings

   • Club Description:  Club members will take part in Yearbook design and photographing of individuals  This group will be responsible for preparing the upcoming Manirosms yearbook!

5. InterAct Club (Mrs. Snow)-

   • Grade Levels:  7-12

   • Meeting Times:  Assigned monthly meetings

   • Club Description: The InerAct Club is a student-centered group that brings many school-community initiatives  to our area.  They put on two blood drives during the course of the school year and utilize student resources to bring additional events throughout the year.

6. Ski Club (Ms. Edwards)-

   • Grade Levels:  3-12

   • Meeting Times:  Thursdays and Fridays (tentative) once slopes open & trips are organized

   • Club Description:  From “never tried it'' or “just beginning” to intermediate and advanced levels, Ski Club is the perfect time to learn a skill you can use for a lifetime. The purpose of Ski Club is to introduce skiing and snowboarding as a healthy and enjoyable recreational activity for everyone.  Skiing takes place at Holiday and Elk Mountain for night skiing, where ski and snowboard lessons are available. Students in 7-12 are invited to join the Ski Club in their annual overnight ski trip! 

7. Youth Ambassadors (Ms. Hoag & Mrs. Norton)-  

   • Grade Levels: 9-12

   • Meeting Times:  Four days a week, for four weeks in the Summer Program (and time throughout the school year to implement what is created/planned during the summer).

   • Club Description: The intent of the Youth Ambassador Program is to create student leaders by providing mentorship to a small group of young adults who have interest in being responsible, setting examples for others, who want to tackle problems, and come up with solutions. Youth Ambassadors will be the liaison between students, teachers, administrators, board members and the community. Youth Ambassadors will conduct surveys and interviews to see what issues are important to the student body, meet with staff/administration and work together to brainstorm, plan and organize events. During the course of organizing events, students will learn valuable leadership skills such as proper email etiquette, organizational skills, social skills, etc. To provide some context, the first group of Youth Ambassadors worked together to create Career Day, created a year long Cultural Diversity focus which includes reading morning announcements and changing the Student Council Bulletin Board every month to match the diversity focus), and suggested assembly ideas.

8. MS/HS Student Council (Mrs. Julie Buck and Mr. Joseph Clarke)-

   • Grades- 7-8 (MS) & 9-12 (HS)

   • Meeting Times:  Assigned Monthly Meetings

   • Club Description:  The Livingston Manor Student Council is a body of students whose peers elect them in grades 7-12. The role of the members is to represent their respective classes, encourage student participation in events, and bring about change as they address student concerns.

9. Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) (Mrs. Poppo)

   • Grades- 7-8 (MS) & 9-12 (HS)

   • Meeting Times:  Assigned Monthly meetings

   • Club Description:  Now in its first full year as an approved club, the FCCLA focuses on leadership through food and consumer sciences. Since 1945, FCCLA members have been making a difference in families, careers, and communities by addressing important personal, work, and societal issues. Through participation in competitive events, becoming involved in community service opportunities, student leadership, and attending leadership conferences, members develop real world skills, explore Career Pathways, and become college- and career-ready.

Following is a list of the sports teams anticipated for this school year. Teams may be added or deleted based on student interest.  

• Fall:      Cross Country, Football, Soccer, Cheerleading, Volleyball

• Winter: Basketball, Cheerleading, Indoor Track and Field

• Spring: Baseball, Softball, Track, Golf

The school maintains a system for athletes to win varsity and junior varsity letter awards. Please consult coaches or the athletic director for the requirements in a particular sport.

1. Everyone is to treat students, teachers, aides, custodians, bus drivers and cafeteria workers with respect and courtesy. Students are to obey directives of ALL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES.

2. Everyone is to respect all property. Stealing, destroying and defacing property is not permitted. Everyone is expected to keep our school building and grounds neat and clean.

3. All movement throughout the building should be purposeful. Everyone is to move through the halls in a quiet and orderly manner.

4. Students are to report to every class with necessary materials promptly from the previous class. Missing any class or part of any class is considered a serious offense and will be met with disciplinary action.

5. Students are expected to maintain an atmosphere conducive to study in the learning areas and are not to leave an area without permission or a pass signed by the teacher in charge of that area.

6. Displays of affection are in poor taste and are not expected in the building or on school grounds.

7. The use and possession of any electronic device shall be in compliance with the District Network and Internet Policy, and/or the Acceptable Student Use of Personally Owned Devices Policy.

The Alternative Learning Center (ALC) is designed as a quiet center where students may complete school work outside of the classroom. Students are frequently sent to the ALC to complete a missed test or assignment. The ALC is also used as an alternative location for students who have violated the Student Code of Conduct. Regardless of the reason why the student is in ALC, the student must abide by the following rules:

• Students must bring textbooks and other materials needed to work, including pens, pencils and paper.

• Coats and book bags are not permitted in the ALC room.

• Students cannot talk or sleep in the ALC room.

• Students must adhere to the school dress code while in the ALC room. This means that no hats, hoods, headbands, bandanas or visors are permitted in the ALC room.

• Students are to work on schoolwork while they are in the ALC room. No outside magazines, electronic devices or games are permitted in the ALC room.

• Students may bring a lunch from home to the ALC, or they may be escorted to purchase their lunch from the cafeteria. No soda, candy, cake or gum is permitted in the ALC room.

• Students may not leave the ALC room without permission from the supervisor.

• All school rules must be followed in the ALC. Any insubordinate behavior or rudeness to the ALC supervisor(s) or to another student may result in additional consequences, such as additional days in ALC or an Out-of-School Suspension.

• Students assigned to full-day ALC or Out-of-School Suspension may not be on campus after the school day or attend any after-school activities or functions.

• Whenever an Out-of-School Suspension is the result of misbehavior in the ALC room the student is still responsible for serving the full term of the original ALC assignment upon their return from the Out-of School Suspension.

After-school detention may be assigned on Tuesdays and Thursdays (late bus provided) to students for minor disciplinary offenses that occur during the school day.

Lunch Detention may be assigned to students for minor disciplinary offenses that occur during the school day. Students assigned lunch detentions are to get their lunch first and bring it to the ALC room to eat.  Students remain in lunch detention for the entire lunch period, but are released with ample time to return their tray to the cafeteria.

Students who are assigned an out-of-school suspension are prohibited from being on school property, unless arrangements have been made for after-school tutoring between the hours of 3:00 and 5:00 pm.  Students who are suspended out of school may not attend or participate in activities on school grounds.

Teachers may assign classroom detentions for students during lunch time or after school for non-compliance with classroom rules or to make up required work.

At the end of the school year, students will receive recognition for highest average and/or for outstanding effort or performance as recommended by each teacher in their subject area.

Effective with the 10-week marking period, students receive an academic letter when a student is on the Superintendent’s List the entire year [determined after the third marking period].

Each succeeding year that a student achieves Superintendent’s list for three of four marking periods, students receive a bar [pin].

If a student achieves High Honor Roll or a combination of High Honor Roll and Superintendent’s List for three of the four marking periods in a year, students receive a pin.

Seniors who are on the Superintendent’s List in at least ¾ (or 75%) of the marking periods in each of the four academic years will receive a plaque. 

The building blocks for academic success are going to class, open communication lines, paying attention in class, doing homework and preparing for tests consistently and correctly.  Academic eligibility for extracurricular activities for students in grades 7-12 is based on weekly checks. If a student wishes to maintain eligibility, a student who is failing 2 or more courses is responsible to carry a tracking sheet, complete weekly tutoring, and have their teachers complete it each week. The student is responsible to turn in the tracking sheet to the MS/HS main office by Friday at 10 a.m.

*Eligibility status is based on all courses. All courses count and are considered in a student's eligibility status each week. All teachers sign off each week. It is within each teacher's discretion to determine if the student has mad e significant progress or is passing for the week.

• warning is provided by main office

• can practice rehearse/meet & participate and attend games/competitions extracurriculars that week

• recheck status on Friday

• complete 120 minutes of tutoring week unless week is shortened (90 minutes required)

• use !racking sheet

• can practice rehearse/meet. but no participation and attendance al games/compcti1ions extracurriculars that week

• recheck status on Friday

• complete 120 minutes or tutoring week unless week is shortened ( 90 minutes required

• use tracking sheet

• ineligible: no practice/rehearsal/meeting that week & no participation and attendance at games/competitions/extracurriculars that week

• recheck status on Friday

• complete 120 minutes of tutoring week unless week is shortened (90 minutes required)

Parents and students are encouraged to utilize the parent/student portal to stay up to date on academic progress throughout each grading period. Students should seek out extra support from individual teachers and utilize study halls to make academic improvement. Parents may request a teacher conference at any point throughout the school year. If a student has significant misconduct that might lead to a safety concern, the administration reserves the right to revoke a student 's eligibility and/or participation in all extra-curricular activities, spotting competitions, and school sponsored after school/weekend events. A student or parent may schedule a meeting with administration to discuss specific circumstances or concerns relating to eligibility. Administration reserves the right to consider significant factors for participation and/or eligibility. If deemed appropriate by administration, a contract for continued pa11icipation may be developed. Progress reports will be issued at the five-week intervals. Students continuing to fail three or more courses when progress reports are issued will remain ineligible and will be required to attend tutoring for the remainder of the marking period.

All courses attempted will be included in the cumulative average and class rank. An attempted course is any course a student takes and does not drop within the prescribed drop period whether the course is passed or failed.

Students found to be cheating (giving or receiving information) will be disciplined academically at the discretion of the teacher as well as written up.  Teachers should handle these situations according to the Code of Conduct and send a referral to the office for documentation.  Plagiarism is also considered cheating.  Plagiarism is the taking of ideas or writings of another and using it as one’s own, which includes use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) or comparable applications.

In order to be Valedictorian or Salutatorian, the seniors with the two highest averages, respectively, will also have to meet a residency requirement. Both must have completed four (4) consecutive semesters before class ranks are calculated for the final time after the third marking period of the senior year. This means they will have to have been enrolled by spring of the sophomore year to be eligible.

Courses are weighted at 3%, 5% or 7% depending on degree of difficulty.  For further explanation or a list of individual course weightings, contact the guidance office.  Since we use numbers exclusively, our students may be unfamiliar with the concept of having straight A‘s or missing a B by a point. These concepts can sometimes be used to motivate student effort. Having this conversion does not affect the grading system used by teachers; however, it will be available for student and parents if they wish to convert number grades to letter grades and, as required, for colleges, scholarships, SAT applications, and so forth.

Letter Grade: Number Grade Range:

• A: 90 – 100

• B: 80 – 89

• C: 70 – 79

• D: 65 – 69

• F: 0 - 64

Students wishing to graduate early are required to meet with their parents and guidance counselor to determine if the student can meet all graduation requirements.

Each teacher shall use the same procedure in order to hold students accountable for getting work in on time and to help them be successful.  All assignments and projects are due on the due date.  One day late will be a deduction of 10 points; two days late, 20 points; three days late, 30 points; four days late shall result in a zero.  Students who are legitimately absent can be given extra time to turn in their assignments when medical documentation has been provided.

A total of 22 credits are required for graduation, including:

• English: 4.0 credits  

• Art or Music: 1.0 credit

• Social Studies: 4.0 credits  

• Mathematics: 3.0 credits

• Science: 3.0 credits     

• Physical Education: 2.0 credits

• Language: 1.0 credit     

• Health:  0.5 credits

• Electives:  5.5 credits

 Additionally, students must pass five Regents examinations in English, Global History, United States History, Math and Earth Science or Living Environment. An Advanced Regents Diploma requires passing an additional three Regents exams consisting of two additional math Regents and one additional science Regents.

The Honor Roll (overall average of 85.0 – 89.9), High Honor Roll (90.0 – 94.9) and Superintendent’s Honor Roll (above 95.0) are computed at the end of each marking period. Students who are failing or have an incomplete in any subject are ineligible to be on the honor rolls. Students attaining honor roll status are recognized each marking period. Students attaining Superintendent’s Honor Roll status receive additional recognition at the end of the school year.

1. Course Outline. On the first day each course meets, teachers are to provide students with a Course Outline. The course outline is to include a course description, units covered, materials needed, grading procedure, classroom rules & expectations, and approximate dates of tests and major assignments. The course outline is to include a signature page that is to be signed by both the student and parent and returned to the teacher on the second day that the course meets. Teachers may count the return of the signature page as a homework assignment.

2. The passing grade in the Middle/High School is 65%.

3. All 7-12 report card grades are to be entered on a scale of 0-100.

4. High School courses can be year or semester-long.  Each semester consists of two marking periods. Each year long course will have four marking periods. 

5. With the exception of semester-long non-core courses, all Middle School courses are to be year-long and consist of four marking periods. All courses in both the High School and Middle School are to include a mid-term examination that counts as 5% of the final grade and a final evaluation that counts as 15% of the final grade.

6. All students taking courses, in which Regents Examinations are available, will be expected to take the Regents Exam as the final assessment.

7. A special bulletin is issued each December and May that describes the schedules and procedures for local exam and Regents days.

8. Incomplete Marks: In cases of extended absence or illness, teachers are allowed to assign a mark of Incomplete (I).  Incompletes are to be removed within ten (10) school days, with the recalculated grade submitted to the Guidance Office.

    

In order to move to the next grade, seventh through eighth grade students must pass at least three of the five core courses (English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and Spanish).  If a summer school is offered, students may attend summer school and if they pass the courses taken in summer school they may become eligible for promotion. Students may only take up to two courses in summer school.

 Students who are promoted, but have failed core courses, will be scheduled for Academic Intervention Services in the failed subject areas the subsequent year.

Parents of middle school students failing three or more courses after two marking periods will be so notified by guidance. Parents of middle school students failing three or more courses after three marking periods will be contacted by guidance to arrange a meeting for the parents and the student with guidance and the principal. Parents will continue to be kept informed of the student’s progress, or lack thereof, through the annual promotion meeting in June. Promotion, attendance in summer school, and retention will be determined at the annual promotion meeting in June.

To be classified as a Sophomore, a student must have earned at least six (6) credits. To be classified as a Junior, a student must have earned at least twelve (12) credits. To be classified as a Senior, a student must have earned at least eighteen (18) credits. Privileges of class activities are reserved for those who have earned full class standing. (e.g., only full-fledged seniors [students with 18 credits in September] will be permitted to take the Senior Trip).

The highest honor bestowed on any middle/high school student is to be named to the National Honor Society (or Junior Honor Society). Our utmost respect goes to those students. Induction requirements include:

1. Student must maintain an 88% cumulative average since the beginning of high school at Livingston Manor. National Junior Honor Society Members must maintain an 86% average since the beginning of 7th grade.

2. Student must complete and turn in the "Student Activity Information Form" to the National Honor Society advisor(s).

3. Final screening is in the hands of the faculty council. Students denied induction may request why they were not inducted in an effort to improve in that area for the next induction period. The key areas are: academics, scholarship, service, leadership and character.

4. Poor conduct (fighting, cheating, etc.) may prevent induction in a given year.

Student’s applications and screening procedures are privileged information. Applicants, the advisor and council members are not to discuss this information except within the privacy of their counseling and/or committee meetings.

Students in third through eighth grades are required to take New York State Assessment Exams.  These exams are used as a tool to measure student proficiency in English, Math, and Science according to New York State’s Standards for Education.  The results on these assessments will not be included on the student’s official transcript or in the student’s permanent record and are provided to students and parents for diagnostic purposes.  The scores are based on a range of 1-4; with level 1 indicating a student is performing well below being proficient in standards for their grade, and a level 4 indicating a student is exceling in standards for their grade.  Students receiving a level 1 or a level 2 on an assessment will be scheduled for Academic Intervention Services (AIS) in that subject area.

Report cards will be issued four times in the school year.  Progress Reports will be issued at 5 weeks by mail or hand-delivered to students.  Teachers are responsible for notifying parents after the first five weeks of a marking period if a student is in danger of failing at the ten-week report.

Students retaking Regents Exams without any additional help or practice almost universally fail. Therefore, students who have failed a Regents Exam will be scheduled into Academic Intervention Services (AIS) before retaking the exam. AIS may be scheduled during the school day or during tutoring sessions after school.

Students withdrawing from school or transferring to another district shall notify the guidance office to complete a withdrawal/transfer form.  All school properties (textbooks, calculators, etc.) must be returned and all lockers cleaned out.  Credits will be transferred to another school when a record request is received form the district.  Students are legally required to remain in school through the academic school year in which they turn 16 years old.

LMCS maintains a comprehensive attendance policy.  The following information displays a portion of it.  Further details and examples can be found in the full version.

Objectives – The objectives of the Livingston Manor Central School Comprehensive Attendance Policy are: 

• To accurately track the attendance, absences, tardiness, and early departure of students to and from school

• To ensure sufficient pupil attendance of classes so that pupils may achieve New York State mandated educational requirements.

• To track student location for safety reasons and to account to parents regarding the location of children during school hours.

Definitions: Whenever used within the Comprehensive Attendance Policy, the following terms shall mean:

• Scheduled Instruction: Every period a pupil is scheduled to attend instruction or supervised study activities during the course of the school day during the school year.

• Absent:  The pupil is not present for the entire period of the pupil’s scheduled instruction.

• Tardy:  The pupil arrives later than the starting time of the pupil’s scheduled instruction.

• Early Departure:  The pupil leaves prior to the end of the pupil’s scheduled instruction. 

The time that the pupil arrived or departed will be recorded next to the entry code describing the nature and reason for the student missing all or part of scheduled instruction.  

Where a pupil has not been marked as present for the first period of scheduled instruction and the school has not been previously notified of the absence, the district shall attempt to contact the pupil’s parents(s) or person in parental relation via our School Messenger notification system.

Special Notes:  If a student is suffering from a prolonged illness or condition which prevents him/her from attending school, the student should be referred to the Section 504 committee to determine if services are appropriate.  In all cases, the parent must provide the district with written documentation from a medical professional detailing the nature and length of the illness and the approximate time the student will be unable to attend school.

If the student’s absenteeism is due to the parents’ or guardians’ failure to enable attendance, the school is required to report the matter to the Central Registry of the State Department of Social Services (1-800-635-1522).

School attendance is a fundamental concern of the student, parent and school.  Quality education cannot take place without it.  Section 175.6 of the Commissioner’s regulations specifically defines “excused absences”.  The following chart lists what may be considered “excused” and “unexcused.”

• Sickness or  quarantine

• Impassable Roads

• Dangerous Weather Conditions

• District Not Transporting

• Religious Observation

• Approved College Visit

• Death in Family

• Medical/Dental Appointment

• Military Obligation

• Court appearance/incarceration or disciplinary detention

• or any other reasons approved in advance by the Administration.  

• Cold Weather/Hot Weather,

• Missed the Bus

• Babysitting

• Needed At Home

• Shopping

• Overslept / Being Tired

• Vacation/Traveling

• Hair Appointment

• Working

1. 3 Unexcused absences = Verbal warning and parent/guardian contact

2. 5 Unexcused absences = Parent/guardian contact

3. 5 Excused Absences = Letter from the Principal

4. 10 Absences = Letter from Principal, set up meeting with parent and student to create an Attendance Contract.

5. 5 Absences= Letter from Principal, meeting with administration, staff, parent and student to re-evaluate attendance contract and discuss referrals to outside agencies.

Pupils shall not be permitted to leave before the end of the school day, unless permission of the parent or guardian is first secured.  The principal shall exercise discretionary judgment in excusing pupils.   The student should bring a note signed by his parent or guardian stating the time it will be necessary for him to leave school and the reason, as well as who will be picking up the child.    The student shall present the note to the attendance office before the first class of the day.  Passes from school may be subject telephone verification with the parent or guardian.  Once a student is given permission to leave the school grounds for an appointment, s/he is expected to keep his appointment and return to school that day, if possible.   Students who are dismissed early must sign out with the attendance officer.

Any student who is too ill to remain in class is to report to the school nurse.  Students who are released to go home early due to illness or injury must be picked up by the parent or the parents’ designee.  Students who are released early due to illness must sign out with the attendance officer.    

The Livingston Manor Central School District provides district-owned equipment, internet services, and access to students and staff for mutual convenience.  Therefore, there is no expectation of privacy in the use of any District-owned equipment or services, including, but not limited to wired or wireless access.  All traffic and information of any kind traveling over any of the above may be searched at the convenience of the District.

The District reserves the right to control access to the network, and internet for all users of the district-owned technology devices and network.  The District may either allow or prohibit certain kinds of activity through technology devices or access to specific websites.

All students shall review and agree to adhere to this policy and associated technology guidelines before utilizing any school or personally-owned devices for educational purposes.  The District reserves the right to restrict student use of district-owned and personally-owned technology devices on school property or at school-sponsored functions.

Technology devices shall include all existing and emerging technology devices that can take photographs; records audio or video; input text; upload and download media; and transmit or receive messages or images.  Examples of a personally-owned device shall include, but are not limited to:  MP3 players and iPods; iPads, Nooks, Kindle, and other tablet PCs; laptop and netbook computers; personal digital assistant (PDAs), cell phones and smart phones such as BlackBerry, iPhone, Droid, or Smartwatch as well as any device with similar capabilities.

Educational purposes include, but are not limited to:  support or enhancement of classroom activities and instruction, career development and exploration, as a research tool, homework and tutoring, enrichment or supplementary instruction; skill development and training, to assess learning, as well as for limited high-quality, self-discovery activities.  Students are expected to act responsibly and thoughtfully when using technology resources.  Students bear the burden of responsibility to inquire and seek clarification from school administrators and/or teachers when they are unsure of the permissibility of a particular use of technology prior to engaging in the use.

Unacceptable devices in this policy shall include, but is not limited to gaming devices or consoles, laser pointers, modems or routers, and televisions or any other device that causes a disruption to the learning process or interrupts the education environment.

 Liability for student Personally-Owned Technology Devices – The District shall not be liable for the loss, damage, misuse, or theft of any personally-owned technology devices on school property or brought to school by a student.  The student is responsible for the proper care of the personally-owned technology device, including any costs of repair, replacement or any modifications needed to use the device at school.  The District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, and review a personally-owned device, or media or file on said device, when administration has a reasonable suspicion that a violation of acceptable use has occurred or that a device was used while committing a disciplinary infraction.

Inappropriate communication includes all communications subject to discipline under the District’s Code of Conduct.  No technology device may be used for inappropriate communications.  Students are not permitted to use any technology devices to record audio or video media or take pictures of unauthorized media or file may result in discipline including, but not limited to suspension or expulsion per the Code of Conduct or possible criminal charges depending upon the severity and circumstances surrounding the violation.

Violations of the Code of Conduct or this policy involving a technology device may result in the confiscation and retention of that device as evidence by the District for the duration of any investigation, including through the duration of any hearings or appeals.

Livingston Manor Central School has adopted a BYOD policy for all students in grades 7-12. This policy allows students to bring many of their own technology devices to use in school where permitted. This includes laptops, iPads, tablets, netbooks, cell phones and other devices with browsing capabilities for educational purposes only.  Similar to other personally owned items, the district is not liable for the loss, damage, misuse or theft of personally –owned electronic devices brought to school.

Expectations are as follows:

1. Students will only use appropriate technology at teachers’ discretions.

2. Students will only use appropriate educational applications on their device.

3. Students are not to call, text message, email, or electronically communicate with others from their personal device, including other students, parents, guardians, friends and family during instructional time.

4. Students in violation of the Acceptable Student Use of Personally Owned Device Policy, will be subject to discipline. Any student who refuses to surrender an electronic device will be referred to the office for insubordination.  Students are not to bring such devices to any testing site.  Students found using an electronic device during exams/testing will have their tests invalidated.

Students are never required to bring in their own personal devices.  All students have the right to utilize school equipment.  No student will be left out of the instructional process. 

The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parental permission is not required. Access is a privilege – not a right. Access entails responsibility.

Internet access will be provided to the students of the district in accordance with the terms of this policy. Internet access from school district computers is reserved solely for educational purposes. Use by students, clubs and organizations is limited to those times when the Internet access points are not in use for instruction and shall be limited to educational purposes and governed by this policy. Access to the network and the Internet will be under the direction and supervision of the staff assigned to the Internet access area. All Students must sign an acceptable use policy agreement.

 The school reserves the right to monitor all Internet and Network activity including transmission and receipt of e-mail. Network administrators will review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure users are using the system responsibly.

A violation of this policy will be treated as a violation of the student discipline code and specifically as a violation of that section of the code, which subjects a student to disciplinary action for the failure to comply with the directions of a teacher, administrator, or other school employee. A violation of this network policy and internet policy may also result in the loss of network and internet privileges.  Violations may also result in other disciplinary or legal action.

The Livingston Manor Central School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, nationality, belief, or lifestyle. It does not discriminate in employment or in the educational programs and activities, which it operates on the basis of sex, race or handicap in violation of Title IX of the Educational Amendment Act of 1972, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. A full grievance procedure was given to each student in September and is available in the Main Office.

The Board of Education believes that getting young people involved in the election process helps to secure the future of democracy by preparing young people to be educated, engaged voters who have formed the habit of voting and contributing to civic life early.  
 
In an effort to promote student voter registration, the Board directs the building principal or their designee to offer all students who are at least 16 years old (but will not be 18 years old by the next election) the opportunity to pre-register to vote. These students must be otherwise qualified to register to vote. These pre-registrations will be automatically registered upon reaching the age of eligibility following verification of the person’s qualifications and address.
Students who do not wish to pre-register to vote do not have to do so. There will be no penalty (including participation grades or credits) for choosing not to do so.

Note:  The terms and conditions in the student handbook may be subject to change in situations where there are emergencies or changes in law which suspend or modify part of the student handbook.

A plain language version of the School District’s Code of Conduct follows, with a print-friendly version here. A full version is available online and in the Superintendent’s office.  Students are responsible for compliance with the Code and violations will be dealt with accordingly.  Regarding footwear, be advised that flip flops, sandals without a heel strap, or any other shoes deemed to be a safety hazard are not permitted in school.

All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance.  Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting.  A student's dress, grooming and appearance while on school property or on school sponsored events, including jewelry (piercings), accessories (items that may endanger oneself or others), make-up, and nails, shall:

1. Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.

2. Recognize that extremely brief garments that overly expose an individual are prohibited.

3. Ensure that undergarments are completely covered with outer clothing.

4. Include footwear at all times.  Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be allowed.

5. Not include the wearing of shoes or sneakers with wheels.

6. Head coverings should not include the wearing of hoods, unless granted for religious purposes. Hats may be worn at the discretion of the teacher; for purposes of safety or work-related confidentiality. they must be removed at the teacher's request.

7. Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous, or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

8. Not promote and/or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs and/or encourage other illegal or violent activities.

Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item, and if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item.  Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including in-school suspension for the day.  Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including out of school suspension.

The Board of Education expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner, with regard for the rights and welfare of others, as well as, for the school and equipment.  Students must learn to accept responsibility for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their misbehavior. Students who do not accept responsibility for their own behavior and violate school rules will be subject to disciplinary consequences, up to and including suspension from school, for the following conduct:

1. Engage in conduct that is disorderly, for example:

   1. Running in hallways.

   2. Making unreasonable noise.

   3. Using profane, lewd, vulgar or abusive language or gestures.

   4. Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.

   5. Engaging in any willful act which disrupts the normal operation of the school community.

   6. Trespassing. Students are not permitted in any school building or its entities without permission from the administrator in charge of the building.

   7. Computer/electronic communications misuse, including any unauthorized use of computers, software, or internet/ intranet account; accessing inappropriate websites; or any other violation of the district’s acceptable use policy.

2. Engage in conduct that is insubordinate or disruptive, for example:

   1. Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school administrators or other school employees in charge of students or otherwise demonstrating disrespect.

   2. Lateness for, missing or leaving school without permission, or skipping detention.

   3. Inappropriate public sexual contact or public displays of affection such as kissing, fondling, and behaviors that are offensive to others.

   4. Display or use of personal electronic devices while school is in session, but not limited to, cell phones, I-pods, digital cameras, in a manner that is in violation of district policy.  Personal electronic devices, if brought to school, are to be turned off and left in the student’s locker during the school day unless used with permission of administration or teaching personnel as part of the curriculum. 

3. Engage in conduct that is violent, for example:

   1. Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon any school personnel, students, or other person lawfully on school property or attempting to do so.

   2. Possessing a weapon, displaying what appears to be a weapon, or threatening to use any weapon.  Authorized law enforcement officials are the only persons permitted to have a weapon in their possession while on school property or at a school function.

   3. Intentionally damaging or destroying school property, the personal property of a district employee, or any person lawfully on school property, including graffiti or arson.

4. Engage in any conduct that endangers the safety, physical or mental health or welfare of others or oneself, for example:  (See Policy 0115 relating to harassment and bullying.)

   1. Subjecting other students, oneself, school personnel or any other person lawfully on school property or attending a school function to danger by recklessly engaging in conduct which creates a substantial risk of physical injury.

   2. Stealing or attempting to steal the property of other students, school personnel or any other person lawfully on school property or attending a school function.

   3. Defamation, which includes making false or unprivileged statements or representations about an individual or identifiable group of individuals that harm the reputation of such by demeaning them.

   4. Discrimination, which includes using  race, color, creed, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, sex, gender (identity and expression), sexual orientation, weight or disability  to deny rights, equitable treatment or access to facilities available to others.

   5. Harassment, which includes a sufficiently severe action or persistent pervasive pattern of actions or statements directed at an identifiable individual or group which are intended to be, or which a reasonable person would perceive as ridiculing or demeaning.  Harassment is also the creation of a hostile environment. 

   6. Intimidation, which includes engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in fear of bodily harm.

   7. Bullying which may be a hostile activity which harms or induces fear through the threat of further aggression and/or creates terror.

   8. Hazing which includes an induction, initiation or membership process involving harassment

   9. Selling, using, distributing or possessing obscene material.

   10. Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing or swearing.

   11. Smoking a cigarette, cigar, pipe or using chewing or smokeless tobacco.

   12. Possessing, consuming, selling, distributing or exchanging alcoholic beverages or illegal substances, or being under the influence of either. "Illegal substances" include, but are not limited to, inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, look-alike drugs, and any substances commonly referred to as "designer drugs."

   13. Inappropriately using or sharing prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

   14. Gambling.

   15. Indecent exposure, that is, exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or indecent manner.

   16. Initiating a report warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misuse of 911, or discharging a fire extinguisher.

5. Engage in misconduct while on a school bus.  It is crucial for students to behave appropriately while riding on district provided transportation to ensure their safety and that of other passengers, and to avoid distracting the bus driver.   Students are required to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior. 

6. Engage in any form of academic misconduct, for example:

   1. Plagiarism, cheating, copying, or altering records.

   2. Assisting another student in any of the above actions.

7. Engage in off-campus misconduct that interferes with, or can reasonably be expected to substantially disrupt the educational process in the school or at a school function, for example:

   1. Cyberbullying (i.e., inflicting willful and repeated harm through the use of electronic text).

   2. Threatening or harassing students or school personnel over the phone or other electronic medium.

If the conduct of a student is related to a disability or suspected disability, the student shall be referred to the Committee on Special Education and discipline, if warranted, shall be administered consistent with the separate requirements of this code of conduct for disciplining students with a disability or presumed to have a disability.  A student identified as having a disability shall not be disciplined for behavior related to his/her disability.

Students who are found to have violated the district's code of conduct may be subject to penalties within the following range of penalties, either alone or in combination, and in a progressive manner based on the severity of the infraction. The school personnel identified after each penalty are authorized to impose that penalty, consistent with the student's right to due process.

1. Oral warning – any member of the district staff

2. Written warning – bus drivers, hall and lunch monitors, coaches, guidance counselors, teachers, Principal, Superintendent

3. Written notification to parent – bus driver, aides, monitors, coaches, guidance counselors, teachers, Principal, Superintendent

4. Detention – teachers, Principal, Superintendent

5. Suspension from transportation – Director of Transportation, Principal, Superintendent

6. Suspension from athletic participation – coaches, Principal, Superintendent

7. Suspension from social or extracurricular activities – activity director, Principal, Superintendent

8. Suspension of other privileges – Principal, Superintendent

9. In-school suspension – Principal, Superintendent

10. Removal from classroom by teacher – teachers, Principal

11. Short-term (five days or less) suspension from school – Principal, Superintendent, Board

12. Long-term (more than five days) suspension from school –Superintendent, Board

13. Permanent suspension from school – Superintendent, Board.

1. Students who bring or possess a weapon on school property:
   Any student, other than a student with a disability, found guilty of bringing a weapon onto school property will be subject to suspension from school for at least one calendar year.  Before being suspended, the student will have an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to Education Law §3214. The Superintendent has the authority to modify the one-year suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Superintendent may consider the following:

   1. The student's age.

   2. The student's grade in school.

   3. The student's prior disciplinary record.

   4. The Superintendent's belief that other forms of discipline may be more effective.

   5. Input from parents, teachers and/or others.

   6. Other extenuating circumstances.
      A student with a disability may be suspended only in accordance with the requirements of state and federal law.

2. Students who commit violent acts other than bringing or possessing a weapon on school property:
   Any student, other than a student with a disability, who is found to have committed a violent act, other than bringing a weapon onto school property, shall be subject to suspension from school for at least five days unless otherwise determined by the Superintendent.

3. Students who are repeatedly substantially disruptive of the educational process or repeatedly substantially interferes with the teacher's authority over the classroom:
   Any student, other than a student with a disability, who repeatedly is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom, will be suspended from school for at least five days. For purposes of this code of conduct, “repeatedly is substantially disruptive” means engaging in conduct that results in the student being removed from the classroom by teacher(s) pursuant to Education Law § 3214 (3-a) and this code on multiple occasions.

1. The Guidance Office shall handle all referrals of students to counseling.

2. The district may file a PINS (person in need of supervision) petition in Family Court on any student under the age of 18 who demonstrates that he or she requires supervision and treatment by:

   1. Being habitually truant and not attending school as required by part one of Article 65 of the Education Law.

   2. Engaging in an ongoing or continual course of conduct which makes the student ungovernable or habitually disobedient and beyond the lawful control of the school.

   3. Knowingly and unlawfully possesses marijuana in violation of Penal Law § 221.05.  A single violation of § 221.05 will be a sufficient basis for filing a PINS petition.

3. The Superintendent is required to refer the following students to the County Attorney for a juvenile delinquency proceeding before the Family Court:

   1. Any student under the age of 16 who is found to have brought a weapon to school, or

   2. Any student 14 or 15 years old who qualifies for juvenile offender status under the Criminal Procedure Law § 1.20 (42).

4. The Superintendent is required to refer students age 16 and older or any student 14 or 15 years old who qualifies for juvenile offender status to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

 The Board encourages parents and district residents to visit the school to observe the work of students, teachers and other staff. Certain limits are set for such visits.   The Principal or his or her designee is responsible for all persons in the building and on the grounds.  The following rules apply to visitors to the schools:

1. Anyone who is not a regular staff member or student of the school will be considered a visitor.

2. All visitors to the school must report to the Front Desk/ Attendance Office upon arrival at the school.  There they will be required to sign the visitor's register and present photo identification.  A visitor's identification badge will be issued which must be worn at all times while in the school or on school grounds.  The visitor must return the identification badge to the Front Desk/ Attendance Office before leaving the building.

3. Visitors attending school functions that are open to the public, such as concerts, athletic events, parent-teacher organization meetings, or other designated public gatherings are not required to register as determined by the administration.

4. Teachers are expected not to take class time to discuss individual matters with visitors.

5. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the Principal or his or her designee.  Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave.  The police may be called if the situation warrants as determined by the administration or designee.

6. All visitors are expected to abide by the rules for public conduct on school property contained in this code of conduct.

    

The district is committed to providing an orderly, respectful environment that is conducive to learning.  All persons on school property or attending a school function shall conduct themselves in a respectful and orderly manner, and are expected to be properly attired for the purpose they are on school property.  No person shall:

1. Intentionally injure any person or threaten to do so.

2. Intentionally damage or destroy school district property or the personal property of a teacher, administrator, other district employee or any person lawfully on school property, including graffiti or arson.

3. Disrupt the orderly conduct of classes, school programs or other school activities.

4. Distribute or wear materials on school grounds or at school functions that are obscene, advocate illegal action, appear libelous, obstruct the rights of others, or are disruptive to the school program.

5. Intimidate, harass or discriminate against any person on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sex, sexual orientation, or gender (including gender identity and expression).

6. Enter the school premises without authorization or remain in the building or school facility after it is normally closed.

7. Obstruct the free movement of any person in any place to which this code applies.

8. Violate the traffic laws, parking regulations or other restrictions on vehicles. 

9. Possess, consume, sell, distribute or exchange alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, or be under the influence of either on school property or at a school function

10. Possess or use weapons in or on school property or at a school function, except in the case of law enforcement officers or except as specifically authorized by the school district.

11. Loiter on or about school property.

12. Gamble on school property or at school functions.

13. Refuse to comply with any reasonable order of identifiable school district officials performing their duties.

14. Willfully incite others to commit any of the acts prohibited by this code.

15. Violate any federal or state statute, local ordinance or Board policy while on school property or while at a school function.

Persons who violate this code shall be subject to the following penalties: 

1. Visitors.  Their authorization, if any, to remain on school grounds or at the school function shall be withdrawn and they shall be directed to leave the premises.  If they refuse to leave, they shall be subject to ejection.

2. Students.  They shall be subject to disciplinary action as the facts may warrant, in accordance with the due process requirements. 

3. Tenured faculty members.  They shall be subject to disciplinary action as the facts may warrant in accordance with Education Law § 3020-a or any other legal rights that they may have.

4. Staff members in the classified service of the civil service entitled to the protection of Civil Service Law § 75.  They shall be subject to immediate ejection and to disciplinary action as the facts may warrant in accordance with Civil Service Law § 75 or any other legal rights that they may have.

5. Staff members other than those described in subdivisions 3 and 4. They shall be subject to warning, reprimand, suspension or dismissal as the facts may warrant in accordance with any legal rights they may have.

The Principal or his/her designee shall be responsible for enforcing the conduct required by this code.

Note: Policies and procedures are subject to change.

• Faculty/Staff list

• Building Procedures

• Student Activities

• Student Code of Conduct

• Academic Procedures

• School District Policies

• Code of Conduct

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