MISSION STATEMENT
Apollo-Ridge School District - a partnership of students, parents, schools and community - has the mission of preparing a diverse student population to be both academically fit and responsible, productive, and accountable citizens in a rapidly changing world through a vision of hope for a future that challenges all to risk and succeed.
Belief Statements
1. All children can learn.
2. Each child has unique characteristics and talents.
3. Apollo-Ridge Schools respect human dignity.
4. Schools of the future do not need to resemble the schools of the past.
5. Education is a lifelong process.
6. Schools can meet the educational needs of all citizens
7. Education creates diverse opportunities for renewal of self, encourages excellence and values, cooperation and creativity.
8. Parental involvement is essential to a child’s education.
9. Comprehensive career exploration is essential to a student’s vocational success.
10. Teaching students how to think is essential to problem solving.
11. Effective programs are responsive to the needs of a culturally and economic diverse population.
12. Global awareness is required of a global citizenry.
13. Effective and regular communication promotes community understanding of education’s importance in shaping the future.
14. Unified purpose and partnerships with community, business, parents and service organizations enable schools to respond effectively to the needs of students and the nation.
15. Teachers are facilitators and coaches.
16. Students learn from each other.
17. Schools are accountable to the public they serve.
Nondiscrimination Statement
Apollo-Ridge School District is an equal opportunity educational institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, culture, religion, sex, marital status, age, political beliefs, socio-economic status, disabling condition, or vocational interest in its activities, programs or employment practices as required in Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, or for information regarding services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons, contact:
Dr. Anne Simmons Mr. Frank Davis
Title IX Coordinator Section 504 Coordinator
P.O. Box 219 P. O. Box 219
Spring Church, PA l5686 Spring Church, PA 15686
Phone: (724) 478-1141 ext. 7303 Phone: (724) 478-1141 ext. 7750
Hrs. 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Hrs. 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
SCHOOL COLORS
ROYAL BLUE AND GOLD
SCHOOL MASCOT
VIKING
ALMA MATER
Apollo-Ridge High School
is in our memory,
Her colors remain with our
hearts eternally.
Viking School we honor,
blue and gold esteem.
Apollo-Ridge High School
A Unity of Strength and Dreams
Alma Mater Hail!
APOLLO-RIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF EDUCATION
William L. Naser, President
Sheila A. Martin, Vice President
Lance B.Foster
Sharon R. Jaworskyj
Gerald J. Medice
Raymond C. O’Neil
Mark V. Rollinson
Debra L. Schrecengost
Mark L. Shaffer
Coleen S. Steim, Secretary
ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Michael J. Vranesevic, Superintendent
Dr. Anne E. Simmons, Director of Curriculum
Mr. Jim F. Thimons, Principal
COUNSELORS
Mr. Sean McNally - Students A-K
Mrs. Sarah Beneigh* - Students L-Z
SECRETARIES
Ms. Cindy Altman
Mrs. Sheryl W. Baum
Mrs. Patrica Dobrowolski
FACULTY
Mrs. Sally Aikins……………………………….…….……..….….…………Business
Ms.Nancy Blyshak………………….………….…………….…...…….….…Science
Ms. Tara Bollinger*…………………………….……………….….Learning Support
Mr. William Brayshaw………………………….………..…...…Technical Education
Mrs. Marlene Buchner……………………………………...……..………..….English
Mrs. Sandra Carney*…………………………………….……………....Mathematics
Mr. Matthew Curci……………………………………….……………….Mathematics
Mrs. Darlene Darby…………………………………..….…..……Physical Ed/Health
Mr. William Duff……………………………...………….………….……..Vocal Music
Mr. Robert Eddy………………………………………...…………..……Mathematics
Mr. Bruce Elder…..………………………….…………..…Gifted/Computer Science
Mr. Robert J. Fello……...……………………………………....…Physical Ed/Health
Mr. Matthew Ferguson…………………...………………………….…….………..Art
Mrs. Carolyn Ferrence………………………………………………..……..….English
Mr. Scott Gillespie……………………………………………………….……..Science
Mr. Todd Hickman………………………………………..………Technical Education
Mrs. Barbara Homa*……………………………...…………………Learning Support
Mrs. Jessica Johns……………………………………………….…….Social Studies
Mr. Jeff Jones………………………………………………….…Technical Education
TBA…………………….…………………………………………….……….….Spanish
Mrs.Diane Kyle*..…………………………………………………….………..Librarian
Mr. Larry Lizik………………....………………………………………………Business
Mr. Mark Miedel…………………………........………………………………...English
Ms. Brenda Miller……………………………………….…Family/Consumer Science
Mrs. Julianne Opalka…………………………………....….………………….Science
Mrs. Diane Paulina………………………………………..Family/Consumer Science
Mrs. Cynthia Querio…………………………………………………….Social Studies
Mr. Nenad Radulovich………………………………………………….Social Studies
Mr. Domenic Roberto……...…………………………………….……..Social Studies
Mrs. Kelly Shoop........................................................................Learning Support
Mr. John Simon*…………………………………………………….…….Mathematics
Mrs. Karen Skroupa…………….………………………………………….…Life Skills
Mr. Tim Steinback……………………………………………………….……..Science
Mr. Donald Varuola…………………………………………..……Instrumental Music
Mrs. Maria Versace……………………………………………………………..French
Mrs. Judith Walker*………………………………………………….…..School Nurse
Mrs. Deborah Wright…………………………………………………….….…..English
Mr. Robert Zoldak………………………………………………………….......Science
* Student Assistance Team
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. GUIDANCE AND ACADEMIC
Pupil Records 6
Notification of Rights FERPA 6
Formal Testing Program 8
Service for School Age Exceptional Students 9
Graduation Requirements 10
Weighted Courses 10
Scheduling Changes 10
Grading System 11
Grade Reporting 11
Honor Roll 11
Summer School 11
Early Studies 12
Withdrawals/Transfers. 12
National Honor Society 12
Honors Banquet Qualifications 12
Academic Eligibility 13
School Related/Field Trips 13
Student Complaint Process 13
Student Assistance Program 13
Homebound Instruction 13
After School Enrichment 14
Make Up Procedures/Incomplete 14
Lenape-Vocational Technical School 14
II. ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
Purpose of Attendance 15
Compulsory School Age 15
Absence from School 15
Excused Absence 15
Unexcused Absence 15
Tardiness 15
Explanation for Absence 15
Return to School 15
Excessive Absenteeism 16
First Offense 16
Second Offense 16
Loss of Academic Credit 17
Attendance Appeal Process 18
Temporary Excuses 19
Early Dismissals 19
Educational Trips/Tours 19
Religious Holidays 19
Student Information 19
Seventeen Years or Older 20
Student Withdrawals (17 or older) 20
III. DISCIPLINE REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES
Section A. Student Rights/Responsibilities
12.1 Free Education/Attendance 21
12.2 Student Responsibilities 21
12.3 School Rules 21
12.4 Discrimination/Resolution Process 22
12.5 Exclusions from School 23
12.6 Saturday Detention 24
12.7 Hearings 24
12.8 Freedom of Expression 25
12.9 Flag Salute/Pledge of Allegiance 26
12.10 Hair and Dress 26
12.11 Confidential Communications 26
12.12 Searches 27
Section B. Guidelines of Discipline Procedures
Levels of Misconduct 27
Definitions of Violations 28
Definitions of Major Discipline Responses 28
Detention 28
Alternative Education 29
Student Misconduct Disciplinary Response 30-33
Cheating. 34
Section C. Illegal Drugs and Alcohol
Related Situations 34-37
School Procedures 37-41
Section D. Weapons on School Property 42
Section E. Smoking/Tobacco 42
Section F. Taking of Medication 42
Section G. School Bus Behavior
Rules of Conduct 43
Bus Evacuation Drills 44
Section H. General Rules and Regulation
Leaving School Without Permission 44
Section I. Student Driving 44
Section J. Co-Curricular Activities 45
Section K. Student Dress 45
Section L. Cafeteria Regulation 46
Section M. Food in the Building 46
Section N. Public Displays of Affection 47
Section O. Portable Radios/Tape Players 47
Section P. Acceptable Use of Technology 47
Section Q. Safety 47
IV. GENERAL PROCEDURES
Arrival at School 47
Bus Arrival/Departure/Restrictions 48
Announcements 48
Resource Time 48
Hall Passes 48
New Activities-Formation 48
Health Room 49
Leaving School When Ill 49
Library.... 49
Assembly Program 49
Telephone 50
Dismissal 50
Care of School Property 50
Locks/Lockers 51
Authorization to Conduct Searches 51
Responsibility 52
School Debts 52
Visitors/Guests 52
School Dances 52
School Closings/Delays 53
Vending Machines 53
Working Permits 53
Student Accident Insurance 53
Building Evacuation Exits 54
Emergency Operations Plan 55
GUIDANCE AND ACADEMIC INFORMATION
PUPIL RECORDS
General Requirements
(a) The governing board of every school district, intermediate unit and area vocational-technical school shall adopt a plan for the collection, maintenance and dissemination of pupil records and submit the same to the Department for approval.
(b) Copies of the approved plan shall be maintained by the local educational agencies and updated as required by changes in State or Federal law. Copies of the updated plan shall be submitted to the Department only upon the request of the Secretary.
Elements of the Plan
(a) The plan for pupil records shall conform to l2.33 (relating to guidelines), except that a school district may modify l2.33 with the approval of the Secretary, to conform with local policy.
(b) The plan shall establish policies on pupil records consistent with the minimum requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of l974 (20 U.S.C. l232g) and in 34 C.F.R. Part 99 (relating to privacy right of parents and students).
(c) For further details refer to "Guidance and Academic Information" (pages 01-02).
Notification of Rights Under the FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that generally identifies the type or nature of the record(s) they wish to inspect. (E.g., grades or academic achievement, attendance data, disciplinary information, standardized achievement test results, health data, etc.). The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
Note that the law only requires the District to allow the parent or eligible student to review the records; it does not require the District to give a copy of any portion of the records to the parent or eligible student.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading.
Parents or eligible students may ask the Apollo-Ridge School District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
One exception, which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the 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 School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medial consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
The District considers the following types of information to be “directory information” for currently enrolled students: (1) address; (2) telephone listing; (3) date and place of birth; (4) major field of study; (5) participation in officially recognized activities and sports; (6) weight and height of members of athletic teams; (7) dates of attendance; (8) degrees and awards received; (9) the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student; and (10) student’s name. Directory information for currently enrolled students will be disclosed without cost unless a parent or eligible student has provided the District with a written request that either all or certain types of directory information regarding that student should not be released or disclosed without the parent or eligible student’s prior consent. Such written request must be received by the District Superintendent within fifteen (15) days of the date of this notice or by September 30th of each new school year, whichever is the later. A written request should be either hand delivered to the Central Administration Office or mailed to:
District Superintendent
Apollo-Ridge School District
P O Box 219
Spring Church, PA 15686
4. Section 7 of the Privacy Act of 1974, in part, states:
It shall be unlawful for any Federal, State, or local government agency to deny to any individual any right, benefit, or privilege provided by law because of such individual’s refusal to disclose his social security number.
The provision of paragraph (1) of this subsection shall not apply with respect to any disclosure, which is required by Federal statute.
Any Federal, State or local government agency which requests an individual to disclose his social security account number shall inform that individual whether the disclosure is mandatory or voluntary, by what statutory or other authority such number is solicited, and what uses will be made of it.
Section 7 of the Privacy Act of 1974, Pub. L. No. 93-579; 88
Stat. 1986, 1909 (codified at 5 U.S.C.’ 552a note)
5. 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, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
FORMAL TESTING PROGRAM
PA System of School Assessment (PSSA)
All 9th and 11th graders
Purpose: State evaluation for program improvement
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test
Selected 11th graders
Purpose: Practice/evaluation for the Scholastic Aptitude Test.
Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery
All 10th graders
Purpose: Career and vocational assessment
HEALTH
Hearing screening by school nurse and/or IU hearing clinician
9th - 12th graders
Purpose: Assessment of existence of any hearing problems.
Vision screening by school nurse and/or IU vision consultant
9th - 12th graders
Purpose: Assessment of existence of any vision problems.
Medical Exam
all 11th graders
Purpose: Screen for any condition that would require additional
medical evaluation.
Health Screening
all 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th graders
Purpose: to provide a comprehensive health inventory: to include an annual weight and height check.
ANNUAL NOTICE TO PARENTS
Service for School-age Exceptional Students
Apollo-Ridge School District provides a free, appropriate, public education to exceptional students according to state and federal law. To qualify as an exceptional student, the child must be of school age, must be in need of specially-designed instruction, and must meet eligibility criteria for mentally gifted and /or one or more of the following physical or mental disabilities, as set forth in Pennsylvania State Standards: autism/pervasive developmental disorder, blindness/visual impairment, deafness/hearing impairment, mental retardation, multi handicap, neurological impairment, other health impairment, physical disability, serious emotional disturbance, specific learning disability, speech/language impairment.
The District engages in identification procedures to ensure that all students receive an appropriate educational program, consisting of special education and related services that are individualized to meet the educational needs of the student, and reasonably calculated to yield meaningful educational benefit and student progress, at no cost to the parents and in compliance with state and federal law.
Various screening activities are conducted on an ongoing basis to identify students who may be eligible for special education programs and services.
These include: review of group-based data (cumulative records, enrollment records, health records, report cards, ability and achievement test scores); hearing, vision, physical and speech/language screening; and review by a building-level Instructional Support Team, when appropriate.
When screening results suggest that a student might be exceptional, the district seeks parental consent to conduct a multi disciplinary evaluation.
Parents who suspect that their child is exceptional may request a multi disciplinary evaluation of their child at any time through a written request to the school principal or the Superintendent.
Services designed to meet the needs of exceptional students include the annual development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), biennial multi disciplinary reevaluation, supportive intervention in the regular class, supplemental intervention in the regular class or in a special education resource program, placement in a part-time or full-time special education class in a regular school or placement in a full-time special education class outside of a regular school.
The extent of special education services and the location for the delivery of such services are determined by the IEP team and are based on the student’s identified needs and abilities, chronological age and the level of intensity of the specified intervention.
The District also provides related services, such as transportation physical therapy, and occupational therapy, required to enable the student to benefit from the special education program.
Parents are invited and encouraged to participate with school personnel in their child’s evaluation and the development of their child’s IEP.
Graduation Requirements:
For the graduating classes of 2004,2005, and 2006 a minimum of 25 credits based upon demonstration of achievement of student learning outcomes as specified in school district guidelines. These instructional units include the following:
4.0 credits in Language Arts
4.0 credits of Social Studies
3.0 credits in Mathematics
3.0 credits of Science
1.0 credit of Technology Education
1.5 credits of Computer Science
0.5 credit of Wellness Education (Health)
2.0 credits of Fitness Education (PE)
1.0 credit of Arts/Humanities
1.0 credits of Consumer Science
4.0 credits of Electives*
For the graduating class of 2007 and beyond a
minimum of 28 credits bases upon
demonstration of achievement of student
academic standards as specified in school
district guidelines. These instructional units
include the following:
4.0 credits in Language Arts
4.0 credits of Social Studies
4.0 credits in Mathematics
4.0 credits in Science
1.0 credit of Technology Education
1.5 credits of Computer Science
0.5 credit of Wellness Education
2.0 credits of Fitness Education
2.0 credits of Arts/Humanities
1.0 credit of Consumer Science
4.0 credits of Electives
B. Students must achieve an cumulative grade point average (QPA) of 2.0 (an overall C average) in all planned courses of study in order to graduate.
C. Students must complete a Culminating Project, which includes:
A Research Project that demonstrates ability to plan, complete and document an activity.
Students must complete a Portfolio during grades 9-12 that offers evidence of their interests, competencies, growth, achievement project and evidence of proficiency in academic standards.
An Exit-interview where students present their senior project and portfolio to a panel of teachers.
D. Students must demonstrate that they are proficient in Reading, Writing and Math as evidenced by the Pennsylvania System of State Assessment (PSSA) or the local district assessment.
Weighted Courses:
AP and Honors courses in grades 9 - 12 are weighted in the process of calculating class rank. Honors Courses receive .5 additional quality points per grade and AP Courses receive .5 quality points per grade. Students who attempt the AP exam will receive an additional .5 quality point per grade for a total of one quality point per grade.
Scheduling Changes:
Students and parents should read through all the program options and requirements before selecting a program of study. Students are expected to complete all selected courses.
Schedule changes are to be initiated by the student to correct scheduling errors during the first week of the course. Parents may initiate schedule changes by calling to arrange a conference with the student’s counselor and/or teacher at 478-1141, Ext. 1020.
Schedules may only be changed during the first five days of the course and only for the following reasons:
· Course is scheduled out of sequence or prerequisites for that course were not met.
· Schedule change is a requirement for either graduation or attending Lenape Vo-Tech.
Grading System
UCSMP (Math)
· 90-100% A 4.0 A 85-100
· 80-89% B 3.0 B 72- 84
· 70-79% C 2.0 C 65- 71
· 60-69% D 1.0 D 50- 64
· 0-59% F 0.0 F 0- 49
Grade Reporting
Report cards are issued to students once every nine weeks. If parents have any questions concerning report cards, they are urged to contact the guidance department at 478-1141 ext. 1020.
If a student loses a report card and wishes a replacement, they must contact the guidance office.
Student progress reports will also be issued [mid-way through each nine weeks] to students in situations where they are not working up to their ability, failing or near failing. Student grade reports for all students in one (1) term classes will also be distributed at this time.
NOTE: Progress/grade reports for1 term (9 week) classes will be mailed to parents.
Honor Roll
1. Honor Roll: High Honor Roll - 4.0
Honor Roll - 3.5
2. A “D”, “F”, or an Incomplete will eliminate the candidate for that grading period.
3. All averages will be calculated by the guidance office.
Summer School (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
Regular summer school is not provided by the Apollo-Ridge School District. It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that failed courses are made up the year following failure by rescheduling or attending summer school at an approved location outside the Apollo-Ridge School District. The school district does not accept correspondence courses for make-up of failed courses.
Students that choose to attend summer school to make up failed courses must adhere to the following guidelines:
a. To be eligible to repeat a subject, a student must have completed the entire course.
b. Only two subjects may be scheduled per summer.
c. A subject failed two times at Apollo-Ridge must be repeated at summer school.
d. The cost of tuition and transportation is the responsibility of the student.
e. A final grade of a “C” or better must be obtained. A passing grade in summer school does not mean a passing grade for the course. The earned summer school grade will be averaged with the failing grade, and calculated into the student’s final quality point average (QPA).
See your counselor for summer school information.
Early Studies for College/University
Students entering their senior year who wish to enter a college or university on a full or part time basis may do so by making proper application and meeting the requirements listed in District Policy No. 241. Students considering such a request should see their guidance counselor for information and requirements.
Grades will not count in class rank, QPA, or be included on transcripts.
Withdrawals/Transfers
1. Students who leave school either as a transfer or because of quitting school should follow these guidelines:
a. Obtain a check-out sheet from the guidance office and follow the procedure outlined on this sheet concluding with signature of the guidance counselor.
b. Turn in all books to the subject teacher and have the teacher sign your form sheet.
c. Check accounts in the office to see that you leave no I.O.U.'s.
d. Turn in all materials that belong to the library.
e. Leave your new address and phone number with the guidance department.
National Honor Society
1. Membership is open to selected juniors and seniors who have attended Apollo-Ridge High School for the equivalent of one academic (9 weeks) semester and who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.75.
2. A faculty committee consisting of at least five members appointed by the principal will evaluate student credentials and make the final selection. Evaluation Categories are:
a. Leadership- based on the student's participation in the community, school activities or election to an office.
b. Citizenship-based on observed loyalty of the student to community, school, and country.
c. Service -the student must be actively involved in service projects for the school or community.
d. Character - measured in terms of integrity, behavior, ethics, and cooperation with both students and faculty.
Once selected, members must maintain these standards.
Honors Banquet Qualifications
Students must have maintained a 3.8 grade point average for the first three formal grading periods to be eligible to attend the honors banquet.
Academic Eligibility Requirements
1. Participation in co-curricular activities requires the student to sustain proficient level of academic performance (a 2.0 QPA or an overall C average) through the school year. Weekly grade checks will include grades during a time period of Friday through the following Thursday. A student will be declared ineligible for the activity beginning on the following Sunday if:
a. he/she is failing more than one subject or
b. he/she is failing one subject for a second consecutive week.
2. Student participation in one-time events occurring beyond the regular school day, including such events as concerts, art shows, and science fairs, which are extensions of accredited courses, are not subject to the grade eligibility requirements for participation. Any other one-time events not covered above will be reviewed for consideration by the building administrator.
3. No student shall practice or participate in co-curricular activities on days they are absent from school unless permission I s given in writing by the principal.
4. Suspended students are not permitted to practice or participate in school activities during their period of suspension. This regulation pertains to al students.
5. A student may become ineligible for disciplinary reasons in school, on school grounds or at school sponsored events.
6. Participation in co-curricular activities are a vital part of a student’s educational experience. Such participation is a privilege that carries with it responsibility to the school, student body and community.
For Complete Details See District Policy # 122
For Complete Details for Interscholastic Athletics See District Policy #123
School Related Trips/Field Trip Eligibility
1. Students must secure a Field Trip Eligibility Form from their teacher or sponsor at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled trip.
2. All directions and guidelines on the eligibility form must be adhered to in order to be eligible for a field trip.
3. To be eligible for any type of school related trip, students must be in attendance at school the day prior to the scheduled trip.
Student Complaint Process
The board recognizes that students have the right to request redress of complaints. Further, the board believes that the inculcation of respect for lawful procedures is an important part of the educational process. Accordingly, individual and group complaints should be recognized and appropriate appeal procedures provided.
NOTE: Copies of the policy are in the library and complaint forms are available in the High School office.
Student Assistance Program
The Student Assistance Program provides help to students who may be experiencing problems such as peer pressure, stress, family/peer relationships and substance abuse that may be affecting their ability to function in the school environment. The health and welfare of the student is of primary concern and the confidentiality of the student will be protected. Conferences with student assistance team members are not related to disciplinary action. Team members are identified on the faculty list in handbook.
NOTE: Parents must notify the High School Guidance Office within the first two weeks of the school year if they do not wish their child to be eligible to participate in this program.
Homebound Instruction
After a student has missed two weeks of school due to illness and will be absent for an extended period of time, homebound instruction may be provided. A statement from a physician verifying that the student will be unable to attend school will be necessary. A minimum of five hours of instruction in the major subjects per week will be provided. Homebound may be requested through the High School office.
(Exceptions by Administrative approval)
After School Enrichment Period
This period has been established to provide students with additional time beyond the regular school day to receive assistance from staff or to use school facilities and equipment (library, shop, typewriters, computers, etc). The enrichment period will be regularly scheduled for every Wednesday from 2:35 to 3:30 pm. Any change of schedule will be announced to students. Bus transportation will be provided for students staying for the enrichment period. Buses will depart the high school at 3:35 pm, and will drop students off at designated stops.
NOTE: Beginning and ending dates for the school year will be announced by the administration.
Make-Up Procedures/Incomplete Grades
If a student is absent, it is their responsibility to make up the missed school work. Students will have time equal to the length of the absence to make up work. (Exception: prior knowledge of assignments.) In cases of extended illness, the parent may have to contact the guidance office for homework assignments. After two days of absence from school, if the student is expected to be absent for an extended period of time, the parent should call requesting homework assignments from the high school guidance office. Homework assignments will be requested from the teacher. On the following day assignments may be picked up between 2:40 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. in the guidance office. It is the parent or student's responsibility to see that the assignments are picked up, or to request another student to take the assignments home. Student learning partners will be selected in each class to facilitate the homework process.
Students receiving an "I" (Incomplete) grade for a grading period will have 5 school days following the end of the grading period to make up the assigned work. If the work is not made up, the student will receive a zero for those assignments and/or tests. In certain circumstances, additional make-up time may be granted by the administration. An appeal process can be requested with the administration by the parent/guardians.
LENAPE VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL SCHOOL
(Eligibility Requirements)
Any Student may apply for admission to Lenape during the second semester of tenth grade. Candidates for admission should meet the following requirements:
· GPA of 2.0 or better
· Successful completion of 2 sequential math credit and 2 credits of English
· Portfolio requirements for 9th and 10th grades
· Successful completion of 9th and 10th grade core subjects
· Successful interview with Lenape Staff
· Completion of the Application Process
· Shop areas based on availability
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
Purpose of Attendance
The Board of Education requires that school-aged pupils enrolled in the schools of this district attend school regularly in accordance with the laws of the State. The educational program offered by this district is predicated upon the presence of the pupil and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation.
The regular contact of pupils with one another in the classroom and participation in a well-planned instructional activity under the tutelage of a teacher are vital to this purpose.
Compulsory School Age
The term "compulsory school age" shall mean the period of a child's life from the time the child's parents elect to have the child enter school, which shall not be later than at the age of eight years, until the age of 17 years.
Absence From School
"Absence" is the nonattendance of a pupil on those days and half-days in which the school was in session. Arrivals between 7:38 a.m. and 9:29 a.m. will be considered tardy. Arrivals between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. will be considered half-day absences. Arrivals after 11:00 a.m. will be counted as full day absences.
Excused Absence
"Excused Absence" refers to absence for any one of a number of legal reasons. All absence under this category may be classified into two groups: nonattendance due to unpreventable causes and nonattendance due to other legal reasons. Examples: illness, quarantine, recovery from accident, required court attendance, death in family, family educational trips, educational tours and trips, other exceptionally urgent reasons as determined by the principal.
NOTE: When possible, emergency situations should have prior approval by the principal.
Unexcused Absences
Unexcused absences are coded as follows: a. under seventeen (17) years of age, the unexcused absence is recorded as unlawful, b. Seventeen (17) years of age and older, an unexcused absence is not recorded as unlawful because the individual no longer comes under the Compulsory Attendance Law.
Tardiness
A. Tardiness is absence of a pupil at the time the AM tardy bell rings, provided the pupil is in attendance before 9:30 AM. When a child is illegally absent for a portion of a day, such portion will be considered cumulative and translated into equivalent days.
B. Any student who arrives at school after the 7:35 AM Tardy bell must report directly to the high school office. At this time the student must submit a written excuse explaining the reason for his tardiness.
C. The office will sign the student’s handbook which will admit the student to class, at which time the necessary corrections to the absentee bulletin will be made.
D. If a student is habitually late for school, disciplinary action will be taken.
Written Explanation For Absence
Parents shall furnish a written explanation for the absence of a child. A legal excuse is the parent's only protection from arrest. In case of arrest, the burden of proof is upon the parent to show that the absence of the child should be excused. In case of chronic and irregular absence, school authorities may request a physician's excuse showing such absence to be justifiable. Statements signed by licensed practitioner of the healing arts shall be accepted.
Procedure For Return To School After An Absence
The reporting and recording of an absence and tardiness is an important function. It is required by the Department of Education for reimbursement purposes.
A. It is necessary for a student to bring an excuse from his parent or guardian when returning to school after being absent. This excuse must be presented to the student’s home room teacher immediately upon returning to school. Disciplinary action will be taken if a student fails to comply with procedure. All excuses will be filed in the attendance office.
B. Pupils receiving an excused absence will be permitted to make up any class work missed during their absence.
C. A pupil receiving an unexcused absence will have his/her name placed on the daily absentee bulletin with the dates of each day of unexcused absences he/she received. Students receiving an unexcused absence will not be permitted to make up assigned work for that day.
Excessive Absenteeism
It is the policy of the Apollo-Ridge School District to require a physician's excuse for a child's absence when it is determined that a child's school attendance pattern in chronic and irregular. The parents shall be notified by mail that a physician's excuse will be required for each day of absence after this has been determined. Failure to comply with policy by the parents shall cause each day of absence to be recorded as unexcused.
The following guidelines will be followed to determine when a child's attendance pattern is chronic and irregular.
A. When a child has been absent a total of ten (10) days for which no special verification of these absences has been submitted to the attendance office. A doctor’s excuse, no later than the third day after the child returns to school, for the remainder of the school year.
When a child exceeds ten (10) days of absence the attendance office will determine if a chronic or irregular pattern exists.
Doctor’s excuses will not be accepted after the third day the child returns to school.
In addition, a doctor's excuse may be required in the following situations:
A. Any time a child has accumulated three (3) or more days of unexcused absences.
B. Any time there is suspected abuse of the school attendance laws.
NOTE: It is to the parents advantage, when an office visit to a doctor is made, to submit a doctor’s excuse.
First Offense
A first offense consists of three or more days of absence without lawful excuse. This applies only to compulsory school age children.
A. Written Notice to Parents - The school district's official notice of absence to parents shall be served in person, otherwise by certified mail, by the attendance officer, home and school visitor, or secretary of the school board, as soon as a pupil has three days, or their equivalent, of unlawful absence.
1. School Code - Section 1333 -Penalties for Violation of Compulsory Attendance Requirements.
"Every parent, guardian, or person in parental relation, having control or charge of any child or children of compulsory school age, who shall fail to comply with the provisions of this act regarding compulsory attendance, shall on summary conviction thereof, be sentenced to pay a fine, for the benefit of the school district in which such offending person resides, not exceeding three hundred dollars ($300) and to pay court cost or be sentenced to complete a parenting education program offered and operated by a local school district, medical institution or other community resources, and, in default of the payment of such fine and costs or completion of the parenting program by the person so offending, shall be sentenced to the county jail for a period not exceeding five (5) days. Any person sentenced to pay any such fine may appeal to the court of common pleas of the proper county, upon entering into a recognizance, with one or more proper sureties, in double the amount of penalty and costs. Before any proceedings are instituted against any parents, guardian, or person in parental relation, for failure to comply with the provisions of the act, the district superintendent, supervising principal, attendance officer, or secretary of the board of school directors, shall give the offending person three (3) days' written notice of such violation. If, after such notice has been given, the provisions of this act regarding compulsory attendance are again violated by the person so notified, at any time during the term of compulsory attendance, such person, so again offending, shall be liable under the provisions of this section without further notice.
2. Section 1338.1 - Suspension of Operating Privilege
(a.) The Department of Transportation shall suspend for 90 days the operating privilege of any child upon receiving a certified record that the child was convicted of violating section 1333. If the department receives a second or subsequent conviction for a child’s violation of section 1333 the department shall suspend the child’s operating privilege for six months.
(b.) Any child whose record is received by the department under section 1333 and who does not have a driver’s license shall be ineligible to apply for a driver’s license under 75 Pa. C. S. ~~ 1505 (relating to learner’s permits) and 1507 (relating to application for driver’s license or learner’s permit by minor) for the time periods specified in subsection (a). If the child is under sixteen (16) years of age when convicted, suspension of operating privileges shall commence in accordance with 75 Pa. C.S. ~ 1541 (relating to period of revocation or suspension of operating privilege) for the time specified in subsection (a).
B.. Closing of First Offense - The first offense is closed at the end of three calendar days after the serving of the notice, or upon the return of the pupil to school within the three days following serving the notice.
Second Offense
After the first offense is closed, the next session during the school year that the child is unlawfully absent becomes a second offense and requires the serving of a warrant on the parent through the office of the magistrate. The serving of the warrant closes the second offense. Each succeeding session of unlawful absence by the same pupil becomes another second offense and the same procedure as outlined in this paragraph is repeated. The school district's official notice of absence to parents is not served in second offense cases. The notice served after the first three days of unlawful absence is adequate for the school year. This applies only to compulsory school age children.
Cost in Enforcement Of Compulsory Attendance Laws
The term "cost," as used in cases of violation of the compulsory attendance laws, includes the cost of the District Magistrate, fees of witnesses, and mileage of witnesses.
Loss of Academic Credit
The following policy sets forth the consequences of failing to meet acceptable attendance standards:
1. Student’s may not receive the credit necessary for grade advancement and graduation if the student exceeds five (5) days of absence for one-term (9 weeks) courses or ten (10) days of absence for a two-term (18 weeks) course.
2. A mandatory warning letter will be sent to parents or guardians prior to loss of credit. A five (5) day notice will be sent for one-term courses (9weeks) and a ten (10) day notice for a two-term (18 weeks) course.
3. Absences cannot exceed the established limits. In cases where excused absences are appealed, academic credit may be recovered. Unexcused absences cannot be appealed; therefore, academic credit will be lost.
Excused absences, with appropriate documentation, not included in the established limitations are as follows:
a. Physician’s excuse
b. School activity (field trip, etc.)
c. Death in the immediate family
d. Religious holiday