I-A GENERAL INFORMATION
(Note: Categories have been arranged alphabetically)

ACADEMICS:

CLASS RANK
A student's rank or status within his or her class is determined by the academic standing of the student. Class rank listings are weighted. Weighted class rank places special emphasis on Advanced Courses (Honors) and provides an additional 10 points to the students completing such a course. More information concerning class rank can be obtained from the Guidance Office.
Students must complete the course in order to receive the additional ten (10) points awarded to Honors courses.

CONTINUING EDUCATION ALTERNATIVE COURSE OFFERINGS
A brochure has been developed outlining additional educational opportunities for students who need to meet promotion or graduation requirements. Brochures, including class fees, are available in each Guidance Counselor's Office. Continuing Education courses are offered throughout the school year. The Continuing Education Program is working in conjunction with Attleboro High School's needs. A variety of subjects will be offered and the credits may be used in lieu of summer school.

CERTIFICATE OF MASTERY
Criteria for Candidate for Certificate of Mastery
To qualify as a Candidate for the Certificate of Mastery, a student must score "Advanced" (260-280) on at least one grade 10 MCAS test subject, and score at least "Proficient" (240-259) on the remaining sections of the grade 10 MCAS. Applicants must be juniors or seniors, Massachusetts residents, and attending secondary school.
Criteria for Award of Certificate of Mastery
To receive the Certificate of Mastery, students must fulfill additional requirements through one of the following combinations covering both fields of arts/humanities and mathematics/science:
· 2 AP exams; or 2 SAT II exams or
· 1 AP exam and 1 SAT II exam (in a different subject*); or
· 1 AP exam and 1 other achievement; or
· 1 SAT II exam and 1 other achievement.
Notes on qualifying scores and achievements:
AP exam scores must be three or higher.
SAT II exams must have a score determined by the DOE to be comparable to three or higher on an AP exam.
Other achievements generally refer to awards given during grades 9-12 (or ages 14 and older) in recognition of high academic achievement in one of the following fields: arts, humanities, math, or science. These awards must be given (and the selection criteria determined) by forums outside of the students' school, such as through competitions, publications, recognition awards, and selection for participation on a regional, statewide, national,

or international level. "Arts, humanities, math, and science" includes literature, composition, history, social science, foreign language, music or art, mathematics, science, engineering, and computer science. (See other achievements for a partial list or call 781-338-3099 with questions.)
Students must demonstrate accomplishment in the field of Arts/Humanities* and the field of Math/Science** as follows:
· MCAS scores: If Advanced on ELA, and Proficient on Math (and Science/Technology if taken): At least ONE of the two additional achievements listed must be in the field of Math/Science.**
· MCAS scores: If Proficient on ELA, and Advanced on Math (AND/OR Science/Technology if taken): At least ONE of the two additional achievements listed must be in the field of Arts/Humanities.*
· MCAS scores: If Advanced on ELA, and Advanced on Math (AND/OR Science/Technology if taken): The two additional achievements listed can be in any academic subject matter (Math/Science** and/or Arts/Humanities*).
* Arts/Humanities refers to literature, composition, history, social science, foreign language, and the arts.
** Math/Science refers to mathematics, science, engineering, and computer science.

Award Details
In addition to the certificate, state wide recognition, and the honor itself, any recipient who attends a Massachusetts public college or university will receive up to a 4 year tuition waiver.
The tuition waiver includes a requirement of maintaining a GPA (grade-point average) of 3.3 for continued eligibility, and is comprised of a waive of tuition fees which does not include such costs as room and board fees, course fees, curriculum fees, and other general fees. The value of the waiver per year is approximately $700-$1,700, depending on the school.

DUAL ENROLLMENT
Juniors and Seniors who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher may be eligible for participation in this program through which students can earn both high school and college credit. Information may be obtained from the Principal's Office or from the Guidance Office.

GRADING PROCESS:
1. Marking System: the mark in each subject consists of:

LETTER GRADE EQUIVALENT
A+ 97-100
A 94-96
A- 90-93
B+ 87-89
B 84-86
B- 80-83
C+ 77-79
C 74-76
C- 70-73
D+ 67-69
D 64-66
D- 60-63
F 00-59

P (pass) and F (fail) have no grade equivalent. "D-" or 60 is the minimum passing grade. "F" is a failing grade.

2. Final exams: The final exams administered in January and June are valued at 10% of the final grade.

3. Criteria: Please refer to the Program of Studies booklet for all prerequisite courses. Student placement in courses will be impacted by the pre-requisite course requirements.

4. In order to receive any credits for any course, the student must be enrolled in that course for the duration of the course.

REPORT CARDS
Distribution of the school's computerized grading reports occurs four (4) times during the year, (November, February, April and July). Report Cards will be distributed at the end of each quarter and must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to school.

Incomplete Grades
All incomplete grades are to be made up by the student and recorded by the teacher no more than 14 calendar days following the end of a quarter. If extenuating circumstances can be justified, permission for an extension may be granted by the Assistant Principal for Programs and Operations.

MID-QUARTER PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress Reports will be issued in October, December, March and May. The purpose of the Progress Report is to alert parents to interim progress. Parents who are concerned about mid-quarter progress reports may arrange a conference by calling the school for an appointment after school or during a teacher's unassigned time. In addition, teachers will make an effort to contact parents at other times of the year when necessary, by note or telephone.

Students must successfully complete all the graduation requirements before they are allowed to participate in the Graduation ceremony.

HONOR ROLL
1. Honor Roll Ratings
a. high honors: GPA of 90 and above, all A's and B's, no grade lower than B-
b. honors: GPA of 86-89, no D's or F's
c. honorable mention: GPA of 82-85, no D's or F's
2. Averages are not rounded off in computing the Honor Roll (e.g., 89.9 does not become 90).
3. Seniors who maintain a 90 or above average in a course will be exempt from the final exam in that course.

SUMMER SCHOOL
The Attleboro Summer School offers a variety of courses for credit or enrichment.

Criteria
1. Students must attend ATTLEBORO Summer School on a daily basis in order to receive course credit. Absences will not be waived. Extenuating circumstances will be reviewed by the appropriate administrator.
2. The student seeking enrollment in a certified summer school, due to the failure of an academic subject, will have to meet the following requirements:
a. has been absent from the class no more than seven (7) days for a 2.5-credit course;
b. has been absent from the class no more than fourteen (14) days for a 5-credit course;
c. has been absent from the class no more than twenty-one (21) days for a 7.5-credit course;
d. has received a grade of 49-59 as the final grade
e. the numerical grade earned for a summer school course will appear on the transcript
f. Medically documented, long-term absences will be reviewed.
3. The student seeking enrollment in a certified summer school to complete credit work missed during the school year due to illness or other reasons beyond his/her control will meet the following requirements:
a. has met with his/her advisor to discuss summer school programs;
b. has met with his/her teacher in the course to determine which part of the course and what skills must be mastered for credit to be given;
c. understands that whatever numerical grade is received will be averaged with the other grades for the subject
4. The public/private special education program shall keep current and complete files for each publicly funded
Enrolled student and shall manage such files consistent with the Massachusetts Student Record Regulations (603 CMR 23.00) and MGL c.71, s.34H.
5. The student taking a course for ENRICHMENT from a certified summer school will have such course recorded without credit on his/her permanent record.

ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES:

In order for a student in the Attleboro Public Schools to benefit from his/her school experience, it is essential that all efforts be made for the student to attend classes. Active participation is an important factor for a student to realize his/her academic potential. Whenever a student is absent, that student misses significant activities that cannot be made up. The result is a loss of continuity in the student's academic program. Participation in the classroom instruction is impossible to make up.

According to state law, schools must be in session for a minimum of 180 days each school year. Furthermore, every high school student's program must consist of 990 hours of structured learning time. This regulation implies that every student must attend school except when absent with parental consent for legitimate reasons. For the purposes of state and local regulations, legitimate absence will include the following:
1. student's illness;
2. a death in the immediate family;
3. observance of family religious holidays;
4. appearance in court;
5. temporary relocation due to extreme emergencies such as fire, flood, or hospitalization of parent;
6. business which cannot be reasonably transacted when school is not in session;
7. medical and dental appointments which cannot possibly be scheduled outside school hours.

The Principal has the right to question all excuses for absence. The parent shall be notified when the Principal finds that an unexcused absence has occurred. Although students will not be punished by receiving a failing grade on material covered during an excused absence, a student will be responsible to make up work not completed as a result of an excused absence. Unexcused absences may result in loss of credit for work missed. Make up work cannot really replace classroom instruction.

DISMISSAL
When a student is dismissed from school prior to the closing time, the student misses valuable classroom instruction. Often the dismissal causes a classroom disruption. Parents are urged to plan after school appointments and activities so that students do not have to leave school prior to the designated school closing time.
1. Students requiring dismissal must present a note at their respective house office BEFORE the beginning of the school day, stating the reason and requested dismissal time, along with a phone number where a parent/guardian may be reached.
2. Emergency dismissals will not be made over the phone. The student's parent or guardian must pick up the student at the student's House Office.
3. Students are encouraged to return to school after appointments so that they will not miss additional classes.
4. The student will be required to complete all assignments for those classes missed as a result of the
dismissal.

FAMILY TRAVEL
According to state* and local regulations, family travel is not a legitimate reason for absence from school. Therefore, parents are requested to schedule family trips when school is not in session. If it becomes necessary for a student to be absent because of a family trip, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain and complete all missing assignments that are required by the teacher. Work must be completed in accordance with the make-up policy.

*Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 76, Section 4: Whoever induces or attempts to induce a minor
to absent himself unlawfully from school, or unlawfully employs him or harbors a minor who, while
school is in session, is absent unlawfully therefrom, shall be punished by a fine of not more than two
hundred dollars ($200).

LONG TERM ILLNESS
If a student is going to miss school due to a long-term illness beyond ten (10) school days, arrangements can be made to arrange for private tutoring. A release will need to be signed by the attending physician authorizing such tutoring. These release forms may be obtained at the administrative offices.

MAKE-UP WORK
A student who is absent from school for one or two days will have 2 school days to make up the work. Absences of three or more consecutive days require that the student meet with the teacher within 2 school days of his/her last absence to establish a timely make-up schedule. If the student fails to appear for make-up, grades of zero will be granted to the assignments or assessments.

TARDINESS
When a student is tardy to school, there is a disruption in the classroom caused by the student's late arrival. Often the teacher needs to take valuable class time to attend to the student, which interferes with the class. It is imperative that all efforts be made by the parent or guardian to have each student arrive to school at the designated starting time.
1. A student who is tardy to school may be allowed to enter his/her first time block after receiving a class admission slip. A student who is tardy after the first time block must check into his/her House Office before reporting to class.
2. A student may be tardy to school up to five (5) times per semester without penalty. Beyond that, each time a student is tardy to school, he/she will be assigned a session. If the students fails to appear for session hall on the appointed day, he/she will be assigned Saturday School. If he/she fails to appear for Saturday School, he/she will be suspended for two (2) days.
3. When a student enters late to school, after 8 a. m., a parent's note must be presented to the student's House Office to explain the reason for being tardy. A phone call may replace the note. This note or phone call must be received no later than the next school day.
4. The administration will review all cases of chronic tardiness and will take appropriate action, which will include parental involvement.
5. Tardy to Class: If a student is tardy to any class without an appropriate pass, he/she must report to the teacher after school hours at the teacher's convenience. If the student fails to report to the teacher as specified, he/she will be considered insubordinate and the appropriate regulation in the Code of Conduct will be implemented.

COMPUTER USAGE
Any student who destroys equipment or software or makes unauthorized entry into other accounts or files or is found working on programs that affect other accounts without permission will be subject to the following:
1. If enrolled in a course:
a. Dropped immediately from course with no credit
b. Loss of privilege of taking a computer course during the next academic year
c. Assumes financial responsibility for restoring deleted computer programs if applicable
2. If not enrolled in a course:
a. Loss of privilege of taking a computer course during the next academic year
b. Loss of privilege of using Attleboro High School's computer facility
c. Assumes financial responsibility for restoring deleted computer programs if applicable
3. See Internet Policy on page 41 of Section III Legal Issues.

COMPUTER LAB RULES
1. Students should place book bags on the shelves at the rear of the lab.
2. Students will not consume food, drink or chew gum in the lab.
3. Students will not play games or run programs on the computer except as directed by the teacher.
4. Students will not play and listen to music CD's.
5. Students will not modify the desktop or any of the programs on the computer.
6. Students will not access or modify another student's files without permission of the teacher.
7. At the end of a work session, students should close all programs and files and leave the computer set to the desktop. DO NOT TURN OFF THE MACHINES.
8. Students will not use floppy disks in the lab unless they have been scanned for viruses in the lab.
9. Students will be responsible for financial damages as a result of negligence or intentional misuse of the computers or network.
10. Students will comply with the school system's acceptable use policy and regulations for use of the Internet and computers.
11. Students will not use the school computers to send or receive e-mail.
12. Students will not download any programs without specific direction from the teacher.

DANCES
Rules for attendance at school-sponsored dances:
- Tickets must always be purchased before the event.
- No tickets will be sold at the door on the day of the event.
- Participants must be enrolled students at AHS.
- AHS students may escort students from other schools to the Proms, the Sophomore Gathering, the Sweetheart Dance and the Snow Ball Dance ONLY.
- Students from other schools must be registered with the appropriate Class Advisor.
- The Freshman Social is open to AHS Freshmen only.
- No one will be admitted to any dance more than one-half hour after the scheduled beginning of the event.
- Once at the dance, no one is allowed to leave before the scheduled end of the event.
- Because these activities are school-sponsored, all school rules and regulations apply.

DRESS CODE
Attleboro High School does not have a formal dress code. However, all students are expected to dress in a manner consistent with good health practices, safety regulations and in a manner which will not distract from the learning process. Students who fail to meet this standard will be required to make appropriate changes. Wearing the following articles is considered distracting to the educational process and will not be permitted in school during the school day: coats, jackets, hats, outerwear, bandannas, and hoods. Short revealing tops (including but not limited to tank tops, muscle shirts, camisole tops), bare midriffs and short shorts are deemed inappropriate attire which is disruptive to the educational process. Failure to comply with this provision may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension.

EVACUATION OF BUILDING
Students will report to designated area where attendance will be taken. Students not reporting to the assigned area will be referred to the office as unauthorized absences from class. Students are to remain with their teacher until the recall is announced.

In case it is determined that we need more time to search the building, school busses will be notified and students will be dismissed for the day.

State time and learning requirements dictate that the day must be made up and added to the end of the school year. The June graduation date for seniors will be in jeopardy if any days are canceled.

LOST AND FOUND
A Lost and Found Department is maintained in the Principal's Office. The proper place to return an article, if you find it, is to the Principal's Office. Owners will appreciate your thoughtfulness.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT
The goal of a viable school is active parent involvement. Although our students are near adulthood and are generally able to assume responsibility for their own direction and action, there is still a need for interested, concerned parents. Periodically during the year, AHS will hold parents' nights. You will be given the opportunity to meet your child's teachers. Your participation is a vital link in good communication and gives you the opportunity to better understand your child in his school environment.

The school involves parents in a number of ways as volunteers for specific projects. Some of these are:
1. Attleboro High School Council: this council is comprised of representatives from the administration,
parent organizations, teaching staff, the business community, and the student body. The council meets
regularly throughout the year to complete a School Improvement Plan which will address budget,
curriculum, assessment and student life.
2. Field trips and orientation programs.
3. The C.P.O. (Central Parents' Organization) which provides an on-going problem-solving link between
parent representatives of each school and the administrative representatives of those schools.
4. Vocational Craft Advisory Committee as advisors to specific project planning.
5. Participation in Parent-Discussion Groups.

PARKING
Students may park their vehicles in the parking lot that is located off Rathbun Willard Drive. The other parking lot, off Bushee Street, is restricted to staff parking and may not be used by students at any time during the school day. Students driving to school must register their cars with the appropriate office.

PARKING IN THE FIRE LANES IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.

Parking is not allowed in areas adjacent to the shop areas or the tennis courts. Student parking is also not allowed in the area designated for the Superintendent's Office Staff located in the Rathbun Willard Drive lot. The officer on duty will tag any vehicle parked in a NO PARKING area on school grounds.

Motorcycles and Bicycles
Two-wheeled vehicles are subject to the same rules and regulations as cars. Riding of motorcycles and bicycles on school sidewalks is strictly forbidden.
Parking privileges will be issued to all who apply and are willing not to ride on the school bus.
The process is as follows:
1. Complete application
2. Copy of car registration
3. Bus transportation waiver if applicable
Students are limited to one parking sticker. Due to limited parking spots, parking is restricted to vehicle displaying a valid parking sticker. Drivers of all other unauthorized vehicles will be subject to both parking fines and possible towing costs. Students are encouraged to carpool.

PROGRAM CHANGES
All students receive a listing of their courses for verification and several opportunities for modifications during the summer months. Errors and/or omissions must be corrected BEFORE school begins.
NO PROGRAM CHANGES CAN BE MADE ONCE THE SEMESTER STARTS.

PUBLICATION RELEASES
Under Department of Education regulations, the school may release for publication certain information concerning your child without first obtaining your consent. The information which may be released for publication includes only the student's name, class, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, degrees, honors, awards and post high school plans. If you do not wish this information concerning your child to be released for publication without consent during the school year, please notify your child's dean in writing.

SEARCH POLICY
It is the policy of the Attleboro School Committee that all lockers, desks, lab areas, and other common spaces (including bathrooms and corridors) are property of the Attleboro Public School System. As such, they are liable to be searched and inspected at any time without warning. Such inspections, searches (metal detectors and the like), or subsequent confiscations shall be conducted at the discretion of the administration.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Student activities are an integral part of high school life and a child's complete education. Parents should encourage their children to take an active role in those clubs and activities of special interest. Participants develop friendships and by sharing ideas realize a greater sense of intellectual and social development. Parents can also support these activities by their participation when called upon, and by their attendance at school-sponsored events.
In order to be eligible to participate in any extracurricular activity, including student government, a student must be passing 10 credits on his/her most recent report card. Cross reference page 23 (Athletics - Eligibility Regulations).
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS
A student must be in school for a minimum of three hours and 15 minutes to participate in an activity on that same day. Exceptions due to extenuating circumstances will be determined by the appropriate administrator.

STUDENT SERVICES
CLASS ADVISORS
Two Class Advisors are appointed for each class attending Attleboro High School. These faculty members work with class officers and representatives to organize class sponsored activities including the proms. They also oversee fundraising activities and sign contracts for events, disk jockeys, photographers and others as needed. Class Advisors serve as liaisons to the high school administration concerning class events.

CONTACT CENTER SERVICES
The Contact Center, located on the third floor of Attleboro High School, is designed to accommodate students who need support services. Support services include individual/group counseling, crisis intervention, evaluation, mediation, referral components, and a new program of 9th grade peer mentoring to assist students academically and socially.

The following high school staff and local agencies currently coordinate efforts to service Attleboro High School students:

Adjustment Counselor
Arbour Counseling Center Mental Health Agency
Community Care Services Mental Health Agency
Crisis Counselor
Family Planning Health Education Agency
Peer Mediator
Peer Mentoring Program Coordinator
School Psychologist
South Bay Mental Health Mental Health Agency
New Hope Mental Health Agency
In addition, crisis counselor interns assist students under the direction of the Crisis Counselor. The Contact Center can be reached by calling 222-5150, ext. 259.

HEALTH SERVICES
The Health Office is staffed by a team of registered nurses to provide for the medical and health needs of the students. School nurses may be reached at 222-5150 ext. 250. Parents should feel free to call with questions.
Services available under the direction of the principal are as follows:

Accident Forms
Accident forms and other health-related information is kept in the Health Office.

First Aid Emergencies
The Health Office offers immediate first aid to students. Beds are available for students who are sick, but following a call to a parent or responsible adult, students are sent home. Parents are asked to supply phone numbers in case of emergency. It is essential for you to be sure that the nurse's office has a way of reaching you or an adult who can assume responsibility in your absence.

Immunization Policy
All Attleboro High School students must meet the state requirements for the necessary immunization inoculations. Throughout the year, the nurse will notify those students in need of updating their protection. Failure to comply with this request may result in exclusion from school in accordance with state regulations. Immunization clinics are also offered at the High School in collaboration with the Attleboro Health Department.

Long Term Illness
In the event your child will be absent for an extended period of time, please notify the Health Office to ask about home instruction.

Orthopedic Injuries
If your child has an orthopedic injury requiring the use of crutches, braces, casts, slings, splints, etc., please have your child return to school with a note from his/her physician which clearly states the nature of the condition, clearance to return to school, any restrictions and/or need for supportive devices and clear time frames for any special accomodations. Students who have a physician's order to use crutches in school will be issued an elevator key. A $5.00-deposit is required. The deposit will be returned to the student when the key is returned to the Health Office.

Medication Administration
All public school systems/non-public schools in the Commonwealth are required to comply with regulations 105 CMR 210.000: The Administration of Prescription Medications In Public and Private Schools.

The purpose of 105 CMR 210.000 is to provide minimum standards for the safe and proper administration of prescription medications to students in the Commonwealth's public and private primary and secondary schools. 105 CMR 210.000 permits school nurses to delegate responsibility for administration of prescription medications to trained, nursing-supervised school personnel, provided the school district or private school registers with the Department of Public Health. The aim of 105 CMR 210.000 is to ensure that students requiring prescription medication administration during the school day will be able to attend school and to ensure that prescription medications are safely administered in schools. 105 CMR 210.000 encourages collaboration between parents or guardians and the school in this effort.

Physical Exams
Physical examinations are required of each 9th grade student as set by the regulations for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Completed physical examination forms should be given to the high school nurse. In the event your child has a special medical concern, please call the Health Office to share information.

Prescription And Non-Prescription Medicines
· All medication must be transported to and from the school by a parent or guardian and delivered directly to the school nurse or designee.

· Prescription medication must be in its original pharmacy container, clearly labeled with the student's name, medication name, dose, and frequency of dispensation.

· Over the counter medication including herbal and homeopathic products must also be in their original container and must be clearly labeled with the student's name, dose, and frequency of dispensation. Parental permission will be required and the duration of the dispensation will be at the discretion of the school nurse.

· Both the physician's order for prescription medication and written parental consent for the school to dispense any medication must accompany the medication. Forms will be available in the nurse's/principal's office.

· For prescription medications, the school nurse shall ensure that there is a proper medication order from a licensed prescriber, which is renewed as necessary. A telephone order for any change in medication shall be received and documented only by the school nurse and must be followed by a written order within (3) three school days. Whenever possible, the medication order shall be obtained and the medication administration plans shall be developed before the beginning of the school year.

· The school nurse shall supervise the training of the designated, unlicensed school personnel consistent with the Department of Public Health requirements. The school nurse shall document these trainings and evidence of competency of these unlicensed personnel to assume responsibility for dispensing medications.

· The parent/guardian shall be notified of any designated, unlicensed school personnel who will be authorized to administer medication to the student in the absence of the nurse and backup plans if the designated person is unavailable.

· The school nurse shall provide a training review and informational update, at least annually, for school personnel authorized to administer medications.

· The school committee recognizes that self-carrying and self-administration of medication is required by some students. In these instances, a self-administration plan shall be developed prior to implementation. The school nurse must receive dispensing physician and parent approval prior to allowing self-medication or self-carrying.

· The superintendent shall develop administrative regulations to implement the policy.

Scoliosis Screening
Postural screening is conducted for grade 9 students. Parents are notified of concerns and referred to a physician.

Vision And Hearing Screening
Vision and hearing screening is conducted on students. Parents are notified if defects are found for referral to a physician.

INSURANCE
Each year parents may purchase an insurance policy on their children which covers accidental injury. The cost is very reasonable, and it is recommended the parents review the policy upon its offering and seriously consider a subscription.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER SERVICES
The Library Media Center is centrally located on the second floor of Attleboro High School. The center consists of a large reading room and a technology area. The ABLE (Automated Bristol Library Exchange) network connects Attleboro High School with public and school libraries in Southeastern Massachusetts.
When school is in session, the Library Media Center is open to students and faculty from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Using a pass and sign-out procedure, students may use the library during their study hall. Teachers also may schedule entire classes for research assignments. The loan period for circulating materials is four weeks. Students are to make every effort to return books on time in consideration of other students who may also need them. All library obligations must be cleared or paid before graduation.

NET PILOT PROGRAM (NEVER EVER TRUANT)
Attleboro High School has developed a partnership with the juvenile probation department and police department to address student truancy concerns.

Members of the school probation and police department meet regularly to brainstorm strategies to improve our plan of action to ensure student attendance. Our partners are present in school each morning to deter uninvolved juveniles. In addition, juveniles who are court involved must report to their probation officer. Any obstacles or problems that the student may encounter will be addressed by the team.

If the student is late to school, appropriate school discipline would be implemented. If the student is absent from school, a home visit would be made to determine the reason. If the reason is not valid, the child would be brought to school and at the same time, would be informed of his or her responsibilities from a legal point of view. If a second offense were to occur, the student would be brought before a Judge.

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
The Mission of the Guidance Department is to provide Attleboro students with the skills necessary to choose and achieve their post secondary-school goals. The staff believes that effective preparation for life after high school begins formally in the elementary school and continues throughout a student's educational career. Lifelong learning experiences in employment and post-secondary education are encouraged through work experience and higher education. Students are encouraged to seek competitive university acceptances and information for financial assistance is provided by the introduction to federal, state and local resources. Additional and alternative methods of funding are aggressively pursued through colleges, universities, foundations and employers. The Guidance Department advocates a collaborative effort between the Attleboro Schools and the business community to inspire and encourage each student to make a lifelong commitment to career growth and fulfillment.

The Guidance Department offers the following services:
1. Career planning with students and parents
2. Post-high school educational planning
3. Scholarship and financial aid assistance
4. Assistance for students seeking part-time employment.

SCHOOL TO CAREER SERVICES
School to Career connects school-based learning to the workplace. Its purpose is to transition students to meaningful career pathways based on their skills and interests. STC offers job shadows, career fairs, paid and unpaid internships, part-time employment, and summer job placement. The program also offers staff opportunities for professional development in the business world. Attleboro High School is a partner with Norton and Foxboro High Schools through the Attleboro Area Local STC Partnership. A Business/Industry liaison and a Career Specialist serve the three schools.

TELEPHONES
Students needing to use a telephone for an EMERGENCY situation are to report to their House Office with a pass from a classroom teacher. Pay telephones are available in Houses I and III. The telephones located near "A" building and outside the pool lobby are to be used before and after school only. Students violating phone policies will incur the appropriate penalty.

VOTER REGISTRATION
Throughout the year, students reaching their eighteenth (18th) birthday are encouraged to register to vote. According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 51, two staff members, Coordinator of Cooperative Education in the Vocational Office and the secretary in the Principal's Office have been named registrars for that purpose. Information will appear in daily notices through the Principal's office.

I-B ATHLETICS

The primary purpose of the athletic program is to promote wholesome opportunities for students to develop favorable habits and attitudes, as well as to develop their physical, mental, social, emotional, and moral well-being. It is hoped that athletics in our school will be a positive force in preparing students for enriched and vital roles in American life.

Interscholastic athletics are an extension of the classroom. Student-athletes are provided special learning opportunities beyond the normal school day and school week. Athletics are an important and integral part of the total school program and are open to participation by all students. Through voluntary participation, the athlete gives time, energy, and loyalty to the program. He/she accepts the training rules, regulations, and responsibilities that are unique to an athletic program. In order to contribute to the welfare of the group, the athlete must willingly assume these obligations, as the role demands that the individual make sacrifices that may not be required of other students.

This "Other Half of Education" prepares participants for the challenge of life. Athletic programs are designed to provide the laboratory wherein values are learned, appreciated, and exhibited. Citizenship, leadership, integrity, and ethics are critical elements in school activity programs. These character development opportunities are invaluable to the future of our society.

The following sports are offered at Attleboro High School. Each sport is keyed with the possible level and/or gender of participation. Varsity teams are those in which participation results in an athletic letter upon achieving the criteria established for that sport.

Varsity Team = 1
Junior Varsity/Pre-Varsity = 2
Freshman = 3
Boys = B
Girls = G
Baseball (1,2,3)(B)
Basketball (1,2,3)(B&G)
Cross Country (1) (B&G)
Field Hockey (1,2)(G)
Football (1,2,3)(B)
Golf (1)(B)
Gymnastics (1)(B&G)
Ice Hockey (1,2)(B)
Soccer (1,2,3)(B&G)
Softball (1,2,3)(G)
Spring Track (1)(B&G)
Swimming (1)(B&G)
Tennis (1)(B&G)
Volleyball (1,2)(G)
Winter Track (1)(B&G)

Cheerleading - Varsity, Junior Varsity
All squads are selected in the spring of each school year. Candidates from the high school and incoming freshman class members are judged according to ability, coordination, voice, and rhythm. Those chosen participate in tournament competitions and pep rallies, as well as cheering at the many athletic games in which our teams participate.

*The cheerleading advisor will furnish all cheerleaders with a handbook listing the general requirements for all participants.

Eligibility
In accordance with the eligibility standards established by the Standing Committee on Athletics of MSSPA, Attleboro High School shall resolve eligibility for high school as follows:
a. A student must not have reached 19 years of age by September 1st.
b. A student must not be in his fifth year of high school.
c. A student must attain a passing grade in at least 10 credits of prepared work during the
last marking period preceding the contest.
The minimum passing grade is D- (60). Prepared work is defined as any subject or course in which credit is allowed toward the high school diploma. A student cannot at any time represent a school unless that student is taking at least 20 periods of prepared work. To be eligible for the fall marking period, students are required to have achieved final passing grades for the previous semester which equal a minimum of ten (10) credits.

A student taking a quarter or semester course will be entitled to a full year's cumulative credit toward eligibility, provided that he/she is scheduled for same number of credit course(s) for the remainder of the year.
d. Incoming freshmen are immediately eligible for the fall season.
e. The academic eligibility of all students shall be determined and considered as official on
the date when report cards for that grading period have been issued to the parents of all
students.
f. Students who are absent from school are not eligible to participate in that day's practice session or
game. Tardiness after 10:30 AM or dismissal before 10:30 AM will constitute an absence. An
exception to this rule due to extenuating circumstances will be determined by the administration.

Fees
The previously mentioned sports are open to all students who pass a physical examination, meet the eligibility standards, and pay the $40 participation fee, $250 for Ice Hockey. (There is a maximum participation fee of $100 per individual, per year and $180 per family, per year, exclusive of Ice Hockey.) Most of these teams participate in the Eastern Athletic Conference. Practice is daily from 2-5:00 PM.
The School Committee reserves the right to adjust fees pending authorization of the final budget.

Starting Dates of Sports Seasons
Fall: Football-Monday, August 18
All other sports-Thursday, August 21
Winter: Monday after Thanksgiving
Spring: Third Monday in March.

Attleboro High School is also a member in good standing of the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association. All published rules must be followed, and all student athletes must adhere to the rules and regulations of the M.I.A.A.

Insurance for Athletes
The Attleboro School Department will provide a secondary, but limited, accident coverage policy for all Attleboro High School athletes. All benefits under this plan are payable only after the student's other collectible insurance or other valid coverage options have been paid. Medical coverage must be rendered by the student's plan provider(s). The balance of any unpaid and eligible medical expenses for which the parent is responsible, will then be paid up to the limits of the Attleboro School Department's policy. This insurance is non-duplicating.

HEALTH AND SAFETY
Medical
A student will not be considered on a team and may not practice or play in any school sponsored contest until he/she has passed a physical examination by a medical doctor and has returned his/her form to the coach who will then file it with the school nurse.

A student who has been injured and has had medical attention cannot participate again until the coach has received documentation from doctor describing the nature of the injury, the prescribed treatment, and the date the athlete can resume practice. The doctor and/or parent's permission must be received before the student can resume playing. A physical examination is valid for one (1) year from the date of examination.

Chemical Health
During the season of practice or play, a student, regardless of the quantity, shall not use, consume, possess, buy/sell, or give away any beverage containing alcohol; any tobacco product; marijuana; steroids; or any controlled substance. It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a legally defined drug specifically prescribed for the student's own use by his/her doctor.

Member schools are alerted that this rule represents only a minimum standard and does not prevent a school from developing more stringent requirements.

This MIAA statewide minimum standard is not intended to be interpreted as guilt by association. Example: All student athletes who were present at a party where a few violated the standard would not be automatically considered guilty of violation of this rule.
Please Note: If a student in violation of this rule is unable to participate in interscholastic sports due to injury, academics, or otherwise, the penalty will not take effect until that student is again able to participate.

The minimum PENALTIES are:
First Violation: When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next two consecutive interscholastic events, or two weeks of a season in which the student is a participant, whichever encompasses the greater number of contests. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program. It is, however, recommended that the student be allowed to remain at practice for the purpose of rehabilitation.

Second And Subsequent Violations: When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a second or subsequent violations have occurred, the student shall lose eligibility for the next twelve consecutive interscholastic events or twelve consecutive weeks, whichever encompasses the greater number of contests in which the student is a participant.

If after the second or subsequent violations the student of his/her own volition becomes a participant in an approved chemical dependency program or treatment program, the student may be certified for reinstatement in MIAA activities after a minimum period of six weeks or six contests, whichever penalty is greater. Such certification must be issued by the director or a counselor of a chemical dependency treatment center.

Penalties shall be cumulative for each academic year. A penalty period will extend into the next academic year should the penalty period not be completed during the season of the violation's occurrence. If the penalty does carry over to the student's next season of actual participation, it may affect the eligibility status of the student during the next academic year.

Rules and Regulations
Violations requiring administrative action, as established in the Student Handbook's section of the Rules and Regulations of Attleboro High School, will result in counseling by the head coach and possible suspension for the next contest or for that sport season.
a. A student must be in school by 10:30 AM or cannot be dismissed before 10:30 AM to participate in a practice session or contest that same day. Exceptions will be determined by the administration only for legitimate reasons as stated on page 3. ("Team breakfasts" are not a legitimate reason to be tardy to school and the student will be considered truant, so no make-up will be allowed and the student will not be allowed to participate in a practice session or contest that day.)
b. A display of unsportsmanlike conduct toward an opponent or official or use of profanity during
a practice or contest, will result in counseling by the head coach and possible suspension from
school and the team.
c. Attendance at all practices and games for all athletes is mandatory during school time and vacation
time during a sport season. Doctors' appointments and emergency absences must be excused by
the head coach. Unexcused absences will result in:
First Violation-suspension for one game
Second Violation-suspension for that sport season.

School Vacation Policy
Attendance at practices and games is mandatory during vacation periods. Absence from practices or games will result in dismissal from the team. Requests for an exception due to unusual or extraordinary circumstances, i.e., family vacations or school-sponsored trips should be submitted by a parent to the Athletic Director prior to the first week of the season's practice that he might render a judgment. Upon return from vacation, the athlete will resume practice, but be unable to participate in a contest for a period of time equal to the length of the vacation.

Dismissals for Athletic Events
In arriving at a well-rounded athletic schedule, it is necessary to schedule some events with schools that are some distance from Attleboro. As a result, it may be necessary that members of an athletic team be dismissed prior to the closing time for classes. In no way may a student interpret this to mean that he/she is excused from required work of the missed class. Prior planning and time budgeting is required. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the teachers involved to keep up with the class.

STUDENT ATHLETE OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION POLICY
Any student-athlete receiving an out of school suspension will be subject to the same process in effect for the School Vacation Policy. Upon returning to school he/she will resume practice with the team and return to game eligibility status when a period of time equal to the length of the suspension has been served.

Expectation of Captains
Captains, due to their position as role models for their teammates and visible representatives of our school tot he community, have expectation that their behavior will be beyond reproach in both the school and community.

If captains receive an out of school suspension or if their behavior in the community is brought to the attention of school authorities and determined to be detrimental to the standard of their position of leadership, the athletic director in conjunction with the appropriate coach will render a decision to remove the captain from that position for the remainder of the year.

I-C CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

AHS DANCE SQUAD
Advisor:
The dancers are selected by audition each year. No previous dance experience is necessary. Dancers perform with the marching band, rehearse in the summer and attend Band Camp in August.
Membership requirements: Students need not be experienced but should be enrolled in some type of dance class either at the high school or at a private dance school.
Meetings: Mondays from 5:00 - 8:30 PM, Fridays in the fall from 2:00 - 3:30 PM.

AHS DANCE TROUPE
Advisor:
The AHS Dance Troupe is a lyrical performance group.
Membership requirements: The dance troupe schedules many performances. Students need not be experienced but should be enrolled in some type of dance school class either at the high school or at a private dance school.
Meetings: Thursdays 7:00 - 8:30 PM, starting in December there is an additional Friday rehearsal
from 2:00 - 3:30 PM.

CLOSE UP
Advisor: Paula Sollitto
Close Up is a non-partisan Government Studies Program. Students experience the process of democracy through seminars and workshops with Washington policy makers as well as students from across the United States.
Membership requirements: Any 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student is eligible to participate. A deep interest in
a wide range of governmental issues is helpful. This is a tuition-based program. The cost of books, materials, transportation and accommodations is included.
Meetings: Students meet weekly from early October to talk about issues and fundraising assistance to meet tuition costs. Final cost is due in early January for a trip in early March.

COLOR GUARD
Advisor: Charlette Tarsi
Flag bearers are selected by audition each year and twenty-four members perform with the Marching Band. They rehearse in the summer, attend Band Camp in August, and often compete with other schools.
Membership requirements: Open to all students.
Meetings: Mondays from 6:00 - 8:30 PM.

DRAMA CLUB
Advisor: Peter Tarsi
The drama club is for students who love the theatre.
Drama is Mental - remembering lines and focusing on stage.
Drams is Physical - training required for precisely timed movements.
Drama is Personal - creating a whole new personality on stage.
Drama is Professional - developing pride for the final product.
Drama is Emotional -building strong friendships through long rehearsals.
Drama is Fun!
Membership requirements: Participation in any Drama Club event makes one an "active member" for one full year.
Meetings: General meetings are held once a month. Rehearsals for shows are three (3) times a week.

GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE
Advisors: Donna Maria Shirman and Deanna Scott
The Gay-Straight Alliance provides a support group, education, and advocacy to students dealing with issues of sexual orientation. The Gay-Straight Alliance plans various activities and social functions to increase awareness and to network with other Gay-Straight Alliance and Diversity groups. Gay-Straight Alliance participates in the Youth Pride March, field trips, and conferences.
Membership requirements: Members must be open-minded, respectful to others, and attend weekly meetings. Members must also be prepared to help coordinate events outside of school hours.
Meetings: Meetings are on Fridays from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

HUGH O'BRIEN YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Advisor:
The Hugh O'Brien Youth Leadership Program is a series of seminars and workshops identifying and educating young people in leadership skills. Each high school in the country is allowed to submit one entry.
Membership requirements: The Hugh O'Brien Scholarship is made available to 10th grade students only.
Students may pick up an application in October in OGO. The application requires the student to write an essay about examples in his/her life of character, leadership, and service. A committee then selects the one student who best demonstrates those qualities. This name is submitted to the Hugh O'Brien Foundation.
Meetings: The winning nominee attends the HOBY Convention in Boston, MA in the spring.

LEO CLUB
Advisor: Del Kelly
The Leo Club is a community service organization modeled after the parent organization, Lions Club. This club provides our youth with an opportunity for meaningful personal development on a local, national and international level. The Leo Club will help our community with worthwhile projects as an outreach program helping the needy.
Membership requirements: Open to all students.
Meetings: Meetings are held every second Monday of the month at 7:00 PM.

MAJORETTES
Advisor: Debbie Caine
Twelve majorettes are selected by audition, and perform with the Marching Band. Students rehearse in the summer and attend Band Camp in August. Students perform throughout the year and compete in the New England Majorette Competition Circuit.
Membership requirements: Open to all students. Selection by audition in the spring.
Meetings: Mondays from 6:00 - 8:30 PM.

MATH TEAM
Advisor: Patricia Izzi
The Math Team belongs to two math leagues: Southeastern Massachusetts Math League and Southeastern Mathematics Conference Math League. Each league has four meets per year. The Math Team also participates in other competitions that occur during the year at various colleges and universities such as WPI, MIT, and Harvard. Students interact with top math students from other high schools and compete with the best!
Membership requirements: Open to all students.
Meetings: There are eight regularly scheduled math meets. Students attend one meeting before each meet to receive practice problems and one meeting before each meet to go over practice problems and review concepts.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Advisor: Florence Gabaude
The Attleboro High School Chapter of the National Honor Society is comprised of students who have achieved an 87 grade-point average.
Membership requirements: Membership in the chapter is an honor bestowed upon a student who has demonstrated outstanding qualities of scholarship, character, leadership and service. Once selected, members have the responsibility to maintain the high standard stated.

To be eligible for membership, the candidate must be a member of the junior or senior class. Candidates must have been in attendance at the school the equivalent of one semester. Candidates must have a cumulative scholastic average of at least 87 (weighted average) at the end of five semesters of work, including the final exam in January, for juniors and six semesters of work, including the final exam in June, for seniors. Students will complete an application for National Honor Society membership that includes a letter of intent, an autobiographical essay, a list of community service activities and a list of school activities. Three letters of recommendation are required: two letters from faculty members and one letter from an adult who is not a relative. An application fee of $15 is collected to cover expenses and dues.

Candidates who meet all these criteria will be inducted into the National Honor Society in the spring.

In the past, National Honor Society students have completed their yearly community service hours by working at local soup kitchens, tutoring fellow students at the high school or at the elementary schools, or giving service in a variety of other community agencies. Fundraising activities are planned to raise money for charity. The NHS is primarily a service organization that contributes time and energy to helping others in the Attleboro schools and community.

THE OUTING CLUB
Advisor:
The Outing Club is an organization designed to satisfy students' needs for healthy, non-competitive recreational activities such as skiing, canoeing, cycling, horseback riding, etc.
Membership requirements: There is a $10 activity fee. A signed parental consent form, a photocopy of health insurance ID card, and a signed permission slip is required from each student for each outing.
Meetings: To be announced.

PEER LEADERSHIP
Advisor: Loretta DiBartolo
Peer leaders work to educate members of the Attleboro High School and middle school communities about issues of substance abuse, violence, pregnancy and STD's, and diversity issues. Activities include teaching sessions, training sessions, and planning of various awareness events.
Membership requirements: Members of Peer Leadership must attend all meetings, and be willing to take the time for training and visits to middle schools.
Meetings: The group meets as necessary, but usually on a bi-weekly basis after school on Mondays from 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM.

PEER MEDIATION
Advisor: Loretta DiBartolo
Students in this group help mediate disputes between students. Students who join will be trained in conflict resolution.
Membership requirements: Mediators must maintain a "B" average and attend meetings.
Meetings: Thursday meetings.

REGIONAL STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL
Advisor: Paula Sollitto
Two students from each of the Southeastern Massachusetts high schools will be elected by their respective schools at the end of March. The two students will be responsible for attending eight regional meetings during the school day. The purpose of the meetings is to discuss relevant high school issues.
Membership requirements: Students may submit their name to the Principal for consideration. An election will then be held by the student body to select the two regional representatives. Representatives need to provide their own transportation. Both transportation and lunch will be paid for by the School District if the proper forms are submitted.
Meetings: Meetings are mandatory. Whenever students return from a regional meeting they must submit a report to the Principal and the Student Council.

SKILLS USA VICA ORGANIZATION (Vocational/Industrial Clubs of America)
Advisor: Dale Byers
Skills USA VICA is a national organization servicing more than 240,000 high school and college students and professional members who are enrolled in training programs in technical, skilled, and service occupations, including health occupations.

Skills USA VICA has almost a quarter million student members annually, organized into more than 13,000 chapters, 53 state, and territorial association (including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands.)

Its purpose is to prepare high performance workers. It provides quality educational experiences for students in leadership, teamwork, citizenship and character development. It emphasizes total quality at work, high ethical standards, superior work skills, life-long education and pride in the dignity of work. SkillsUSA VICA is also involved in community service activities. SkillsUSA VICA includes local, state and national competitions in which students demonstrate occupational and leadership skills.

STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL
Advisor: Paula Sollitto
The Student Advisory Council is a group of five students chosen in an all school election in March. The SAC meets with the school administration, Student Council and School Committee members. The SAC provides the School Committee with a student perspective of school issues.
Membership requirements: Any Attleboro High School student is eligible to run for an SAC position. After the election, the five-member council chooses a member who will sit as a non-voting member of the School Committee.
Meetings: SAC members meet monthly with the administration, Student Council, and School Committee. The non-voting student member of the school committee must attend school committee meetings.

STUDENT COUNCIL
Advisor: Paula Sollitto
The Student Council is the governing body of Attleboro High School students. The Administration Committee discusses student concerns and makes suggestions directly to the Principal and his staff. The Curriculum Committee meets with the Assistant Principal to discuss academic concerns and issues. The Publicity Committee is the liaison to the community. The Executive Committee creates the operational structure of the Student Council to assure fair representation for all students. Each class has five representatives and four Officers including a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, with the exception of the Freshman Class which has two reps from each cluster. The non-cluster students will also be represented by two members for a total of ten representatives. Student Council sponsors many functions and services as well as participating in local and regional activities including:
· New Student Welcome, Welcome Back to School Dance, Thanksgiving Baskets.
· The Youth Conference with Older Americans, Adopt a Family, Spirit Rally.
· Spirit Days, Lock-Ins, SEMASC Fall and Spring Conventions, MASC State Convention.
· Student rights and responsibilities issues, encouragement of new groups and activities, and conducting of all school elections.
Membership requirements: The responsibilities of being an Officer or Representative to Student Council include the following:
· Academically passing 10 credits each quarter
· Attendance at class meetings
· Attendance at weekly Student Council Meetings
Normally held from 7:00 - 8:30 PM in the mini-auditorium or in room 240B each Wednesday
Missing three meetings in a row or a total of six for any reason will automatically remove a member from office
· Attendance and participation in all class and Student Council functions.
· Willingness to work on various committees and sub-committees that may require attendance outside of regular class and student council meetings
· No behavior unbecoming a leader
Any Attleboro High School student is eligible to submit a nomination form to become a candidate for a Class Office or for Student Council. An assembly will be held at least five days prior to the election to give the candidate adequate time to campaign. Candidates at the assembly will be asked a series of questions that will help their classmates determine which candidate they should elect. If a student wishes to become part of Student Council after the election, Honorary Members are welcome. These non-voting members must attend three meetings in a row and submit a letter requesting Honorary Membership to the Secretary of the Student Council.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT DAY AT THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE HOUSE
Advisor: TBA
State Student Government Day is an opportunity for three Attleboro High Students to participate in the democratic process at the state level by introducing and voting on mock legislation with students from each of the other high schools in the state. Schools may have one delegate and two alternates.
Membership requirements: Any junior or senior may submit his/her name to the Student Government Advisor in late September. If an election is necessary, a delegate and an alternate are chosen by their peers.
Meetings: An orientation day is held by region at UMass, Boston. The drawings for legislative assignments take place at the State House and are followed by the State Student Government Day.

STUDENTS AGAINST DRIVING DRUNK (SADD)
Advisor: Jim Cousens
SADD is a group of students who believe that alcohol and drugs can be very destructive. The members try to get the message to their peers to make smart choices and to remain drug and alcohol free. SADD is involved in many activities to help students make the right choices: the SADD Dance, videos, a wrecked car outside of Superintendent's Office, prom assemblies, conferences, and announcements.

Membership requirements: Open to all students. A No Tolerance of Drugs or Alcohol Contract is signed.
Meetings: Wednesdays at 1:45 PM in the Visual Arts Room.

TOMORROW'S TEACHERS
Advisor: Naomi Cordell
Tomorrow's Teachers is dedicated to encouraging and supporting the next generation of teachers. The group promotes teaching as a career, fosters excellence in students interested in teaching, and enhances the image of education and educators in the community.
Membership requirements: Any student interested in a career in education.
Meetings: Meetings will be held the second and fourth week of each month. Sub-committees will meet as needed.

WOMEN-IN-TECHNOLOGY
Advisors: James Quaglia
This opportunity is open to any 11th or 12th grade female student interested in technology. The program involves participating in real engineering problem solving at local businesses working with engineers and women engineers. Participants have had the opportunity to display their skills and abilities for a multi-billion dollar company with tremendous rewards. Promises of employment and scholarships have been freely distributed to prior participants.
Membership requirements: Students must apply through their Teacher Advisor, who will look at their course selections and past courses. Any female student with strong math and/or science background will enjoy this experience.
Meetings: Students meet once a week at school and once a month at the local industry.

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Attleboro Public Schools
Attleboro High School

II CODE OF CONDUCT

Introduction

Students in the Attleboro Public Schools are expected to treat all members of the school community with dignity and respect. The school community is defined as all those people who work or interact in the school. Students, teachers, administrators, guidance counselors, custodians, secretaries, cafeteria workers, parent volunteers and school visitors are part of this community.

Each person in the school must have the opportunity to grow personally, socially and intellectually, as well as the opportunity to exercise his/her rights in a positive and constructive way. Thus, all members of the school community have the responsibility to conduct themselves in a way that demonstrates a respect for all individuals, their rights and their property. All members of the school community must also understand and support the standards of conduct of the school and assist in the enforcement of rules and regulations. This behavior is expected during all curricular, co-curricular, athletic and special events of the school both on and off campus (e.g., graduation, graduation-related activities, school dances and Proms, AHS athletic events at another school, competitions outside of AHS, school dances held outside AHS) including school-sponsored trips and those times when school buses or other school-provided transportation is used.

A student's participation in co-curricular or athletic activities is a privilege, not a right or entitlement.

Because the school is interested in maintaining the quality and integrity of its programs throughout the school year, infractions of school rules, which may occur in the spring during senior activities, will not be tolerated. (Any activity which is disruptive to individual learning or the environment of the high school will not be tolerated.) Such unauthorized actions may result in the cancellation of class activities.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

Under the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, students are guaranteed due process and fair treatment at school. (Students may have additional rights pursuant to laws governing the provision of educational services to students with disabilities.) Therefore, prior to a school administrator taking disciplinary action against a student, the school administrator shall provide the student with appropriate due process. When the disciplinary action consists of suspension or a lesser penalty, this process shall consist of informing the student of the charges against him/her and giving the student an opportunity to respond.

When a student is suspended, the following procedures will be followed:

1. Except in an emergency situation, no student will be suspended prior to having an informal meeting with the Dean, an Assistant Principal or the Principal. At this meeting, the student will be informed of the reason(s) for the proposed suspension, and will be given an opportunity to respond. In an emergency situation which requires the immediate removal of a student, the informal meeting will be held as soon after the suspension as possible.

2. The administrator will make every reasonable attempt to notify parent(s) or guardian(s) of the student about the suspension and state the cause(s) leading to it. If the suspension is imposed during the school day, the parent(s) or guardian(s) may be required to transport the student home.

3. The administrator will send a letter to the parent(s) or guardian(s) confirming the suspension. This notification shall contain:

A. the number of days of suspension;

B. the reason(s) for suspension as provided in the Code of Conduct;

C. the re-admittance date;

D. a request for the re-admission conference, held prior to the student's return to school, the nature of
which will be at the administrator's discretion (e.g., phone conference, in person meeting, etc).

4. The principal will forward a copy of each suspension letter to the superintendent by the close of the school day following the suspension.

5. If a student is eighteen (18) years of age or older, copies of notices required by this regulation will be given to the student and the parent or guardian.

6. The student will be given an opportunity to complete any class work including, but not limited to, examinations that may have been missed during the period of suspension. The student is responsible for bringing all books and materials home, obtaining assignments from classmates, and completing school work during the suspension. All assignments are due within two days of when the student returns to school following the suspension. The student is expected to contact each teacher within two days of his/her return to class following suspension. The student will be expected to take all quizzes, test, labs, writing assignments etc. within two days of his/her return to school following the suspension.

7. A student is required to serve the full number of days of suspension. If school is canceled due to snow (or other reasons), a student cannot count that date for the serving of a suspension. Suspensions are not completed until the day the student returns to school. The student is ineligible to participate in/or attend any activities throughout the entire suspension period. Students who are suspended from school are not allowed to be in school or on any school property at any time during the period of suspension and are not allowed to attend any school-sponsored activities. Students who do not fulfill outstanding disciplinary obligations by the last day of school must make arrangements with the administrator to serve their penalty. Let it also be noted that beginning with a student's sophomore year, or the second year of attendance if retained as a freshman, the student's discipline record will be cumulative.

Because all members of the school community are subject to both the laws of the Commonwealth and City Ordinances, the school will report acts which may violate the law to the police as appropriate. These acts include, but are not limited to, possession and use of controlled substances and weapons; illegal use of alcohol; behavior of students which endangers the safety of themselves or others; theft; improper use of motor vehicles; vandalism; etc. Our rules and regulations are based on a system of progressive discipline. This means that the administrator will increase penalties in the cases of second and third offenses according to the Code of Conduct chart.

STUDENT EXPULSION

Expulsion (defined as a termination of enrollment) will be imposed on a student only after a hearing, as provided by state and federal law.

In the event a student who attends a school housing grades nine through twelve is charged with assault of educational personnel or possession of a controlled substance or a dangerous weapon (including but not limited to a knife or a gun) on school property or at a school related event, such hearing will be conducted by the principal, with appeal to the superintendent.

Hearings for all other students will be conducted by the School Committee, with the recommendation of the superintendent.

DISCIPLINE APPEAL HEARING PROCEDURES
Appeal Hearing Procedure:

Suspensions of fewer than 10 days may not be appealed.

Suspensions of ten days or more may be appealed first to the Assistant Principal, then to the Principal, and then to the Superintendent.

The student and parent or guardian will be provided an opportunity for an appeal hearing for suspensions of 10 or more days. Upon notification by the school that the student will be suspended, the student must request an appointment for a hearing in writing within two (2) school days.

(Note that this section is inapplicable to suspensions/expulsions imposed pursuant to the Education Reform Act, Mass. Gen. Laws, c.71, S37H or 37H ½. Any appeal rights for such disciplinary action will be as provided in the statute.)

Matters concerning co-curricular or athletic activities may be appealed to the director of the program and then to the principal.

Matters concerning classroom standards or requirements may be appealed to the appropriate Content Coordinator or the Assistant Principal of Curriculum/Supervision and then to the Principal.

All rules and regulations are subject to review through the Handbook Committee, School Council, and School Committee. Students and teachers are encouraged to discuss the rationale and enforcement of our rules which are intended to make the school a humane and rational institution.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Principal retains the right to issue penalties for infractions not stated here as well as to alter the penalties stated below. The administrator has the right to report any infractions to the appropriate authority (e.g. police or fire department). Infractions involving financial issues may be collected through the main office or the courts as deemed appropriate.

The types of behavior included in the Code of Conduct have been categorized into four groups
(A through D). The following infractions are listed alphabetically according to group. The four groups are arranged from most to least serious infractions.

Group A 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
1. Act of Arson
Intentional setting of a fire

Any incident of arson will be reported to the student's parent(s) or guardian(s), to the Attleboro Fire Department, to the Attleboro Police Department and be subject to the following:

Up to 10-day out-of-school suspension

May be subject to expulsion.

Re-entry following any offense is conditional upon contact
With one of the following: a) adjustment counselor or
school psychologist
b) other mutually agreed upon
agency

2. Alcohol
Any student who has consumed, has in his/her possession, or is knowingly in the presence of alcohol of any kind, at school-sponsored functions, at dances, on school busses, on school grounds or en route to school or school-sponsored activities, will be reported to the student's parent(s) or guardian(s), to the Attleboro Police Department and be subject to the following:
Up to 10-day out-of-school suspension.
May be subject to expulsion.

Re-entry following any offense is conditional upon contact
With one of the following: a) adjustment counselor or
school psychologist
b) other mutually agreed upon
agency
3. Assault and/or Battery
Unlawful, offensive touching of one person by another which is threatening and potentially injurious and for which there is no legal justification, excuse or consent.
(Please refer to glossary for definition of assault separate from battery). Maximum 6-day out-of-school suspension and parent or guardian/administration conference.
Re-entry following suspension is conditional upon completion of the following:
a) Contact with the school psychologist or adjustment counselor
b) Anger management sessions with an adjustment counselor located in the Contact Center.

Group A 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
4. Bomb Threat
Any student who is involved in the causing of a bomb scare will be referred for psychological counseling, reported to the Attleboro Police Department, Attleboro Fire Department and be subject to the following:
Up to 10-day out-of-school suspension

May be subject to expulsion.

5. Destruction to School and/or Personal Property; Defacing School Property:
Up to 6-day out-of-school suspension.

6. Drugs (Illegal)
Any student who has consumed, has in his/her possession, or is knowingly in the presence of drugs of any kind or is in possession of drug paraphernalia at school-sponsored functions, at dances, on school buses, on school grounds, or en route to school or school-sponsored activities, will be reported to the Attleboro Police Department and subject to the following:
Up to 10-day out-of-school suspension.
May be subject to expulsion.

Re-entry is conditional upon contact with one of the following:
a) adjustment counselor or school psychologist.
b) other mutually agreed upon agency.

7. Drug Sales (Illegal)
Any student who distributes, sells or "pushes" drugs of any kind in school, at-school-sponsored functions, at dances, on school buses, or on school grounds, will be subject to the following: Up to 10-day out-of-school suspension and may be subject to expulsion, and notification of parent or guardian and the Attleboro Police Department

Re-entry is conditional upon contact with one of the following:
a) adjustment counselor or school psychologist.
b) other mutually agreed upon agency.

8. False Alarm
Up to 6-day out-of-school suspension

Referred for psychological counseling, reported to the Attleboro Police Department and Attleboro Fire Department. Up to 10-day out-of -school suspension

May be subject to expulsion.

Group A 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
9. Fighting
Fighting in the building, on school ground, or to and from school poses a threat to the HEALTH AND SAFETY of students and will not be tolerated. Maximum 6-day out-of-school suspension and parent or guardian/administration conference.
Re-entry following suspension is conditional upon completion of the following:
a) Mediation
b) Contact with the School Psychologist or Adjustment counselor.
c) Anger management sessions with an adjustment counselor located in the Contact Center.
*2nd & 3rd Offense may be subject to expulsion by the
Principal.
10. Fireworks, Including Stink Bombs
Students who are found to be either in possession of or igniting fireworks in school or on school property will be subject to the following:

Maximum 6-day out-of-school suspension and may be
subject to expulsion.

11. Hazing of Students
Any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization or team which endangers the physical or mental health of a student. Such conduct is illegal under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 269, Section 17.

Maximum 6-day out-of-school suspension and
may be subject to expulsion.
12. Improper Conduct on School Bus
(See violations of distributed bus rules.) 10-day suspension from bus 30-day suspension from bus Suspension for year from bus service
13. Obtaining Money, Material Goods, or Favors with Threat of Physical Harm Maximum 10-day out-of-school suspension

May be subject to expulsion.
14. Sexual Harassment
(See Section III Legal Issues,
page 5) Maximum 6-day out-of-school suspension.

Re-entry is conditional upon contact with one of the following:
a) adjustment counselor or school psychologist.
b) other mutually agreed upon agency.
Maximum 10-day out-of-school suspension

May be subject to expulsion.
15. Shop Safety Violations
Any student who intentionally violates an Occupational Safety Rule which could cause personal injury to themselves or others will be subject to the following. Up to a 6-day out-of-school suspension.

An additional intentional safety violation will result in removal from the Occupational Program.
Group A 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
16. Theft
Any student stealing or receiving stolen property will be subject to the following:
Maximum 6-day out-of-school suspension

17. Use and/or Possession of Weapons
And Destructive Devices Including Knives, Clubs, look-alike guns, weapons, devices or Any Other Article Deemed Dangerous:
No weapons or ammunition may be brought in to the school. This includes any item defined as a dangerous weapon by state law (Massachusetts General Laws, C. 269. Section 10: e.g. knives, nunchakus, metallic knuckles, etc…) as well as guns, bows and arrows, or any device or item potentially dangerous to the health and safety of others. Any weapon or ammunition brought into the school will be confiscated; the police will be notified of the incident and the student subject to the following:

18. Threatening a Staff Member
Assault and/or Battery of a Staff
Member

Maximum 10-day out-of-school suspension

May be subject to expulsion.

Maximum 10-day out-of-school suspension
May be subject to expulsion and notification of parent/guardian and the Attleboro Police Department.

Group B 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
1. Forgery
The production of or use of something fraudulent or counterfeit; e.g., absence note written by another student, not a parent/guardian, etc. 1 Saturday 2 Saturday 3 Saturday
Alternative Alternatives Alternatives
2. Harassment
Actions and/or comments
(which may be racial, ethnic, sexual or religious slurs) that may threaten or incite others to disrupt the good order of the school and/or endanger a person or person's property. This includes e-mail threats.

3.Driving Recklessly in the Parking
Lot
Student may lose parking privilege,
may receive out-of-school
suspension for endangering a
person or a person's property, and
will be reported to the Attleboro
Police Department.

4. Disrupt the Order of the School
Actions that may threaten or incite others to disrupt the good order of the school. (For example: throwing snowballs, encouraging a fight, etc.)

5. Disrupt a School Event Up to 3-day out-of-school suspension

Up to 3-day out-of-school suspension

Up to 3-day out-of-school suspension

Up to 3-day out-of-school suspension
The student may be prohibited from participating at any school-related event for the remainder of the semester. Up to 5-day out-of-school suspension

Group C 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
1. Disrespect/Insubordination
Failing to follow directions, failing to give name on request, use of a false name, and the use of profane language or symbolic gestures towards any faculty or staff member:

Up to 3-day out-of-school suspension and parent conference.
Re-admission to school will take place only after conference between student, parent/guardian, and dean.

2. Failure to Report to Administrative Office:
1 Saturday Alternative Subsequent offenses: 2 Saturday Alternatives
3. Failure to Report to Assigned Area or Leaving Assigned Area During The Evacuation of Building. 1 Saturday Alternative
4. Gambling:
1 Saturday Alternative
5. Non Prescription/Over The Counter Products.
(Refer to policy on page 10.) 1 Saturday Alternative and Parent Conference
6. Profanity:
Vulgar use of language or symbolic gestures. 1 Saturday Alternative

7. Tobacco Use
Tobacco products visibly displayed will be confiscated by any staff member or administrator.

A ticket will be issued and a fine will be paid in accordance with the local ordinance.

8. Failure to Report to a Teacher's
Detention Tobacco cessation program

2 school sessions Tobacco cessation program and 1 Saturday

1 Saturday Alternative 2 Saturday Alternatives and a Parent Conference
.

2 Saturday Alternatives

Group D 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
1. Cafeteria Infractions:

(at lunch time)

(at lunch time) Consumption of food or drink out of cafeteria =
2 sessions

Leaving cafeteria or failing to clean eating area =
2 sessions

Throwing food /objects =
3-day
out-of-school suspension
Consumption of food or drink out of cafeteria =
2 sessions

Leaving cafeteria or failing to clean eating area =
1 Saturday Alternative

Throwing food /objects =
3-day
out-of-school
suspension Consumption of food or drink out of cafeteria =
2 sessions

Leaving cafeteria or failing to clean eating area =
2 Saturday Alternatives

Throwing food
/objects =
3-day
out-of-school
suspension
2. Cheating:
Plagiarism is a form of cheating. This includes material printed from an electronic source without proper citations.

Zero for work

3. Class Cut:
Unauthorized absence from class.
Because the student has chosen to absent himself/herself from this class, make-up of missed work is prohibited.
2 sessions 1 Saturday Alternative 2 Saturday Alternatives

4. Devices:
The use and/or conspicuous display of radios and electronic devices, beepers, cell phones, hackeysacks, yo-yos, laser pointers, and skateboards will not be allowed in the school. The student will be required to surrender the item. The item will be returned to a parent/guardian at the end of the semester. The school is not responsible for the loss of any of these items.
Exception: Laser implements used with intent will be treated as battery.

Confiscated and not returned until end of semester.
5. Failure to Check into School / Homeroom 2 sessions 1 Saturday Alternative 2 Saturday Alternatives
6. Failure to Report to Assembly/Rally: 2 sessions
7. Inappropriate Behavior Outside The Classroom: e.g. displaying of affection, deliberate noise disruption. 2 sessions 1-day Alternative Classroom Center
8. Leaving the Building: 1 Saturday Alternative 2 Saturday 3 Saturday
Alternatives Alternatives
9. Tardiness…
To School:

To Class: After 5tardies in a
each subsequent

Report to teacher semester, a session will be assigned for
tardy.

after school.
10. Truancy:
Unauthorized absence from school. Please note the following examples are among unacceptable school absences: (e.g., shopping, library, beach, etc.)
Make up of missed work is prohibited.

11. Unauthorized Off Campus 1 Saturday Alternative

1 Saturday Alternative with a parent conference and parking privilege may be revoked for the remainder of the semester. 2 Saturday Alternatives

2 Saturday Alternatives with a parent conference and parking privilege may be revoked for the remainder of the semester. 3 Saturday Alternatives

3 Saturday Alternatives with a parent conference and parking privilege may be revoked for the remainder of the semester.

ALTERNATIVES TO SUSPENSION

Session
1. No students will be admitted ten (10) minutes after the close of school.
2. Teacher session takes priority over office session, but does not take its place. Students detained by a teacher will:
a) Have a pass or note signed by their teacher.
b) Leave this pass or note with the appropriate dean before leaving.
c) Make-up the office session the following afternoon.
3. Failure to report to session will result in one (1) Saturday Alternative, make-up of missed session(s), and a parent or guardian/administrative contact. Failure to report to session hall following a Saturday Alternative will be considered insubordinate and subject to a two-day suspension.
4. Students absent on the day of assigned session hall are expected to report to session on the next day of their attendance. If session is canceled, the student is required to attend the next scheduled session.
5. Students are expected to come to session hall prepared to work with school assignments for the entire period.
6. Misbehavior in session hall will be reported to the appropriate dean. Students so reported are subject to one (1) Saturday Alternative after administrative review.
7. There will be a 24-hour notice in the assignment of all sessions.

Saturday Alternative Suspension Regulations
1. Parent or guardian and student must agree to the guidelines of the program and sign contract with necessary information.
2. Hours: 7:30 AM to 12:00 noon.
3. Tardy students will not be admitted and will be assigned a 2-day out-of-school suspension beginning on the next school day.
4. Students are required to bring school work. Failure will result in a 2-day suspension starting the following school day.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

III LEGAL ISSUES

ATTLEBORO SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
and
ATTLEBORO MASSACHUSETTS POLICE DEPARTMENT

Drugs and alcohol pose a clear danger to the health and well-being of students and the quality of the educational environment. The Attleboro Public Schools will not tolerate illicit drugs and alcohol in any form or amount.

This document states the intent of the Attleboro Public Schools and the Attleboro Police Department to engage in cooperative efforts aimed at the elimination of drugs and alcohol from the schools.

"Roles and responsibilities of teachers, administrators and police officers are identified to ensure knowledgeable and consistently appropriate handling of incidents of drug/alcohol and drug trafficking involving students while under the authority of school personnel. This agreement focuses on the law enforcement and school discipline components of a more comprehensive approach to the problem. Education and treatment also play vital roles in a coordinated school, community and legal system effort to prevent and reduce student substance use/abuse". The parties to the memorandum of understanding hereby agree to the conditions and procedures entered below:
1.0 All school staff are under obligation to report any and all incidents of the use or possession of any drugs/alcohol by students.
1.1 School personnel are not protected under the confidentiality statutes of the Commonwealth and if called to testify in court, they would be obligated to reveal any information relating to drugs/alcohol even if voluntarily confided to them by the students.
1.2 Each and every such incident, suspected incident, or suspected pattern of use, possession or trafficking is to be reported immediately to the building Principal, or Principal's designee.
1.3 Any student who is suspected of, observed as, or has admitted to being under the influence of a drug/alcohol must be reported to the building Principal or designee immediately.
1.4 Incidents, as described in items 1.0-1.3, are considered a violation of school rules and possibly the law if they occur in the school building, on school grounds, at school sponsored events, at activities or events which may be conducted off school grounds, on school buses and at or around school bus stops, during loading and unloading.
2.0 The Principal of each school building shall be the party to whom all such incidents are reported and who will coordinate all procedures in these matters. In the absence of the Principal, another administrator or designee shall perform this function. At Attleboro High School this function shall be fulfilled by the Assistant
Principal.
2.1 Upon a report to the Principal of an incident, an investigation will be conducted. Parents will be informed as soon as possible. Disciplinary hearings will take place in accordance with procedures stated in the student handbook.
3.0 No disciplinary action will be taken against a student who voluntarily confides a drug and/or alcohol dependency to a staff member as long as the student has not been apprehended for any violations.
3.1 To be under the influence of drugs and alcohol but not in possession of these substance drugs is a violation of school rules. Students in violation of school rules regarding drugs will be appropriately disciplined and police will not ordinarily be summoned. Police may be summoned in cases of disorderly or dangerous conduct. The names of students who have been under the influence of drugs may be, at the discretion of the Principal, submitted to the Attleboro Police Department, subject to provisions of the student record regulations.
3.2 Students found to be in possession of drugs or alcohol in locations specifically associated with students (school corridor, lockers, gymnasium lockers, personal clothing or other locations or items) will be notified. The case will be turned over to the Attleboro Police Department which will assume responsibility for prosecution. Contraband associated with the case (illicit drugs and paraphernalia) will be turned over to the Police Department as well.
3.3 The Police Department will, where appropriate, pursue criminal action against any student found to be in possession of drugs/alcohol.
4.0 The Attleboro Police Department will coordinate the department's actions in cases of students found to be in possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia. Records of all such cases will be maintained by the Police Department.
4.1 The Chief of the Attleboro Police Department, the Superintendent of School, and the Principal will form a liaison committee.
5.0 The procedures contained in this memorandum are consistent with the codes for student conduct established in each school building.

CHAPTER 51
Massachusetts State Law (Protective Eye Devices)
An act requiring pupils and teachers to wear eye protective devices when attending certain classes in public schools:

"The School Committee of each city or town shall require each pupil and teacher in a public school to wear industrial quality eye protective devices, approved by the Department of Public Safety, while attending classes in vocational or industrial art shops or laboratories, in which caustic or explosives are used or in which welding of any type, repair or servicing of vehicles, heat treatment or tempering of metals, of the milling, sawing, stamping or cutting of solid materials or any similar dangerous process is taught, exposure to which might have a tendency to cause damage to the eyes. Visitors to such classrooms or laboratories shall also be required to wear protective devices."

CHAPTER 71
Parental Notificiation Act
General Laws Chapter 71, Section 32A, commonly referred to as the Parental Notification Act, requires schools to notify parents / guardians of public school students of all curriculum which primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues. The Attleboro School District has a comprehensive health education program which includes developmentally appropriate instruction in personal growth, human sexuality, and HIV / AIDS prevention which builds sequentially from the elementary through the high school years.

Where education on sexuality issues is a primary focus of a course or unit, such as in puberty education in the elementary schools, or Personal Development and Human Sexuality courses in the middle and high schools, parents will be sent a letter of notification, with the option of exempting their child from the course or unit.

Where sexuality issues are peripherally related to the intent of the instruction, such as in courses or units in Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, current events, HIV awareness or assault prevention as part of a comprehensive health program, there will be no further notification.

The School Department strongly recommends that all students participate in the curriculum specified by the Health Advisory Committee and approved by the School Committee.

If, however, parents or guardians wish to exempt their children from any portion of the curriculum which involves human sexuality issues, they may do so through written notification to the principal. No child so exempted shall be penalized by reason of such exemption.

Curricular materials related to human sexuality courses or units are available for review at parents' nights or by appointment by contacting the Health Coordinator.

Tobacco Use
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, there is to be no use of any tobacco product by any student in SCHOOL, on SCHOOL GROUNDS, or in a SCHOOL BUS (subject to disciplinary code.) In addition, tobacco products visibly displayed by any student will be surrendered to any faculty, staff or administrator.

CHAPTER 119
Child Abuse Law
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 119, Section 51A, any public or private school teacher, educational administrator, guidance or family counselor, nurse or social worker, as well as certain other professionals, who in his/her professional capacity believes that a child under eighteen is suffering serious physical or emotional injury resulting from abuse or neglect, must immediately report such cases to the Department of Public Welfare.

CHAPTER 266, Section 102A-1/2
Hoax Devices
The new statute establishes that it is a felony for any person to possess, transport, use, or place, or cause another to possess, transport, use, or place, a fake bomb or "hoax device" with the intent to cause anxiety, unrest, fear, or personal discomfort to any person or group of persons. The statute defines a "hoax device" as any device that would cause a person reasonably to believe that it places in danger life or property b y fire or explosion. A person convicted under this statute may be fined up to $5,000 and/or sentenced up to two and one-half years in a house of correction or five years in a state prison.

CHAPTER 269
The following paragraph was added to G.L.C. 269 s.10 by Chapter 150 of the Acts of 1987:

Firearms
Section 10
Whoever not being a law enforcement officer, and not withstanding any license obtained by him under the provisions of chapter one hundred and forty, carries on his person a firearms hereinafter defined, loaded or unloaded, in any building or on the grounds of any secondary school, college or university shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or both. For the purpose of this paragraph, "firearm" shall mean any pistol, revolver, rifle, or smoothbore arm from which a shot, bullet, or pellet can be discharged by whatever means.

This law was amended in 1985 to include the following sections on prohibiting the practice of hazing:

Hazing
Section 17
Whoever is principle organizer or participant in the crime of hazing as defined herein shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one hundred days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

The term "hazing" as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen (not presented here), shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public of private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.

Section 18
Whoever knows that another is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars.

Section 19
Statement of Compliance and Discipline Policy Required from the Hazing Section of State Law.
Each secondary school and each public and private school or college shall issue to every group or organization under its authority or operating on or in conjunction with its campus or school, and to every member, plebe, pledges or applicant for membership in such group or organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. An officer of each such group or organization, and each individual receiving a copy of said sections seventeen and eighteen shall sign an acknowledgment stating that such group, organization or individual has received a copy of said sections seventeen and eighteen. Each secondary school and each public or private school or college shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary schools, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with the provisions of this section and also certifying that said school has adopted a disciplinary policy with regards to the organizers and participants of hazing. The board of regents in the case of secondary schools, then the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such a report. Added at St. 1985, c.536.

CHAPTER 622 AND TITLE IX
Two important pieces of legislation affecting the public schools have been implemented at the federal and state levels respectively. Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the federal law, prohibits discrimination in school on the basis of sex. Chapter 622 of the General laws, Acts of 1971, the state law, prohibits discrimination in schools on the basis of race, color, sex, religion or national origin. These are somewhat different in scope and coverage and are explained separately below:

Title IX - Prohibits Sex Discrimination
Congress passed Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, which prohibits sex discrimination in federally assisted educational programs. On May 27, 1972, President Ford signed the final version of the regulations which govern legislation. The governing regulations effective July 21, 1972, cover all aspects of sex discrimination in schools with regard to admissions, treatment of students and employment. Specifically, Title IX states: No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under an education program or activity receiving Federal Financial Assistance.

Copies of Title IX may be obtained from the Office for Civil Rights, Region I, RKO General Building, Boston, MA 02114 - (617) 223-6397.

Chapter 622 - "An Act to Prohibit Discrimination in the Public Schools"
Passed in August 1971, Chapter 622 of the General Laws, Acts of 1971, is referred to as "An Act to Prohibit Discrimination in the Public Schools."

The Law reads as follows:
No person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town, or in obtaining the advantages, privileges and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, sex, religion or national origin.

This law makes it clear that all aspects of public school education must be fully open and available to members of both sexes and of minority groups. No school may exclude a child from that public school on account of race, color, sex, religion or national origin of such child.

On June 24, 1975, the State Board of Education approved regulations for Chapter 622. These regulations address five areas of school policy: school admissions, admission to courses of study, guidance, course content and extra-curricular and athletic activities.

Copies of the law and the regulations pertaining to Chapter 622 can be obtained from the Bureau of Educational Opportunity, 182 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111 - (617) 727-5880.

The Attleboro School Committee supports Title IX and Chapter 622 and discriminates neither in employment nor educational programs and activities on the basis of race, color, sex, religion or national origin. Any questions or grievances regarding Chapter 622 may be directed to the local coordinator, the assistant superintendent of schools.

Harassment
Massachusetts General Laws:
MGL 151C Chapter 622
Attleboro High School will provide to all an environment free from harassment. It is committed to courteous and considerate treatment of students and employees at all times as an accepted standard of behavior. Attleboro High School will have an atmosphere free of tension caused by demeaning or inappropriate religious, racial, sexual or ethnic comments. It is the policy of Attleboro High School to prohibit harassment by any of its agents, officers, employees or students and has set forth a process by which allegations of harassment may be filed, investigated and resolved.
Responsibility:
It is the obligation of each person to report any conduct which violates the harassment policy at Attleboro High regardless of whether or not the person is a victim; whether the violator is a student, agent or staff member; and regardless of the sex of the offender. This policy also applies equally to all individuals at Attleboro High, and covers all relationships including, but not limited to, peer relationships, student/staff and student/teacher. Everyone at Attleboro High School is responsible for ensuring that their behavior is
free from sexual harassment or any form of harassment and no individual should engage in, condone, or encourage harassing behavior.

Definitions

Harassment - any undesired or unwanted repeated acts that cause distress or mental anguish. Harassment may include but not be limited to touching, stalking, jeering, annoying phone calls, sly comments, graffiti or intimidation.

Sexual Harassment - unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment has the purpose or effect of interfering with a person's work or educational performance by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or learning environment. Sexual harassment may take many forms, including but not limited to the following:
1) Verbal Harassment or abuse;
2) Subtle pressure or requests for sexual activity;
3) Assault, inappropriate touching, impeding movement, comments or gestures, written documents or a suggestive or derogatory nature;
4) Continuing to express sexual interests after being informed that the interest is unwelcome.
5) Leering or voyeurism;
6) Displaying sexually explicit, lewd or pornographic photographs or materials.

Procedure:
The following options are available to an individual who believes he or she has been the victim of sexual harassment or harassment of any kind:
1) If the individual can comfortably do so, they may inform the person engaging in
the harassment that their conduct is offensive and must be stopped.
2) If the individual does not wish to communicate directly with the person, or communication has not brought results, they may report the offense to any teacher or administrative representative of Attleboro High School to whom the employee or student feels comfortable talking.
3) The supervisor to whom the incident or harassment has been reported must immediately contact the Principal, Superintendent or his designee (Chapter 622 Coordinator).
4) The Principal, Superintendent or his designee will arrange for a prompt and thorough investigation of all reports and take appropriate steps if an investigation indicates that any employee, officer, agent or student has engaged in a violation of this policy. Each investigation will be properly documented. Retaliation or threats or retaliation upon the alleged victim will not be tolerated.

Protection for victim:
The initiation of a complaint in good faith will not have any detrimental effect on the individual's employment or a student's educational status.

Confidentiality:
Any investigation into allegations of harassment must be conducted in as confidential a manner as possible. Only those individuals with a need to know should be informed of a complaint. Witnesses identified by the complainant should be interviewed individually in circumstances that will encourage candid comments. The employee or student should be aware that Attleboro High School is obligated to investigate each and every report of harassment and will do its best to maintain total confidentiality as long as possible.

CHAPTER 766
All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in this handbook, subject to any modifications of the school discipline code set forth in a student's Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), pursuant to Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws, known as Chapter 766.

Exclusion of a special needs student from his/her educational program for more than ten days will be subject to the requirements of applicable state and federal laws. A state law that went into effect in 1974 specified that parents have the right to seek help for their children if they feel those children have special needs. A special needs child is determined on the finding that a school age child because of temporary intellectual, sensory, emotional or physical factors, cerebral dysfunction, perceptual factors or other specific learning disabilities, is unable to progress effectively in a regular education program and requires special education. If a child is having difficulty, the school on request, is mandated, within a specific time frame, to form a core evaluation team to discuss the special needs of that child and to write an appropriate educational plan. Under the law parents have specified rights of consultation, review and appeal.

EXPULSION FOR POSSESSION OF A DANGEROUS WEAPON
OR A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE
OR ASSAULT OF EDUCATIONAL PERSONNEL

A. Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in Chapter Ninety-Four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

B. Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

C. Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph A or B shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal. After said hearing a principal may at his/her discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph A or B.

D. Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his/her appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.

E. When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student. If said student does apply for admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the superintendent of the school expelling said student a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion.

SUSPENSION/EXPULSION
FOR A FELONY CHARGE OR CONVICTION

Mass. Gen. Laws, c. 72, S37H1/2 provides the following:
1. Upon the issuance of a criminal complaint charging a student with a felony or upon the issuance of a felony delinquency complaint against a student, the principal of a school, in which the student is enrolled may suspend such student for a period of time determined appropriate by said principal if said principal determines that the student's continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school. The student shall receive written notification of the charges and the reasons for such suspension prior to such suspension taking effect. The student shall also receive written notification of his/her right to appeal and the process for appealing such suspension; provided, however, that such suspension shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent.

The student shall have the right to appeal the suspension to the superintendent. The student shall notify the superintendent in writing of his/her request for an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the suspension. The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student's parent or guardian within three calendar days of the student's request for an appeal. At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on his/her behalf, and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal including recommending an alternate educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such decision shall be the final decision of the town with regard to the suspension.

2. Upon a student being convicted of a felony or upon an adjudication or admission in court of guilt with respect to such a felony or felony delinquency, the principal of a school in which the student is enrolled may expel said student if such principal determines that the student's continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school. The student shall receive written notification of the charges and reasons for such expulsion prior to such expulsion taking effect. The student shall also receive written notification of his/her right to appeal and the process for appealing such expulsion; provided, however, that the expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent.

The student shall have the right to appeal the expulsion to the superintendent. The student shall notify the superintendent, in writing, of his/her request for an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the expulsion. The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student's parent or guardian within three calendar days of the expulsion. At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on his/her behalf and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal, including recommending an alternate educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such decision shall be the final decision of the town with regard to the expulsion.

Upon expulsion of such student, no school or school district shall be required to provide educational services to such student. (This section was added by Chapter 380 of the Acts of 1993 on January 4, 1994.)

The Department of Education and the Department of Youth Services shall, pursuant to a study and recommendations conducted by the Mass/Jobs Council, assure that an educational opportunity is provided for a student whose admission to a school or right to educational services is regulated by the provisions of this act.

Said study shall contain a statistical analysis of the number of students who have been expelled and the services that are now provided and recommendations for the provision of education to expelled students in the future. Said study shall be completed within five months and shall be submitted to the house and senate clerk and the house and senate chairmen of the Joint Committee on Education, Arts and Humanities.

Section 37L. (Section 37L of said chapter 71, as appearing in the 1990 Official Edition, is hereby amended by adding the following three paragraphs.)

In addition, any school department personnel shall report in writing to their immediate supervisor an incident involving a student's possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school premises at any time.

Supervisors who receive such a weapon report shall file it with the superintendent of said school, who shall file copies of said weapon report with the local chief of police, the department of social services, the office of student services or its equivalent in any school district, and the local school committee. Said superintendent, police chief and representative from the department of social services, together with a representative from the office of student services or its equivalent, shall arrange an assessment of the student involved in said weapon report. Said student shall be referred to a counseling program; provided, however, that said counseling shall be in accordance with acceptable standards as set forth by the board of education. Upon completion of a counseling session, a follow-up assessment shall be made of said student by those involved in the initial assessment.

A student transferring into a local system must provide the new school system with a complete school record of the entering student. Said record shall include, but not be limited to, any incidents involving suspension or violation of criminal acts or any incident reports in which such student was charged with any suspended act.

INTERNET POLICY
Students and parents must agree to the following guidelines.
1. All use of the Internet must be lawful and ethical.
2. The administration reserves the right to change these guidelines in response to system needs.
3. Users may not use the Internet for commercial purposes, or political lobbying.
4. Users may not vandalize hardware or software including introduction of viruses into the network.
5. Users are to observe copyright procedures.
6. Users are to respect the rights, privileges and privacy of others.
7. Users are responsible for taking reasonable precautions such as not sharing access to their accounts and not giving out personal information on the web.
8. Users are aware that files stored on school-based computers are not private.
9. At a minimum, violations of the Guidelines will result in denial of the privilege of access.
10. Additional disciplinary action may be necessary including action by law enforcement agencies.

POLICY GOVERNING 18 YEAR OLDS
Once a person reaches the age of eighteen (18), Massachusetts law holds that he/she is an adult and has reached the age of majority. This means that an eighteen year old is