West Shore

School District

Student Related Board Policies

Activities and Athletic Offerings (Board Policies 122 and 232)

Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities (Board Policy 122)

Extracurricular activities include programs sponsored or approved by the Board which are conducted entirely or partly outside the regular school day and are not offered for credit toward graduation. Extracurricular activities are equally available to all students who voluntarily elect to participate and include athletics, clubs, marching band, school plays, and student council.

Co-curricular activities are sponsored by the Board, offered for credit toward graduation, and have mandatory components that require attendance at and participation in activities scheduled during non-school hours. Co-curricular activities include concert choir/band performances and practices, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, and field trips occurring outside the regular school day.

This policy reflects the District philosophy that co-curricular activities are offered for the purpose of helping to provide students with a well-rounded educational experience.

Middle and High School Offerings

A wide array of interscholastic sports activities, as well as a diverse student activities program is available to District students. The District is a member of the Mid-Penn Conference of the PIAA and, as such, offers those sports programs that are in the Mid-Penn Conference. Students who wish to participate in interscholastic sports must comply with PIAA permission cards, eligibility requirements and requirements of a physical. They must also sign a form at the beginning of each season indicating they received and were informed about the Athletic Code of Conduct.

Mid-Penn sports schedules for Cedar Cliff and Red Land are available each season in both high school offices and are posted on the District website.

Students involved in athletic programs and student activities must maintain academic eligibility in order to fully participate in these programs. Students involved in athletic programs and student activities must also clear any obligations which have been recorded in the office in order to participate in these programs.

An activity fee will be charged in order to assist the District with its efforts to continue to provide a robust offering of athletics, fine arts, and other student activities. This fee will be charged to students in grade 7 through 12 participating on any District athletic team, all extracurricular music and dramatic performances, and Color Guard/Marching Band. Fees do not apply to groups performing specific services for school or community populations such as Student Council and Key Club. Accommodations will be made for students/families experiencing economic hardships as well as for those students who qualify for the Free/Reduced student meal program.

Student Accident Insurance

The Board recognizes the need for insurance coverage for unforeseen accidents which may occur to students in the course of attendance at school or while participating in athletic and extracurricular programs offered by the school. The District does not carry medical insurance on students. However, for parents who may wish to supplement their medical insurance plan, the District does provide the opportunity to purchase a group medical insurance plan. This plan provides medical coverage on a school-time basis or on a 24-hour basis and is usually purchased at the beginning of the school year.

Ambulance fees and medical costs resulting from accidental injury to students, in the course of attendance at school or to students participating in athletic and extracurricular programs of the school, should be submitted to parents’ medical/hospital provider(s).

Participation in School Activities on or off School Property (Board Policy 232)

The Board believes that students should participate in school activities as part of their educational development. Students participating in school functions on or off school property are subject to the rules and regulations of the school and the District.

Automobiles, Bicycles, and Skateboards on School Property (Board Policy 223)

Bicycles/Skateboards

Bicycles must be placed in the racks provided. It is important that bicycles be locked. Students will not be permitted access to bicycles during the school day. Students on bicycles must be particularly careful to follow all traffic regulations and good safety practices. The District is not responsible for damage or theft of bicycles. Skateboards and scooters are not permitted to be ridden on District property. Skating is not permitted on District property. Skateboards are not permitted on district transportation.

Driving on School Property

Parents who bring their students to school by car are asked to use extreme caution while on school property. Please observe the speed limit. Use only the designated entrances and exits. There are to be no cars parked in the driveways of the school. All parents are asked to park in the parking lot or street to wait for students. Parents and other visitors are asked to stay clear of bus loading zones during arrival and departure times. All parents are expected to follow building arrival and dismissal procedures.

High School Transportation Between Schools

The District provides bus transportation between schools for those students who take courses at more than one school and does not encourage students to drive to school from home or between schools and does not accept any responsibility for anyone transporting or being transported that way. Students who, through their negligence, miss the approved transportation between schools will be considered unexcused/unlawfully absent from class. An attempt to call parents to transport them to the other school will be made. The school will not be responsible for those students who, through their own negligence, miss courses scheduled at other schools.

High School Parking Permits

A limited quantity of parking permits will be issued for student use during the year. While student parking at the high schools has always been viewed as a privilege that can be revoked for misuse of the privilege or for serious disciplinary violations. Increased enrollment and requests from students for parking permits have necessitated the need to revise parking privileges.

During the school day, no student may drive or park a vehicle on West Shore School District property without proper authorization from the building administration.
Only seniors and juniors will be granted the privilege of parking on school property.
Parking permits will be issued to students needing to travel to and from job and/or placement opportunities during the school day. The remaining tags will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. A waiting list will be established. If a parking tag is permanently revoked, it will be given to the first person on the waiting list.
While the District does not regulate parking off of school grounds, students are reminded that they are required to comply with township parking regulations.

Procedures to Register a Vehicle - All vehicles must be registered in the office to park on school property. Approved students will be issued a parking tag at a cost of $20-$25. Lost tags will be replaced for a fee. If a tag is revoked for any reason, the tag fee will not be refunded.

The student registering the vehicle must provide the following: valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, proof of current insurance, vehicle registration, and completed parking application.

Temporary Driving Passes - Several spaces will be reserved for students needing to drive on occasion for a doctor's appointment. A one-day pass will be granted upon submission of a parent note requesting a temporary pass. Students owing obligations, having poor attendance or behavioral concerns will not be granted temporary passes. The one-day pass must be requested the day before the privilege will be granted. The temporary pass must be displayed face up on the dashboard of the car.

Parking Regulations

All cars must be registered with the building administration by obtaining a registration tag and completing proper forms. Registration tags must be displayed in the vehicle at all times while on school property.
No cars are to be moved during the day without permission from the administration.
Students are to use the designated entrances and exits to lots.
Students are to use designated parking areas.
Students must observe the designated speed limits while on school property.
All students should lock their vehicles during the school day.
No student will be permitted in his/her vehicle during the school day without permission from a building administrator.
Vehicles not properly registered or parked illegally may be ticketed by the police department.
School officials reserve the right to inspect vehicles on school property. Students are responsible for the contents of their vehicles.
Students are not permitted in the parking lots except during the time of arrival and departure from school without permission from the administration.
Students must exit vehicles immediately upon arrival to school. Loitering is not tolerated.
Students must obey all Pennsylvania laws while on school property.
Driving recklessly, exceeding the speed limit, and/or parking illegally, may be reported to the police.
Violations of these regulations will result in disciplinary actions which may include detention, suspension or parking privileges being suspended or revoked.

Other Regulations Pertaining to Attendance, Behavior and Financial Obligations

Absences and tardies to school will impact a student’s privilege to drive to school. For disciplinary consequences, refer to Absence and Tardiness Policies.
Parking tags are given to individuals for specific vehicles. No other person but the person for whom the tag has been issued may use the tag.
Students must realize parking is a privilege that may be revoked for reasons related to a student’s disciplinary record. As a provision of Board or Administrative probation, parking privileges are revoked while students are on probation.
Under the provisions of Board Policy 218 Student Discipline, disciplinary consequences will be imposed for the following reasons:
- No parking permit displayed
- Vehicle not registered
- Unauthorized use of another student’s permit
- Vehicle parked improperly
- Inappropriate behavior related to vehicle on school property

Bullying/Cyberbullying and Hazing (Board Policies 249 and 247)

The Board is committed to providing a safe, positive learning environment for West Shore School District students. The District recognizes that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, the Board prohibits bullying by District students. All forms of bullying and cyberbullying by School District students are hereby prohibited. Anyone who engages in bullying or cyberbullying in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate discipline. Students are encouraged to report bullying or cyberbullying complaints directly to a District employee or through the use of the Bullying Complaint Form (available on the District website).

Bullying shall mean intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students, which occurs in a school setting that is severe, persistent or pervasive and has the effect of doing any of the following:

Substantially interfering with a student’s education;
Creating a threatening environment; or
Substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

In some instances, bullying can constitute a violation of either or both state or federal law. Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying. Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing another student, teacher or employee of the School District by sending or posting inappropriate or derogatory e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or web site postings (including blogs). All forms of cyberbullying are unacceptable and, to the extent that such actions are disruptive of the educational process of the School District, offenders shall be the subject of appropriate discipline. Cyberbullying may also be violations of state and/or federal law. Likewise, retaliation for the making of a complaint of cyberbullying is a violation of this policy.

The terms bullying and cyberbullying shall not be interpreted to infringe upon a student’s right to engage in legally protected speech or conduct but can include actions taken off of school property, outside of the school day, and/or through the use of a personal computer, cell phone, or other communication device.

Hazing (Board Policy 247)

The purpose of Board Policy 247 is to maintain a safe, positive environment for students and staff that is free from hazing. Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the District and are prohibited at all times. No student, parent/guardian, coach, sponsor, advisor, volunteer or District employee shall engage in, condone, or ignore any form of hazing. Students, parents/guardians, coaches, sponsors, advisors, volunteers, and District employees shall be alert to incidents of hazing and shall immediately report such conduct to the building principal.

Harassment of Others

The creation of a safe and orderly climate, one which enhances a sense of well-being and security for everyone, is of utmost importance. The administration will not hesitate to cite individuals found harassing others. Please refer to Section 2709-Harassment of the Crimes Code of Pa., listed below, for clarification.

A person commits a summary offense when, with intent to harass, annoy or alarm another person:

He strikes, shoves, kicks or otherwise subjects him to physical contact, or attempts or threatens to do the same; or
He follows a person in or about a public place or places; or
He engages in a course of conduct or repeatedly commits acts which alarm or seriously annoy such other person and which serve no legitimate purpose.

Ethnic Intimidation

The responsibility of each individual functioning in any society, including our school society, is to interact toward each other with mutual respect and, at minimum, in a manner which is non-threatening and intimidating. Our administration will cite individuals who are found intimidating, threatening, or maliciously making remarks toward the race, religion or national origin of another. Please refer to section 2710 of the Crimes Code of Pa., listed below, for clarification:

Offense defined - A person commits the offense of ethnic intimidation if, with malicious intention toward the race, color, religion or national origin of another individual or groups of individuals, he/she commits an offense under any other provision of this article or under Chapter 33 (relating to arson, criminal mischief and other property destruction) exclusive of section 3307 (relating to institutional vandalism) or under section 3503 (relating to criminal trespass) or under section 5504 (relating to harassment by communication or address) with respect to one or more members of such group or to their property.
Grading - An offense under this section shall be classified as a misdemeanor of the third degree if the other offense is classified as a summary offense. Otherwise, an offense under this section shall be classified one degree higher in the classification specified in section 106 (relating to classes of offenses) than the classification of the other offense.
Definition - As used in this section “malicious intention” means the intention to commit any act, the commission of which is a necessary element of any offense referred to in subsection (a) motivated by hatred toward the race, color, religion or national origin of another individual or group of individuals.

Cell Phones/Electronic Communication Devices (Board Policy 237)

Electronic and personal communication devices shall include all devices that can take photographs; record, play, or edit audio or video data; store, transmit or receive calls, messages text, data, or images; operate online applications; or provide a wireless connection to the Internet.

The Board prohibits use of electronic devices in locker rooms, bathrooms, health suites, and other changing areas at any time.

Students are prohibited from using any device to record, transmit, or receive any unauthorized communication during class time.

The taking, storing, disseminating, transferring, viewing, or sharing of obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal or inappropriate images or photographs, whether by electronic data transfer or other means, including but not limited to texting and e-mailing is prohibited. The term “inappropriate” shall refer to any image or photograph, the dissemination of which could or does result in substantial disruption to the functioning of the school.

The Board prohibits the use of any electronic devices by any student during instructional times during the school day (from the beginning of first period until the end of last period), which includes homeroom and study halls, except that students may use electronic devices during instructional times for instructional purposes if, and only if, they have the prior permission of the teacher or building administrator to do so.

Student use of electronic devices during non-instructional times, including lunch periods, before school hours, after school hours, on District provided transportation, and between classes, will be determined and regulated by District administration.

High School Guidelines

In high school, students should begin to understand appropriate times for the use of electronic devices. As such, high school student use of electronic devices during non-instructional times, including lunch periods, before school hours, after school hours, and between classes will be permitted by the Administration. High School students must put away devices upon entering the classroom, unless specified by the teacher that devices will be utilized for instructional purposes that class period or as designated in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Service Agreement.

High School Consequences for Cell Phone Violations:

First Offense: Teacher assigned consequence (ex. detention/call home/notification to administration)
Second Offense and beyond: Administrative assigned consequence (ex. Detention/call home/WS Restore). Progressive discipline will occur if the behavior continues.

Elementary & Middle School Guidelines

In elementary and middle school, electronic devices/cell phones must be shut down and put away upon entering the building. Electronic devices/cell phones and ear buds may not be utilized in the hallways or at lunch and/or recess. Electronic devices should only be utilized in the classroom when directed by the teacher for instructional purposes.

Elementary & Middle School Consequences for Cell Phone Violations:

First Offense: Teacher takes electronic devices/cell phone and reports it to the office. The incident is logged in the school’s behavior management system as a “warning.”
Second Offense: Same as first offense plus cell phone restriction for one week (ex. phone kept in office) OR after school detention, lunch detention(s), recess detention(s). Consequences will be at Administrator discretion.
Third Offense: Same as the first offense plus one day West Shore Restore at middle school or additional disciplinary action at elementary level. Parent picks up phone at the school. Progressive discipline will occur if the behavior continues.

Class Rank/Numeric GPA/Academic GPA (Board Policy 214)

High School

This policy explains the District position in determining class rank and grade point average for students in grades 9-12. Class rank and grade point average inform students and parents of relative academic placement among student peers at the same grade level.

Discipline (Board Policy 218)

In order to offer the best possible educational climate in which students are free to learn and teachers are free to teach, an organized set of rules of social conduct must be established. Likewise, this set of rules must be communicated to all parties in the educational process. Uniform and consistent enforcement of the rules is also essential. The policy serves as the student Code of Conduct, setting forth the rules for social interaction in the West Shore School District and is intended to offer direction to students, parents/guardians, teachers, and administrators. Emphasis shall be on courteous cooperation in all aspects of this policy. It is the responsibility and the discretion of the building administrator to utilize an appropriate disciplinary option available to achieve desired changes in student behavior.

Students have certain responsibilities regardless of age, including regular attendance, conscientious efforts in the classroom, and compliance with school rules, regulations, and expectations. Students also have the responsibility to make positive contributions to the school climate. No student has the right to interfere with the educational process of any other person. Students are expected to be courteous, cooperative, and respectful of the rights of other persons in the educational process. An individual student's rights end when that student's actions detract from the rights of other persons.

A list of disciplinary infractions, interventions, and disciplinary options, while not all inclusive, is noted below to assist students to achieve a good understanding of prohibited behavior. Disciplinary infractions are delineated into three levels. Each successive level is considered to be of a more serious nature. The failure of a student to meet the behavioral expectations of the District will result in an appropriate form of disciplinary action. Possible interventions and disciplinary options are specified for each level.

Level I:

Acts which constitute a violation of rules and regulations or acts which impede orderly classroom procedures or interfere with orderly operation of the school. The order of listed disciplinary actions is not ranked or sequential, nor is it to be considered an all-inclusive list. The type and duration of discipline are within the discretion of the administration, based on the severity of the offense.

Level I Examples (not exclusive):

• Bullying

• Bus misconduct

• Cheating

• Damage to property (unintentional)

• Disrespect or disruptive behavior

• Improper use of District equipment, facilities, and/or resources

• Indecent/Obscene or unsafe behavior

• Late to class/Tardiness

• Lying

• Presence in unauthorized area

• Unacceptable clothing or language

• Use/Possession of personal audio equipment without permission of staff

Intervention(s):

Staff action
Referral to administration
Verification of offense
Notification to parent/ guardian
Referral to School Counselor
Informal hearing
Log of infraction

Disciplinary Options:

Behavioral contract
Detention
Guidance/Health services
Loss of make-up privilege and/or credit
Parental conference
Rearrangement of seating
Restitution for damage (replacement/repair of damaged property)
School/Community service
Special assignment
Suspension
Temporary removal from class
Verbal reprimand
Warning
Withdrawal of privileges

Level II:

Acts whose frequency or seriousness disrupt the learning climate of the school. Acts which may constitute a threat to the health, safety, property and/or welfare of students and/or staff.

Level II infractions may require the intervention of outside agencies, including the police.

The order of listed disciplinary actions is not ranked or sequential, nor is it to be considered an all-inclusive list. The type and duration of discipline are within the discretion of the administration, based on the severity of the offense.

Level II Examples (not exclusive):

Bullying
Class cut
Computer vandalism /physical damage to computer resources, purposeful deletion of information stored by others
Disruption/Threat of disruption or harassment, caused by use of laser device of any type, electronic devices (Pol. 237)
Extortion
Failure to serve detention or other disciplinary action
Fighting
Forgery of a document
Harassment
Indecent/Obscene behavior or possession/use of indecent/obscene material
Insubordination (failure to follow directives)
Leaving school property without permission)
Plagiarism
Possession/Use of a tobacco product (Pol. 222)
Solicitation without permission
Stalking
Theft
Truancy
Vandalism/Destruction of property
Violation of probation

Intervention(s):

Staff action
Referral to administration
Verification of offense
Notification to parent/ guardian
Referral to School Counselor
Informal hearing
Police/Agency referral
Counselor

Disciplinary Options:

Administrative probation
Detention
Expulsion
Guidance/Health services
Parental conference
Police/Agency referral
Restitution for damage (replacement/repair of damaged property)
School/Community
service
Alternative Education
Citation
Suspension
Withdrawal of privileges (replacement/repair

Level III:

Acts which result in violent actions directed toward another person, destruction of property, or which pose a clear and present threat to the health, safety, and/or welfare of others in the school.

Level III infractions are in violation of laws or regulations established by various government agencies, and will involve the police.

Level III Examples (not exclusive):

Arson
Assault – verbal or physical
Possession/Use of drug or controlled substance, look-alike, alcohol/being under the influence (Pol. 227)
Possession/Use of weapon or look-alike (Pol. 218.1)
Selling/Distributing/Trafficking drug or controlled substance, look-alike, alcohol (Pol. 227)
Threatening/Terroristic statements or actions (Pol. 218.4)
Unauthorized use of fire alarm system
Use of computer resources for obscene, threatening, violent or illegal purposes (Pol. 815)
Use of laser device of any type/electronic device which may pose a danger to the safety of others
(Pol. 237)

Intervention(s):

Staff action
Referral to administration
Verification of offense
Student removal from situation
Student/Parent/ Guardian conference with administrator
Informal hearing
Police/Agency referral
Board hearing
Student Assistance Team referral
Drug/Alcohol evaluation
Mental health evaluation
Log of offense

Disciplinary Options:

Administrative or Board probation
Expulsion
Police/Agency referral
Restitution for damage (replacement/repair of damaged property)
Suspension
Withdrawal of privileges
Alternative Education
Citation
School/Community service

It is the responsibility of the building administrator(s) to utilize an appropriate disciplinary option to achieve desired changes in student behavior. It is understood that a student will be verbally assigned any disciplinary actions and the parent will be notified of this action in a written and timely fashion. The administration will maintain student discipline files.

In response to the inappropriate behavior of students with disabilities, the District recognizes and must determine the behavioral manifestation of the student's disability and the need for instructional intervention. Discipline issues concerning students with disabilities must be dealt with in accordance with state and federal regulations.

General Rules

Refrain from profane and vulgar language.
Conform to regulations of each teacher and the school.
Be neat and clean in person and clothing.
Willful or careless abuse or damage to school property is forbidden and will result in vandalism charges and the involved student making restitution for the damages.
Students writing on or defacing school property inside or outside the building will be subject to action of the Board of Directors and civil authorities, as well as the involved student making restitution for the damages.
Students who ride buses are required to obey directions of the bus drivers and safety regulations at all times.
Students shall not ask to use the office phones unless for urgent reasons after securing permission from someone in charge of the office at the time. The office telephone may not be used for personal calls, except in emergency situations. Forgetting homework assignments, books, projects, gym uniforms, or athletic team gear, etc. are not considered emergencies.
Students participating in extra-curricular activities shall do the work of that activity during the time allotted to that activity.
Students shall not be excused from classes for extra-curricular work without consent of a principal.
Students shall not leave school property after arriving on school property unless it is approved by administration (ie. Senior Open Campus, Co-Op, Pathway Internship, etc.).
Students shall not play cards in the school or on school property unless it is part of a supervised social event/instructional program.
Students shall not adjust thermostats, windows or shades without permission of the teacher.
Students detained after class shall secure a pass form the teacher who detained them.
Students shall practice safety and consideration of others everywhere.
Parents will be asked to come to school to confer with the principal in chronic cases of discipline, inexcusable or doubtful absences and tardiness.
Students are not permitted anywhere in the building after 3:00 p.m. (except until 4:00 p.m. in the student lounge awaiting transportation home) without faculty supervision. No students are permitted to loiter on school grounds after school.
Students are subject to school discipline for any harassment, vandalism, physical abuse, or other disruptive behavior toward school personnel during non-school time.
All forms of gambling are prohibited.
Students are not permitted to bring to school or use any type of sound reproduction equipment, including pagers, beepers, and cellular phones as per section Sch.1317.1 of Pennsylvania’s Public School Code, or outside the guidelines established in Board Policy 237.
Delivery of food/flowers to classes during school hours (7:37-2:45) is not permitted.
Sales activities directed toward service projects for the school are permitted but such activities for parties, picnics, etc. are not permitted.
To control sales activities, all activities must be approved by the administration. Fund raising request forms must be on file in the office.
All student activities shall cease at the high school by 11:00 p.m. When held outside of the high school, activities shall cease not later than 12:00 midnight.
No student shall be transported on trips or activities without written consent of parents.
Adult chaperonage is required for all bus-transported students engaged in travel on school activities. (If automobiles are used to transport students, permission must be received from the administration and forms completed regarding insurance coverage.) It shall be determined in advance that the owner of such an automobile has adequate liability insurance to protect the students and the school.
Use or possession of alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco products is not permitted at school functions nor at functions for which a school facility may be rented.
Upon entering the building before the start of the school day, students shall go at once to their first period class and remain there unless excused for valid reason by the teacher.
No student shall be permitted in the auditorium unless accompanied by a teacher or by written permission from a teacher.
Students must exercise extreme caution and obey posted speed limits when driving on school property. That includes driving in specified parking areas, and while leaving the parking lots. Traffic flow in all parking areas is one way only. Parking shall be in the designated numbered spaces in all parking areas and not along or on streets or driveways. ALL STUDENTS WHO DRIVE TO SCHOOL MUST PARK ON CAMPUS IN A SPECIFIC DESIGNATED AREA. All vehicles used by students for transporting themselves and other students to school must be issued and display a District Parking Permit. Students seeking a parking permit will be issued a permit after they sign a parking contract. Students who drive to school in a vehicle without a parking permit and/or park off campus are violating school rules. Vehicles parked on campus without parking permits will be ticketed and/or towed. Vehicles involved in a parking infraction will also be ticketed. Parking permits are available to all students possessing a legal Pennsylvania driver’s license on a first come first served application process by grade level.
Bicycles must be placed in the racks provided. Bicycles should be locked.
High Schools have closed lunch periods for underclassmen. All students shall eat in the cafeteria or assigned areas only.
Students in the building and elsewhere shall not run, push, shove, or otherwise interfere with the orderly flow of traffic in the halls, stairways, bus waiting areas, etc. Students are to refrain from sitting in the hallways. The rights of all students must be respected by all students.
Staff and students must use courtesy and thoughtfulness so that all may use the facilities with equal opportunity, equal safety, and equal pleasure. If “horseplay” results in damage, those involved must pay for repairs and/or replacement of the damaged items.
Students that are driven to school must be dropped off on campus. Students must go directly into the building as soon as they enter a school zone. Students may not loiter off school property. For safety purposes, walkers and students that insist on being dropped off outside the school campus must cross all streets by using designated crosswalks. Police will cite any student that does not use the crosswalks. Students that do no report directly to the building after they enter the school zone will be charged with insubordination and disciplined appropriately.
Students are not permitted outside of the building unless under teacher supervision. This includes between classes.

After School Detention

Administrative - Detention is assigned by an administrator for infractions of school policies and rules. You will be given at least 24-hour notice to serve the detention. It is your responsibility to contact your principal if you need to change an assigned detention. Twenty-four-hour notice plus a parent note is required to change detention. Three days’ notice plus a parent note is required to change Saturday detention.

PM detentions start at 3 p.m. and end at 4 p.m.

Saturday detentions will start at 8:30a.m. and end at 11:30 a.m.

Students in detention bring school work with them to complete. Students may also bring library books with them to detention. Reading magazines, playing games, socializing, eating, sleeping, and drinking are not permitted during detention. Students who arrive late to detention will not be admitted without a signed pass. Students are expected to have a ride arranged prior to detention. First time offenders who fail to attend after school detention will result in two detentions being scheduled. Failure to attend an assigned Saturday morning detention will result in further disciplinary consequences. Visitors are not permitted in detention.

Teacher - Any teacher may assign detention with notice of 24 hours. Detention time and place will be arranged by teacher. Failure to attend will result in further administrative disciplinary consequences.

Probation

Probation may be imposed by either the administration or the Board as part of the consequences or disciplinary action for students who violate Policy 218. As part of the rehabilitation process designed to modify student behavior, probation is intended to provide necessary supports in addition to close monitoring of student performance and assistance needed to help the student reach established goals. There is a loss of certain student privileges associated with probation, including being restricted from participation in student activities to include the athletic program.

A student on administrative and/or Board probation shall be suspended from:

Appearing or representing his/her school before a school or public audience. This suspension includes but shall not be limited to student participation as:
A member of an interscholastic athletic team
A graduating senior in recognition/commencement ceremonies
A member of the cast of any dramatic production
A member of a musical performing group (band, chorus, etc.). Students enrolled in credit courses involving any of the above activities shall not be excluded from activities of the course other than public performances. Students on probation who are involved in extracurricular activities which are not part of courses for credit shall not be permitted to practice these activities during the probationary period. Examples: interscholastic athletics and dramatic productions.
Serving as an usher or guide
Holding or executing the duties of any office in any school organization
Attending any school dance, party, or other social event
Parking an automobile on school property
Exercising any privileges awarded to students on an honor basis
Participating in school trips which are not course requirements
Participating in clubs

A student on administrative probation will generally be suspended from items 1-8 above. At the discretion of building administration, this suspension may be waived as outlined in the Probation Action Plan.

Students on probation must petition the Administration and/or Board to have their probation removed as appropriate and delineated in Board Policy.

Suspension and Expulsion (Board Policy 233)

By state law, a student may be suspended by an administrator for one to ten days for serious or continuous violations of policy or school rules. If a suspension is to exceed three consecutive days, the student and their parents must be given the opportunity for an informal hearing on the charges. The same principle applies to in-school suspensions that exceed ten days. Formal hearings before the Board must occur before a student may be excluded for eleven or more consecutive days. Only the Board has the power to exclude a student for more than ten consecutive days.

Student Make-Up of Work During Suspension - Students who have been suspended for disciplinary reasons must make up missed exams and other missed work, and shall be permitted to complete assignments according to the following guidelines:

The initiative for making up work must be taken by the student. The faculty assumes no responsibility to inform students of the work missed, the procedures for making it up, etc.
All work must be made up within a reasonable length of time. Barring unusual circumstances, all work must be completed within the same length of time as the suspension. For example, a student returning from a three-day suspension has three days to make up the work.
Students must consult with staff and schedule all make-up work at a time convenient to staff.
Work that is properly made up will be marked, given equitable credit, and entered into the student's records. No credit will be given if the student fails to make up the work.

Whenever possible, students on in-school suspension shall be required to take exams at the same time as their class. Such students shall also be required to keep up their daily class work.

Discipline of Students with Disabilities (Board Policy 218.3)

Students with disabilities who engage in inappropriate behavior, disruptive activities, and/or actions injurious to themselves or others shall be disciplined in accordance with their Individualized Education Program, and/or state and federal regulations.

The District shall comply with provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and other federal and state statutes and regulations when disciplining students with disabilities for violations of District policy and school rules and regulations.

Students who have not been identified as disabled may be subject to the same disciplinary measures applied to students without disabilities if the District did not have knowledge of the disability. If a request for evaluation is made during the period the student is subject to disciplinary measures, the evaluation shall be expedited. During any period of disciplinary action, the student shall continue to receive a free and appropriate education, in accordance with federal and state law.

Dress and Grooming (Board Policy 221)

The Board recognizes that each student's mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents/guardians to make decisions regarding their appearance except, when their choices disrupt the educational program of the schools or constitute a health or safety hazard.

The Board has the authority to impose limitations on students' dress in school. While the following list is not intended to be exhaustive, student dress shall not be protected if it:

Promotes the violation of and/or violates federal, state, or local laws, Board policy or District rules or procedures.
Is libelous defamatory, obscene, lewd, vulgar, or profane.
Advocates the use, or advertises the availability, of any substance or material the possession of which may be illegal or which may constitute a direct and substantial danger to the health of students, such as tobacco/nicotine, alcohol or illegal drugs.
Incites violence, advocates use of force, or threatens serious harm to the school or school community.
Is likely to or does materially or substantially interfere with the educational process, such as school activities, school work, discipline, safety, and order on school property or at school functions.
Interferes with, or advocates for interference with, the rights of any individual, or the safe and orderly operation of the schools and their programs.

Students are encouraged to take pride in their physical appearance and to select clothing appropriate to the weather and season.

Drug and Alcohol Awareness (Board Policy 227)

The District recognizes that students who abuse controlled substances place themselves in a high-risk category for serious problems that have legal, physical, and social implications for the student and the entire school community. This policy and its associated guidelines are an effort to respond effectively to the potential and current use and abuse of alcohol and drugs by members of the school population.

The District will use curriculum and classroom activities, administrative and faculty effort, and disciplinary procedures to prevent, and intervene in the abuse of controlled substances by students.

The District will inform students about the potential physical and psychological dangers of the improper use of alcohol, controlled substances, stimulants, and depressants. Units of instruction to this effect shall be incorporated into required courses for students at every appropriate grade level.

The Board is committed to ridding the District and each of its buildings and campuses of controlled substances.

For purposes of this policy, controlled substances shall mean:

All controlled substances prohibited by law within the meaning of the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act;
All look-alike drugs;
All alcoholic beverages;
Anabolic steroids, or other performance enhancing drugs;
Any drug paraphernalia;
All illegal hemp products;
Volatile solvents or inhalants to include nitrous oxide, glue, and aerosol propellants; or
Any prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter) drug except those for which permission for use in school has been granted pursuant to Board Policy.

Look-alike drugs include any non-controlled substance, “herbal,” or psychoactive substance that in its overall finished dosage appearance is substantially similar in size, shape, color, marking, or packaging to marijuana or any controlled substance.

Drug paraphernalia includes equipment, apparatus, and/or gear generally associated with the use/abuse of alcohol, marijuana, opiates, and/or other mood-altering chemicals. Examples may include any device used to measure, deliver, or facilitate the use, sale, or distribution of a controlled substance.

For purposes of this policy, under the influence shall include any consumption or ingestion of controlled substances by a student. Under the influence shall not include any consumption or ingestion of medical marijuana off-campus, so long as it is administered and approved consistent with Board Policy 210. Medical marijuana shall mean marijuana for certified? medical use as set forth in the Medical Marijuana Act.

The Board prohibits students from using, possessing, distributing, and/or being under the influence of any controlled substances as defined above on school property including buildings, grounds and buses, and at any school sponsored event, regardless of the time of day.

A student shall be deemed to be under the influence if there is reasonable suspicion that there has been recent consumption or ingestion of a controlled substance.

This policy shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school property and would otherwise violate the Code of Student Conduct if any of the following circumstances exist:

The conduct occurs during the time the student is traveling to and from school or traveling to and from school-sponsored activities, whether or not via school district furnished transportation.
The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular off-campus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities.
Student expression or conduct materially and substantially disrupts the operations of the school, or the administration reasonably anticipates that the expression or conduct is likely to materially and substantially disrupt the operations of the school.
The conduct has a direct nexus to attendance at school or a school-sponsored activity, for example, a transaction conducted outside of school pursuant to an agreement made in school that would violate the Code of Student Conduct if conducted in school.
The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of school property.
There is otherwise a nexus between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the student’s attendance at school or school-sponsored activities.

Guidelines - Procedures and Staff and Student Expectations

Students found to be in violation of the aforesaid rules and regulations with respect to controlled substances as defined above may be suspended by the administration for a period not to exceed ten (10) school days. Thereafter, if recommended by the administration, the Board shall hold a hearing and discipline may be imposed up to and including expulsion. Where an administrator has reasonable grounds to conduct a search of a student's person and/or property for possession of a controlled substance, or has requested the student be given a breathalyzer, blood, or urine screen etc., relevant to use of a controlled substance and has notified the student and the student's parent/guardian (if immediately available) of such requests and the grounds therefore, and the student and/or the parent/guardian refuses to consent to such search or tests, the student may be disciplined for failing to follow an administrative directive with respect to use/possession of a controlled substance. Such discipline may range from a verbal reprimand to referral to the Board for a hearing to determine the appropriate discipline up to and including expulsion.
Staff members observing or otherwise becoming aware of student behavior relating to the above stated prohibited activity shall report said behavior to the Administration immediately. Administrators shall report persons suspected of involvement with alcohol or controlled substances, or students who are adjudged to be under the influence as defined by this policy, to the appropriate law enforcement officials immediately. Staff members shall cooperate with law enforcement officials in the detection and prosecution of all violators. No school counselor, school nurse, school psychologist, attendance supervisor, student assistance team member, or administrator who, while in the course of his/her professional duties, has acquired information from a student in confidence while that student is seeking help or assistance with a controlled substance, shall be required by the Board of School Directors to disclose that information in any proceedings against the student. Staff members suspecting a student of a controlled substance use or abuse shall refer the suspected student to the Student Assistance Team for assessment and possible intervention. The assessment for possible intervention will be conducted in a manner consistent with Pennsylvania State Student Assistance guidelines. Students refusing intervention, or who fail to follow the rules and regulations established for the Student Assistance Program, may be referred to the Board for disciplinary action.
The administration shall report every student violation of the District's drug and alcohol rules to the Board of School Directors on a standard District Incident Report form. Student offenders not scheduled for formal Board hearings, and the parents of these students, shall be notified in writing by the administration. The written communication should state the seriousness of the offense(s), the consequences of further violation of the District's controlled substances rules, the restrictions of probation and other administrative disciplinary consequences imposed, and the referral to the Student Assistance Team if appropriate. A copy of this notification shall be entered into the student's record and maintained there during the student's tenure in the District's schools.
Incidents of possession, use, and/or sale of controlled substances as defined in this policy by any person on school property shall be reported to the Office of Safe Schools in the manner required by that office.

Field Trips, Class (Board Policy 121)

As a part of the educational program of the schools, students may be taken on field trips requiring bus transportation. Such trips are made only with the permission of the parents. When such trips are taken, or being planned, permission slips will be sent home to be signed by the parents. Written permission must be secured from parents of students to participate in field trips. Students and parents are advised that all District and building guidelines and policies apply while students are on a field trip. Students who do not return a properly signed permission slip will not be permitted to go on field trips. All students not making the trip should report to school at the regular time.

Walking trips within the area of school and bus trips to various sites and other activities within the District are a part of the curriculum. Such trips will be taken without parental consent. All field trips are supervised by staff. At the discretion of the building administration, students with frequent behavioral concerns may not be permitted to attend the field trip.

Approval of Field Trips

The approval of most field trips should be at the discretion of the building principal. Key considerations in such a decision are the curriculum, the Field Trip Manual, Guidelines for Volunteers, and Guidelines for Chaperones. Plans for any overnight or out-of-state trips must be approved by the Assistant Superintendent.

Student Participation

Written permission must be secured from parents of students to participate in any field trips off school property. The permission letters, with tear sheets to be returned by parents, shall be uniform in their content. They shall include the essential facts about the trip (date, time, place, brief itinerary, etc.), a statement about responsibility for safety, a statement about disposition of students who do not take the trip, and a suggested limit for spending money. These permission slips, signed by parents, must be on hand for each student making the trip and should be filed for at least one (1) week following the trip. Signed parent permission slips are not required for intra-district field trips (i.e. Natatorium, concerts, etc.) although parents should be informed of the activity in advance.
The Consent for Medical Treatment form must be completed and returned to the sponsor for any student permitted to engage in field trips of an extended nature [trips of twelve (12) hours or more and/or overnight trips].
Students denied permission to go on field trips must come to school for a regular school day and will be placed at the discretion of the building principal.
The amount of money brought by students from home to spend on the trip should be limited.
Student participation in field trips shall be subject to the condition of the District’s policy on probation.

Student Behavior

All District and building policies/guidelines relative to student discipline and the student code of conduct are in effect for the duration of school-sponsored field trips.

Chaperones

Chaperones who accompany the students should be selected or approved by the building principal, with the number of chaperones to be determined by the size of the group at the discretion of the principal. All chaperones must successfully complete the District’s volunteer application process, and the adequacy of chaperonage shall be in compliance with administrative Guidelines for Chaperones. It shall be the principal’s responsibility to ensure chaperones are cognizant of their responsibilities, of basic safety and security measures, of procedures to handle accidents, major emergencies, or fatalities, and of parental permission protocol, all as defined in the aforementioned administrative guidelines.

Chaperones are welcome to take photos of their student for their personal use. However, they are asked to respect the privacy and confidentiality of other families, and are urged not to post photographs or videos which clearly identify someone else’s student on social media websites.

Transportation

Arrangements for transportation will be made through the building principal. Transportation requiring the use of District vehicles shall be initiated by the field trip sponsor completing the Request for Field Trip Transportation form. This form is to be submitted to the principal who in turn forwards the written request to the District Transportation Office [due in the latter office seven days prior to the trip]. Upon approval, the Transportation Office will determine the route and provide the driver(s) with the appropriate information, maps, etc. If transportation cannot be provided by the District, the principal shall be notified immediately. District-owned vehicles must be operated by District employees.

In the case of a small group, considered to be ten students or less, teachers may be authorized to drive using private vehicles, subject to the following conditions:

Written permission must be granted by the building principal and filed in the principal’s office.

The vehicle must be adequately covered by liability and medical payment insurance, as prescribed by state law, and as verified by the building principal. The minimum amount of such coverage is $35,000.

Grading of Student Progress (Board Policy 213)

The cornerstone of this policy is the Board’s recognition that a system of grading student achievement can assist the student, teachers, and parents to better assess the student’s progress toward personal educational goals.

Grading shall be a system of measuring and recording student progress and achievement which enables the student, parents, and teachers to assess the student’s strengths and needs, assist in planning an educational and vocational future for the student, and determine where remedial work or enrichment is required.
Students with disabilities shall be included in the District’s assessment system with appropriate accommodations when necessary.
The Board directs that the instructional program of this District include a system of grading for all students which is consistent with the educational goals of the District and the regulations of the State Board of Education.
Honor and Distinguished Honor Roll criteria for secondary students are also included in this policy.

At the end of the marking period/trimester, grades will be accessible in PowerSchool. Please refer to the District calendar for specific dates. Parents are encouraged to view their student’s progress throughout the year in PowerSchool.

Honor Rolls

There are three types of honor rolls:

Distinguished Honor Roll - 93 average (all subjects) and no grade of 86% or below
Honor Roll - 86 average (all subjects) and no grade below 77%
Citizenship Roll (Middle School Only) - No N’s or U’s and no grade below 70%

Middle School Junior Honor Society

Each Middle School in West Shore School District recognizes students who have demonstrated consistent academic excellence. Students in 8th grade are eligible for election into the West Shore School District Junior Honor Society at the end of the first marking period. There are several steps and requirements:

The first steps in the selection process begin in the second marking period of the eighth-grade year.

Eligibility is based upon students earning a cumulative grade point average of 93%.
Grades counted include all grades beginning the second semester of the 6th grade year and ending at the end of the first quarter in the eighth-grade year.
No student may qualify who has earned one or more unsatisfactory marks (N or U) in any marking period during the middle school years after second MP of sixth grade.
Once a student is determined to be academically eligible, a list of students is compiled for review by the faculty of the school.
Students who are successful to this point will be notified of their initial consideration and will be given materials to submit for additional information regarding service, leadership, and character. Students who do not receive an initial packet may request a reconsideration by contacting the school principal.
Each student who wishes to be considered must complete the packet of information on time and have it reviewed by the faculty committee.
Once all steps are successfully completed, finalists will be notified of their success and invited to an induction ceremony where they will be inducted into the West Shore School District JHS.
Students who are not successful may appeal through the faculty advisor to the faculty review committee for reconsideration.
Decisions made in review are final.

High School National Honor Society

National Honor Society (NHS) is a national organization that promotes and recognizes character, scholarship, service, and leadership in students. In addition to having the required cumulative GPA, applicants must demonstrate significant accomplishment and/or participation in the four areas indicated on the application form. Each area is weighted equally in the application process, so it is necessary to have some accomplishments in each area. Students are eligible for election to NHS at the beginning of their junior or senior year based on their school record at the end of tenth or eleventh grade.

Cheating

A student is cheating when a staff member observes a student(s) securing or intending to secure information as well as giving information which will be graded in a manner which is contrary to accepted academic standards. Following an investigation of the incident, the teacher will record the violation in the teacher’s records and will report the incident to the administration, but have the option of taking disciplinary action themselves. The student will receive no credit for the assignment. On the second offense, the incident will be reported to the administration for disciplinary action.

Graduation Requirements (Board Policy 217)

A student who successfully meets all criteria for graduation by the end of the first semester of the senior year is eligible to receive a diploma following the completion of the first semester. For planning purposes, the student will notify the administration at the end of the junior year of the intent to graduate mid senior year. The student will be permitted to attend the regular Commencement Program at the conclusion of the senior year and must notify the administration of this intent at the end of the junior year.

Students who graduate at the end of the first semester of the senior year are no longer considered students and, therefore, are not eligible for services, privileges, and participation in student activities. As such, these students are removed from class rank and will not be considered as valedictorian or salutatorian.

In order to receive a diploma, the following credits must be earned:

Curriculum Area	Planned Courses	Credits
English	4	4.00
Social Studies	3	3.00
Science	3	3.00
Mathematics	3	3.00
Health/Phys. Ed.	3	1.25
**Electives	Variable	7.75
TOTAL		22.00

Graduation requirements for special education students may be based on each student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). An eligible student may graduate if he/she satisfies all of the District’s graduation requirements or if his/her IEP team determines that the student has satisfied the IEP goals to the extent necessary for graduation. As part of the IEP, a transition plan will be developed for each eligible student age 14 or older, if appropriate.
The transition plan will comply with all applicable state and federal regulations and statutes.
With regard to the graduation requirements, exceptional students are entitled to graduate if the goals and objectives of the IEP have been met or if the student is no longer in need of special education.

Homework (Board Policy 130)

Homework should provide practice, previewing, and reinforcement of skills presented by the teacher; broaden areas of interest through enrichment; provide opportunities for parents/guardians to know what their student is studying; and encourage parent/guardian and student interaction.

As students mature, the types of homework assignments and the time needed to complete them should also increase. Teacher teams should coordinate assignments so homework does not exceed 60 minutes per day at the elementary level, 90 minutes per day at the middle school level, and 120 minutes at the high school level. For purposes of computing grades, homework assignments are considered only one of several contributing factors.

Parents may help by providing a quiet and well-lighted area for study which is available to them on a regular basis. Study will be most effective if a regular schedule is established and adhered to, regardless of other activities. When a student is absent, parents are encouraged to contact the school to obtain missed homework assignments.

Copies of the full text of the District’s homework policy are available in each school.

Promotion and Retention (Board Policy 215)

This policy outlines the roles and responsibilities of parents and school personnel in matters related to the educational settings most appropriate to meet students’ needs at the various stages of their growth. Important policy statements at each level include:

Elementary School

Responsible decisions concerning the promotion of a student must be made on a variety of academic and social grounds. Retention should be chosen only as a last resort and, when selected, the curriculum must be restructured and enriched to meet the student’s needs.
Most students should not spend more than seven years in kindergarten through fifth grade.
School personnel will convey to parents what placement will be in the best educational interest of the student. Decisions regarding retention should be reached cooperatively among all persons connected with the situation (teachers, principal, parents, and counselor).
However, the principal retains the final right to make decisions regarding the student’s placement.
No student may be retained in a grade without exhausting school resources. Promotion or retention decisions regarding students with disabilities shall be made in accordance with state and federal laws.
When retention is considered, parents shall be notified in writing concerning the final decision before the close of the school year except in the case of exceptional students.

Middle School

Retention decisions are made by the teacher team in cooperation with the guidance department, the administration, and the parents using multiple criteria as a guide. Students who fail the equivalent of two major subjects based on the weighted value of courses are generally not promoted.
Eligibility for promotion for students enrolled in special education shall be based upon the student’s educational need and shall be defined in the student’s IEP.

High School

Students attending the high school are required to sign up for six credits per year. To be promoted from one grade level to the next, students must earn the following credits:

Five credits to move from freshman to sophomore status
Ten credits to move from sophomore to junior status
16 credits to move from junior to senior status (credits must be earned prior to the senior year)

Exceptional Students

Graduation requirements for special education students may be based on each student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). An eligible student may graduate if he/she satisfies all of the District’s graduation requirements or if his/her IEP team determines that the student has satisfied the IEP goals to the extent necessary for graduation. As part of the IEP, a transition plan will be developed for each eligible student age 14 or older, if appropriate.
The transition plan will comply with all applicable state and federal regulations and statutes.
With regard to the graduation requirements, exceptional students are entitled to graduate if the goals and objectives of the IEP have been met or if the student is no longer in need of special education.

Students and the Police (Board Policy 225)

Permission can be granted by the Administration for police to interview or arrest a student at school after a determination is made on the need for such request. In both instances, attempts are made to inform the parents, and the principal/designee is present throughout the proceedings.

Student Expression (Board Policy 220)

The Board does reserve the right to designate and prohibit student expression which is not protected because the rights of others are violated. Such violation of rights includes those which libel a specific person, advocate the use of materials that constitute a danger to the health of students, are obscene, and/or incite violence. Rules have been established for the distribution of materials that are not in violation of this policy.

Student Fundraising (Board Policy 229)

The Board acknowledges that the solicitation of funds from and by students must be limited because compulsory attendance laws make the student a captive donor and such solicitation may disrupt the school program. If properly organized and directed, fundraising activities by students can produce a desirable learning outcome by providing opportunities for nurturing responsibility, school spirit, and a general feeling of cooperation in a common cause. At the same time, an unmanaged solicitation campaign or too many sales campaigns by students, especially on a door-to-door campaign, can create a negative effect on school-community relations.

For purposes of this policy student fundraising shall include the solicitation and collection of money by students for any purpose and shall include the collection of money in exchange for goods or services.

Student Records (Board Policy 216)

Parents or guardians have the right to access their student’s records. They may:

Inspect and review student information.
Seek to amend educational records.
Consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information except to the extent authorized by law.
File a complaint with the Department of Education for alleged failure of the District to comply with the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act.
Inspect a full copy of the District’s Records Policy available from the Department of Student Services.
Contact the building principal or the Department of Student Services to obtain the name of the individual considered to be the “custodian” of their student’s records at the building level.
Appeal any issue concerning the development, maintenance, and storage of student records through the following line of authority: teacher, principal, Director of Student Services, Superintendent, and Board of School Directors.

Parents desiring access to their student’s records may contact the building principal. Students may review permanent record information without parent permission, but must have such permission in writing to inspect restricted data unless they qualify as an eligible student. The record review process for students and parents is explained in greater detail in Board Policy 216.

Terroristic Threats (Board Policy 218.4)

The Board recognizes the danger that terroristic threats by students present to the health, safety, welfare, and well-being of District students, staff, and community. The Board acknowledges the need for an immediate and effective response to a situation involving such a threat or act.

Terroristic threat shall mean a threat communicated either directly or indirectly to:

Commit any crime of violence or to terrorize another;
Cause terror with reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience.

The Board prohibits any District student from communicating terroristic threats or committing terroristic acts directed at any student, employee, Board member, community member, or school building.

This policy applies to on-campus and/or off-campus communications, including but not limited to, social media content or messages posted using private devices after school hours. For purposes of this policy, the subjective intent, motivation, or purpose of the student is not relevant in determining whether the student’s actions constitute a terroristic threat as defined herein. It shall be no defense to a violation of this Policy that the student was joking when s/he communicated the threat.

District reserves the right to obtain repayment or restitution from the student and/or the student’s parents/guardians for any direct or indirect costs to the District that resulted from the student’s violation of this policy. Violation of this policy will result in discipline up to and including expulsion or exclusion from school, consistent with and subject to the Student Code of Conduct and applicable Board Policy.

In the case of students with disabilities, the District will take all steps necessary to comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and follow Board policy.

The full text of the District’s terroristic threats policy is available in each school.

Tobacco/Nicotine Products (Board Policy 222)

The Board recognizes that the use of tobacco, nicotine, and nicotine delivery products (ex. Juuls and other electronic cigarettes) presents a health hazard which can have serious consequences both for the user and for the nonuser and the safety and environment of the schools; therefore, they are of concern to the Board. The purpose of this policy is to prohibit student possession, use, purchase, and sale of tobacco and vaping products, including Juuls and other electronic cigarettes.

State law provides that a student who possesses, uses, purchases, or sells tobacco in a school building, a school bus, vans, and vehicles that are owned, leased, or controlled by the District, or on school property commits a summary offense. The law provides that the District shall initiate prosecution against the student for such an offense. Upon conviction, the student is subject to a fine for the benefit of the District, plus court costs, or to be admitted to an adjudication alternative program. With prior approval by building administration, a student found guilty of violating this policy may complete a smoking cessation program in lieu of a citation being issued. Tampering with devices installed to detect use of tobacco or vaping products shall be deemed a violation of this policy and subject to disciplinary action. Disciplinary consequences are also imposed by the school administration.

Tobacco products, for purposes of this policy and in accordance with state law, shall be defined to include not only tobacco, but also vaping products such as Juuls and other electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Please refer to Policy 222 for additional information of what tobacco products are encompassed under this policy.

Weapons (Board Policy 218.1)

Possession and/or use of a weapon on school grounds, in school buildings, or on school transportation is a crime in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Possession and/or use of a weapon at school-sponsored activities also presents serious legal, safety, and welfare problems to the school community.

The possession and/or use of a weapon in the buildings of, on the grounds of, at school-sponsored activities of, or in any conveyance providing transportation to or from any elementary or secondary educational institution of the West Shore School District, is a serious violation of the rules and regulations of the District.

Students found to be in violation of the aforesaid rules and regulations regarding the possession and/or use of weapons can be immediately suspended for a period not to exceed ten school days or until such time as the Board of School Directors conducts a hearing on the matter. The Board may permanently expel a student for violating the weapons policy.

Definitions

Possession - an individual possesses a weapon in violation of this policy when the weapon is found on his/her person. Additionally, an individual will be deemed to be in possession of a weapon if the weapon is found in his/her personal property (for example, book bag, gym bag, purse) or in a place where the individual exercises exclusive control (for example, a vehicle or locker) while on school property, on property being used by the school, at any school function or activity, at any school event held away from the school, or while the student is coming to or from school.

Weapon - As used in this policy, the term weapon shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nun-chuck stick, firearm, shotgun, rifle, BB gun, ammunition, firework, and/or any other tool, instrument, or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. Objects not normally considered a weapon might constitute a weapon under this policy if they are used to cause bodily injury, threaten bodily injury, or be used for destruction of property. The term weapon also shall include objects which have the appearance or characteristics of weapons as defined above, including look-alike or replica weapons which are not necessarily operable.

Reporting Knowledge of a Weapon

It is also a violation of the weapons policy for students to know about another student or individual having a weapon in school and failing to report this information to the office. Students must report such information as soon as they learn of it. This information, to the extent possible, will be kept confidential. Failure to report knowledge of a weapon will result in disciplinary action depending upon the circumstances and seriousness of the incident.