Attleboro Public Schools
Attleboro High School
Student Handbook
2023-2024
Personal Responsibility Is Developed Everyday
ATTLEBORO PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM
High School 508-222-5150
Kate Campbell Principal Extension 20001
Douglas Heal Associate Principal for Student Services Extension 20022
Kevin Gorman Associate Principal/Curriculum & Supervision Extension 20023
Jeremy Guay Director of Career and Technical Education Extension 20076
Ann Montagano Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education Extension 20076
Roberta Wuilleumier Director of the Network Program Extension 29009
Jean Hickox Principal – Attleboro Community Academy Extension 25224
Joseph Connor Principal – Attleboro Virtual Academy 508-245-9948
Central Office Administration 508-222-0012
David Sawyer Superintendent
Laurie Regan Assistant Superintendent
Marc Furtado Director of Facilities and Controller
Ivone Medeiros Director of Special Education and Student Support Services
Julienne Singer Director of Human Resources
Joanne DiPalma Director of Family Engagement and Assistance
School Committee
Stephen Withers, Jr. Chairperson, Ward III
Robert Geddes Vice Chairperson, At-Large
William Larson Secretary, Ward II
Dianne Sawyer Ward I
Lynn Porto Ward IV
Chris Frappier Ward V
Scott Domenici Ward VI
Shannon Johnson At Large
James Stors At Large
THE ATTLEBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF
AGE, COLOR, DISABILITY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RACE, RELIGION, SEX, GENDER IDENTITY OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Attleboro Public Schools: Mission, Vision, Essential Beliefs Overarching Goals .................................. 7
District Learning Priorities ...................................................................................................................... 7
Rights and Responsibilities of Parents .................................................................................................. 9
Problem Resolution Procedure .............................................................................................................. 9
1. Academic Information ..................................................................................................................
School Hours ................................................................................................................. 11
Delayed Opening or Early Dismissal Procedures .......................................................... 11
Credit Loss Due to Lack of Attendance ......................................................................... 13
Tardiness ....................................................................................................................... 13
Exempt Absences .......................................................................................................... 14
Medical Extended Absences .......................................................................................... 14
Dismissals ...................................................................................................................... 14
Make-Up Work ............................................................................................................... 14
Field Trips ...................................................................................................................... 14
Family Vacations ............................................................................................................ 14
Attendance ..................................................................................................................... 14
Attendance Notification Schedule .................................................................................. 15
Incomplete Grades ......................................................................................................... 15
Credit Recovery ............................................................................................................. 16
Honor Roll ...................................................................................................................... 16
Progress Reports 16
Aspen ......................................................................................................................... 15
Report Cards .................................................................................................................. 16
Class Rank/Weighing ..................................................................................................... 16
Salutation/Valediction .................................................................................................... 17
Prerequisites for Honors/AP Courses ............................................................................ 17
Upon Entry to AHS ......................................................................................................... 17
While at AHS .................................................................................................................. 17
Senior Addendum .......................................................................................................... 17
Prerequisites Appeals and Waivers ............................................................................... 17
Program Changes .......................................................................................................... 18
National Honor Society .................................................................................................. 18
World Language Honor Society ..................................................................................... 19
National Technical Honor Society .................................................................................. 19
National Art Society ....................................................................................................... 19
Tri-M Music Honor Society ............................................................................................. 19
Attleboro Community Academy ..................................................................................... 19
Dual Enrollment 20
Homework ...................................................................................................................... 20
2. Disciplinary ......................................................................................................................... 20
Social and Civic Expectations ................................................................................ 20
Student Conduct on Buses ............................................................................................ 21
Student Conduct During Evacuations of Buildings ........................................................ 21
Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS) ..................................................... 21
The PRIDE 5 Behavior Expectations ............................................................................. 22
Discipline Students and Due Process ............................................................................ 23
Code of Conduct ............................................................................................................ 23
Alternatives to Suspension ............................................................................................ 23
Student Athlete Out of School Suspension Policy ......................................................... 34
3. Health Education and Services Policies
Health Services .............................................................................................................. 34
First Aid Emergencies .................................................................................................... 34
Immunizations ................................................................................................................ 35
Orthopedic Injuries ......................................................................................................... 35
Medication Administration .............................................................................................. 33
Tylenol Use Procedures ................................................................................................. 33
Physical Exams .............................................................................................................. 34
State Mandated Screenings ........................................................................................... 35
Life-threatening Allergies and Other Medical Concerns ................................................ 35
Emergency Medication Availability ................................................................................ 36
Peanut/Nut Safe Practices ............................................................................................. 37
Fragrance Free Statement ............................................................................................. 37
Student Health Records ................................................................................................. 37
4. General Policies and Terms ........................................................................................................
Athletics ......................................................................................................................... 37
Health and Safety of Athletes ................................................................................ 40
Bicycles and Skateboards .............................................................................................. 43
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices .............................................................................. 43
Class Advisors ............................................................................................................... 45
Cyber Harassment/Cyberbullying .................................................................................. 45
Dances and Social Events ............................................................................................. 45
Dress Code .................................................................................................................... 46
English Language Learners ........................................................................................... 46
Homeless Students ........................................................................................................ 46
Insurance ....................................................................................................................... 48
Gender Identity .............................................................................................................. 48
Guidance Department .................................................................................................... 48
Library Media Center Services ....................................................................................... 48
Mediation ....................................................................................................................... 49
Parent Involvement ........................................................................................................ 49
Parking ......................................................................................................................... 49
Public Releases ............................................................................................................. 49
School-to-Career Services .................................................................................... 50
Search Policy ....................................................................................................... 50
Senior Dues ......................................................................................................... 51
Student Activities.................................................................................................. 51
Student Identification (ID) Cards .................................................................................... 52
Student Privileges .......................................................................................................... 53
Student Records ............................................................................................................ 53
Student with Disabilities: Special Education/504 ........................................................... 55
Use of School Computers .............................................................................................. 56
Use of School Telephones ............................................................................................. 57
Video Surveillance ......................................................................................................... 57
Voter Registration .......................................................................................................... 57
5. APPENDICES .............................................................................................................................
APPENDIX A – School Committee Policies................................................................... 58
APPENDIX B – Legal Issues ......................................................................................... 89
Parent/Guardian Acknowledgement Form .................................................................................. 98
ATTLEBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS
OUR MISSION
The Mission of the Attleboro Public Schools is to develop and deliver relevant learning experiences that engage,
challenge, and inspire all students to maximize their unique potential and improve our world.
OUR VISION
The Vision of the Attleboro Public Schools is to be the center of a community united around education, where all
stakeholders value and participate in our collective success.
OUR ESSENTIAL BELIEFS
Conditions for Learning
● Learning is a shared responsibility among students, schools, families, and the community.
● A safe, respectful, and supportive environment is necessary for both teaching and learning.
Quality Learning Experiences
• All students deserve challenging and engaging learning experiences that have real-life values.
• All learners need varied and personalized learning experiences that will provide opportunities to develop and
apply knowledge and skills.
Successful Mindset
● Success for all students requires stretching beyond perceived limits through effort and perseverance.
● Progress and success are reliant upon continuous learning, reflection, and growth.
Value of Education
● Learning empowers all of us to discover, think critically, and pursue our aspirations.
● Education prepares students for their responsible participation in a shared world.
OVERARCHING GOALS
GOAL ONE: APS will support each student by providing personalized academic and social-emotional learning
experiences, ensuring the development toward their full potential.
GOAL TWO: APS will advance each student’s learning and development by cultivating reciprocal, meaningful, and active
relationships with our families and community.
GOAL THREE: APS will actively ensure equitable access for each student to an inclusive, culturally responsive education
that reflects the diverse backgrounds, needs, and interests of our community.
DISTRICT LEARNING PRIORITIES
The APS District Learning Priorities guide our efforts to improve teaching and learning, develop programs to meet
students’ needs, provide the needed professional development to implement these changes, and the budget process to
support all of these endeavors.
Engaging Learning Experiences
Students are curious about and invested in learning because it is designed to provide real value beyond the classroom.
● Authentic Experiences and Performances
● Intrinsic Motivation and Individual Choice
● Hands-on Learning
● Interdisciplinary Instruction and Assessments
Infusing Technology
Students integrate technology and apply those resources through the learning process.
● Personalization and Relevance
● Research and Evaluation of Information
● Innovation and Reflection
Personalization of Learning Programs
Students participate in programs that are customized to meet their individual needs.
● Culturally Responsive and Deep Curricula
● Universal Design for Learning
● Digital Student Learning Portfolio
● Flexible Scheduling
• Student Voice
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Students engage in a variety of experiential learning opportunities which provide purpose and increase motivation and
effort to help them grow as learners.
● Field Experiences and Student Travel
● Service Learning
● Community Partnerships
● District Afterschool System
Portrait of a Graduate
Our goal is that all Attleboro Public School graduates will be self-directed lifelong learners who are responsible and
involved citizens. To accomplish this, all Attleboro students will:
INNOVATE
1. Analyze information, ask questions, and apply knowledge to evaluate and solve real life problems across
disciplines and contexts.
2. Identify issues and develop action steps: set goals, plan, and reflect on progress and outcomes.
3. Think critically about the relevance and value of claims and evidence, including evaluating sources to consider
perspective or bias.
4. Model behavior appropriate for the situation and/or context.
COMMUNICATE
1. Actively listen and communicate understanding and interpretation of information.
2. Choose and apply an appropriate tone, style, and conventions according to audience and purpose.
3. Demonstrate organized communication through varied modes (oral, written, visual, and/or performance).
4. Use evidence and logic purposefully in communication.
COLLABORATE
1. Demonstrate knowledge of and respect for individuals of diverse backgrounds.
2. Seek alternative perspectives to challenge and enhance one's own.
3. Learn from each other and with each other.
4. Collectively take action to enhance the community.
BALANCE
1. Demonstrate the ability to be an independent learner who is motivated, persistent, and self-directed, and can
apply time and task management skills.
2. Identify and explain how decisions impact self and others and establish and maintain positive relationships.
3. Listen to understand, manage emotions, and respond with respect, empathy, and kindness.
4. Demonstrate personal accountability by making informed and responsible decisions.
RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Our students are considered citizens of the school community. Citizenship
,
as in any community, is something which
grants fundamental rights and equally important responsibilities upon each of its members. No person because of age,
color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, gender identity/expression or sexual orientation, shall be subject to
discrimination in any education program.
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
● To meet all your academic obligations to the very best of your abilities
● To be treated with respect by all members of the school
● To treat all members of the school community, both pupils and staff, with respect
● To be personally safe and help make the school a safe environment for all students
● To do your schoolwork in clean surroundings and to help keep the school a clean place for everyone
● To express yourself in a manner that will not cause disruption, disturbance, or embarrassment to others
● To know and understand individual classroom and school-wide discipline policies and to avoid behaviors
which would be violations of these behavioral expectations
PARENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
● To treat all members of the school community, both pupils and staff, with respect
● To be treated with respect by all members of the school community
● To help make the school a safe environment for all students
● To expect an appropriate education for their child
● To express their opinion
● To inspect all portions of their child's records
● To expect fair application of all school-wide policies
PROBLEM RESOLUTION PROCEDURE
POLICY
It is the policy of the Attleboro School Committee to assist any concerned party to quickly and equitably resolve concerns
with the individuals who are closest to the issue or problem. Attempts to resolve a problem at an inappropriate level is
contrary to the purpose of these guidelines. Resolution with the individuals closest to the problem must be consistently
followed.
PROCESS
Any concerned party’s first contact should be to the staff member (Teacher, Paraprofessional, Assistant, Coach,
Custodian, or Administrator) directly related to the issue. In those instances, when an individual is unsure of whom to
approach, a School Committee member can be consulted to aid in direction or identification of the appropriate staff
member. This does not preclude the School Committee member from proactively advising the School Administration
(Principal and/or Superintendent) of a pending issue. If there is no resolution, the concerned parties are encouraged to
proceed to the next appropriate level (Building Administrator, Principal, or Director of Special Education). Directors,
Supervisors, and Coordinators may be involved at the discretion of the Building Administrator and may be asked to assist
in the resolution. Successive levels of authority (Assistant Superintendent, Superintendent, and School Committee) would
represent the desired resolution path. If informal attempts at resolution are not successful, parties may be asked to state
the concerns in writing. If a concerned party refuses to consult with the appropriate level as outlined (skipping a level),
the matter should be referred back to the appropriate level.
Attleboro High School’s Exit Outcomes
Attleboro High School expects its graduates to possess these college-ready skills:
Academic
Communication
AHS students will articulate and interpret thoughts and ideas clearly.
● Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening, and Vocabulary
Critical Thinking
AHS students will employ strategies to make meaning from new information.
● Analysis, Synthesis, Evaluation, Solving Problems, Questioning, Inference, and Appreciation
Creative Thinking
AHS students will express creativity in their work.
● Originality, Innovation, Associative Thinking, Aesthetics, and Craftsmanship
Information
AHS students will marshal information to develop and support thoughtful conclusions.
● Problem Solving, Research, Interpretation, Evidence, and Presentation
Technology
AHS students will use technology appropriately to support their learning, productivity, and self-expression.
Civic
Community
AHS students will honor their responsibilities to others.
● Citizenship, Local/National Issues, Financial/Business/Economic Literacy, and Respect for their Environment
Global Awareness
AHS students will navigate the complexities of modern life.
● Global Issues, Respect for Diversity, and Multiple Perspectives
Social
Interpersonal
AHS students will interact constructively with others.
● Collaboration, Social Sensitivity, Respect, Leadership, and Conflict Management
Intrapersonal
AHS students will manage their behavior to promote their growth and wellbeing.
• Adaptability, Self-Direction, Organization, Work Ethic, Responsibility, Integrity, Wellness, and Future
Orientation
I. ACADEMIC INFORMATION
SCHOOL HOURS
7:15 a.m. to 1:50 p.m.
Early Release 7:15 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.
COMMUNICATION
Families and students will use the APS app for district and school news, events, dining, and more.
On your mobile device, download the APS app from the App Store or Play Store to get started.
The app also includes, Rooms, a parent-teacher chat, which is fully integrated into the district app.
To access Rooms:
• In the app, use the toggle in the bottom right to switch to the login screen for Rooms.
• In Rooms you can see class specific announcements and send direct messages to teachers.
DELAYED OPENING OR EARLY DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS
(For Inclement Weather and Emergencies)
The Attleboro Public Schools will make every effort to notify families promptly in the event of early dismissals,
weather and other emergency cancellations and delays. The APS app, district website, Social Media, and text
messages are used to reach as many families as possible.
The following is a list of stations (television and social media) which will broadcast no-school announcements or a delayed
starting time for the Attleboro School System:
Social Media
Television
Facebook
COMCAST- Channel 9
Channels 4,6,7,10,12
Attleboro Public Schools Website
Delayed starting time will be 60 minutes later for the opening of school and 60 minutes later for bus arrival times.
EARLY DISMISSAL
There are times when it may be necessary for students to be dismissed after the start of school. In an emergency or
inclement weather, an announcement to that effect regarding early dismissal will be made on media sources stated
above. In any other emergency that indicates significant safety risk to our students, students may be sent home
immediately or to another designated school. Arrangements should be made ahead of time by parents who will not be at
home, to inform their child of a place to go in the neighborhood in the event of an emergency. Parents and students
should have an emergency plan in the event of an emergency early dismissal.
ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS AND PROCEDURES
It is the philosophy of the School Committee of the Attleboro Public Schools that regular and consistent attendance is
essential to learning, to improving the achievement of all students, to maintaining a respectful school climate, and to a
student’s successful school performance. The goal of the student attendance policy is to promote consistent, daily
school and class attendance. A student who is truant, frequently absent from school or classes, or frequently tardy to
school without adequate reason is in violation of this policy. Parents, guardians, and students should be aware that
chronic absenteeism may also lead to academic failure and retention of the student. Massachusetts law requires
compulsory student attendance for all children between the ages of six and sixteen. M.G.L. c. 76, § 1. (Policy JH and
JH-1).
1. Parents/Guardians must call the school to give notification of an absence no later than the morning of the absence.
2. If a call is not made, communication from the parent/guardian or the student’s medical provider is due on the day that
the student returns to school explaining the absence. No student, however, shall be sent home to obtain a written
explanation from his/her parent/guardian during a school session.
3. In instances of chronic or irregular absence reportedly due to illness, the school principal or designee may request a
physician’s statement certifying such absences are justifiable.
4. If an extended absence of a student is foreseen, the parent/guardian should contact the school principal or designee
to make arrangements for the completion of academic requirements.
An IEP or 504 Team may make exceptions to the attendance policy for disability-related absences.
*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).
CREDIT LOSS DUE TO LACK OF ATTENDANCE
EXCUSED ABSENCES
Students may be excused temporarily from school attendance for the following reasons:
1. Personal illness or quarantine;
2. Medical appointments that cannot be made outside of school hours;
3. Legal matters requiring personal appearance;
4. Suspension or expulsions in or out of school;
5. Absences attributable to bereavement or a death in the family;
6. Observance or practice of a major religious holiday; and
7. Extraordinary circumstances (exercised at the discretion of the principal)
MEDICAL EXTENDED ABSENCE
If students are going to miss school due to a long-term illness beyond 10 school days, arrangements can be made to
arrange for private tutoring. A student will need a physician’s statement for home or hospital placement, signed by the
attending physician authorizing such tutoring. Release forms may be obtained at the Health Office.
DISMISSALS
When students are dismissed from school prior to the closing time, they miss valuable classroom instruction. 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, accompanied by 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 Principal’s Office and provide a note for the school’s records as well as present proper
identification.
3. Students are expected to return to school after appointments so that they will not miss additional classes.
4. Students will be required to complete all assignments for those classes missed as a result of the dismissal.
5. The determination as to whether a dismissal is excused or unexcused shall be made in accordance with the
definitions of excused absence contained in the policy.
MAKE-UP WORK
Students who are absent from school will have two school days for each day missed to make up the schoolwork.
Absences of three or more consecutive days require that students meet with the teacher within two school days of their
last absence to establish a timely make-up schedule. Students missing final exams must have the absence excused in
accordance with the attendance policy.
FIELD TRIPS
Students are asked to notify each of their teachers one week prior to the date of any scheduled field trips. The students
have the responsibility to make up all missed work.
FAMILY VACATIONS
Student absences for family or personal vacations will be deemed unexcused absences. Upon return and in
consultation with the Assistant Principal and/or Guidance Counselor the student is responsible for arranging make-up
work for unexcused absences. The school will not be responsible for providing student work prior to an unexcused
absence. As with any absence from school, students are encouraged to meet with their teachers prior to leaving and
upon their return to address the missed work. Families must be aware that, because of the potential for snow days, the
end of the school year must remain fluid. Vacations should not be scheduled until the administration releases the
official Trimester 3 exam schedule. Final exams may only be excused by the Administration prior to absence.
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ACTIVITIES
A student must be in school for a minimum of three (3) hours and fifteen (15) minutes in order to participate in any
extracurricular activity on that same day. Exceptions due to extenuating circumstances will be determined by the
appropriate Administrator.
Attleboro High School Attendance Notification Schedule
If parent/guardian does not call the school, the House Office will call the parent/guardian to notify them of the student’s
absence.
GRADING PROCESS
1. All final grades are numerical:
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. “60” is the minimum passing grade. “59” and below is a failing grade.
Only numerical grades are used on progress reports and report cards.
2. Final exams: The final exams administered in December, March and June are valued at 10% of the final grade.
INCOMPLETE GRADES
All incomplete grades are to be made up by the student and recorded by the teacher no more than fourteen (14)
calendar days following the end of a Trimester. If extenuating circumstances can be justified, permission for an
extension may be granted by the Principal or designee.
CREDIT RECOVERY PROGRAM
The Attleboro High School Credit Recovery Program offers a variety of courses for credit after school during the school
year as well as in the summer.
CRITERIA
• Students must attend Attleboro High School Credit Recovery Program on a daily basis in order to receive
course credit. Absences will not be waived. Extenuating circumstances will be reviewed by the appropriate
Administrator
• Students seeking enrollment in a certified Credit Recovery Program due to the failure of an academic subject,
will have to meet the following requirements:
• They have received a grade of 49-59 as the final grade;
• They are aware that the grade earned for a Credit Recovery Program course will appear on the transcript as
“P” for “Pass” and “F” for “Fail.”
HONOR ROLL
1. Honor Roll Ratings
a. High honors: Average of 90 and above with no grade lower than 80 for that marking term.
b. Honors: Average of 86-89 with no grades of 69 or below for that marking term.
c. Honorable mention: Average of 82-85 with no grades of 69 or below for that marking term.
2. Averages are not rounded off in the Honor Roll (e.g. 89.9 does not become 90).
PROGRESS REPORTS
Attleboro High School uses the Aspen X2 online system to allow parents and students to monitor academic progress.
While teachers will update grades whenever possible, grades will be posted on the Aspen X-2 gradebook in a finalized
state at the mid-Trimester date. Parents who are concerned about mid-Trimester grades 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 by email or telephone whenever necessary.
ASPEN
Family members who are primary adult contacts for a student, use the Aspen Family portal to see the student’s
information, academic progress, groups, and calendars. With Aspen’s Family portal, teachers and parents have an
arena for open communication. Parents have one login to access all of their children’s information. If you are unsure
about your login information, please contact the student’s guidance counselor in the house office.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards will be distributed at the end of each Trimester, (December, March, and July).
CLASS RANK/ WEIGHTING
Students’ academic standing will be indicated by deciles (top 10%, second 10%, third 10%, and so on) based on the
student’s weighted GPA. Weighted GPA places special emphasis on Advanced Placement courses and provides an
additional 10 percentage points to the students completing such a course. Honors courses carry an additional 5
percentage points to the students completing such a course. The resulting GPAs are consequently referred to as
weighted GPAs, which are used only for this purpose. The weighted grades that are applied to calculate weighted
GPAs are neither used for determining Honor Roll status nor shown on official transcripts.
SALUTATION/VALEDICTION
All students in the top decile and/or students who are recipients of the Honors Diploma will be eligible to give the
salutation or valediction at graduation. To determine these honors, the top decile will be tabulated at the end of the
second trimester marking period and Honors Diploma recipients will be notified shortly thereafter. AHS is returning to
the origins of the commencement tradition in which the salutatorian gives the salutation (greeting at the start of
graduation exercises) and the valedictorian gives the valediction (farewell). Interested students who meet eligibility
requirements for these speaking honors will apply to a panel in the spring and be notified prior to graduation. The panel
will bestow these honors to two members of the graduating class. Students must complete their entire junior and senior
years at AHS to be eligible to give the salutation or valediction.
PREREQUISITES FOR HONORS / AP COURSES
Attleboro High School offers an Honors level curriculum in most core subject areas. Some of these courses follow the
Advanced Placement curriculum and are designated as AP. All of our course offerings are designed to prepare
students for the challenges beyond high school whether in a college or career setting. Our Honors courses provide
motivated students the chance to delve more deeply into the content area, and, consequently, move at a faster pace
with significant student workloads. We hope that all students find the curricular level that best suits their current needs
and post-secondary goals.
Although we encourage all students to take risks and attempt our most challenging offerings, the Honors selections are
not appropriate for everyone. Students who select these classes should have excellent attendance and work-habits,
and a willingness to go beyond the minimum requirements to ensure a mastery of the content and skills required by the
course. In addition to adhering to course sequence requirements (e.g., a student must take Algebra I before Algebra
II), we have the following prerequisites for our Honors and AP courses:
UPON ENTRY TO AHS
Students moving from 8
th
to 9
th
Grade will be recommended for Honors coursework by the teacher team in their
respective Middle School. This recommendation will be based on MCAS scoring trends, District Common
Assessments, attendance, grades, discipline records, and work habits. Students from outside the Attleboro Public
Schools will be subject to these prerequisites where applicable. Appeals will be received by the High School. For more
information on appeals, see below.
WHILE AT AHS
Students must demonstrate an appropriate performance in the current course in the same subject matter to enroll in the
subsequent Honors course. For students enrolled in the College Prep level, a 93 average must be maintained. For
those currently enrolled in an Honors/AP course, an 83 average must be maintained.
SENIOR ADDENDUM
AHS believes that all college bound Seniors should leave AHS with at least one qualifying score on an AP test, as it is
still the most reliable indicator of future college success. To that end, to be placed in an Honors class as a Senior, a
student must have already received a qualifying score of 3 or above on an AP test taken as a Sophomore or a Junior or
be concurrently enrolled in an AP Course in their Senior Year.
PREREQUISITE APPEALS AND WAIVERS
A student may appeal for a waiver of his or her placement when unable to meet the prerequisites. Appeals must be
made in writing to the Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Supervision. The letter must contain the student’s rationale
for placement in the more challenging curricular level. Once received, the Advanced Coursework Review Board will
convene. The Board will consist of the Assistant Principal, the Content Coordinator(s) of the course(s) in question, the
Guidance Coordinator, and Assistant Principal. The Board will examine the letter, the student’s overall academic,
discipline, and attendance records, applicable MCAS, PSAT, and SAT scores, and teacher recommendations. Board
decisions will be communicated to the student within ten (10) school days. Waivers may also be granted for student
scheduling conflicts if applicable.
PROGRAM CHANGES
All schedules for the next school year will be finalized by the third Wednesday in August. Students will not be allowed to
make changes to their selections after that time. Beginning July 1st, schedules will only be changed for educationally
compelling reasons, and such changes will require approval from the Guidance Counselor, Content Coordinator, and
the Principal.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
The Attleboro High School Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) invites students who have achieved a 90-
weighted grade-point average to apply for membership during their Junior or Senior year.
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 a responsibility to maintain the
qualifying standards of character, leadership, and service. Students who fail to maintain these standards may be
subject to warning or dismissal as per national handbook procedures.
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 Trimester. All candidates must have a cumulative scholastic
average of at least 87 (weighted GPA). Note: Effective for the Class of 2022 (academic year 2020-21), the grade-point average
requirement will be a 90. Juniors must have the required GPA at the end of seven Trimesters of work, including the
Trimester one final exam. Seniors must have the required GPA at the end of nine Trimesters of work, including the
Trimester three final exam. Students will complete an application for NHS membership that includes a letter of intent,
an autobiographical essay, a list of community service activities, and a list of school activities. Two letters of
recommendation are required: two letters from faculty members and/or one letter from an adult who is not a relative
and one faculty member. An application fee of Thirty ($30) is collected to cover expenses and dues. Candidates who
meet all criteria will be inducted into the National Honor Society in the spring.
In the past, NHS 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.
Additionally, two members of the Attleboro High Chapter of the National Honor Society act as representatives for the
Southeastern Regional Chapter of the National Honor Society. Two students from each of the Southeastern
Massachusetts high schools are elected by their respective schools at the end of March. The two students are
responsible for attending eight regional meetings during the school day. The purpose of the meetings is to discuss
relevant high school issues.
Requirements for Representatives of the Southeastern Regional Chapter of the NHS
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 are mandatory. Whenever
students return from a regional meeting, they must submit a report to the Principal and to the Student Council.
WORLD LANGUAGE HONOR SOCIETIES
In order to be inducted into Attleboro High School’s chapters of the World Language Honor Societies, a student must
be a junior and have completed the second level of the language at AHS, having maintained a “90” in each level.
Additionally, no grade less than “80” may be earned in any other class.
NATIONAL TECHNICAL HONOR SOCIETY
The Mission of the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) is “to honor student achievement and leadership, promote
educational excellence, and enhance career opportunities for the NTHS membership.” Career and Technical Education
students who meet membership criteria are inducted into the National Technical Honor Society in their senior year.
Membership in the NTHS affords the students opportunities for post-secondary scholarship and advanced career
placements.
Membership criteria for the NTHS include:
● An overall GPA of 88 or higher
● An overall GPA of 88 or higher in the area of Career and Technical Study
● Two letters of recommendation
● Completion of thirty hours of Community Service
NTHS students are recognized in the graduation program, as well as being identified at graduation by the purple cord
they wear over their graduation gown.
Fees: $45 per student member (yearly; covers membership fees and graduation regalia)
NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY
In order to be inducted into Attleboro High School’s chapter of the National Art Honor Society, a student must be at
least a junior and have completed at least two full years (need to take 12 credits of art or more to qualify), having
maintained a “90” in each level. Additionally, no grade less than “80” may be earned in any other class. More
information can be found here: https://www.arteducators.org/community/national-art-honor-societies
Other Requirements:
• Fees: $30 per student member; (covers membership fees and cord upon graduation.)
• Community service: 10 total hours; 5 of those hours must be of art-related service. (Attleboro Arts museum,
community murals, youth/ community outreach, etc.)
• Meetings: monthly during Art Club. Discussion and planning of events/ shows/community outreach.
TRI-M MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY
In order to be inducted into Attleboro High School’s chapter of Tri-M Music Honor Society, a student must be at least a
junior and have completed two full years of chorus or band, having maintained a “90” in each level. Additionally, no
grade less than “80” may be earned in any other class. More information can be found here:
https://www.musichonors.com/
ATTLEBORO COMMUNITY ACADEMY PROGRAM
The Attleboro Evening Diploma Program at the Community Academy Program is a separate High School with its own
Diploma and its own Graduation. Although it is a separate school, the program works in conjunction with Attleboro High
School, and Attleboro Community Academy credits may be used toward Attleboro High School graduation
requirements. Information about the program is available from Guidance Counselors or the Community Academy
Office.
DUAL ENROLLMENT
Juniors and Seniors who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher may be eligible for participation in this program where they can
earn both high school and college credit. Information may be obtained from the student’s Guidance Counselor.
HOMEWORK
Homework is a critical requirement which extends the learning process beyond the classroom and physical school
structure [(Policy IKB): See Appendix A].
II. DISCIPLINARY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Attleboro Public Schools is a diverse community. Our goal is to strive for equity of opportunity in our educational
policies, programs, and actions. To achieve this, our schools promote a safe, respectful, and supportive environment in
which learning is a shared responsibility amongst students, families, staff, and the community. To ensure our students’
success, we partner with families and community members to invest in their future. We provide positive and preventive
approaches to discipline designed to keep students in school; providing them the opportunity to participate in quality
and engaging experiences that prepare them for post school life.
In order to achieve equity, all stakeholders must participate in building relationships, showing respect for, and
communicating with all other stakeholders. Members of our community have additional responsibilities.
STUDENTS’ responsibilities:
• Attend school consistently
• Be a partner in the school and community
• Come to class ready to learn
• Be accountable for actions
FAMILIES’ responsibilities:
• Provide support and encouragement
• Be a partner with child’s school
TEACHERS’ responsibilities:
• Provide clear and consistent expectations
• Make learning engaging and relevant
• Adapt instruction to student needs
• Partner with families
• Try to de-escalate conflict
• Be aware of students’ cultural backgrounds
ADMINISTRATORS’ responsibilities:
1. Develop and support a shared vision
2. Develop positive school culture
3. Partner with students and families
4. Be knowledgeable about what is happening in the building
5. Model expected behaviors
COMMUNITY’S responsibilities:
• Collaborate and partner with the schools
SOCIAL AND CIVIC EXPECTATIONS
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.
All persons in the school must have the opportunity to grow personally, socially, and intellectually, as well as the
opportunity to exercise their 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, extra-
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 other schools, competitions outside of AHS, school dances
held outside AHS) including school-sponsored trips and those times when school buses or other methods of school-
provided transportation are used. Behavior which is disruptive to individual student learning or to the environment of the
high school will not be tolerated. A student’s participation in extra-curricular or athletic activities is a privilege, not a right
or an entitlement. Whether a student is in school or in the community, failure to meet the Attleboro High School social
and civic expectations may result in revocation of such privileges including but not limited to, elected or appointed
leadership positions such as team captain, officer in student government, etc.
Infractions of school rules which occur in the spring during senior activities will not be tolerated. Such behavior may
result in the cancellation of class activities.
STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES
The Attleboro School Committee and its staff share with students and parents the responsibility for student safety
during transportation to and from school. The Principal and/or his/her designee maintains the authority for enforcing
School Committee requirements of student conduct on buses.
To ensure the safety of all students who ride in buses, it may occasionally be necessary to revoke the privilege of
transportation from any student who abuses this privilege. Parents of children whose misconduct on buses endangers
the health, safety, and welfare of other riders will be notified that their children face loss of transportation privileges in
accordance with regulations approved by the School Committee [(Policy EEAEC): See Appendix A].
STUDENT CONDUCT DURING EVACUATION OF BUILDING
Students will report to a 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.
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORT (PBIS)
Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a framework for promoting and sustaining positive student
behavior and consequently a safe and supportive school culture. It includes:
• 3-‐5 behavioral expectations of the school that are stated in positive language and center around a
school’s core values.
• Direct instruction of the expectations in context, with opportunities for modeling, practice, feedback, and
correction.
• High rates of positive feedback aimed at strengthening desired behaviors.
• Predictable re- direction & consequences delivered fairly and consistently across the school.
• Data based decision making that drives interventions aimed at (a) restructuring setting and scenarios
likely to produce problem behavior, and (b) developing and targeting interventions to students who require
additional behavioral supports.
THE PRIDE 5 BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
Positivity (to be enthusiastic and open-minded)
Respect (to create a safe and welcoming environment)
Integrity (to have ownership for actions, choices, and results)
Determination (to set goals and persevere through obstacles)
Equity (to foster inclusiveness, reduce bias, and promote equality)
AHS CORE VALUES
Core
Values
Positivity
Respect
Integrity
Determination
Equity
Definitions
To be
enthusiastic
and
OPTIMISTIC
To create a
safe and
welcoming
environment
To take
personal
ownership for
actions,
choices, and
results
To put forth
sincere effort,
set goals, and
persevere when
faced with
obstacles
To foster
inclusiveness,
reduce bias,
and promote
fairness
Classroom
Habits
Motivate
yourself and
others
around you
Take pride in
your work
Model
appropriate
behaviors
and choices
Take pride in
the
environment
(people,
technology,
supplies, etc)
Participate
actively
Listen to
others and
respond
appropriately
Operate with
honesty
Hold yourself
and others
accountable
Show up, be
prepared,
ready, and
willing to learn
Uses time
appropriately
Develop a vision
for yourself, set
goals, and meet
deadlines
Apply
organizational
strategies
Revise and
improve work
willingly
Advocate for
yourself
Acknowledge
that your
actions and
language are
powerful
Show empathy
for others
Be open to new
ideas,
attitudes, and
perspectives
Common
Area Habits
Hallways
Bathrooms
Cafeteria
Offices
Common
Spaces
Collaborative
Areas
Act with
civility
toward one
another and
help one
another out
Assume
good
intentions
Celebrate
individuality
and
uniqueness
Keep your
spaces clean
Understand
that you’re not
the only one to
use the space
you’re in
Observe the
rules of the
road (move on
the right side
of the hall at
an appropriate
pace)
Hold yourself
and others
accountable
Be proactive,
not a
bystander
Do the right
thing even
when nobody
is looking
Be in school and
get to where you
need to be on
time
Use your
privileges wisely
Advocate for
yourself (ask for
help when
needed, etc)
Acknowledge
that your
actions and
language are
powerful.
Stand up for
yourself and
others
Include others
(invite them
into a
conversation
or to sit with
you)
Recognize that
fair is not
always equal
THE DISCIPLINE PROCESS/ DUE PROCESS
The Discipline Code of the Attleboro Public Schools is administered within the guidelines set by the U.S. Supreme
Court with regard to due process for students. The Supreme Court holds that the Due Process Clause of the
Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution requires a notice of the charge(s) against him or her,
explanation of the basis for the accusation(s) and an opportunity to present his/her version of the facts. Students
eligible for services or accommodations under Special Education Regulations or Section 504 may be entitled to
additional procedural protections. The Principal will ensure that all necessary procedures are implemented.
CODE OF CONDUCT
All rules and regulations are subject to review through the Handbook Committee, School Council, and School
Committee. The Code of Conduct allows for the use of incentives which would reduce the number of days of
suspension. Also, penalties for infractions could be reduced if a student demonstrates a change in behavior.
The Administrator retains the right to issue penalties for infractions not stated here as well as to alter the penalties
stated below. Because all members of the school community are subject to both the laws of the Commonwealth and
City Ordinances, 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 five groups (I through V). The
following infractions are listed according to group. The five groups are arranged from least to most serious infractions.
The rules and regulations are based on a system of progressive discipline. The Assistant Principal/Administrator will
increase penalties in the cases of second and third offenses according to the Code of Conduct chart.
GROUP I: One Hour Session (up to 2 sessions)
• Failure to produce a valid Hall Pass when requested
• Failure to report to academic enrichment
• Failure to report to teacher detention
• If having first served a teacher detention, the use of electronic devices during the school day (except in the
cafeteria during the student’s designated lunch or the hallway between classes)
• Food and/or beverages (out of the cafeteria)
• Leaving cafeteria without permission
• Failure to report to Administrative Office
• Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action (specified on referral)
• Failure to comply with the dress code (disruptive attire, etc.)
• Refusing to participate in class work
• Tardy to class
● Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action (specified on referral)
GROUP II (1 - 3 Extended Detentions)
• Repeat violation of Group I offenses
• Excessive tardiness to class
• Excessive tardiness to school
• In an unauthorized area
• Truancy
• Failure to report to office detention
• Failure to report to assigned area, assembly, or rally
• Leaving the assigned area during a building evacuation
• Possession of tobacco paraphernalia (including e-cigarettes, vaporizers, lighters, matches
● Forging notes or alteration so as to deliberately mislead
● Disruptive behavior (stops the educational process of the class)
● Profanity or other offensive language or derogatory words/expressions
● Failure to report to class
● Cheating / plagiarism
● Gambling / possession of gambling paraphernalia
● Violating the Internet Policy
● Possession of prescription/over the counter drugs without the knowledge/approval of the school nurse
● Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action (specified on referral)
GROUP III (1 - 2 Day Suspension)
When appropriate, the Intervention Center (for example, in the case of truancy) will be utilized as a first response to
modify behavior.
• Repeat violation of Group II offense
• Non-compliance to a disciplinary issue (ex. refusal to provide name, refusal to go to House Office)
• Leaving building and/or school grounds during the school day without dismissal
• Inappropriate language (directed at a teacher/staff/student)
• Failure to report to or the removal from mandatory extended detention
• Disrespect / insolence / Excessive disruptive behavior
• Vandalism / destruction / misuse of school property
• Dangerous / reckless behavior
• Dangerous / reckless driving on school property (loss of parking permit/privileges, SRO or designee will be
notified)
• Accessory to or inciting a physical conflict
• Violation of Internet Policy (for sexual issues / or for harassment / intimidation, the School Resource Officer or
designee will be notified)
● Throwing food or objects
● Threat made to student, whether verbal, physical, written, or implied
● Smoking or vaporizing on school property
• Recording or photographing another student or teacher and/or sharing or posting such images
• Posting inappropriate words or messages on social media
• Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action (specified on referral)
GROUP IV (3 - 5 Day Suspension)
The School Resource Officer will be notified of all Group IV Offenses
• Repeat violation of Group III offenses
• Verbal assault / intimidation against a staff member
• Fighting / physical conflict (3-5-day suspension): 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. Fighting
in the building, on school grounds, or during travel to and from school poses a threat to the health and safety
of students and will not be tolerated.
• Vandalism / defacing school property / tagging
• Theft or possession of stolen property
• Hazing: 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 Mass. General Law, Chapter 269, Section
17.
• Sexual harassment
• Harassment or bullying of a student
• Cyber harassment or cyberbullying
• Obtaining money, goods, favors with the threat of physical harm
• Possession of drug related material and/or paraphernalia including, but not limited to rolling papers, empty
THC cartridges and dab pens
• Other behaviors requiring disciplinary action (specified on referral)
DRUG OR ALCOHOL VIOLATION – First Offense
Any student who is under the influence of, in possession of, or is knowingly in the presence of alcohol or drugs 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
the School Resource Officer (3–5-day suspension). In cases where the student is an athletic participant, the Athletic
Director will also enforce MIAA Guidelines.
DRUG OR ALCOHOL VIOLATION– Second Offense
Any student who has consumed or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol 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 the School Resource Officer (5-day
suspension). along with counseling as directed by the state drug law (Chapter 387 of the Act of 2008). In cases where
the student is an athletic participant, the Athletic Director will also enforce MIAA Guidelines.
GROUP V (10-Day Suspension with a Hearing for possible Expulsion)
The School Resource Officer will be notified of all Group V Offenses
• Repeat violation of Group IV Offense
• Threats to a staff member, whether verbal, physical or implied.
• Arson: 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 to the School Resource Officer
• Incendiary device / stink bombs: 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 the
School Resource Officer. Students who are found to be either in possession of or igniting fireworks in school or
on school property are subject to disciplinary action. The School Resource Officer will be notified.
• Weapons Violation: No weapon or ammunition may be brought into the school. This includes any item defined
as a dangerous weapon by state law (Massachusetts General Laws, C. 269. Section 10: e.g., knives, nunchaku,
metallic knuckles, etc....) as well as guns, look alike guns, bows and arrows, or any device or item potentially
dangerous to the health and safety of others, or that would cause fear in others. Any weapon or ammunition
brought into the school will be confiscated; the police and the School Resource Officer will be notified of the
incident.
• Fighting / Physical Conflict 2
nd
offense (or excessive violence or force)
• Willful acts against the school- any action that creates fear, is destructive in nature, or threatens violence to the
school assembly.
• Violation of the School Safety Act of 1994
• Violation of School Safety Policy 37H, 37H ½, or 37H ¾. (See pages 81-84)
• Other egregious behaviors requiring disciplinary action (specified on referral)
DRUG OR ALCOHOL VIOLATION- Third Offense
Any student who distributes alcohol or drugs of any kind, 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 student’s parent(s) or
guardian(s), to the Attleboro Police Department and the School Resource Officer.
SESSION HALL 1:55 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Teacher session takes priority over office session but does not take its place. Students detained by a teacher
will:
• Have a pass or note signed by their teacher.
• Leave the signed pass or note with the appropriate Assistant Principal before leaving.
• Make-up the office session the following afternoon.
• Failure to report to session will result in one (1) Extended Detention, make-up of missed session(s), and a parent
or guardian/administrative contact.
• Students absent on the day of assigned session hall are expected to report to the Assistant Principal on the next
day of their attendance.
• Students are expected to come to session hall prepared to work with school assignments for the entire period.
• Misbehavior in session hall will be reported to the appropriate Assistant Principal and subject to (2) Extended
Detentions following Administrative review.
• When possible, there will be 24-hour notice before an assigned session.
EXTENDED DETENTION 2:00 p.m. – 4:45p.m.
• Teacher session takes priority over office detentions but does not take its place. Students detained by a teacher
will: Have a pass or note signed by their teacher with date, time, and reason for being detained, or they will not
be admitted to Extended Detention. Students are required to report to Extended Detention prior to seeking extra
help from a teacher.
• Failure to report to Extended Detention may result in progressive discipline.
• Students absent on the day of assigned Extended Detention are expected to report to the Assistant Principal
on the next day of their attendance. Extended detention will be rescheduled for the next session. (Extended
detentions are Tuesday and Thursday.)
• All students must report to the designated space no later than 2:00 p.m. If a student reports after 2 p.m., the
Supervisor on duty may dismiss student at his/her discretion.
• In order to sign out of Extended/UAR, the student must present a signed pass from the teacher they will be
reporting to.
• Students are expected to remain silent during the entire length of the Extended/UAR session.
• Students are expected to bring enough school-related work to last the length of the Extended/UAR session.
• Students will not be allowed to use any electronic device of any kind unless permission is given for the
purpose of completing a school-related assignment.
• If any student fails to abide by these expectations, they will be dismissed immediately by the Supervisor on
duty. At the supervisor’s discretion, a single warning may be given before dismissal.
• When possible, there will be a 24-hour notice in the assignment of all detentions.
• Students’ jobs or sports do not take precedence over extended detentions and will not be factored into
determining the scheduling of a student’s Extended Detention.
INTERVENTION CENTER 7:15 a.m. – 1:50 p.m. (School Day)
Students will be scheduled for the Intervention Center as an alternative disciplinary action to out of school suspension.
The nature and number of offenses of school rules will be a consideration in decisions of whether students are scheduled
for the Intervention Center.
• Students are expected to come to the Intervention Center prepared to complete school assignments for the
entire day.
• Students will not be allowed to have electronic devices in the Intervention Center; cell phones and other devices
must either be left at home or surrendered for the day.
• Refusal to cooperate in the Intervention Center will be reported to the appropriate Assistant Principal; in addition,
that day will not count as being served. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
• Whenever possible, there will be a 24-hour notice prior to the assignment of all Intervention Center days.
• All Intervention Center assignments will start on the next available date.
• Students’ lunches and bathroom breaks will be supervised and will occur at specified times.
SMOKING, SMOKELESS TOBACCO AND NICOTINE VIOLATIONS
The Massachusetts General Laws prohibit the use of any tobacco products or nicotine products, including nicotine
delivery devices, e-cigarettes, and vaporizers, within school buildings and facilities, or on school grounds or buses by
any individual. Therefore, in the spirit of the law, students are not allowed to possess tobacco products and nicotine
products, and any student found to be in possession of a tobacco or nicotine product (including e-cigarettes, vaporizers,
or other nicotine-delivery devices) will have such product confiscated and will be subject to discipline in the discretion of
the school principal. State law combined with medical research dictates that Attleboro Public Schools’ facilities will be
maintained as smoke free institutions. Thus, smoking or the use of nicotine in school and on school grounds is to be
perceived as a major breach of the code of discipline. In addition, mere presence in an area where smoking or the use
of nicotine has taken or is taking place can, under certain circumstances, be perceived as a violation of the no-smoking
policy. Consequently, students are urged not to be present or to remain present in an area where this rule is being
violated.
STUDENT DUE PROCESS PROCEDURES
Due Process Under M.G.L. 71, Section 37H 3/4
Definitions Under M.G.L. c. 37H 3/4
Superintendent – the Superintendent or designee for disciplinary purposes.
Expulsion: the removal of a student from the school premises, regular classroom activities, and school activities for
more than ninety (90) consecutive school days.
In-School Suspension: the removal of a student from regular classroom activities, but not from the school premises, for
no more than (10) consecutive school days, or no more than ten (10) school days cumulatively for multiple infractions
during the school year. * Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities or school-sponsored events, or
both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days.
Long-Term Suspension: the removal of a student from the school premises and regular classroom activities for more
than ten (10) consecutive school days, or for more than ten (10) school days cumulatively for multiple disciplinary
offenses in any school year. Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities or school-sponsored events,
or both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days. Suspensions or exclusions pursuant to M.G.L. c. 71,
§§37H and 37H ½ to not count towards the calculation of the number of days of suspension under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H
3/4. Similarly, days of emergency removal do not count as days of suspension under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H 3/4.
Principal: the primary administrator of the school or the Principal’s designee for disciplinary purposes.
Written Notice: Written correspondence sent by hand-delivery, certified mail, first-class mail, email to an address
provided by the parent for school communications, or any other method of delivery agreed to by the principal and the
parent.
(Please note: these due process procedures apply to M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H ¾ only. For offenses under M.G.L. c. 71, §§
37H and 37H 1/2 please see the appropriate sections below)
All school principals and principal’s designees and the Superintendent and Superintendent’s designees when acting as
a decision-maker at a disciplinary hearing or appeal to consider student discipline for violations of school rules other
than offenses involving drugs, weapons, assaults on school staff and felony offenses, shall, when deciding the
consequences for the student, consider ways to re-engage the student in the learning process. The principal or
designee shall not suspend the student until alternative remedies have been employed, and their use and results
documented unless specific reasons are documented as to why such alternative remedies would be unsuitable or
counter-productive, or unless the student’s continued presence in school would pose a specific, documentable concern
about the infliction of serious bodily injury or other serious harm upon another person while in school. M.G.L. c. 71, §
37H 3/4(b).
Emergency Removals; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H ¾:
A principal may remove a student from school temporarily when a student is charged with a disciplinary offense and the
continued presence of the student poses a danger to persons or property, or materially and substantially disrupts the
order of the school, and, in the principal's judgment, there is no alternative available to alleviate the danger or
disruption. In such a case, the principal shall immediately notify the Superintendent in writing of the removal and the
reason for it, and describe the danger presented by the student.
The temporary removal shall not exceed two (2) school days following the day of the emergency removal, during which
time the principal shall: (1) make immediate and reasonable efforts to orally notify the student and the student's parent
of the emergency removal, (2) the reason for the need for emergency removal; (3) the disciplinary offense; (4) the basis
for the charge; (5) the potential consequences, including the potential length of the student's suspension; (6) the
opportunity for the student to have a hearing with the principal concerning the proposed suspension, including the
opportunity to dispute the charges and to present the student's explanation of the alleged incident, and for the parent to
attend the hearing; (7) the date, time, and location of the hearing; and (8) the right of the student and the student's
parent to interpreter services at the hearing if needed to participate.
Before the expiration of the two (2) school days, unless an extension of time for hearing is otherwise agreed to by the
principal, student, and parent, the Principal must provide the student an opportunity for a hearing with the principal that
complies with either the short-term due process or long-term due process set forth below, as applicable, and the parent
an opportunity to attend the hearing.
Additionally, the Principal is required to render a decision orally on the same day as the hearing, and in writing no later
than the following school day, which meets the requirements of notice of the decision for short-term suspension or long-
term suspension at set forth below, whichever is applicable.
A principal may not remove a student from school on an emergency basis for a disciplinary offense until adequate
provisions have been made for the student's safety and transportation.
In-School Suspension M.G.L c. 71, § 37H ¾:
In-School Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: means removal of a student from regular classroom activities, but not
from the school premises, for no more than (10) consecutive school days, or no more than ten (10) school days
cumulatively for multiple infractions during the school year. Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities
or school-sponsored events, or both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days. In-school suspension for ten
(10) days or less, consecutively, or cumulatively during a school year, shall not be considered a short-term suspension
under these regulations. If a student is placed in in-school suspension for more than ten (10) days, consecutively or
cumulatively during a school year, such suspension shall be deemed a long-term suspension for due process, appeal,
and reporting purposes under 603 CMR 53.00.
Due Process for In-School Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: Prior to the imposition of an In-School Suspension, the
student will be informed of the disciplinary offense and provided with an opportunity to respond. If the principal
determines that the student committed the disciplinary offense, the principal will provide oral notice to the student and
parent of the length of the In-School Suspension and will make reasonable efforts to meet with the parent.
Principal’s Decision – In-School Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H ¾: – On or before the day of suspension, the principal
shall send written notice to the student and parent about the In-School Suspension, including the reason and the length
of the In-School Suspension, and inviting the parent to a meeting with the principal for the purpose set forth in 603
CMR 53.10(4), if such meeting has not already occurred. The principal shall deliver such notice on the day of the
suspension by hand-delivery, certified mail, first-class mail, email to an address provided by the parent for school
communications, or by other method of delivery agreed to by the principal and the parent. Students have the right to
appeal an In-School Suspension that will result in their In-School Suspension for more than ten (10) school days in a
school year.
Short-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H ¾
Short-term suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: means the removal of a student from the school premises and regular
classroom activities for ten (10) consecutive school days or less. A principal may, in his or her discretion, allow a
student to serve a short-term suspension in school. Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities or
school-sponsored events, or both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days.
Due Process for Short-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: In the case of disciplinary offenses not involving: a)
possession of a dangerous weapon; b) possession of a controlled substance; c) assault on a member of the
educational staff; or d) a felony charge or felony delinquency complaint or conviction, the student and parents will be
given oral and written notice of the disciplinary offense with which the student is charged and the opportunity to
participate in a hearing prior to the imposition of an out-of-school suspension.
Notice – Short-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: Except as provided in cases of In-School Suspension or
Emergency Removal, a principal may not impose a suspension as a consequence for a disciplinary offense without first
providing the student and the parent oral and written notice and providing the student an opportunity for a hearing on
the charge and the parent an opportunity to participate in such hearing. The principal shall provide oral and written
notice to the student and the parent in English and in the primary language of the home if other than English, or other
means of communication where appropriate. The notice shall set forth in plain language: the disciplinary offense; the
basis for the charge; the potential consequences, including the potential length of the student's suspension; the
opportunity for the student to have a hearing with the principal concerning the proposed suspension, including the
opportunity to dispute the charges and to present the student's explanation of the alleged incident, and for the parent to
attend the hearing; the date, time, and location of the hearing; the right of the student and the student's parent to
interpreter services at the hearing if needed to participate.
The principal shall make reasonable efforts to notify the parent orally of the opportunity to attend the hearing. To
conduct a hearing without the parent present, the principal must be able to document reasonable efforts to include the
parent. The principal is presumed to have made reasonable efforts if the principal has sent written notice and has
documented at least two (2) attempts to contact the parent in the manner specified by the parent for emergency
notification.
Principal’s Hearing - Short-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4:
At the Principal’s hearing, the student, and parents (if participating) may dispute the charge(s) against the student and
present information, including mitigating facts, for the principal’s consideration in determining consequences for the
student.
Principal’s Decision – Short-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: The principal shall notify the student and parent
of the determination and the reasons for it, and, if the student is suspended, the type and duration of suspension and
the opportunity to make up assignments and such other school work as needed to make academic progress during the
period of removal, as provided in M.G.L. c. 76, 21. The determination shall be in writing and may be in the form of an
update to the original written notice. The Principal’s decision shall be final with no opportunity for appeal.
If the student is in a public preschool program or in grades K through 3, the principal shall send a copy of the written
determination to the Superintendent and explain the reasons for imposing an out-of-school suspension, before the
short-term suspension takes effect.
Long-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H ¾
Long-term suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: means the removal of a student from the school premises and regular
classroom activities for more than ten (10) consecutive school days, or for more than ten (10) school days cumulatively
for multiple disciplinary offenses in any school year. A principal may, in his or her discretion, allow a student to serve a
long-term suspension in school. Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities or school-sponsored
events, or both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days. Except for students who are charged with a
disciplinary offense set forth in subsections (a) or (b) of G.L. c. 71, § 37H, or in section 37H ½ of G.L. c. 71, no student
may be placed on long-term suspension for one or more disciplinary offenses for more than ninety (90) school days in a
school year beginning with the first day that the student is removed from school. No long-term suspension shall extend
beyond the end of the school year in which such suspension is imposed.
Due Process for Long-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: In the case of disciplinary offenses not involving: a)
possession of a dangerous weapon; b) possession of a controlled substance; c) assault on a member of the
educational staff; or d) a felony charge or felony delinquency complaint or conviction, the student and parents will be
given oral and written notice of the disciplinary offense with which the student is charged and the opportunity to
participate in a hearing prior to the imposition of an out-of-school suspension.
Notice - Long-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: Written notice of the date and time for the hearing will be
provided in English and in the primary language of the Student’s home and will identify the disciplinary offense with
which the student has been charged, the basis for the charge, the potential length of the student’s suspension, and
inform the parent and student of the right to interpreter services if necessary to participate in the hearing.
Where a student may be subject to a Long-Term Suspension, the Principal will also notify the student and parent of the
following rights: (1) in advance of the hearing, the opportunity to review the student's record and the documents upon
which the principal may rely in making a determination to suspend the student or not; (2) the right to be represented by
counsel or a lay person of the student's choice, at the student's/parent's expense; (3) the right to produce witnesses on
his or her behalf and to present the student's explanation of the alleged incident, but the student may not be compelled
to do so; (4) the right to cross-examine witnesses presented by the school; and (5) the right to request that the hearing
be recorded by the principal, and to receive a copy of the audio recording upon request. If the student or parent
requests an audio recording, the principal shall inform all participants before the hearing that an audio record will be
made, and a copy will be provided to the student and parent upon request.
Principal’s Hearing - Long-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: The student will have the rights identified in the
written notice and the principal shall provide the parent, if present, an opportunity to discuss the student's conduct and
offer information, including mitigating circumstances, that the principal should consider in determining consequences
for the student.
Principal’s Decision – Long-Term Suspension: M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4
Based on the evidence, the principal shall determine whether the student committed the disciplinary offense, and, if so,
after considering mitigating circumstances and alternatives to suspension, what remedy or consequence will be
imposed, in place of or in addition to a Long-Term Suspension. The principal shall send the written determination to the
student and parent by hand-delivery, certified mail, first-class mail, email to an address provided by the parent for
school communications, or any other method of delivery agreed to by the principal and the parent. If the principal
decides to suspend the student, the written determination shall: (1) identify the disciplinary offense, the date on which
the hearing took place, and the participants at the hearing; (2) set out the key facts and conclusions reached by the
principal; (3) identify the length and effective date of the suspension, as well as a date of return to school; (4) include
notice of the student's opportunity to receive education services to make academic progress during the period of
removal from school as provided in M.G.L. c. 76, § 21; (5) inform the student of the right to appeal the principal's
decision to the Superintendent or designee, but only if the principal has imposed a long-term suspension.
Notice of the right of appeal shall be in English and the primary language of the home if other than English, or other
means of communication where appropriate, and shall include the following information stated in plain language: (a) the
process for appealing the decision, including that the student or parent must file a written notice of appeal with the
Superintendent within five (5) calendar days of the effective date of the Long-Term Suspension; provided that within the
five (5) calendar days, the student or parent may request and receive from the Superintendent an extension of time for
filing the written notice for up to seven (7) additional calendar days; and that (b) the Long-Term Suspension will remain
in effect unless and until the Superintendent decides to reverse the principal's determination on appeal.
Superintendent Appeals – Long-Term Suspension; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4:
A student who is placed on Long-Term Suspension under M.G.L c. 71, § 37H ¾ following a hearing with the principal
shall have the right to appeal the principal's decision to the Superintendent. The student or parent shall file a notice of
appeal with the Superintendent within five (5) calendar days of the effective date of the Long-Term Suspension;
provided that within the five (5) calendar days, the student or parent may request and receive from the Superintendent
an extension of time for filing the written notice for up to seven (7) additional calendar. If the appeal is not timely filed,
the Superintendent may deny the appeal, or may allow the appeal in his or her discretion, for good cause.
Superintendent Appeal Hearing; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: The Superintendent shall hold the hearing within three (3)
school days of the student's request, unless the student or parent requests an extension of up to seven (7) additional
calendar days, in which case the Superintendent shall grant the extension. The Superintendent shall make a good faith
effort to include the parent in the hearing. The Superintendent shall be presumed to have made a good faith effort if he
or she has made efforts to find a day and time for the hearing that would allow the parent and Superintendent to
participate. The Superintendent shall send written notice to the parent of the date, time, and location of the hearing.
The Superintendent shall conduct a hearing to determine whether the student committed the disciplinary offense of
which the student is accused, and if so, what the consequence shall be. The Superintendent shall arrange for an audio
recording of the hearing, a copy of which shall be provided to the student or parent upon request. The Superintendent
shall inform all participants before the hearing that an audio record will be made of the hearing and a copy will be
provided to the student and parent upon request. The student shall have all the rights afforded the student at the
principal's hearing for long-term suspension as identified above.
Superintendent’s Decision; M.G.L c. 71, § 37H 3/4: The Superintendent shall issue a written decision within five (5)
calendar days of the hearing which: (1) identifies the disciplinary offense and the date on which the hearing took place,
and the participants at the hearing; (2) sets out the key facts and conclusions reached by the Superintendent; (3)
identifies the length and effective date of the suspension, as well as a date of return to school; (4) includes notice of the
student's opportunity to receive education services to make academic progress during the period of removal from
school as provided in M.G.L. c. 76, § 21; and (5) notice of the right of appeal shall be in English and the primary
language of the home if other than English, or other means of communication where appropriate.
If the Superintendent determines that the student committed the disciplinary offense, the Superintendent may impose
the same or a lesser consequence than the principal but shall not impose a suspension greater than that imposed by
the principal's decision.
The decision of the Superintendent shall be the final decision of the Attleboro Public Schools with regard to the long-
term suspension.
Opportunity to Make Academic Progress:
Less Than 10 Consecutive Days - Any student who is serving an in-school suspension, short-term suspension, long-
term suspension, or expulsion shall have the opportunity to earn credits, as applicable, make up assignments, tests,
papers, and other schoolwork as needed to make academic progress during the period of his or her removal from the
classroom or school.
More than 10 Consecutive Days - Any student who is expelled or suspended from school for more than ten (10)
consecutive days, whether in school or out of school, shall have an opportunity to receive education services and make
academic progress toward meeting state and local requirements, in accordance with the school’s education service
plan.
Due Process Under M.G.L. c. 71, Section 37H and 37H ½ Offenses (Dangerous Weapons, Drugs, Assaults on
Staff, and Criminal Felony Matters)
Short-Term Suspension; M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 37H and 37H 1/2 - For disciplinary offenses involving a) possession of a
dangerous weapon; b) possession of a controlled substance; c) assault on a member of the educational staff; or d) a
felony charge or felony delinquency complaint or conviction, the student will be given oral notice of the violation with
which the student is charged and an opportunity to respond thereto, prior to the Principal’s imposition of a short-term
suspension or an interim suspension of less than ten (10) consecutive days pending formal proceedings. Upon
imposition of a short term or interim suspension of ten (10) consecutive days or less pending further disciplinary
proceedings, the student and parents will be provided with written notice of the suspension and the date and time of the
formal disciplinary hearing.
Long-Term Exclusion/Expulsion; M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 37H and 37H 1/2 - Unlike M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H 3/4, for offenses
that fall within M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 37H and 37H 1/2, a principal may long-term suspend a student for more than ninety (90)
days or permanently expel a student for means the removal of a student from the school premises, regular classroom
activities, and school activities for (1) possession of a dangerous weapon; (2) possession of a controlled substance; (3)
assault on a member of the educational staff; or (4) a felony charge or felony delinquency complaint or conviction, or
adjudication or admission of guilt with respect to such felony, if a principal determines that the student's continued
presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school, as provided in G.L.
c. 71, §§37H or 37H½. The Principal’s Hearing and appeals process identified below apply to suspensions under
M.G.L. c. §§ 37H and 37H 1/2 in cases of suspension for more than ten (10) consecutive days.
Dangerous Weapons, Drugs and Assaults on Staff - M.G.L. c, 71, §37H
1. 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 Attleboro Public Schools by the Principal.
2. Any student who assaults a Principal, Assistant Principal, teacher, teacher's aide, or other educational
staff on school premises or at school-sponsored events, including athletic games, may be subject to
expulsion from the Attleboro Public Schools by the Principal.
Principal’s Hearing, Long-Term Exclusion – 37H - Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraphs 1 or
2 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, the Principal may, in his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been
determined by the Principal to have violated either paragraphs 1 or 2 above.
Appeal to the Superintendent – Long-Term Exclusion – 37H - Any student who has been expelled from the Attleboro
Public Schools 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 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.
Opportunity to Make Academic Progress - Any school district that suspends or expels a student under this section
shall continue to provide educational services to the student during the period of suspension or expulsion in a manner
consistent with M.G.L. c. 76, § 21. If the student moves to another school district during the period of suspension or
expulsion, the new school district shall either admit the student to its schools or provide educational services to the
student in an education service plan under M.G.L. c. 76, § 21.
Suspensions or expulsions are decisions that must consider a student’s due process rights. Building Principals or
designees are required to report to the police department the presence of any weapon on school premises.
Felony Complaints - M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H ½
Issuance of a Felony Criminal Complaint
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 or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may
suspend such student for a period of time determined appropriate by said principal or headmaster if said principal or
headmaster determines that the student's continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on
the general welfare of the school.
Notice of Principal’s Hearing – Long-Term Exclusion – 37H 1/2 - 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 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.
Appeal to the Superintendent- Long-Term Exclusion - 37H 1/2 - The student shall have the right to appeal the
suspension to the Superintendent in writing of his 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 behalf and shall have the right to be represented by counsel at
student’s own expense. The Superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or
headmaster, 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
Attleboro Public Schools with regard to the suspension.
Adjudication of Delinquency, Admission of Guilt or Conviction
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 or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may expel said
student if such principal or headmaster determines that the student's continued presence in school would have a
substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school.
Notice of Principal’s Hearing – Long-Term Exclusion - 37H 1/2 - 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 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.
Superintendent’s Appeal – Long-Term Exclusion - 37H 1/2 - The student shall have the right to appeal the expulsion to
the Superintendent. The student shall notify the Superintendent, in writing, of his 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. The hearing, the student shall
have the right to present oral and written testimony on his behalf and shall have the right to be represented by counsel
at student’s own expense. The Superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal
or headmaster, 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
Attleboro Public Schools with regard to the expulsion.
Opportunity to Make Academic Progress
The Attleboro Public Schools shall continue to provide educational services to the student during the period of
suspension or expulsion in a manner consistent with M.G.L. c. 76, § 21. If the student moves to another school district
during the period of suspension or expulsion, the new school district shall either admit the student to its schools or
provide educational services to the student in an education service plan under M.G.L. c. 76, § 21.
STUDENT ATHLETE OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION POLICY
Any student athlete receiving an out of school suspension will be ineligible to practice, play, or travel with his or her team.
Upon returning to school, the athlete 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.
III. HEALTH EDUCATION AND SERVICES POLICIES
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. 20061. Parents should feel free to call with questions.
Services available are as follows:
CONFIDENTIALITY
The nurse may deem it necessary to inform school staff, on a “need to know” basis, of a student’s life-threatening
condition. This may include (but is not limited to) the bus company and food service workers. If you do not wish the
nurse to share medical concerns as it relates to your child’s safety in school, you must document this in writing and
speak directly to the school nurse.
FIRST AID EMERGENCIES
The Health Office offers immediate first aid to students. All accidents resulting in injury must be reported to the School
Nurse. Proper referral will be made as necessary. Parents are asked to supply current phone numbers in case of
emergency. It is essential that the nurse’s office have a way of reaching parents or another adult who can assume
responsibility in the parent’s absence. In an emergency situation in which we are unable to contact the parent/guardian,
the rescue squad will be called.
IMMUNIZATIONS
All students entering Attleboro High School 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 the immunization requirements will result in exclusion from school in accordance with state regulations.
Immunization clinics are offered at the High School in collaboration with the Attleboro Health Department.
• Grade 11 and 12 entry: 1 booster dose of MenACWY received on or after 16 years of age. (1 or more doses of
MenACWY are acceptable as long as 1 dose was received on or after 16 years of age.)
ORTHOPEDIC INJURIES
Students with an orthopedic injury requiring the use of crutches, braces, casts, slings, splints, etc., must return to
school with a note from a 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 accommodations.
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION
All public / non-public school systems in the Commonwealth are required to comply with regulations 105 CMR 210.000:
The Administration of Prescription Medications in Public and Private Schools.
• All medication must be transported to and from school by a parent / guardian or responsible adult 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, frequency of dispensation.
• Both the physician’s order for prescription medication and written parental consent for the school to dispense
any medication must accompany the medication. No medication can be dispensed without both these forms in
place. Forms are available in the Health Office and available for download from the District Web page under
the Health Services section.
• Over the Counter medication including herbal and homeopathic products must also be in their original
container and must clearly be labeled with the student’s name, dose, and frequency of dispensation. Written
Physician and parental permission is required.
• 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. Whenever
possible, the medication order shall be obtained, and the medication administration plans shall be developed
before the beginning of the school year.
• Students must not carry medication on their person. We recognize that self-carrying and self-administration of
medication is required in some instances. Examples for exceptions may be inhalers and EpiPens. In these
instances, a self-administration plan shall be developed prior to implementation along with approval of the
school nurse.
• Whenever possible, medications should be administered outside of school hours
• Any medication given by the school nurse is given at his/her discretion with completed paperwork.
TYLENOL USE PROCEDURE
As a result of warnings issued by the FDA regarding the dangers related to the misuse and overuse of Tylenol
(acetaminophen), the nursing department has in place procedures to monitor and discourage the excessive use of this
drug during the school day unless there is proper indication for use. As with any medication administration, nursing
assessment is required and is given at the nurse’s discretion. If the nurse has concerns related to use or overuse, a
phone call home and/or doctor’s orders for continuation of this medication may be required. If you have questions
regarding the specifics of this procedure, please call your school nurse.
PHYSICAL EXAMS
Physical examinations are required of each 9th Grade student or upon entry to the District as set by the regulations of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Completed physical examination forms should be given to the school nurse.
Sports physicals are required every year according to MIAA regulations. In the event your child has a special medical
concern, it is important to your child’s safety and wellbeing that you contact the Health Office to share information.
STATE MANDATED SCREENINGS
All health screenings conducted in school are required by Massachusetts State Law. Screenings are ongoing
throughout the school year. If you do not wish your child to participate, you must write a letter to the school nurse
declining your child’s participation. This letter must be written each school year and be specific as to which screenings
you do not wish your child to participate.
Scoliosis Screening: Postural screening is conducted for grade nine students. Parents are notified of any concerns and
referred to a physician if necessary
Vision and Hearing Screening: Vision and hearing screening is conducted for students in grade ten. Parents are
notified of any concerns and referred to a physician if necessary.
Body Mass Index BMI Screening: Growth Screenings are conducted on students in grade 10. Height and weight are
measured and calculated into BMI or Body Mass Index. Parents may request results from the Health Office.
SBIRT Survey: (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) All 9
th
grade students will participate in the
SBIRT survey. This is a brief confidential conversation that promotes prevention and identifies early risk for substance
use disorders and is required by state mandate. As with other state mandates, you may opt out your child by sending in
a letter to the Health Office.
LIFE THREATENING ALLERGIES & OTHER MEDICAL CONCERNS
Due to the increase of life-threatening allergies and other medical concerns in our schools and to assure that all staff
and adults working with your child in school are aware of your child’s medical diagnosis and are able to respond
appropriately in case of emergency. Parents are required to supply the following:
• Notify the school nurse of the child’s known allergies or medical issues.
• Notify the school nurse in writing as soon as possible after a new diagnosis of an allergy or other medical
concern.
• Provide medical documentation from the child’s health care provider including a written order for any
emergency medication.
• Complete and annually update the Medical Information form, which must be on file in the nurse’s office.
• Educate your child in an age-appropriate self-management awareness of his or her allergy and/or medical
condition, safe and unsafe actions, items and/or food strategies for avoiding an allergen, symptoms of an
allergic/medical reaction, how and when to tell and adult that a medical or allergic reaction is starting, and how
to read food and other types of labels that may directly relate to your child’s medical concern.
EMERGENCY MEDICATION AVAILABILITY
Please be aware that there may be times before and/or after regular school hours that areas of the buildings are
locked; and emergency medication will not be accessible. Please be aware and plan accordingly to have an extra
supply available to be assured that your child will have access to their emergency medications on these off hours.
• Emergency medication such as EpiPens and inhalers will automatically be sent with the student on field trips.
PEANUT/NUT SAFE PRACTICES
Attleboro Public schools observe peanut/nut safe practices which requests peanut/nut products not be brought into
academic areas. Strict avoidance of peanut/nut product is the only way to prevent a life-threatening allergic reaction. To
reduce the risk of exposure, it is recommended that all academic areas be peanut/nut safe. Please do not send snacks
containing peanuts or nuts to school. A peanut/nut safe table will be available in the cafeteria upon request.
School and Illness: When Your Child Should Stay Home:
When your child is sick, it is important to know when they should stay home from school.
As a general rule, your child should not go to school if they have
• A fever of 100.4 Fahrenheit – your child can return to school after they have been fever-free for 24 hours
without the use of medication to treat or prevent fever.
• Diarrhea – your child can return to school after 24 hours without any episodes of diarrhea.
• Vomiting – your child can return to school after 24 hours from the last episode of vomiting.
• Excessive coughing or wheezing
• Illness that requires treatment with an antibiotic – your child should remain home until they have completed 24
hours on prescribed medication. (Examples include but not limited to- strep, impetigo, conjunctivitis)
Please contact your School Nurse with any questions or concerns.
FRAGRANCE FREE STATEMENT
Fragranced products can cause individuals with some chronic illnesses, such as asthma, allergies, sinus problems, and
migraine headaches to suffer severe symptoms. In an effort to help maintain a healthy school environment, it is
respectfully requested that individuals be as fragrance-free as possible. This can be accomplished by refraining from
excess use of perfume, aftershave, scented lotions, creams, and/or similar products.
STUDENT HEALTH RECORDS
• At the end of Senior year, health records will be distributed to all students. This will take place on the day of
graduation rehearsal. Students will sign off on their record and it will be handed to them. All records will be sealed
to maintain confidentiality.
• Parents, if you prefer to pick up the record, please contact the health office. If the record is not retrieved, it will be
shredded.
• After the Health Record has been distributed, going forward the student will need to contact their primary care
physician for copies of the most recent physicals and current immunizations.
WEB INFORMATION
For more information, you may access our "Health Services" webpage through the Attleboro Public Schools District
page at: www.attleboroschools.com. On the home page click on "For Parents" the "Health Services".
IV. GENERAL POLICIES AND TERMS
ATHLETICS
INTRODUCTION
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 or 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.
ATHLETIC OFFERINGS
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 = 1
Junior Varsity = 2
Freshman = 3
Boys = B
Girls = G
Baseball (1,2,3)(B) Spring Track (1)(B&G)
Basketball (1,2,3)(B&G) Swimming (1)(B&G)
Cross Country (1) (B&G) Tennis (1)(B&G)
Field Hockey (1,2,3)(G) Volleyball (1,2,3)(G)
Football (1,2,3)(B&G) Winter Track (1)(B&G)
Golf (1)(B&G) Cheerleading (1,2)(B&G)
Gymnastics (1)(G) Unified Track (B&G)
Ice Hockey (1,2)(B&G)
Lacrosse (1,2) (B&G)
Soccer (1,2,3)(B&G)
Softball (1,2,3)(G)
Unified Basketball (B&G)
CHEERLEADING
All squads (teams) are selected in the spring (for the fall season and in November for the winter season) 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 to participate in tournament competitions and pep rallies. They also
cheer 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 Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association
(MIAA), Attleboro High School shall resolve eligibility for high school as follows:
a. A student must not have reached 19 years of age by September 1
st
.
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 (60). Prepared work is defined as any subject or course which is allowed toward
attaining a high school diploma. A student must be enrolled in courses that progress toward the diploma. To be eligible
for the Fall marking period, students are required to have achieved final passing grades for the previous Trimester that
equal a minimum of 10 credits. To be eligible for fall athletics, students are required to have achieved 30 credits (or the
equivalent) from the previous school year. A student taking a full-year course will be entitled to one Trimester’s credit
toward eligibility, provided that he/she is passing the course and is scheduled for the same course(s) for the remainder
of the year.
1. Incoming freshmen are immediately eligible for the Fall season if attending high school immediately after
conclusion of 8th grade and do not turn 16 years of age prior to September 1.
2. 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.
3. Students who are absent from school are not eligible to participate in that day’s practice session or
game. Tardiness after 10:30 a.m. or dismissal before 10:30 a.m. will constitute an absence. Any exception to
this rule due to extenuating circumstances will be determined by the administration.
TEAM REDUCTION PROCEDURE
The necessity to reduce the size of some squads will result in team reduction in a limited number of instances. This is
something that will be done with great care. Team reduction will not be made prior to the completion of the third team
practice session, and coaches are encouraged to take as much time as necessary to evaluate the athletes.
The criteria will include:
● Ability
● Attitude
● Potential
The coach’s decision in matters of team reduction of an athlete is final. An athlete will not be prohibited from trying out
for another sport with approval of the Athletic Director.
STARTING DATES OF SPORTS SEASONS
Fall: TBA – Mid August
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 MIAA.
FEES
The previously mentioned sports are open to all students who pass a physical examination, meet the eligibility standards,
and pay the participation fee as outlined: (Subject to Change):
Ice Hockey *$700 / per student – Varsity
*$500/ per student – Junior Varsity
Cheerleading *$250/ per student
All other sports $200 per student / per season
$550 maximum per individual/per year
$725 maximum per family / per year
*Personal and Family max does not include Ice Hockey, or Cheerleading. Students who receive free lunch do
not pay Athletic User Fees. Students who receive reduced lunch will pay 40% of Athletic User Fees.
The School Committee reserves the right to adjust fees pending authorization of the final budget.
Athletic teams participate in the Hockomock League. Practices are scheduled daily between the hours of 2 p.m. - 8:30
p.m. Athletic schedules can be viewed on MIAA website.
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 OF ATHLETES
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. This physical examination is valid for 13 months from the date of examination.
A student who has been injured and has had medical attention cannot resume participation until the coach has received
documentation from the student’s doctor describing the nature of the injury, the prescribed treatment, and the date the
athlete can resume practice. The doctor’s and/or parent’s permission must be received before the student can resume
playing.
CONCUSSION AND HEAD INJURIES PROCEDURES
A concussion/head Injury can be serious. The Attleboro Public Schools Concussion/Head Injury procedures are in
place to improve safety and limit additional complications related to head injury/concussions as put forth by the
Massachusetts State Legislation 105 CMR 201.000.
Please be aware that:
• “Any student, who during a practice or competition, sustains a head injury or suspected concussion, or
exhibits signs and symptoms of a concussion, shall be removed from the practice or competition immediately
and may not return to practice or competition” until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional.
• For return to play the student must be completely symptom free. Once written clearance from a physician has
been received, the student will begin a graduated re-entry to extracurricular activities.
• All athletes will be required to take the ImPACT baseline test every two years, along with a post-concussion
ImPACT test before being cleared to return to play.
• It is the responsibility of the parent to complete and return the “Sports Concussion History” prior to
participation in each sports season.
• Parent and student must sign and return the acknowledgement that they have reviewed or taken the online
head concussion training each sports year.
Online concussion training: www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/onlinetraining.html or www.nfhslearn.com
CHEMICAL HEALTH
From the first allowable day of fall practice through the end of the academic year or final athletic competition of the
year, whichever is later, a student shall not, regardless of the quantity, 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.
Minimum PENALTIES: Rule 62 MIAA Handbook
FIRST VIOLATION
When a Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a violation occurred, the student
shall lose eligibility for the next consecutive interscholastic contest totaling 25% of all interscholastic contests in that
sport. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant in a treatment program. It is recommended
that the student be allowed to remain at practice for the purpose of rehabilitation. All decimal parts of an event will be
truncated i.e. All fractional parts of an event will be dropped when calculating the 25% of the season.
SECOND AND SUBSEQUENT VIOLATIONS
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 consecutive interscholastic contests totaling 60% of all interscholastic contests in that
sport. All decimal parts of an event will be truncated i.e. All fractional parts of an event will be dropped when calculating
the 60% of the season.
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 40% of events. The director or a counselor of a chemical dependency treatment center must issue
such certification. All decimal parts of an event will be truncated i.e. All fractional parts of an event will be dropped
when calculating the 40% of the season.
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 FOR ATHLETES
Participation in athletics is a privilege for all athletes representing our school. Violations requiring Administrative action,
as established in the Student Handbook section on the Rules and Regulations of Attleboro High School, will result in
counseling by the head coach, Director of Athletics and possible suspension for the next contest or for that sport
season.
• A student must be in school by 10:30 a.m. or cannot be dismissed before 10:30 a.m. to participate in a
practice session or contest that same day. Exceptions will be determined by the Administration only for
legitimate reasons. “Team breakfasts” are not a legitimate reason to be tardy to school and the student
will be considered truant; no make-up will be allowed; and the student will not be allowed to participate in
a practice session or contest that day.
• A display of unsportsmanlike conduct toward an opponent or official or the use of profanity during a
practice or contest will result in counseling by the head coach and possible suspension from school and
from the team.
• 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/ SCHOOL-SPONSORED TRIP 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. Upon return from vacation, the athlete will resume practice, but will be unable to participate in a
contest for a period of time equal to the length of the vacation. Upon return from a school-sponsored trip, the athlete will
be required to practice a minimum of one day; and be evaluated prior to resuming competition.
STUDENT ATHLETE SUSPENSION POLICY
Any student-athlete receiving an out of school suspension or scheduled for the Intervention Center will be subject to the
same process in effect for the School Vacation Policy. Upon returning to school, he or 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.
DISMISSALS FOR ATHLETIC EVENTS
To create 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 for members of an athletic team to be dismissed before the end of the
school day. In no way may a student interpret this to mean that he/she is excused from required work for the missed
class. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with the teacher(s) involved to keep up with the class.
EXPECTATIONS OF CAPTAINS
Captains, due to their position as role models for their teammates and visible representatives of our school in the
community, are expected to demonstrate behavior, both in school and in the community, which is beyond reproach. 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.
NCAA ELIGIBILITY
Any student who plans on pursuing athletics at the college level must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center no later
than junior year of high school. The NCAA will conduct a thorough review of academic and course requirements for each
registered student. Students should see their Guidance Counselor or the Athletic Director with any questions about the
process.
BICYCLES AND SKATEBOARDS
Students may secure bicycles in the racks outside of the Principal’s Entrance. Students riding bicycles and
skateboards to school must follow traffic rules. Students should drop skateboards off at their House Office. Riding of
motorcycles, bicycles and skateboards on school sidewalks is strictly forbidden in keeping with Attleboro City
Ordinances, 11-6.4, 11-6.6
CAFETERIA
Our school cafeteria provides a good
,
nutritious, and well-balanced lunch. We do participate in the government sponsored
Free and Reduced Lunch Program. Applications are available to all students in the Principal’s Office or online through
May of any school year.
The Prepay Lunch Program is available to parents who want to have money deposited in their child’s My School Bucks
account to expedite the purchasing of breakfast/lunch. Families can pay online with a credit card or send in a check or
cash with their student. Prices for regular and reduced lunch are found on the APS website. According to School
Committee policy, a regular meal will be provided to students who forget or lose their lunch money. If a student’s lunch
balance becomes negative, students will not be allowed to purchase a la carte items. The student will still be allowed to
take a meal, and that meal will continue to be charged to the account at the standard lunch rate based on their meal
status. The parent/guardian is responsible for any meal charges incurred.
If there is a financial hardship, please contact Patty Sylvester in the Business Office, psylvester@attleboroschools.com.
In order to maintain a safe and orderly cafeteria, students are expected to follow all cafeteria procedures. Students are
expected to leave the area around their table and chairs clean. All lunch litter is to be disposed of in the appropriate
containers. Students are expected to dispose of recyclable materials in the appropriate containers when made
available. Student failure to act appropriately and follow cafeteria procedures will be subject to disciplinary action by the
administration.
CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students may not use cell phones, portable media players, video equipment, or any other electronic devices in the
classroom, unless such a device is considered assistive technology, or is part of an approved activity assigned by the
classroom teacher. Cell phones may be used in the cafeteria during a student’s assigned lunch period, and in hallways
during passing times only. Cell phones may not be used on stairs or in stairwells for safety reasons.
Massachusetts General Law 272 Section 99 prohibits the audio or video recording of any persons without their express
consent; students who record others without consent may be subject to the Cyber Harassment Policy and to court
action. The inappropriate use of a video or picture cell phone is prohibited at all times and may also be subject to the
Cyber Harassment Policy. Students who violate the cell phone policy will be subject to the consequences outlined in the
Code of Conduct.
CHROMEBOOKS: School Issued Devices
The Attleboro Public Schools (APS) has embarked on a 1:1 Chromebook learning environment. The purpose of this
initiative is to put technology into the hands of every student to enhance the learning environment. The Attleboro Public
Schools leases the Chromebooks and retains ownership of each device. We will distribute a Chromebook to each
student (Grades 2-12+) to use for educational purposes during the school year. If a student leaves the district, the
device needs to be returned to the Office of Instructional Technology. With the privilege of being issued a Chromebook
comes responsibilities for families and for the student.
Attleboro Public Schools students and families must understand that:
1. The Chromebooks are on loan to students and remain the property of APS.
2. All students using an APS Account on both personal and district-issued devices must comply with the
Acceptable Use Policy and rules/procedures of each classroom.
3. All users are accountable to all school, district, local, state, and federal laws as they pertain to digital
citizenship.
4. All district-issued devices are subject to content filtering, GPS tracking and monitoring (usage
statistics, websites visited, application/extension use, hardware statistics, temperature &
CPU usage and time online.
5. All files stored in the @attleborops.net accounts for any individual are subject to review and
monitoring.
6. Students are expected to notify a staff member immediately if they come across information, images,
or messages that are inappropriate, dangerous, threatening, or that make them feel uncomfortable.
7. It is the student’s responsibility to arrive to school with the Chromebook fully charged.
Family Responsibilities
APS is committed to equipping all families with the necessary tools and information to ensure the safe use of the
Chromebook in the home. Both the school and families share the responsibility of educating students about Internet
safety and digital citizenship. Students are to be reminded that everything that they send out via message, email, or
social media leaves a digital footprint. In fact, it is more like a digital tattoo - nearly impossible to remove. Our goal is to
have students leave APS with a clean digital footprint. Therefore, nothing should be posted online about a student that
would not meet the approval of parents/guardians, teachers, and administrators.
Care & Maintenance:
• To clean your Chromebook screen, use only wipes that are designed for computer screens.
• Never spray cleaners directly on your Chromebook.
• The trackpad will be damaged if not used properly, never use a pencil, eraser, or other object on the
trackpad
• The Chromebook should be always kept in its case (if one has been provided).
School Gmail Accounts:
• All students have a Google account typically: firstlast[email protected]
• Students in grades 1-12 have internal email accounts.
• Students in grades 8-12 have access to email outside of the district.
• Every email message is archived and is the property of the school.
Damaged, Lost or Stolen Equipment
Repairs:
Student Chromebooks are the property of APS and remain so throughout the duration of their use. The district will
cover one accidental damage repair per year without charging the family for the damage. Manufacturer defects are
covered under warranty at no charge. After that, families are responsible for any damages sustained to Chromebooks
while assigned to students and will be charged for the cost of any necessary repairs. A loaner Chromebook will be
issued while the student’s Chromebook is being repaired. Please understand that failure to pay for damages will result
in the bill becoming a financial obligation for the family that will follow the student throughout their career at
APS. Having these obligations could prohibit the student from participating in many school events.
Accidental Damage vs. Negligence:
It is recognized that accidents do happen. There is a difference between accidents and negligence. After investigation
by school administration, if the Chromebook is deemed to be intentionally damaged by the student, the student will be
subject to discipline and assessed the cost of repair or replacement.
Lost/Stolen Chromebook:
Students or families must report lost or stolen Chromebooks to the school immediately. The circumstances of each
situation will be investigated, and students/families may be billed for damaged or lost equipment. For stolen
Chromebooks, a report should be filed with the police department. If there is no clear evidence of theft, the student and
family will be responsible for the full cost of replacing the Chromebook.
Loaner Chromebooks:
We will have loaner Chromebooks available in the event that a device is out for repair or is lost/stolen. Students
chronically unprepared (forgetting to bring and/or charge their school-issued Chromebook) will be limited in their access
to loaner Chromebooks.
Charging Cables
Students are responsible for their own charging cables/power adapters. Students are encouraged to label their
charging cable. Extra cables can be purchased through outside sources such as Amazon for approximately
$20. Please see our technology web page on the district page for more information:
IT Support | Attleboro Public Schools (attleboroschools.com)
Leaving the District:
Chromebooks must be returned to APS when students unenroll from the district.
CLASS ADVISORS
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, as needed. Class Advisors serve as liaisons to the High School Administration
concerning class events.
CYBER HARASSMENT/CYBER BULLYING
Cyber harassment and cyber bullying are the transmission of text messages, photos, videos on cell phones, or email,
instant messages, social networking blogs, or Web pages to harass, embarrass, and intimidate other students. The
harassment takes many forms, from spreading false rumors and posting embarrassing pictures of others to sending
offensive messages, repeated harassment (sometimes sexual), stalking, threats, and even extortion.
Cyber harassers use this technology to spread their offensive messages via cell phones, personal computers, and the
Internet, which tend to give them a sense of anonymity and embolden them to make their offensive behavior more
vicious. Cyber Harassment will be treated similarly to Harassment.
DANCES AND SOCIAL EVENTS
Rules for attendance at school-sponsored dances and social events:
1. Tickets must always be purchased before the event.
2. Tickets may only be purchased by enrolled AHS students.
3. With the Assistant Principal’s approval, AHS students may escort students from other schools to all dances
with the exception of Homecoming, the Sophomore Gathering and the Freshman Social. Permission slips are
required in advance for the guest.
4. No one will be admitted to any dance later than one-half hour after the scheduled beginning of the event.
5. Once at the dance, no one is allowed to leave until fifteen minutes before the scheduled end of the event.
6. Only students who are in good standing with the Administration behaviorally, academically, and in terms of
financial obligations will be allowed to attend dances and social events.
7. Conduct unbecoming of an Attleboro High School student may result in the dismissal from the event.
DRESS CODE
The primary responsibility for a student’s attire resides with the student and families/caregivers. The school district and
individual schools are responsible for seeing that student attire does not cause disruption or disorder within the school,
interfere with the health or safety of any student, or contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.
Students must wear clothing including both a shirt with pants or skirt, or the equivalent (for example dresses, leggings,
or shorts) and shoes. Shirts and dresses must have fabric in the front, back, and on the sides (under the arms). Clothing
must cover undergarments (waistbands and straps excluded). Clothing fabric must be opaque. Clothing must be suitable
for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science labs, and other classroom or activities where
unique hazards exist. Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.
Students may not wear:
• Clothing that contains violent language or images
• Clothing that contains images or language depicting drugs or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity) or the use
of same
• Clothing that contains hate speech, profanity, pornography, or gang affiliation
• Clothing that contains images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any
protected class.
• Hats, hoods, helmets or anything else that obscures the face or prevents identification of students in person or
on security cameras (except as a religious observance)
• Bathing suits
• Shoes with wheels in the heel.
• Flip flops, slides, and open toed, backless sandals are all unsafe footwear at our elementary schools
Students who fail to meet these standards will be required to make appropriate changes. This list is not meant to be all-
inclusive. Fads and styles change quickly and require the judgment of the school administration and staff in the areas of
health, safety, and disruptions to the educational process.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
In accordance with federal and state regulations, Attleboro Public Schools shall identify students whose primary
language is not English through a Home Language Survey. Students will be assessed to determine English proficiency.
If identified as an English Language Learner (ELL), the student will be evaluated annually to determine proficiency in
the English language.
Attleboro Public Schools ensures that all students who are identified as English Language Learners (ELL)s will be
taught to the same academic standards and curriculum as all students; and will be provided with the same
opportunities to master such standards.
HOMELESS STUDENTS
To the extent practical and as required by law, the District will work with homeless students and their families to provide
stability in school attendance and other services. Special attention will be given to ensuring the enrollment and
attendance of homeless students not currently attending school. Homeless students will be provided District services
for which they are eligible, including pre-school programs, Title I, similar state programs, special education, ELL
programs, vocational and technical education programs, RTI programs and school nutrition programs.
McKinney-Vento Act defines “homeless children and youths” as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate
nighttime residence. The term includes:
Children and youths who are:
1. Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason
(sometimes referred to as “doubled-up”).
2. Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate
accommodations.
3. Living in emergency or transitional shelters; or
4. Abandoned in hospitals.
5. Children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed
for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;
6. Children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing,
bus or train stations, or similar settings; and
7. Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act requires that schools immediately enroll homeless students in
school, even if they do not have the documents usually required for enrollment, such as school records, medical records
or proof of residency, as long as the student has been properly immunized. Information on lead screenings as well as
immunization records may be transferred over the phone. Parents or Guardians intending to register students who are
homeless should be aware of the following guidelines:
1. Homeless students have a right to either remain in their school of origin or to attend school where they are
temporarily residing;
2. Children who move from a homeless situation into a permanent residence during the course of a school year
have the right to stay in the school they were attending while they were temporarily homeless. If the child or
youth continues his or her education in the school of origin but begins living in an area served by another school
district, the school district of origin and the school district in which the homeless child or youth is living must
agree upon a method to apportion the responsibility and costs for providing the child or youth with transportation
to and from the school of origin. If the school districts cannot agree upon a method, the responsibility and costs
for transportation are to be shared equally.
3. Students who choose to enroll in school where they are temporarily residing must be enrolled immediately, even
if they do not bring the records usually required for enrollment with them;
4. If a homeless student arrives without records, the school district's designated Homeless Education Liaison will
assist the family and contact the previously attended school system to obtain the required records;
5. A child who is homeless and attending any school served by the local educational agency is eligible for Title I
services; and
6. A child who is homeless and attending any school served by the local educational agency is eligible for the Free
and Reduced Lunch Program.
The Superintendent shall designate at least one staff member in the district to serve as the Children and Youth in
Transition Liaison, whose role will be to fulfill the duties set forth in state and federal law. The Assistant Superintendent
will act as the Liaison for the Attleboro Public Schools.
The Attleboro Public Schools will utilize the procedures for Dispute Resolution as defined in the McKinney-Vento
Homeless Education Act Section 722(g): 42 U.S.C. 11432(g). If there is an enrollment dispute, the student shall
immediately enroll in the school in which enrollment is sought, pending resolution of the dispute. The parent or guardian
shall be informed of the district's decision and their appeal rights in writing, and the district's liaison will carry out dispute
resolution as provided by state rule.
IDLING OF MOTOR VEHICLES
For the safety of staff and students said policies shall further restrict operators of school buses and personal motor
vehicles, including students, faculty, staff and visitors, from prolonged idling of such vehicles on school grounds and
violators may be subject to a fine.
INSURANCE
All children in Massachusetts are eligible for some type of health coverage. For more information contact the Health
Care for All helpline at 1-800-272-4232 or online at www.hcfama.org. Each year parents may purchase an insurance
policy for their child which covers accidental injury. The cost is reasonable, and it is recommended that parents review
the policy upon its offering.
GENDER IDENTITY
Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students
An Act Relative to Gender Identity (Chapter 199 of the Acts of 2011), which became effective on July 1, 2012, defines
“gender identity” to mean “a person's gender-related identity, appearance or behavior, whether or not that gender-related
identity, appearance or behavior is different from that traditionally associated with the person's physiology or assigned
sex at birth. Gender-related identity may be shown by providing evidence including, but not limited to, medical history,
care or treatment of the gender- related identity, consistent and uniform assertion of the gender-related identity or any
other evidence that the gender-related identity is sincerely held as part of a person's core identity; provided, however,
that gender-related identity shall not be asserted for any improper purpose.”
Every student has the right to be addressed by a name and pronoun that corresponds to their gender identity. Attleboro
Public Schools will respect student wishes to be referred by a name and pronoun based on an affirmed change in
gender identity, regardless of the student’s assigned sex at birth. A court-ordered name or gender change is not
required, and the student need not change their official records. The responsibility for determining a student’s gender
identity rests with the student or, in the case of young students not yet able to advocate for themselves, with the
parent/guardian. As such, any student or parent/guardian, as appropriate, may inform a school staff member of their
desire to be consistently recognized at school using their stated gender identity.
GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
The Guidance Department provides AHS students with the skills necessary to choose and achieve their post-
high school goals. Guidance Counselors regularly monitor student progress, and help students explore future
options including college, career training, military enlistment, and employment. The department works to
address the academic, social, emotional, and physical needs of students by helping to establish good
communication between teachers, students, and parents.
The Guidance Department offers the following services:
1. School and career planning with students and parents
2. Post-high school educational planning
3. Scholarship and financial aid information
4. Individual and/or group counseling to students on personal or interpersonal issues.
5. Services for English Language Learners, including language-sensitive, non-biased assessment materials.
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 Sails network connects Attleboro High School with public and school
libraries in Southeastern Massachusetts, allowing students to access thousands of books electronically. When school is
in session, the Library Media Center is open to students and faculty from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Teachers may choose
to escort classes to the LMC for research assignments. Students may also use the library during SSR (Sustained
Silent Reading) by obtaining a pass from the classroom teacher. 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.
LIBRARY ACCESS
Parents/Guardians who wish to restrict the access of their student to specific titles through the school library should
contact the School Librarian. A full listing of each school’s collection is available for review on our school websites.
MEDIATION
Students are encouraged to utilize mediation. All students are welcome to participate and encouraged to do so to
resolve conflicts before they escalate to a possible disciplinary action. Mediation is not a form of discipline although it
may be mandated for some students upon return from suspension for fighting. This is a confidential intervention in
which facilitators control the outcome and are able to resolve conflicts peacefully. Students should seek out the school
Adjustment Counselors, their Assistant Principal, or a facilitator to schedule mediation.
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 directions and actions, they still need interested, concerned parents. AHS
holds parents’ nights in both the fall and spring. These meetings are a vital link in good communication between home
and school and provide a means for parents to better understand their children in the school environment. Parents who
wish to volunteer need to fill out a CORI form which is available in the Principal’s Office.
1. The school involves parents in a number of ways as volunteers for specific projects. Some of these are:
2. 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 School Council meets
regularly throughout the year to complete a School Improvement Plan which will address budget, curriculum,
assessment, and student life.
3. Field trips and orientation programs.
4. The Blue Pride Ambassadors Club (BPAC) is in place to enhance the educational experience for students and
staff of Attleboro High School by providing supports, coordinating volunteerism, informing families and the
community about AHS, initiating fundraising efforts, as well as encouraging involvement through BPAC-
sponsored activities.
5. Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program Advisory Committee members serve as advisors in planning
specific projects.
6. Participation in Parent Discussion Groups.
PARKING
All students parking on school grounds will need a “student parking decal.” In order to receive a “student parking
decal,” students must fill out the student parking registration form that will be available (from the House Office)
during the first week of school. Students must be in possession of a valid Massachusetts driver’s license. After
completion of the form, including signatures of the student and parent/guardian, the form must be returned to the
Main (House) Office. The student will then receive their “student parking decal.”
• The “student parking decal” must be clearly displayed as directed and must be visible at all times.
• Any student who fails to register and/or display their “student parking decal” will be subject to the
consequences detailed in the Student Handbook including the revocation of parking privileges and the
risk of having the vehicle towed from school grounds.
Students who register and receive a “student parking decal” agree to the following:
• To observe all local traffic regulations while on school grounds.
• To arrive to school on time. Chronic tardiness, poor academic performance, or repeated conduct
referrals may result in the loss of parking privileges.
• To not block any school driveways.
• To not drive recklessly by speeding, revving engines, squealing brakes, and the like.
• To lock the car at all times, as the high school assumes no responsibility for the vehicle or its contents.
• To not loiter around the cars before or after school.
• To park only in the designated area assigned on the parking decal.
• To allow ample time for walking from the lot to their first period class.
Students and parents agree that their cars while on school grounds or at school sponsored events (even if off-
campus) are subject to searches with reasonable suspicion that the search will provide evidence of a violation of
the law or school rule. The exterior of students’ vehicles may also be subject to canine searches at any time and
for any reason.
SCHOOL-TO-CAREER SERVICES
Through the Attleboro Area Local School to Career (STC) Partnership, Attleboro High School is a partner with Norton
and Foxboro High Schools in a program that connects school-based learning to the workplace. The purpose of STC is
to transition students to meaningful career pathways based on their skills and interests. The program offers job
shadows, career fairs, paid and unpaid internships, part-time employment, and summer job placement to students.
These services are delivered and facilitated by a Business/Industry liaison and a Career Specialist who serve the three
schools.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY
The Attleboro School Committee recognizes that School Administrators are under an obligation to ensure that
reasonable safety, discipline and good order be maintained by and for all students at all times. It also recognizes,
however, that students have certain constitutional rights. It is to balance the sometimes-conflicting need of school
officials to ensure order and safety on the one hand, and the need to insure applicable constitutional rights of students
on the other hand that this policy is written.
Search of Student Lockers and Desks
1. Lockers and desks are the property of the Attleboro Public Schools. The Attleboro Public Schools maintain
control of all locks affixed to lockers. No other locks are permitted; and such locks will be removed by the
school administration.
2. Students shall not have any expectation of privacy in school lockers and desks and should be aware that
school lockers and desks may be searched at any time by school officials.
3. It is prohibited to store any illegal items/substances or items/substances in violation of any school rule or
Federal, State or Local law in a locker or desk.
4. Items/substances prohibited from being in lockers include but are not limited to guns/knives/weapons {real or
fake), drugs or alcohol, fireworks/explosives, fire/smoke/odor producing products, and any other evidence of a
school rule or legal violation.
5. Students should be aware that, at the discretion of a school administrator, a student's locker or desk may be
searched at any time and prohibited items/substances will be seized.
Search of Students and Their Belongings
1. Search of a student will only be performed, and seizure of a student's belongings will only take place, if there
exists reasonable suspicion that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the
school. The search will be conducted in a manner reasonably related to its objectives and will not be
excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction. Whenever a
personal search is deemed necessary, the student shall be advised of the reason for the impending search
prior to its implementation. Search of a student may extend to articles of clothing such as pockets; and to the
removal and search of outer garments such as hats/caps/headgear, jackets, coats, sweaters, sweatshirts, or
shoes; and to items such as pocketbooks, lunch bags, book bags, athletic bags, or backpacks.
2. Search of a student's belongings or of a student's automobile parked on school property will only be
performed, and seizure of a student's belongings will only take place, if there exists reasonable suspicion that
the student has violated or is violating either the law or the rules of the school. The search will be conducted in
a manner reasonably related to its objectives and will not be excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of
the student and the nature of the infraction. When reasonably possible, search of a student's belongings not
in the immediate possession of the student or of a student's automobile parked on school property will be in
the presence of the student{s) whose conduct is under scrutiny and in the presence of a second school
official. Use of canines on the exterior of vehicles or other items to detect odors do not constitute a search.
3. Should a student refuse to voluntarily comply with a request for a search, the student must be detained until
parents, and, if necessary, police, can arrive at school to assist, as appropriate, in the investigation.
4. Search of a student or his/her belongings in accordance with the above policy may take place at school or at
any school sponsored event on or off school property or during the transportation to such event.
SENIOR DUES
Senior Dues are set annually by the class advisors and the Administration. Dues pay for end-of-year expenses such as
graduation and the yearbook. Senior Dues are mandatory, and all students are responsible for payment. A variety of
plans are available for students to make payments. Assistance is available for students with financial difficulties. Only
the Assistant Principal may exempt a student from payment of Senior Dues.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Student activities are an integral part of high school life and our students’ complete education. Parents should encourage
their children to take active roles in a variety of clubs and activities. Participation in extracurricular activities helps young
people develop friendships and realize a greater sense of intellectual and social development. Parents can support their
children and these activities by attending school-sponsored events and volunteering when needed. In order to be eligible
to participate in any extracurricular activity, including student government, a student must be passing 10 credits on his or
her most recent report card.
Student Clubs and Activities are initiated by students and facilitated by AHS staff and are based on student interest. A
full listing of the Clubs/Activities can be found with the events coordinator at the start of the school year.
STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
The Student Advisory Council (SAC) 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 a 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:
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. Student Council sponsors many
functions and services as well as participating in local and regional activities including:
• 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.
• Various forms of community service.
Membership Requirements: The responsibilities of being an Officer or Representative to Student Council include the
following:
• Academically passing 7.5 credits each Trimester.
• Attendance at class meetings.
• Attendance at weekly Student Council Meetings.
• 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 of 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:
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 various communities
throughout the state. Schools may have one delegate and two alternates.
Membership requirements: Juniors or seniors may submit their names 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.
STUDENT IDENTIFICATION (ID) CARDS
Students must always have school issued ID cards with them. Attendance, lunch, access to authorized learning
locations, buses will require student ID cards. Misuse of ID cards will result in disciplinary action.
STUDENT PRIVILEGES
Student extra-curricular activities, including dances and proms are a privilege for students at Attleboro High
School. Parking on school grounds is also a privilege. Failure to meet the Attleboro High School social and civic
expectations, both while in school and when representing the school in the community, may result in revocation of such
privileges. All school rules and regulations apply to school-sponsored activities.
STUDENT RECORDS
The Attleboro Public Schools complies with applicable federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to Student
Records. Those laws and regulations are designed to ensure a parent’s and eligible student’s rights to access, inspect,
and to request amendment of the child’s student record.
The Massachusetts Student Record regulations and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) apply to
educational records maintained by a school on a student in a manner such that he or she may be individually identified.
The regulations divide the record into the transcript and the temporary record. The transcript includes only the minimum
information necessary to reflect the student's educational progress. This information includes name, address, course
titles, grades, credits, and grade level completed. The transcript is kept by the school system for at least sixty (60)
years after the student leaves the system.
The temporary record contains the majority of the information maintained by the school system about the student. This
may include such things as standardized test results, class rank, school sponsored extracurricular activities, and
evaluations and comments by teachers, counselors, and other persons. The temporary record is destroyed no later
than seven (7) years after the student leaves the school system.
The following is a summary of major parent and student rights regarding their student records:
Inspection of Record - A parent, or a student who has entered the ninth grade or is at least fourteen (14) years old,
has the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon request. The record must be made available to the
parent or student within ten (10) days of the request, unless the parent or student consents to a delay. In the event the
parent/student requests copies of a student record, the District may charge the parents/student for said copies at the
District rate.
Confidentiality of Record - With a few exceptions, no individuals or organizations but the parent, student, and
authorized school personnel are allowed to have access to information in the student record without specific, informed,
written consent of the parent or the student.
Amendment of Record - The parent and student have the right to add relevant comments, information, or other written
materials to the student record. In addition, with limited exception under state and federal law, the parent and student
have the right to request that information of the record be amended or deleted. The parent and student have a right to a
conference with the school principal to make their objections known. Within a week after the conference, the principal
must render a decision in writing. If the parent and student are not satisfied with the decision, the regulations contain
provisions through which the decision may be appealed to higher authorities in the school system.
Directory Information - Federal law requires that the District release the names, addresses and telephone listings of
students to military recruiters and institutions of higher education upon request for recruitment and scholarship
purposes without prior consent. In addition, the District may release the following directory information about a student
without prior consent: a student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major fields of study, dates
of attendance, weight and height of members of athletic teams, class participation in officially recognized activities and
sports, degrees, honors and awards, post-high school plans and directory information such as homeroom assignments.
However, in all instances, parents may request that such directory information not be released without prior consent by
notifying their school building office in writing by the end of September of each school year.
Destruction of Records - The regulations require that certain parts of the student record, such as the temporary
record, be destroyed a certain period of time after the student leaves the school system. School authorities are also
allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant information in the record from time to time while the student is
enrolled in the school system. Before any such information may be destroyed, the parent and student must be notified,
and have an opportunity to receive a copy of any of the information before its destruction.
Transfer of Records – In accordance with 603 CMR 23.07(4)(g), it is the practice of the Attleboro Public Schools to
forward the student record of any student who seeks or intends to enroll, or already has enrolled in another public-
school district, if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. The parent or eligible student has
the right to receive a copy of the school record that is forwarded to the new school.
Non-Custodial Parents - Unless there is a court order to the contrary, a non-custodial parent (parent without physical
custody of the student) of any public-school student has the right, subject to certain procedures, to receive information
regarding the student’s achievements, involvement, behavior, etc. A non-custodial parent who wishes to have this
information shall submit a written request annually to the child’s school principal. Upon receipt of such a request, the
principal shall send written notification to the custodial parent by certified and first-class mail that the records and
information will be provided to the non-custodial parent in twenty-one (21) calendar days unless the custodial parent
provides documentation of the non-custodial parent’s ineligibility to access such information. In all cases where school
records are provided to a non-custodial parent, the electronic and postal address and other contact information for the
custodial parent shall be removed from the records provided. Any such records provided to the non-custodial parent
shall be marked to indicate that they may not be used to enroll the student in another school. Upon receipt of a court
order that prohibits the distribution of information pursuant to M.G.L. c. 71, §34H, the school will notify the non-custodial
parent that it shall cease to provide access to the student record to the non-custodial parent. M.G.L. c.71, §34H, 603
CMR 23.07.
Third Party Access - Authorized school personnel, to include: (a) school administrators, teachers, counselors and
other professionals who are employed by the school committee or who are providing services to the student under an
agreement between the school committee and a service provider, and who are working directly with the student in an
administrative, teaching, counseling, and/or diagnostic capacity; (b) administrative office staff and clerical personnel,
employed by the school committee or under a school committee service contract, and whose duties require them to
have access to student records for purposes of processing information for the student record; and (c) the Evaluation
Team which evaluates a student, shall have access to the student record of students to whom they are providing
services, when such access is required in the performance of their official duties. The consent of the parent or eligible
student shall not be necessary.
Complaints - A parent or eligible student has a right to file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S.
Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-5901, (202) 260-3887 or with the
Massachusetts Department of Education, 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148, (781) 338-3300. If you have any
questions regarding this notice or would like more information and/or a copy of the Massachusetts Department of
Education Student Record Regulations, please contact the building principal.
Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing
purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:
1. Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following
protected areas ("protected information survey") if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the
U.S. Department of Education (DOE): political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student's parent; mental
or psychological problems of the student or student's family; sex behavior or attitudes; illegal, anti-social, self-
incriminating, or demeaning behavior; critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family
relationships; legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; religious
practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or income, other than as required by law to
determine program eligibility.
2. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of the following: any other protected information survey,
regardless of funding; any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of
attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and
safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening
permitted or required under state law; and activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal
information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.
3. Inspect, upon request and before administration or use: protected information surveys of students; instruments
used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution
purposes; and instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum. These rights transfer from the
parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under state law.
The Attleboro Public Schools will/has develop(ed) and adopt(ed) policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these
rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the
collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The District will
directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes.
The District will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to
participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her
child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. The District will make this notification to parents at the beginning
of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time.
For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the
planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and
surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys.
Specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement include: the collection, disclosure, or use of personal
information for marketing, sales or other distribution; the administration of any protected information survey not funded in
whole or in part by DOE; and any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: SPECIAL EDUCATION AND SECTION 504
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) and M.G.L. c. 71B, some students with disabilities may be
eligible for services if they require specialized instruction and/or supportive services to help them make effective
progress in school. These services can include, but are not limited to, speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational
therapy, specialized instruction, or placement in a special classroom. Students may be referred to the Department of
Student Services for an evaluation of eligibility for special education services. Within five (5) school days of such a
referral, a consent form authorizing an evaluation of the student will be forwarded to the parent(s). Within forty-five (45)
school days of receipt of the parent(s)’ consent, an evaluation will be conducted, and a Team meeting will be held to
determine if the student is eligible for special education services. If the student is found eligible for special education
services, the Team will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) identifying the necessary services.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) is a federal law designed to protect the rights of individuals
with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education.
Section 504 provides: “No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States . . . shall, solely by reason
of her or his disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination
under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance . . . ” Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of
1990 (Title II) is a federal law that applies to public entities, including the conforming amendment to Section 504 that
affects the meaning of a disability under Section 504.
The Section 504 regulations require a school district to provide a “free appropriate public education” (FAPE) to each
qualified student with a disability who is in the school district’s jurisdiction, regardless of the nature or severity of the
disability. Under Section 504, a FAPE consists of the provision of regular or special education and related aids and
services designed to meet the student’s individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of nondisabled
students are met. Compliance with the IDEA is one means of complying with Section 504.
Additionally, the Attleboro Public Schools provides nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities in such a
manner as is necessary to afford students with disabilities an equal opportunity for participation. The Attleboro Public
Schools is, however, generally permitted to establish and utilize skill-based eligibility criteria for participation in
extracurricular programs and activities (e.g., school-sponsored athletics) so long as the criteria are rationally related to
the purposes and goals of the specific program or activity.
USE OF SCHOOL COMPUTERS
MASSACHUSETTS COMPUTER CRIME BILL
“Under the provisions of the Massachusetts Computer Crime Bill, it is illegal to access any computer system or part of
a computer system that you do not have permission to use. This is known as electronic trespass. It is also illegal to
alter or destroy electronic data such as files and passwords. This applies to any computer whether it is connected to a
network or is not.”
Students who destroy equipment or software or make unauthorized entry into other accounts or files or are found
working on programs that affect other accounts without permission may be subject to the following consequences:
1. If enrolled in a course, they may:
a. be dropped immediately from course with no credit;
b. lose the privilege of taking a computer course during the next academic year; and
c. assume financial responsibility for restoring deleted computer programs if applicable.
2. If not enrolled in a course, they may:
a. lose the privilege of taking a computer course during the next academic year;
b. lose the privilege of using Attleboro High School's computer facility; and
c. assume financial responsibility for restoring deleted computer programs if applicable.
COMPUTER LAB RULES
1. Students will place book bags in the designated area away from the computer.
2. Students will not consume food, drink or chew gum in the lab.
3. Students will not play games, listen to music or run programs on the computer except as directed by the
teacher.
4. Students will not modify the desktop or any of the programs on the computer.
5. Students will not access or modify another student’s files without the teacher’s permission.
6. At the end of a work session, students should close all programs and files and leave the computer set to the
desktop. THEY MUST NOT TURN OFF THE MACHINES.
7. Students will be responsible for damages as a result of negligence or intentional misuse of the computers or
network.
8. Students will comply with the school District’s Acceptable Use Policy and regulations for use of the Internet
and computers.
9. Students will not download any programs without specific direction from the teacher.
10. Students will only use their school picture for their school email account.
USE OF SCHOOL TELEPHONES
Parents are asked not to contact their students via cell phone during the school day, but rather to call the appropriate
House Office. A message can be forwarded to any student via the House Office during school hours. Students needing
to use a telephone to contact home during the school day may report to the nearest House Office with a pass from a
classroom teacher. Students who violate phone policies will incur the appropriate penalty.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
Attleboro High School has surveillance cameras located inside and outside the building to support our efforts to
maintain a safe and secure school environment while protecting individuals and their property from harm. Video
surveillance may be used in proceedings related to law enforcement for purposes authorized by District policy, this
Student Handbook, and related laws. Students observed by video surveillance in acts which break school District
policy, procedures, or disciplinary guidelines will be subject to the consequences or sanctions imposed for violating
those policies, procedures or disciplinary guidelines. Surveillance footage is for Administrative use only and are
generally not maintained as part of the student record.
VOTER REGISTRATION
Throughout the year, students reaching their eighteenth (18th) birthday are encouraged to register to vote.
Appendix A
The following Attleboro School Committee district policies were used as guidelines in the development of this Handbook. A
copy of the School Committee Policy Binder is available for review on the District website located at
http://www.attleboroschools.com/school_committee/attleboro_public_schools_policies/a_p_s_policies
AC
Nondiscrimination and Harassment
08/22/22
ACE
Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability
10/04/21
AD
School District Mission, Vision, and Beliefs
03/08/21
ADA
APS Strategic Plan and District Goals
03/08/21
ADC
Tobacco Products on School Premises Prohibited
05/09/22
EEA
School Committee Transportation Policy
03/13/23
EEAEC
Student Conduct on School Buses
03/13/23
IHAMA
Parent Notification Relative to Sex Education
05/09/22
IJND
Access to Digital Resources
05/09/22
IJNDB
Empowered Digital Use Policy
05/09/22
IJNDC
Internet Publications
05/09/22
IJNDD
Policy on Social Media
05/09/22
IKB
Homework Policy
03/08/21
JEB
Elementary Entrance Age
05/09/22
JF
Residency Policy
05/09/22
JH
Attendance Policy Attleboro
05/08/23
JICFA
Prohibition of Hazing
05/09/22
JICFB
Bullying Prevention
05/09/22
JICH
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug Use by Students
06/08/20
JKAA
Physical Restraint Policy and Procedures
01/11/21
JRA
Student Records
03/23/20
KBBA
Non-Custodial Parents’ Rights
03/08/21
KE
Public Complaints
03/08/21
KI
Visitors to the Schools
03/08/21
File: AC: Non-Discrimination and Harassment
The Attleboro Public Schools does not tolerate discrimination, including harassment or retaliation, against students, parents,
employees or the general public, nor exclude from participation, deny the benefits of APS from or otherwise discriminate against,
individuals on the basis of race (including traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture, hair type,
hair length, and protective hairstyles ), color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information,
active military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, or pregnancy-related condition, homelessness (consistent
with the requirements of the McKinney-Vento Act), ancestry, ethnic background, national origin, or any other category protected by
state or federal law.
The Attleboro Public Schools requires all members of the school community to conduct themselves in accordance with this policy.
It shall be a violation of this policy for any member of the school community to engage in any form of discrimination, including
harassment and retaliation, or to violate any other civil right of any member of the school community. We recognize that
discrimination can take a range of forms and can be targeted or unintentional; however, discrimination in any form, including
harassment and retaliation, will not be tolerated.
It shall also be a violation of this policy for any school community member to subject any other member of the school community to
any form of retaliation, including, but not limited to, coercion, intimidation, interference, punishment, discrimination, or harassment,
for reporting or filing a complaint of discrimination, cooperating in an investigation, aiding or encouraging another member of the
school community to report such conduct or file a complaint, or opposing any act or practice reasonably believed to be prohibited
by this policy.
The Superintendent shall designate at least one administrator to serve as the compliance officer for the District’s non-discrimination
policies in education-related activities, including but not limited to responding to inquiries related to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of
1964; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
of 1973; Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act; the Age Act; M.G.L c. 76, § 5; M.G.L. c. 151B and 151C; and 603 C.M.R. §
26.00. Inquiries about the application of Title IX to the District may be referred to the District’s Title IX Coordinator, to the Assistant
Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, or both.
The Attleboro Public Schools’ policy of nondiscrimination will extend to students, staff, the general public, and individuals with
whom it does business; no person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in employment, admission to a public school of
Attleboro or in obtaining the advantages, privileges, and courses of study of such public school on account of race, color, religion,
national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or pregnancy status, age, genetic information, ethnic
background, ancestry, disability, or any category protected by state or federal law.
In addition to designating at least one administrator to handle inquiries regarding the District’s non-discrimination policies, the
Superintendent shall adopt and publish one or more grievance procedures for addressing reports of discrimination, harassment and
retaliation under the protected classes identified in this policy. If an individual is interested in filing a complaint that they have been
discriminated against because of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or pregnancy
status, disability, homelessness, religion, age or immigration status, their complaint should be filed in accordance with the District’s
grievance procedures for discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
The student handbooks and grievance procedures shall identify the name, office address and telephone number for the compliance
officer(s) for the above-referenced statutes and this policy and be posted on the District’s website.
Discrimination
For the purposes of this policy, “discrimination” means discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, including, but not limited
to, hair texture, hair type, hair length, and protective hairstyles ), color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability,
age, genetic information, active military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, or pregnancy-related condition,
homelessness (consistent with the requirements of the McKinney-Vento Act), ancestry, ethnic background, national origin, or any
other category protected by state or federal law, by which an individual is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or
otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity of the school district.
Harassment
For the purpose of this policy, except as more specifically defined below, “harassment” means unwelcome conduct on the basis of
race, including, but not limited to, hair texture, hair type, hair length, and protective hairstyles), color, sex, sexual orientation, gender
identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, active military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, or
pregnancy-related condition, homelessness (consistent with the requirements of the McKinney-Vento Act), ancestry, ethnic
background, national origin, or any other category protected by state or federal law, that is sufficiently severe, persistent, or
pervasive to create or contribute to a hostile environment for the individual at school. Harassment may include insults, name-
calling, off color jokes, threats, comments, innuendoes, notes, display of pictures or symbols, gestures or other conduct which rises
to the level of a hostile environment. A hostile environment is one which unreasonably interfered with an individual’s participation in,
denied the individual the benefits of, or otherwise subjected the individual to discrimination under any program or activity of the
school district.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Title IX Sexual Harassment
Under Title IX, the term “sexual harassment” includes three (3) types of misconduct based on sex: (1) any instance of quid pro quo
harassment by a school employee; (2) unwelcome conduct on the basis of sex, including unwelcome conduct based on sex
stereotyping or on the basis of traditional notions of masculinity and femininity, that is sufficiently severe and pervasive and
objectively offensive conduct, effectively denying a person equal educational access; or (3) any instance of sexual assault, dating
violence, domestic violence, or stalking as defined below. Title IX defines sexual assault as an offense that meets the definition of
rape, fondling, incest, or statutory rape as used in the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting system. For the purposes of the definition of
sexual assault, the term “consent” shall be defined in a manner consistent with Massachusetts laws.
Non-Title IX Sexual Harassment
Under M.G.L. c. 151B, § 1, the term “sexual harassment” is defined as sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other
verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (a) submission to or rejection of such advances, requests or conduct is made
either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment or as a basis for employment decisions; (b) such advances, requests
or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance by creating an intimidating,
hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive work environment. Discrimination on the basis of sex shall include, but not be limited to,
sexual harassment.
Under M.G.L. c. 151C, § 1, the term “sexual harassment” is defined as sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other
verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (a) submission to or rejection of such advances, requests or conduct is made
either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of the provision of the benefits, privileges or placement services or as a basis for the
evaluation of academic achievement; or (b) such advances, requests or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably
interfering with an individual’s education by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive educational
environment.
Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: (1) submission to such conduct
is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment; (2) submission to or rejection of such
conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual; or (3) such conduct has the
purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive
working environment. A hostile environment on the basis of sex is created when the conduct is sufficiently severe or pervasive to
alter the conditions of employment.
Source: MASC August 2022
Legal References.:
• Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(a),(b); EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(f);
• Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681;
• 34 CFR 106.31, 106.34, 106.35;
• Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794;
• 34 CFR 104.4;
• Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28
• CFR 35.130;
• IDEA 2004: 20 U.S.C. 1400;
• 34 CFR 300.110;
• NCLB: Title III, Part A, Sec. 3121(c)(1)(C); Title X, Part C, Secs. 721, 722(g)(4);
• Mass. Const. amend. art. 114;
• M.G.L. c. 71A, s. 7; c. 76, s. 5;
• 603 CMR 26.03 as amended by Chapter 199 of the Acts of 2011;
• MGL. c. 71, s. 370;
• 42 USC s. 2000c et seq.;
• 42 USC s. 2000d et seq.;
• 20 USC s. 1701 et seq.;
• M.G.L c. 71, Sec. 84;
• MGL c. 151B; 151C.
• Acts of 2022, Chapter 117.
Cross References:
• ACE, Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability
• GBA, Equal Employment Opportunity
• IJ, Instructional Materials
• JB, Equal Educational Opportunities
File: ACE: NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY:
Title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1992 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibit discrimination on the basis of
a person’s disability. The Attleboro Public Schools is committed to maintaining an educational environment and workplace where
individuals are not discriminated against on the basis of their disability. The Attleboro Public Schools strives to create an environment
where all students and staff feel welcome. To meet this end, the Attleboro Public Schools will not tolerate the denial of access to
activities, programs, or services to individuals with disabilities (as defined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 29 U.S.C. §705(20)).
The Attleboro Public Schools does not discriminate against an individual with a disability with regards to job application procedures,
hiring, advancement, or discharge of employees, employee compensation, job training, or other conditions of employment.
The Attleboro Public Schools is committed to supporting students who qualify under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and to
ensuring that such students are not denied admission or access to the activities, programs and services offered by the Attleboro
Public Schools because of their disability.
As well, the Attleboro Public Schools is committed to ensuring that students with disabilities are not treated differently because of
their disability. The Superintendent of Schools for the Attleboro Public Schools shall take the necessary steps to inform
parents/guardians and students of their rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, including the right to receive reasonable
accommodations if the student is found to be qualified under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, the Superintendent
of Schools for the Attleboro Public Schools shall take the necessary steps to ensure parents/guardians and students are informed of
their procedural rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Reasonable Accommodations
The Attleboro Public School District shall make reasonable accommodations in policies, practices, or procedures when the
accommodations are necessary to avoid discrimination on the basis of disability, unless the District can demonstrate that making the
accommodations would fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program, or activity.
A request for an accommodation should be made in writing to the Assistant Superintendent. Alternative means of filing a request will
be made available if needed, such as large print or audiotape. Requests should include the name, address, and telephone number
of the individual request the accommodation, the location where the accommodation is required and why the accommodation is
needed. For public meetings and hearings, the Assistant Superintendent should be notified at least seventy-two (72) hours in
advance.
For students, the Assistant Superintendent will respond to such a request in accordance with the Attleboro Public Schools’ Section
504 Policies and Procedures or Special Education Policies and Procedures. For all other individuals, the Assistant Superintendent
will respond within two (2) school days of receipt of the request.
Communications
The Attleboro Public School District shall take the appropriate steps to ensure that communications with applicants, participants,
and members of the public with disabilities are as effective as communications with members of the public without disabilities. To
this end, the District shall furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services where necessary to afford an individual with a disability an
equal opportunity to participate in, and enjoy benefits of, a service, program, or activity conducted by the District. In determining
what type of auxiliary aide or service is necessary, the District shall give primary consideration to the requests of the individuals
with disabilities.
Auxiliary Aids and Services
"Auxiliary aids and services" includes:
1. Qualified interpreters, note takers, transcription services, written materials, assisted listening systems, and other effective
methods for making aurally delivered materials available to individuals with hearing impairments
2. Qualified readers, taped texts, audio recordings, Braille materials, large print materials, or other effective methods for
making visually delivered materials available to individuals with visual impairments
3. Acquisition or modification of equipment or devices
4. Other similar services and actions
Limits of Accommodations
The Attleboro Public School District is not required to take any action that it can demonstrate would result in a fundamental alteration
in the nature of a service, program, or activity or in undue financial and administrative burdens. A decision that a request would
fundamentally alter the service, program, or activity or unduly burden the District shall be made by the Superintendent after
considering all resources available for use in funding and operating the program, service, or activity. The decision shall be
accompanied by a written statement of the reasons for reaching that conclusion.
Notice
The Attleboro Public School District shall make available to applicants, participants, beneficiaries, and other interested persons
information regarding the provisions of Title II of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and its applicability to the services,
programs, or activities of the District. The information shall be made available in such a manner as the Attleboro School Committee
and Superintendent find necessary to apprise such persons of the protections against discrimination assured them by the ADA.
Website Accessibility
The Attleboro Public School District is committed to providing all users of their websites, including users with disabilities, with
meaningful accessibility in this online environment. The Attleboro Public Schools follow standards that are generally based on the
standards used by the federal government for technology accessibility for individuals with disabilities and web content accessibility
guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). The Attleboro Public Schools’ websites are regularly tested and
reviewed by users to verify that the websites are compliant with applicable standards.
If an individual needs assistance in accessing materials, such a request should be made to the Assistant Superintendent.
Compliance Coordinator
The Attleboro Public School District shall designate at least one employee to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its
responsibilities under Title II of ADA, including any investigation of any complaint communicated to it alleging its noncompliance or
alleging any actions that would be prohibited under ADA. The District shall make available to all interested individuals the name,
office address, and telephone number of the employee(s) so designated and shall adopt and publish procedures for the prompt and
equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action that would be prohibited under the ADA. The Attleboro Public School System
receives federal financial assistance and must comply with the above requirements. Additionally, the Attleboro School Committee is
of the general view that:
1. Discrimination against a qualified person with a disability solely on the basis of disability is unfair and unacceptable; and
2. To the extent possible, qualified individuals with a disability should be included within the school community. Accordingly,
employees of the Attleboro Public School System will comply with the above requirements of the law and policy statements
of this committee to ensure nondiscrimination on the basis of disability.
Source: MASC Revised: July 2016
Legal References:
• Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504
• Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975
• M.G.L. 71B:1 et seq. (Chapter 766 of the Acts of 1972)
• Title II, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1992
• Board of Education Chapter 766 Regulations, adopted 10/74, as amended through 3/28/78
File: AD: SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION, VISION, AND BELIEFS
OUR
MISSION
The mission of the Attleboro Public Schools is to develop and deliver relevant learning experiences that engage, challenge, and
inspire all students to maximize their unique potential and improve our world.
OUR
VISION
The vision of the Attleboro Public Schools is to be the center of a community united around education, where all stakeholders
value and participate in our collective success.
The mission and vision of the Attleboro Public Schools are based on the following Essential Beliefs:
CONDITIONS FOR LEARNING
Learning is a shared responsibility among students, schools, families, and the community.
A safe, respectful, and supportive environment is necessary for both teaching and learning.
QUALITY LEARNING EXPERIENCES
All students deserve challenging and engaging learning experiences that have real‐life value.
All learners need varied and personalized learning experiences that will provide opportunities to develop and apply
knowledge and skills.
SUCCESSFUL MINDSET
Success for all students requires stretching beyond perceived limits through effort and perseverance. Progress and success are
reliant upon continuous learning, reflection, and growth.
VALUE OF EDUCATION
Learning empowers all of us to discover, think critically, and pursue our aspirations. Education prepares students for their
responsible participation in a shared
File ADA: APS STRATEGIC PLAN AND DISTRICT GOALS
The Attleboro Public Schools will, at all times, maintain a district‐wide strategic plan articulating the district’s overarching goals
developed for the purpose of advancing the APS mission and realizing the APS vision. The strategic plan will be periodically
reviewed through a collaborative process incorporating the contributions of diverse stakeholders, including students, educators,
staff members,
administrators, parents, and community representatives. A proposed strategic plan will be presented to
the
School Committee for its consideration at least once every five academic years.
DISTRICT GOALS
• APS will place students at the center of all educational decisions through guided planning to achieve personalized
goals.
• APS will improve the quality of education for all students by providing learning experiences that are personalized,
challenging, and have lifelong value.
• APS will cultivate and extend community partnerships to improve outcomes for students through outreach,
collaboration, and reciprocal support.
On an annual basis, each school will work with its School Council to develop a School Improvement Plan reflective of and
consistent with the District Goals.
File ADC: TOBACCO PRODUCTS ON SCHOOL PREMISES IS PROHIBITED
Use of any tobacco products, including, but not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, little cigars, chewing tobacco, pipe tobacco and snuff
and electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic pipes or other similar products that rely on vaporization or aerosolization,
within the school buildings, school facilities, on school grounds or school buses, or at school sponsored events by any individual,
including school personnel and students, is prohibited at all times.
A staff member determined to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action.
A student determined to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to the student discipline code.
This policy shall be promulgated to all staff and students in appropriate handbook(s) and publications.
Signs shall be posted in all school buildings informing the general public of the District policy and requirements of state law.
Source: MASC July 2016
Legal Reference:
• M.G.L. 7:37H; 270:6
File EEA: SCHOOL COMMITTEE TRANSPORTATION POLICY
The safe and secure passage of students from home to school, and from school to home, is the School Committee’s chief priority
with regard to student transportation. In order to provide for such safety, and to ensure the efficient administration of the school
district’s transportation services, the school committee adopts Policy EEA.
The Superintendent or his/her designee, working with the bus contractor and other administrators as necessary, will be responsible
for establishing bus schedules, routes, stops, and all other matters related to the administration of transportation services.
All Kindergarten and First Grade Students will be eligible for district-funded transportation.
All other Elementary students living at least 2.0 miles from their assigned schools will be eligible for district-funded transportation.
Elementary students living between 0.5 and 2.0 miles from their assigned school will be eligible for transportation under a fee-for-
service condition and on a seat available basis.
Middle School students in Grades 5 & 6 living at least 2.0 miles from their assigned schools will be eligible for district-funded
transportation.
All other Middle School students living at least 1.0 miles from their assigned school will be eligible for transportation under a fee-
for-service condition and on a seat available basis.
High School students living at least 1.0 miles from their assigned school will be eligible for transportation under a fee-for-service
condition and on a seat available basis.
Calculation of Route
D
istances
The distances contemplated by Policy EEA are pedestrian distances from the home address to the school address. The district
will maintain a record of the distances for each address in their transportation routing system.
Length of
R
outes
All transportation routes to and from the Attleboro Public Schools will be scheduled for 45 minutes or less. The 45-minute
window will run from the initial bus stop pick up to the arrival at the school, and from the departure from the school to the final
bus stop drop-off, excluding unforeseen or extraordinary circumstances.
Waivers and
E
xemptions
Students eligible for free and reduced lunch shall be exempt from the fees imposed by Policy EEA. The Superintendent may
grant other such waivers as required by the educational needs of individual students, and other applicable school committee
policies.
Exceptions for safety purposes to walker designations (Grades 2-6) and transportation eligibility (Grades 7-12) may be made in
consultation with the Transportation Office and the Attleboro Police Department. Changes to the list of addresses on the “Safety
Exemption” list kept by the Transportation Office must be approved by the School Committee. Walker Exceptions are entitled to
Free transportation and Eligibility Exceptions are entitled to Fee-For-Service transportation.
Kindergarten Transportation
It is the policy of the Attleboro School Committee to provide district-funded transportation to all Kindergarten students attending
the Attleboro Public Schools. It is the parent and/or guardian’s responsibility to ensure their child is safe to and from the bus stop
and while waiting for the bus. In the event a parent and/or guardian is not at the bus stop to receive their child at the designated
times, the procedure to be followed is:
1. The parent and/or guardian must have an individual they deem responsible to accept the Kindergarten student at
the designated bus stop.
2. If a parent, guardian, or responsible individual is not at the bus stop when the bus arrives in the afternoon, the
Kindergarten student will be returned to their school and placed in the ABACUS program at the school, if the program
is available. The parent and/or guardian will be billed for the time their child is being supervised by ABACUS or the
Administration/ designated staff member at the ABACUS daily rate.
3. If there is no one at the school to receive the student, the Kindergarten student will then be taken to the
Superintendent’s Office.
4. If there is no one at the Superintendent’s Office to receive the student, the Kindergarten student will then be taken
to the Police Department.
Special Education Transportation
It is the policy of the Attleboro School Committee to provide district-funded transportation to special education students
attending the Attleboro Public Schools who are authorized to ride special needs buses because of their Individualized Education
Program (IEP).
The standard level of service for children who ride special needs buses is curb-to-curb service. This includes delivery to and from
the home or caregiver side curb to the school loading zone. In cases where appropriate, it is the responsibility of the parent and/or
guardian to ensure that the student is securely buckled in the seat/car seat prior to the vehicle door being shut.
If there is no one at the school to receive the student, the special education student will then be taken to the Superintendent’s
Office.
If there is no one at the Superintendent’s Office to receive the student, the special education student will then be taken to the Police
Department.
This Policy will be reviewed each April and amended if deemed necessary. This process will conform to the guidelines of Policy
DBC-E: Budget Timeline to allow for accurate budget preparation.
Legal References:
• M.G.L. 40:5; 71:7A, B and C; 71:37D; 71:48A; 71:68; 71:71A; 71B:4; 71B:5; 71B:8; 74:8A; 76:1; 76:12Bi; 76:14
Cross Reference:
• EEA-E1: Annual Rates – Fee-for-Service Transportation
• JQ-E1: User Fee Schedule
EEAEC; Student Conduct on School Buses:
The Attleboro School Committee and its staff share with students and parents the responsibility for student safety during
transportation to and from school. The authority for enforcing School Committee requirements of student conduct on buses will rest
with the Principal.
To ensure the safety of all students who ride in buses, it may occasionally be necessary to revoke the privilege of transportation from
a student who abuses this privilege. Parents of children whose behavior and misconduct on school buses endangers the health,
safety, and welfare of other riders will be notified that their children face the loss of transportation privileges in accordance with
regulations approved by the School Committee.
Cross References:
• EEAEC-R1: Rules for Students Riding School Buses
• JICC: Student Conduct on School Buses
EFD: Meal Charge Policy
The School Committee is committed to providing students with healthy, nutritious meals each day, so they can focus on
schoolwork, while also maintaining the financial integrity of meal programs and minimizing any impact on students with meal
charges. However, unpaid meal charges place a large financial burden on the school district, as food services is a self-supporting
entity within the district. The purpose of this Policy is to ensure compliance with federal reporting requirements of the USDA Child
Nutrition Program, as well as provide oversight and accountability for the collection of outstanding student meal balances.
The provisions of this Policy pertain to regular priced school meals only. The School Committee will provide a regular meal to
students who forget or lose their lunch money.
Meal Charges and Balances
Students will pay for meals at the regular rate approved by the School Committee and for their meal status (regular, reduced-price,
or free) each day. Payment options will be delineated in student handbooks and provided to parents of incoming students. After the
balance reaches zero and enters the negative, students will not be allowed to purchase a la carte items including but not limited to
a second entrée, snack, ice cream, or an additional beverage. The student will still be allowed to take a meal, and that meal will
continue to be charged to the account at the standard lunch rate based on their meal status. The parent/guardian is responsible for
any meal charges incurred. If there is a financial hardship, a parent/guardian should contact food services directly to discuss
payment options such as an individualized repayment plan.
Payments
Parents/Guardians are responsible for all meal payments to the food service program. Notices of low or deficit balances will be sent
directly to parent/guardians via email or regular postal mail at regular intervals during the school year. At no time shall any staff
member give payment notices to students unless that student is known to be an emancipated minor who is fully responsible for
themselves or over the age of 18. If parents/guardians have issues with student purchases, they should contact food services for
assistance.
Parents/Guardians may pay for meals in advance. Further details are available on the school district webpage and in student
handbooks. Funds should be maintained in accounts to minimize the possibility that a child may be without meal money on any
given day. Any remaining funds for a particular student, whether positive or negative, will be carried over to the next school year.
All school cafeterias possess computerized point of sale/cash register systems that maintain records of all monies deposited and
spent for each student and those records are available to parents by setting up an online account (see student handbooks for more
details) or by speaking with the school’s food service manager. The point-of-sale system is designed to prevent direct identification
of a student’s meal status. Parents will receive automated low-balance emails or mailed notices weekly, if applicable. If notices do
not result in payment, parents will receive a phone call from food services. If the phone call does not result in payment the food
service manager shall turn the account over to the business office.
Refunds
Refunds for withdrawn and/or graduating students require a written request (email, postal, or in person) for a refund of any money
remaining in their account to be submitted. Graduating students also have the option to transfer funds to a sibling’s account or to
donate to a student in need with a written request.
Delinquent Accounts/Collections
Failure to maintain up to date accounts may result in a delay of a student’s extracurricular school services, especially those that are
fee based. Graduating seniors may lose the ability to participate in certain graduation related activities.
The Superintendent and/or his/her Designee shall ensure that there are appropriate and effective collection procedures and internal
controls within the school district’s business office that meet the requirements of law.
If a student is without meal money on a consistent basis, the administration may investigate the situation more closely and take
further action as needed. If financial hardship exists, parents and families are encouraged to apply for free or reduced-price lunches
for their child. Each school handbook shall contain detailed instructions for parental assistance.
Policy Communications
This Policy shall be communicated to all staff and families at the beginning of each school year and to families transferring to the
district during the year.
Source: MASC: July 2018
Legal References:
• M.G.L. 71:72
• USDA School Meal Program Guidelines May 2017
Cross Reference:
• JQ: Student Fees, Fines & Charges
File IHAMA: PARENT NOTIFICATION RELATIVE TO SEX EDUCATION
In accordance with law, the Attleboro School Committee has adopted this policy on the rights of parents and guardians of our
students in relation to curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues.
During each school year, all parents/guardians of students in our schools will be notified in writing of the courses and curriculum we
offer that primarily involve human sexual or human sexuality issues. The Assistant Superintendent or his/her Designee will
determine the administrator(s) responsible for sending the notice(s). If planned curricula change during the school year, to the
extent practicable, parents/guardians will be notified of this fact in a timely manner before implementation.
Each such notice to parents/guardians will include a brief description of the curriculum covered by this policy, and will inform
parents/guardians that they may:
1. Exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human
sexual issues, without penalty to the student, by sending a letter to the school Principal requesting an exemption.
Any student who is exempted by request of the parent/guardian under this policy may be given an alternative
assignment.
2. Inspect and review program instruction materials for these curricula, which will be made reasonably accessible to
parents/guardians and others to the extent practicable. Parents/guardians may arrange with the Principal to review
the materials at the school and may also review them at other locations that may be determined by the
Superintendent of Schools.
A parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with a decision of the Principal concerning notice, access to instructional materials, or
exemption for the student under this policy may send a written request to the Superintendent for review of the issue. The
Superintendent or designee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian a timely written decision, preferably within two weeks
of the request. A parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with the Superintendent's decision may send a written request to the School
Committee for review of the issue. The School Committee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian a timely written
decision, preferably within four weeks of the request. A parent/guardian who is still dissatisfied after this process may send a
written request to the Commissioner of Education for review of the issue in the dispute.
The Superintendent of Schools will distribute a copy of this policy to each Principal by September 1 of each year.
Source: MASC October 2016
Legal Reference: M.G.L. 71:32A
File: IJND: Access to Digital Resources
The School Committee supports the right of students, employees, and community members to have reasonable access to various
information formats and believes it is incumbent upon users to utilize this privilege in an appropriate manner
.
Safety Procedures and Guidelines
The Superintendent, in conjunction with the Director of Technology, shall develop and implement appropriate procedures to provide
guidance for access to digital resources. Guidelines shall address teacher supervision of student computer or tablet use, ethical
use of digital resources and issues of privacy versus administrative review of electronic files and communications. In addition,
guidelines shall prohibit utilization of digital resources for prohibited or illegal activities and for the use of other programs with the
potential of damaging or destroying programs or data.
Internet safety measures shall be implemented that effectively address the following:
• Controlling access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet as defined by the Children's Internet Protection Act
(CIPA) and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA);
• Safety and security of minors when they are using e-mail, instant messaging applications, and other forms of direct
electronic communications;
• Preventing unauthorized access, including hacking, viruses, and other unlawful activities by minors online;
• Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding minors.
The School District shall provide reasonable public notice to address and communicate its internet safety measures.
Empowered Digital Use
All students and faculty must agree to and sign an Empowered Digital Use form prior to the student or staff member being granted
independent access to digital resources and district networks. The required form, which specifies guidelines for using digital
resources and district networks, must be signed by the parent or legal guardian of minor students (those under 18 years of age)
and also by the student. This document shall be kept on file as a legal, binding document. In order to modify or rescind the
agreement, the student's parent/guardian (or the student who is at least 18 years old) must provide the Director of Technology with
a written request.
Employee Use
Employees shall use district email, district devices, and district networks only for purposes directly related to educational and
instructional purposes.
Community Use
On recommendation of the Superintendent in conjunction with the Director of Technology, the district shall determine when and
which computer equipment, software, and information access systems will be available to the community. All guests will be
prompted to and must accept the district's Access to Digital Resources Policy before accessing the district network.
Disregard of Rules and Responsibility for Damages
Individuals who refuse to sign required Empowered Digital Use documents or who violate district rules governing the use of district
technology or networks shall be subject to loss or restriction of the privilege of using equipment, software, information access
systems, and network.
Individuals shall reimburse the district for repair or replacement of district property lost, stolen, damaged, or vandalized while under
their care.
Source: MASC August 2015
Legal Reference:
• 47 USC § 254
File; IJNDB: EMPOWERED DIGITAL USE POLICY:
GUIDELINES FOR INTERNET USE
The Attleboro Public School District offers Internet access at each school. The sole purpose of this Internet access is to support
education and research by providing students and district employees with access to unique resources and an opportunity for
collaborative work. All uses of the District´s Internet access (like all other uses of the APS' computer facilities) must be in support of
and consistent with our educational objectives. All students, district employees, volunteers, or any other individual accessing the
District´s computer network (hereinafter collectively referred to as "users") are expected to read these Guidelines and/or to take
part in a discussion of the Guidelines with the appropriate district administrator. Adherence to the Guidelines is a condition for a
user's privilege of Internet access.
(1) The Internet
The Internet is a vast, global network, linking computers at universities, schools, laboratories, and other sites. Through the Internet,
one can communicate with people all over the world through discussion forums and electronic mail. In addition, many educationally
valuable files may be downloaded from the Internet. Because of its enormous size and resources, the Internet's educational
potential is boundless. Because of its broad reach, however, the Internet also contains the potential for abuse. These Guidelines
are intended to help ensure use of this valuable resource in a safe and appropriate manner.
(2) Students' Individual Responsibility
All student use of the Internet is to be conducted under faculty supervision. Nevertheless, faculty members are not expected to
monitor student use at every moment. Every student is expected to take individual responsibility for his or her appropriate use of
the Internet.
(3) Student Access
a. Internet access is provided through the District:
b. Internet. All students will have access to the Internet with teacher supervision, in classrooms, libraries, or laboratories. No
individual account agreement is required. Before a student may access the Internet, however, he or she must be familiar
with these Guidelines.
c. Individual e-mail accounts: Individual e-mail accounts may be provided by the District to students to support classroom
work. All email will be monitored by the district and classroom teachers for compliance with this policy (See Section 5).
Students can only link their student profile picture to their Attleboro student account/network account. No other
photograph will be authorized.
(4) Internet Access Is a Privilege
Internet access through the District is a privilege, not a right. A student's access may be canceled by school officials if this privilege
is abused. Inappropriate conduct on the District network access will also be subject to disciplinary action, in conformity with the
disciplinary policies of the individual schools in the district. A teacher's access may also be cancelled by their supervisor if this
privilege is abused. Inappropriate conduct on the District Internet access will also be subject to disciplinary action.
(5) Administrators' Access to Files
Electronic mail transmission and other use of electronic resources by users shall not be considered confidential. Without limitation,
all e-mail files and other Internet files and records may be monitored, accessed, and examined at any time by designated staff to
ensure appropriate use for instructional, educational and administrative purposes, including the need to ensure that these Internet
Guidelines are being adhered to. Administrators will also cooperate in providing access to student e-mail and Internet files and
records to law enforcement authorities. Users should not assume that uses of the District Internet access or email will be private.
(6) Personal Safety
The Internet is accessible to the public. Unfortunately, this includes people who want to contact students for inappropriate purposes
or under false pretenses. The District cannot screen the Internet for such inappropriate uses. Therefore, students must be cautious
and prudent about supplying personal information and arranging personal meetings. In particular, students should never arrange a
personal meeting with a person who was met online without their parents' or guardians' knowledge and approval. Students should
promptly inform their teacher or school administrator of any on-line communication that the student feels is threatening, harassing,
or otherwise inappropriate. Students will not give their password to anyone; and will logoff of their APS account and/or network
account when work is completed.
(7) Personnel E-Mail
Teachers will not use personal e-mail with Attleboro Public Schools students without express prior written authorization from the
school principal, Assistant Superintendent, or Superintendent.
(8) System Security and Resource Limits
Users are expected to follow procedures and guidelines that are issued in order to ensure the security of the District computer
network and to respect its resource limits. These include any downloading guidelines and virus protection procedures that may be
issued.
(9) Network Etiquette
Users are expected to learn and to abide by generally accepted rules of Internet network etiquette, as well as rules of school
decorum. These include common courtesy, politeness, and the avoidance of vulgar language.
(10) Unacceptable Uses
The following uses of the District Internet access and email accounts are unacceptable:
a. Posting or emailing private or personal information about another person.
b. Attempting to log in through another person's e-mail account, system account, or to access another person's
files.
c. Accessing or transmitting obscene or pornographic material.
d. Posting chain letters or engaging in "spamming." ("Spamming" means sending annoying or unnecessary
messages to large numbers of people).
e. Engaging in harassment or bullying. The District harassment and bullying prevention policies which are in the
individual school handbooks are applicable to Internet conduct.
f. Participating in any communications that facilitate the illegal sale or use of drugs or alcohol; that facilitate
criminal gang activity; that threaten, incite hatred, intimidate, or harass any other person; or that violate any
other laws.
g. Plagiarism. "Plagiarism" means the taking material of created by others and presenting it as if it were one's
own. The policy on plagiarism/cheating, which is included in the individual schools' student handbooks, is
applicable to users of the District Internet access.
h. Infringing copyrights. Copyright infringement occurs when a person inappropriately reproduces or transmits
material that is protected by copyright. For example, most software is protected by copyright and may not be
copied without the permission of the copyright owner.
i. Participating in commercial activities that are not directly related to the educational purposes of the District.
(11) Disclaimer of Liability
The District disclaims all liability for the content of material that a user may access on the Internet, for any damages suffered in the
course of or as a result of the user's Internet use, and for any other consequences of a user's Internet use. The District shall not be
liable for users´ inappropriate use of electronic resources or violations of copyright restrictions, users´ mistakes or negligence, or
costs incurred by users. The District shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy or usability of any information found on
external networks.
(12) Changes in the Guidelines
The District reserves the right to change these Guidelines at any time.
(13) Inclusion Statement
May it be stated that the above guidelines apply to all individuals accessing the computer network. In addition to students, these
users include, without limitation, all members of the faculty, staff, and volunteers. Because the privileges provided by the network
encompass a wide circle of users, it is important that each individual realizes and respects the regulations.
(14) Mobile Devices
Any cellular telephone, tablet computer, personal computer, or internet enabled device that has access to the school network
through a wired or wireless internet connection is subject to this acceptable use policy. Devices owned by the District are subject to
additional rules and regulations at the discretion of the District administration.
All Internet access, whether on a school owned device or a personal device is monitored and recorded for compliance with this
document and all applicable laws.
(14) Electronic Media
Users may participate in online activities such as web page design, email, blogging, podcasting, video production, and social
media. These activities are to be used only for educational purposes and in accordance with District and individual school policies
on online and print publishing.
Legal Reference:
• CIPA: Children’s Internet Protection Act
Reference:
• Mendon-Upton Regional School District Policy Manual
Cross References:
• APS ACAB: Sexual and Gender-based Harassment
• APS IJND: Access to Digital Resources
• APS IJNDB-E1: Empowered Digital Use Student Form
• APS IJNDB-E2: Empowered Digital Use Staff Form
• APS IJNDD: Policy on Social Media
• APS JICFB: Bullying Prevention
File : IJNDC : INTERNET PUBLICATIONS
Internet Publication
PURPOSE:
The School District has established a district-wide web page that links users to web pages for the district's individual schools. The
School District maintains these web pages for educational purposes only, in furtherance of the educational mission of the School
District. All published pages and corresponding links to other sites must relate to the district's educational mission.
SUPERVISION AND APPROVAL OF WEB PAGES:
The Superintendent and/or his/her designee may select the person or persons ("the Webmaster") responsible for overseeing the
school district's web pages and maintaining the web pages in a manner consistent with this policy and the school district's Access
to Digital Resources Policy. The Webmaster must approve all links from the district web pages to other sites on the Internet. The
Webmaster will review the links to ensure that the links are related to the district's educational mission.
Staff members may publish web pages related to their class projects or courses on their school's web site. Staff members must
submit their material to the Webmaster for approval before the material can be published. Staff members may not publish or link to
personal web pages as part of the school district web site.
Student or staff work (e.g., voice, likeness, quotes, written material, musical pieces and graphic or other artwork) may be published
on the district's web pages, as detailed below. All work that is published will be accompanied by a copyright notice written by the
Webmaster that prohibits copying the work without the written consent of the copyright holder.
CONTENT STANDARDS:
All web page materials are expected to be accurate, grammatically correct, and free of spelling errors. Student work may deviate
from this standard depending upon the age and grade level of the student. Web pages should be well-organized and professional
in appearance. Web pages must not contain copyrighted or trademarked material belonging to others unless written permission to
display such material has been obtained from the owner and the owner is credited on the school's web page.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
A. In General:
Identifying information about students, such as first and last names, personal phone numbers or home addresses, will not
be published. First names or first names and the first letter of the student's last name may be used where appropriate.
B. Student Photographs:
• Student photographs may be published only with the written consent of the student's parent or guardian.
• Student photographs will not be accompanied by identifying information about the student(s).
C. Student work:
Student work, e.g., voice, likeness, quotes, written material, musical pieces, and graphic or other artwork, may be
published only with the written consent of the student's parent or guardian.
D. Staff Photographs, Identifying Information, and Work:
• Photographs of staff members, accompanied by the staff member's full name, may be published only with the
staff member's written consent.
• Staff work, e.g., voice, likeness, quotes, written material, musical pieces and graphic or other artwork, may be
published only with the staff member's written consent.
Source: MASC
File: IJNDD: POLICY ON SOCIAL MEDIA
It is the policy of the Attleboro Public School (APS) to maintain the professionalism and appropriateness of electronic and/or online
communications among students and teachers, staff, and coaches at all times. The Superintendent and all principals will annually
review with employee members and orient new employees concerning the importance of maintaining proper decorum in the online
digital world. APS Employees must conduct themselves in ways that do not distract from or disrupt the educational process and
that uphold the professional standards of conduct, values, and policies of APS. The orientation and annual review will give special
emphasis to:
1) Improper fraternization with students using social media platforms, phone, texting, or other electronic means.
a. APS employees may not friend or follow current students on social media. APS Employees should not engage in direct
private communication with students. It is important that teachers, staff, and coaches are always able to retain the
authority and ability to maintain discipline, encourage appropriate behaviors, and remain truly objective with his or her
students.
b. The school district expects APS Employees to keep the line between their professional life and their personal life clearly
drawn at all times. What is required is some forethought before using social networking for both your professional and
personal lives to be sure that these lines never become blurred. For example, if an educator wishes to establish a social
media account through which he or she will communicate with students, he or she should establish a personal social
media identity or personal e-mail account and an educational social media account or educational e-mail account; the
latter, not the former, should be used to communicate with students and/or parents and guardians on matters directly
related to education. The “friends” associated with such educational social media accounts should only be members of
the educational community, such as administrators, teachers, students, and parents of such students. It is expected that
APS Employees will reject friend requests from individuals on their personal educational accounts who do not fit into any
of these categories. In fact, the district suggests that it is safest and most prudent for teachers, staff, and coaches, as a
matter of personal policy to not communicate with existing students through non- district social media and e-mail
accounts.
c. As a recommended practice, APS Employees are encouraged to use appropriate privacy settings to control access to
their personal social media sites. However, be aware that there are limitations to privacy settings. Private communication
published on the Internet can easily become public. Furthermore, social media sites can change their current default
privacy settings and other functions. As a result, employees are responsible for understanding the rules of the social
media site being utilized. APS Employees will be held responsible if any information they intended to be “private”
becomes “public” due to their own lack of knowledge of the features of the social network they have decided to use or
their failure to properly use such features. You must also know that any information you share privately with a recipient
could be redistributed by such recipient without your knowledge or consent. In essence, nothing you post online is ever
truly “private.”
d. APS Employees are required to communicate with students and parents on educational matters only through
school-based resources or means that adhere to this policy. Use of one’s personal e-mail account or social
networking account to discuss school business with students and parents compromises the APS Employee’s as
well as the school district’s ability to retain public records in accordance with the requirements of the
Commonwealth's public records laws. The law requires public employees who send, receive, or maintain records in
their capacity as public employees to retain, disclose and dispose of such records in compliance with strict provisions of
the public records law. The law applies whether or not the record is in the form of a paper document or an electronic
communication. When the APS Employee communicates through school-based resources, such as APS Employee’s e-
mail or school sponsored web pages, such records are retained and archived through the school’s IT department. It
should be noted that, just because a teacher uses his/her personal e-mail as opposed to a school e-mail account, this
does not shield such e-mail from the provisions of the public records law or from discovery in litigation. It only prevents
the archiving of such messages through the school district’s automatic e-mail archiving system. We again remind APS
Employee that information sent or received by them, even through personal e-mail or social network accounts that are
related to their capacity as a school employee, are still subject to public records retention, exemption, and disclosure
requirements. When APS Employee members communicate through social networking sites, such information is not
retained. The responsibility falls on the employee to comply with public records laws when using personal e-mail or social
media accounts to communicate with students and/or parents and guardians.
e. Team, class, or student organization pages, accounts, or groups will be created only in conjunction with the coach,
educator, or faculty advisor. All groups must include the appropriate administrator as a member. Access to the page will
remain with the coach or faculty advisor.
f. All contact and messages by coaches and faculty advisors with team members shall be sent to all team members or to
team captains, except for messages concerning medical or academic privacy matters, in which case the messages will
be copied to the athletic director, school principal or appropriate administrator. Contact should never be to an individual
student only.
g. APS employees will not give out their private phone numbers for voice or text communications. Appropriate texting
should be conducted over messaging apps.
h. No matter what medium of communication a teacher selects, he/she should adhere to appropriate teacher/student
boundaries. You are a role model, not a student’s friend; you are a student’s teacher and you should always conduct
yourself in accordance with this understanding. Moreover, all APS Employee are expressly prohibited from any online
communication with students and/or their guardians of content generally considered to be unacceptable for children as
determined by the administration.
i. At all times, and in the use of any form of communications, APS Employee members will always adhere to student
privacy rights and the rights of employees to have their personnel and medical information kept confidential. Information
that is protected by law from disclosure to third parties will not be communicated online in a way that unreasonably
exposes such information to retrieval by those third parties. For example, through an educational Facebook account, a
teacher may not post confidential student information on the “wall,” the “information” section, or through any part of that
Facebook account that would be accessible to other teacher's Facebook “friends” associated with that account. If a
teacher wishes to communicate privately with a student, parent or guardian through the educational Facebook account,
such communication shall be conveyed only through the private e-mail/message feature of Facebook, so that only the
student may view the message and respond to it.
2) Inappropriateness of posting items with sexual content
3) Inappropriateness of posting items promoting or advocating the abuse of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or any unhealthy
behavior
4) Inappropriateness of posting content that promotes violence
5) Inappropriateness of posting content that includes or promotes discrimination and/or hateful words and concepts
6) Monitoring and penalties for improper use of district technology
a. Your communications with students, even if you do not use school resources for such
communications are within the jurisdiction of the school district to monitor as they arise out of your position as an
educator. Any conduct, whether online or not, that reflects poorly upon the school district or consists of inappropriate
behavior on the part of an APS Employee member may expose an employee to discipline up to and including
discharge. Even if you are not using a school telephone, computer, classroom or the like to engage in contact with a
student, such contact is not outside of the school district’s authority to take appropriate disciplinary action. If your
behavior is inappropriate, it undermines your authority to maintain control and discipline with students, compromises
your objectivity, or harms students, the school district reserves the right to impose discipline for such behavior. A
teacher may also face individual liability for inappropriate online communications with students and/or parents and
guardians, as well as exposing the district to vicarious liability in certain instances in which case the teacher shall
indemnify the school district completely.
7) The possibility of penalties, including dismissal from employment, for failure to exercise good judgment in online conduct
8) If an employee identifies themselves as an Attleboro Public School Employee, whether directly or indirectly, they
are representing APS. If you are communicating as an employee of the district in your online communications, you must
be aware that readers will assume you “speak for the school district.” Therefore, all of your online communications, when
you are actually acting on behalf of the district or creating the appearance that you are doing so, must be professional at
all times and reflect positively on the school district. In the use of your social media account or other social networking
sites, you may not without express permission from the Superintendent of Schools, use the school’s logo, likeness, or
any school photographs or other property that belongs to the school. Further you may not post any photograph of a minor
without express written consent of that minor’s parent or guardian. Any restrictions placed on the use of the school’s logo
or likeness will be imposed consistent with an employee’s right to engage in concerted, protected activity.
9) Employees must refrain from interacting in a professional capacity on non-district social media unless
authorized by the Superintendent. APS recognizes the proliferation and, in some instances, usefulness of online
conversations between teachers, staff, coaches and students and/or their parents or guardians. However, due to the
nature of social networking sites, there exists a risk, without care and planning, that the lines between one’s professional
life and personal life will be blurred. Our employees should always be mindful of how they present themselves to the
world, online and otherwise
This policy is not intended to infringe upon employee’s rights to speak publicly on matters of public concern or to engage in
concerted protected activities with fellow members of their union on workplace issues, so long as such communication adheres to
appropriate time, place, and manner restrictions and does not interfere with the performance of their duties. However, when APS
Employees speak via social networking sites or tools on matters concerning work, you are speaking as an employee and not as a
citizen and restrictions may be placed upon your freedom to express yourself. Those restrictions are intended to preserve student
confidentiality, maintain your status as an educator who should command and receive the respect of students, be able to maintain
order and discipline in your classroom, and remain objective with respect to your students.
The District has multiple policies regarding student and employees conduct which overlap with this Policy. It recognizes that the
use of electronic communication in an educational setting presents new challenges to appropriate student and employees conduct.
However, behavioral expectations will not be diminished in these settings and appropriate professional boundaries shall be
maintained at all times and through all means of communications.
The Superintendent and/or his/her designees will periodically conduct internet searches to see if APS Employees have posted
inappropriate materials on-line. When inappropriate use of computers and websites is discovered, the school principals and
Superintendent will promptly bring that inappropriate use to the attention of the APS Employee member and may consider and
apply disciplinary action up to and including termination. Any such discipline will be conducted in accordance with collective
bargaining agreements and state and federal law.
File IKB: HOMEWORK POLICY
The Attleboro Public Schools believe that homework is an important and useful component to ensure student learning. Purposeful
homework extends and adds value to school-based learning. In addition to supporting classroom instruction, homework
promotes student independence and helps develop effective study habits in setting priorities, managing time, and meeting short
and long-term goals.
The purpose of homework is to:
• Build independence and responsibility
• Develop lifelong learning skills
Homework should complement, supplement, and reinforce classroom instruction.
Areas for appropriate homework focus may include, but are not limited to:
• Skill and work habit development
• Remediation
• Skill reinforcement
• Enrichment
• Research
• Make-up work
Homework should be given in consideration of the needs of the individual students. This is separate from class assignments
deemed appropriate for the enhancement of the learning process for all students in the class.
Homework is a learning activity which should increase in complexity with the maturity of the student. With increased maturity,
learning should become an independent activity. This is established through assignments which should encourage students to
investigate, work independently, and/or work with others.
The Student’s Role
• Take responsibility for his or her individual learning
• Complete and submit assignments on time
• Plan the completion of tasks for long-term projects
The Teacher’s Role
• Give clear information as to the purpose of the homework assignment(s) and outcomes
• Choose or design assignments which closely align to student needs, course objectives, and the state standards
• Provide timely and appropriate feedback to the student.
*The Parent’s Role
• Create an environment that promotes good study habits
• Provide encouragement and support to complete homework.
*Parents are encouraged to speak to their child’s teacher if homework is taking an inordinate amount of time or if
s/he needs to do more than oversee their child’s homework
File: JEB: ELEMENTARY ENTRANCE AGE
The Attleboro School Committee establishes the following policy on age to permit children to enter kindergarten and first grade at the
most appropriate time.
Admission into school involves consideration of both chronological age and readiness to approach the challenge of a school program.
The School Committee has established the following chronological minimum age requirement for entry.
Children who will be five (5) years of age on or before September 1 of the school year during which they wish to
enroll will be eligible to enter kindergarten.
Children who will be six (6) years of age on or before September 1 of the school year are eligible for initial entry
in grade one.
Exceptions to this policy may be considered only in the following cases:
1. The student has successfully completed kindergarten in a public or other accredited/certified school system and who shall be six
(6) years of age on or before October 1.
2. A student transferring into the Attleboro Schools from another public or other accredited/certified school system, currently
attending first grade, who shall be six (6) years of age on or before October 1.
3. A student who turns five (5) years of age on September 2
nd
through September 30
th
may apply to the superintendent for admission to Kindergarten, provided that the
application for admission is received by the superintendent by May 1
st
of the
previous school year. The superintendent’s decision, which shall not be subject to
appeal to the School Committee, will be based on the following criteria:
a. A determination by the APS central administration of academic, social, and emotional readiness for Kindergarten.
b. Previous schooling in an accredited educational program.
c. The capacity of the receiving school to enroll additional Kindergarten students.
d. The age of the student.
No student enrolled under Exception # 3 of this policy in a school other than a school
whose district encompasses the student’s residence shall be entitled to district-funded
transportation.
Legal References:
• M.G.L. 76.1
• 603 CMR 8.00
File JF: RESIDENCY POLICY
The Attleboro School Committee has adopted the following policy regarding the residency and enrollment of students. This policy has
been adopted to ensure that only families who actually reside in the City of Attleboro have full access to a comprehensive education.
Therefore, the Attleboro Public Schools has established specific requirements for proof of residency.
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 76 §5, all children of school age who reside in the City of Attleboro are entitled to attend the Attleboro Public
Schools. When a student enrolls in the Attleboro Public Schools, the parent/guardian must provide documentation to the administration
that establishes the residency of the student and/or parent. The Attleboro Public Schools may conduct an investigation into the residency
of any student, either upon enrollment or thereafter, if any questions arise about the student’s residency.
In order to attend Attleboro Public Schools, a student must actually reside in the City of Attleboro. The only exceptions are listed below.
The residence of a minor child is ordinarily presumed to be the legal residence of the child’s parent or legal guardian having physical
custody of the child. A person’s “residence” is the place where the person dwells currently, with an intention to remain, and is in the town
that is the core of his/her domestic, social, and civil life. In determining residency, Attleboro Public Schools retains the right to require
verifiable documentation and to investigate where a student actually resides. (Legal Reference: M.G.L. Chapter 76, Section 5).
The principal at each school will verify the telephone number and home address of all students at least annually. Verification of residency,
including updated documentation, will be required when students enter the School District, and move from Grade 4 to Grade 5, and from
Grade 8 to Grade 9. If there is any change in residency status, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be required to notify the building principal in
the school where their child is enrolled within five (5) business days of the change of address. The Attleboro Public Schools reserves the
right to request additional documents and/or to conduct an investigation; therefore, the district may enlist the services of a Residency
Officer/Investigator to verify a family’s residency. If a determination is made that the student does not actually reside in the City of
Attleboro, the student’s enrollment will be terminated immediately (Legal Reference: M.G.L. Chapter 76, Section 5). A parent, legal
guardian, or student who has reached the age of majority (18), may appeal this determination of ineligibility for enrollment to the
Superintendent of Schools, whose decision shall be final.
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 71 §37L, the parent/guardian or the student him/herself are required to bring a copy of the student’s
complete school record from previous school districts. The administration will assist the parent/guardian or the student in
obtaining a complete school record.
Age of Admittance:
In an effort to provide reasonable consistency of maturity levels among student in the Attleboro High School program, no student shall be
permitted to attend the regular high school program after age 19. Students who turn 19 years old by September 30 of the year for which
placement is being requested must be on track to graduate that year. Such students shall be afforded an opportunity to pursue a high
school diploma through the Attleboro Community Academy. This provision shall not be applied to students eligible for special education
services and/or served by the District’s Special Education Programs for students with disabilities.
Exceptions:
The Residency Requirements shall be waived under the following conditions:
• Students who fall under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. A homeless student temporarily residing in Attleboro
may be immediately enrolled, even without records typically required for enrollment.
• Students whose parents divorce or separate and share physical custody, provided one custodial parent remains a resident of
the City of Attleboro and the student resides with the parent who resides in the City of Attleboro. Investigation of residency in
these circumstances may include consideration of the number of nights the student spends in Attleboro, analysis of where the
student resides pursuant to any custody arrangement, and the center of the student’s domestic, social, and civic life.
• Students who move to another town or district on June 1
st
of any given school year or thereafter, shall be allowed to complete
the school year with the prior approval of the building principal and Superintendent. The parents will be responsible for providing
transportation to and from school.
• Students qualifying for admission under School Committee Policy JFA
File: JH: Attendance Policy Attleboro
It is the philosophy of the School Committee of the Attleboro Public Schools that regular and consistent attendance
is essential to learning, to improving the achievement of all students, to maintaining a respectful school climate, and
to a student’s successful school performance. The goal of the student attendance policy is to promote consistent,
daily school and class attendance. A student who is truant, frequently absent from school or classes, or frequently
tardy to school without adequate reason is in violation of this policy. Parents, guardians, and students should be
aware that chronic absenteeism may also lead to academic failure and retention of the student. Massachusetts law
requires compulsory student attendance for all children between the ages of six and sixteen. M.G.L. c. 76, § 1.
1. Parents/Guardians must call the school to give notification of an absence no later than the morning of the
absence.
2. If a call is not made, communication from the parent/guardian or the student’s medical provider is due on the
day that the student returns to school explaining the absence. No student, however, shall be sent home to
obtain a written explanation from his/her parent/guardian during a school session.
3. In instances of chronic or irregular absence reportedly due to illness, the school principal or designee may
request a physician’s statement certifying such absences are justifiable.
4. If an extended absence of a student is foreseen, the parent/guardian should contact the school principal or
designee to make arrangements for the completion of academic requirements.
Tardy Information
Students arriving after the start of the school day must report to the assigned office to sign in. Students in the
elementary schools must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when they arrive late to school. The determination
as to whether a tardy is excused or unexcused shall be made in accordance with the definitions of excused absence
and unexcused absence contained within this policy.
Dismissal Information
Only in the case of illness or in an emergency will dismissals be granted during the school day without presentation of a
note from a parent or guardian. Due to concern for safety, a student will be released during the school day only to a
parent/guardian or someone designated by a parent in writing. Any person picking up a student pursuant to an early
dismissal must visit the school office to be identified by the child.
Early dismissals cause a disruption in the educational process. Sending for children to be dismissed interrupts the
teacher and all of the students in the classroom. Parents and guardians are advised to plan non-emergency
appointments after school hours in order to minimize the disruption to the educational process. The determination as to
whether a dismissal is excused or unexcused shall be made in accordance with the definitions of excused absence and
unexcused absence contained within this policy.
Excused absences include:
1. Personal illness or quarantine;
2. Medical appointments that cannot be made outside of school hours;
3. Legal matters requiring personal appearance;
4. Suspension or expulsions in or out of school;
5. Absences attributable to bereavement or a death in the family;
6. Observance or practice of a major religious holiday; and
7. Extraordinary circumstances (exercised at the discretion of the principal).
Unexcused absences are those absences not covered by the definition of “excused absence” above. Unexcused
absences include, but may not be limited to:
1. Truancy from school or from individual classes or study halls;
2. Family vacations or trips;
3. Undocumented absences;
4. Repetitive or chronic absence or tardiness reportedly due to illness or injury, but not documented by a
physician or other qualified medical professional; and
5. Any other absence that is not reported by a parent/guardian by a telephone call or written note from a
parent/guardian or the student’s medical provider upon the student’s return to school.
Student Absence Notification
At the commencement of each school year, parents/guardians will be sent a notice providing the relevant contact
information to inform the school of the student’s absence and the reasons for such an absence. The notice will also
require such parent or guardian to furnish the school with a home, work, or other emergency contact information where
they can be contacted during the school day. If a pupil is absent and the school has not been notified by the
designated time, the school shall call the telephone number or numbers furnished to inquire about said absence.
Additionally, a parent or guardian will be contacted within three (3) days of a student’s absence if the parent(s) or
guardian(s) has not contacted the school regarding the absence.
The Attleboro Public Schools, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 76, § 1B, has a policy of notifying the parent or guardian of a
student who has at least five (5) days in which the student has missed 2 or more periods unexcused in a school year or
who has missed five (5) or more school days unexcused in a school year. In these circumstances, this policy requires
that the school principal, or his/her designee, make a reasonable effort to meet with the parent or guardian of a student
to develop action steps for student attendance. The action steps shall be developed jointly and agreed upon by the
school principal, or a designee, the student, and the student’s parent or guardian and with input from other relevant
school personnel and officials from relevant public safety, health and human service, housing, and nonprofit agencies.
If a student has eight (8) or more unexcused absences in a quarter, school officials may file a Child Requiring
Assistance (“CRA”) petition with the Juvenile Court which could result in a hearing before the court. M.G.L. c. 119,
§§ 21, 39E. Additionally, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 76, § 4 any individual who induces or attempts to induce a minor to
absent himself/herself unlawfully from school, or unlawfully employs him/her 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. Under
M.G.L. c. 119, § 51A a report can be filed on behalf of a child under the age of sixteen (16) for educational neglect
if a child is not attending school on a regular basis. As mandated reporters, school personnel will file a report of
abuse or neglect in accordance with applicable laws and procedures if they have reasonable cause to believe that
a child is suffering physical or emotional injury resulting from educational abuse or neglect.
Permanent Withdrawal from School
No student (16 years or older) shall be considered to have permanently left the school district unless an
administrator from the school or school district has sent notice within a period of five (5) days from the student’s
tenth (10) consecutive absence to the parent or guardian of such student in both the primary language of such
parent or guardian, to the extent practicable, and in English. The notice shall initially offer at least two (2) dates and
times for an exit interview between the superintendent, or a designee, the student, and the parent or guardian of
the student to occur prior to the student permanently leaving school, and shall include contact information for
scheduling the exit interview. The notice shall indicate that the parties shall agree upon a date and time for the exit
interview, and that the interview shall occur within ten (10) days after the sending of the notice. The time for the exit
interview may be extended at the request of the parent or guardian, although no extension shall be for longer than
fourteen (14) days. The superintendent, or a designee, may proceed with any such interview without a parent or
guardian if the superintendent, or a designee, makes a good faith effort to include the parent or guardian. The exit
interview shall be for the purpose of discussing the reason(s) for the student permanently leaving school and to
consider alternative education or other placements. During the exit interview, the student shall be given information
about the detrimental effects of early withdrawal from school, the benefits of earning a high school diploma, and the
alternative education programs and services available to the student per M.G.L. c. 76, § 18.
Any alterations to this policy are noted within the handbook of each school.
Legal References:
• M.G.L. c. 76, §§ 1, 1A, 1B, 4, 18, 19, 20;
• M.G.L. c. 119, §§ 21, 39E, 51A
File: JICFA: PROHIBITION OF HAZING
In accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, the School Committee hereby deems that no student, employee, or school
organization under the control of the School Committee shall engage in the activity of hazing a student while on or off school
property, or at a school sponsored event regardless of the location. No organization that uses the facilities or grounds under the
control of the School Committee shall engage in the activity of hazing any person while on school property.
Any student who observes what appears to them to be the activity of hazing another student or person should report such
information to the Principal including the time, date, location, names of identifiable participants and the types of behavior exhibited.
Students and employees of the District are obligated by law to report incidents of hazing to the police department.
Any student who is present at a hazing has the obligation to report such an incident. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary
action by the school against that student and could involve suspension from school for up to three days.
Any student who participates in the hazing of another student or other person may, upon the approval of the Principal, be
suspended from school for up to ten (10) school days.
Any student determined by the Principal to be the organizer of a hazing activity may be recommended for expulsion from school but
will receive no less disciplinary action than that of a participant.
In all cases relating to hazing, students will receive procedural due process.
Source: MASC 2021
Legal References:
• M.G.L. 269:17, 18, 19
Cross References:
• Policy JJA: Student Organizations
• Policy JICFB: Anti-Bullying
File: JICFB: BULLYING PREVENTION
The Attleboro Public Schools is committed to providing a safe, positive, and productive educational environment where students
can achieve the highest academic standards. No student shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying
within the school community.
“Bullying” is the repeated use by one or more students or by a member of school staff (as later defined) of a written, verbal, or
electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at a target that:
• causes physical or emotional harm to the target or damage to the target’s property;
• places the target in reasonable fear of harm to himself/herself, or of damage to his/her property;
• creates a hostile environment at school for the target;
• infringes on the rights of the target at school; or
• materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
“Cyber-bullying” means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not
be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part
by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet
communications, instant messages or facsimile communications.
Cyber-bullying shall also include the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or
the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates
any of the conditions enumerated in the definition of bullying.
Cyber-bullying shall also include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of
material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the
conditions enumerated in the definition of bullying.
Bullying and cyberbullying may occur in and out of school, during and after school hours, at home and in locations outside of the
home. When bullying and cyberbullying are alleged, the full cooperation and assistance of parents and families are expected.
Definitions at the end of this policy are provided to give clarity in regard to terminology used throughout this policy.
For the purpose of this policy, whenever the term bullying is used it is to denote either bullying, or cyber-bullying.
Bullying shall be prohibited:
• on school grounds;
• on property immediately adjacent to school grounds;
• at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function or program whether on or off school grounds;
• at a school bus stop;
• on a school bus or other vehicles owned, leased, or used by the Attleboro school district; or,
• through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by the Attleboro public schools.
Bullying and cyberbullying are prohibited at a location, activity, function, or program that is not school-related or through the use of
technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by the Attleboro School district if the bullying:
• creates a hostile environment at school for the target;
• infringes on the rights of the target at school; or
• materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
Prevention and Intervention Plan
The Superintendent and/or his/her designee shall oversee the development, monitoring and updating of a prevention and
intervention plan, in consultation with all district stakeholders, which may include teachers, school staff, professional support
personnel, school volunteers, administrators, community representatives, local law enforcement agencies, students, parents and
guardians, consistent with the requirements of this policy, as well as state and federal laws. The bullying prevention and
intervention plan shall be updated at least biennially.
The Principal is responsible for the implementation and oversight of the bullying prevention and implementation plan within his or
her school.
Reporting
Students, who believe that they are a target of bullying, observe an act of bullying, or who have reasonable grounds to believe that
these behaviors are taking place, are obligated to report incidents to a member of the school staff or administration. The target
shall, however, not be subject to discipline for failing to report bullying.
Each school shall have a means for anonymous reporting by students of incidents of bullying. No formal disciplinary action shall be
taken solely on the basis of an anonymous report.
Any student who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying shall be subject to disciplinary action.
Parents or guardians, or members of the community, are encouraged to report an incident of bullying as soon as possible.
A member of a school staff shall immediately report any instance of bullying the staff member has witnessed or become aware of to
the school principal or their designee.
Investigation Procedures
The Principal or their designee, upon receipt of a report, shall promptly contact the parents or guardians of a student who has been
the alleged target or alleged aggressor of bullying. The actions being taken to prevent further acts of bullying shall be discussed.
The school Principal or his/her designee shall promptly investigate the report of bullying. Using a Bullying/Cyberbullying Report
Form) which may include interviewing the alleged target, alleged aggressor, staff members, students and/or witnesses.
Support staff shall assess an alleged target’s needs for protection and create and implement a safety plan that shall restore a
sense of safety for that student.
Confidentiality shall be used to the extent feasible to and consistent with Federal and State law to protect a person who reports
bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or is witness to or has reliable information about an act of bullying.
If the school Principal or his/her designee determines that bullying has occurred he/she shall take appropriate disciplinary action
and if it is believed that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor, consult with the school’s Resource Officer to
determine if criminal charges are warranted. If it is determined that criminal charges are warranted, the local law enforcement
agency shall be notified.
In accordance with 603 CMR 49.00, the parents or guardians shall be contacted and provided written notice upon completion of the
investigation and informed of the results, including whether the allegations were found to be factual, whether a violation of this
Policy was found, and whether disciplinary action has or shall be taken. At a minimum the Principal or their designee shall contact
the parents or guardians as to the status of the investigation on a weekly basis.
Disciplinary actions for students who have committed an act of bullying or retaliation shall be in accordance with district disciplinary
procedures as prescribed in the student handbook.
Each school shall document any incident of bullying that is reported per this policy and a file shall be maintained by the Principal or
his/her designee. A monthly report shall be provided to the Superintendent.
Confidentiality shall be maintained to the extent consistent with the school's obligations under law.
Retaliation
Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has
reliable information about bullying shall be prohibited.
Target Assistance
The Attleboro Public Schools shall provide counseling or referral to appropriate services, including guidance, academic
intervention, and protection to students, both targets and aggressors, affected by bullying, as necessary.
Training and Assessment
Annual training shall be provided for school employees and volunteers who have significant contact with students in preventing,
identifying, responding to, and reporting incidents of bullying.
Age-appropriate, evidence-based instruction on bullying prevention shall be incorporated into the curriculum for all K to 12
students.
Publication and Notice
Annual written notice of the relevant sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be provided to students and their
parents or guardians, in age-appropriate terms, by way of the student handbook.
Annual written notice of the bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be provided to all school staff. The faculty and staff at
each school shall be trained annually on the bullying prevention and intervention plan applicable to the school.
Relevant sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan relating to the duties of faculty and staff shall be included in the
school employee handbook.
The bullying prevention and intervention plan shall be posted on the Attleboro Public Schools website.
Definitions
“Hostile environment” - a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or
insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the student’s education.
“Aggressor” –bullying or retaliation student or staff member as defined below.
“School grounds” - property on which a school building or facility is located or property that is owned, leased, or used by the
Attleboro Public Schools for a school-sponsored activity, function, program, instruction or training.
“Target” - a student against whom bullying or retaliation has been perpetrated.
“School staff” - not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach,
advisor to an extracurricular activity, and paraprofessional.
“Retaliation” - any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment by a student directed against any student, staff or other individual
for reporting or filing a complaint, for aiding or encouraging the filing of a report or complaint, for cooperating in an investigation or
for taking action consistent with this policy.
Nothing in this policy shall be construed to abridge the rights of students that are protected by the First Amendment to the
Constitution of the United States or by Article XVI, as amended, of the Constitution of the Commonwealth.
Nothing in this policy shall supersede or replace existing rights or remedies under any other general or special law, nor shall this
section create a private right of action. Nothing in this section shall alter the obligations of the Attleboro Public Schools to remediate
any discrimination or harassment based on a person's membership in a legally protected category under local, state, or federal law.
If an individual has a complaint of discrimination or harassment based on a person's membership in a legally protected category, he
or she may file a complaint under the District’s Non-Discrimination and Harassment Policies/Procedures.
Source: MASC: 2021
Legal References:
• Title VII, Section 703, Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended
• Federal Regulation 74676 issued by EEO Commission
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
• Board of Education 603 CMR 26.00
• M.G.L. 71:37O; 265:43; 43A; 268:13B; 269:14A
References:
• Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Model Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan
Cross References:
• Policy AC: Nondiscrimination
• Policy ACAB: Sexual Harassment
• Policy JICFA: Prohibition of Hazing
File: JICH ALCOHOL TOBACCO AND DRUG USE BY STUDENTS
A student shall not, regardless of the quantity, use or consume, possess, buy, or sell, or give away any beverage containing alcohol;
any tobacco product, including vapor/E-cigarettes; marijuana; steroids; or any controlled substance. The School Committee prohibits
the use or consumption by students of alcohol, tobacco products, or drugs on school property, at any school function, or at any school
sponsored event.
Additionally, any student who is under the influence of drugs or alcoholic beverages prior to, or during, attendance at or participation
in a school-sponsored activity, will be barred from that activity and may be subject to further disciplinary action.
Verbal Screening:
• The school district shall utilize, in accordance with law, a verbal screening tool approved by the Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education to screen students for substance abuse disorders. The tool shall be administered by trained staff
on an annual basis at grades 7 and 9.
• Parents/guardians shall be notified prior to the opening of school each year. Parents/guardians shall have the right to opt
out of the screening by written notice prior to or during the screening.
• All statements made by a student during a screening are confidential and shall not be disclosed except in the event of
immediate medical emergency or in accordance with law. De-identified results shall be reported to the Department of Public
Health within 90 days of the completion of the screening process.
This policy shall be posted on the district’s website and notice shall be provided to all students and parents of this policy in accordance
with state law. Additionally, the district shall file a copy of this policy with DESE in accordance with law in a manner requested by
DESE.
Source: MASC 2021
Legal References:
• M.G.L.71:2A; 71:96; 71:97; 272:40A
Cross References:
• IHAMB, Teaching About Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
• GBEC, Drug Free Workplace Policy
File JKAA: PHYSICAL RESTRAINT POLICY AND PROCEDURES
Physical restraint is defined as direct physical contact that prevents or significantly restricts a student’s freedom of movement.
Physical restraint shall be used only in emergency situations of last resort, after other lawful and less intrusive alternatives have
failed or been deemed inappropriate, and with extreme caution. Physical restraint shall only be used when needed to protect a
student and/or a member of the Attleboro school community from assault or imminent, serious, physical harm. Furthermore, any
such physical restraint shall be administered so as to prevent or minimize any harm to the student.
This policy shall be reviewed annually and provided to Attleboro Public Schools staff and made available to the Parents of enrolled
students. Nothing in this policy precludes any teacher, employee, or agent of the Attleboro Public Schools from using reasonable
force to protect students, other persons, or themselves from assault or imminent, serious, physical harm.
Methods for Engaging Parents
Any parent with concerns about the use of physical restraint at any school within Attleboro Public Schools may request a meeting
with the building Principal or the Superintendent to discuss such concerns. Any individual who believes that a physical restraint of a
student may have been unwarranted or conducted inappropriately may also make use of the Grievance Procedure below.
Alternatives, Methods, and Follow-up to Physical Restraint
Alternatives:
Physical restraint shall not be used unless the following, less intrusive behavior interventions and supports have been
unsuccessful or deemed inappropriate by school staff:
•
Positive behavioral interventions
•
Verbal redirection
•
Verbal directive to cease behavior
•
Opportunity for a break
•
De-escalation techniques
•
Loss of earned tokens/rewards/privileges
•
Opportunity for time-out
•
Physical escort to a separate space for time-out
Methods of Physical Restraint:
Physical restraint shall not be used as a means of discipline or punishment; if the student cannot be safely restrained due to
medical contraindications which have been documented by a licensed physician and provided to the District; as a response to
property destruction, disruption, refusal to comply with rules or staff directives, or verbal threats when those actions do not
constitute a threat of assault or imminent, serious, physical harm. Physical restraint shall not be used as a standard response for
any individual student. Physical restraint is an emergency procedure of last resort.
Physical restraint shall only be administered by trained personnel, using only the amount of force necessary to protect the student
or other member(s) of the school community from assault or imminent, serious, physical harm. The staff member(s) administerin g
physical restraint shall use the safest method available and appropriate to the situation. Staff shall continuously monitor the
physical status of the student during restraint, and the student shall be immediately released from the physical restraint if the
student expresses or demonstrates significant physical distress.
All physical restraints must terminate as soon as the student is no longer an immediate danger, or if the student indicates that
he/she cannot breathe, or if the student is observed to be in severe distress. If any physical restraint approaches twenty (20)
minutes, staff will obtain the approval of the building Principal to continue the restraint based upon the student’s continue d
agitation. All physical restraints shall be administered in compliance with 603 CMR 46.00.
Follow-Up Procedures
After a student is released from a physical restraint, staff shall implement follow-up procedures, including:
a.
Reviewing the incident with the student to address the behavior that precipitated the physical restraint;
b.
Reviewing the incident with the staff member(s) who administered the physical restraint to ensure proper restraint
procedures were followed; and
c.
Consideration of whether any follow-up is appropriate for students who witnessed the physical restraint, if any.
Prohibited Forms of Restraint
Medication restraint, mechanical restraint, and seclusion restraint, as defined in 603 CMR 46.02, are prohibited in the Attleboro
Public Schools.
a.
Any form of physical restraint used in a manner inconsistent with 603 CMR 46.00 is prohibited in the Attleboro Public
Schools.
b.
Prone restraint, as defined in 603 CMR 46.02, shall only be permitted under the following, limited circumstances:
i.
The student has a documented history of serious self-injury and/or injuries to other students or staff;
ii.
All other forms of physical restraint have failed to ensure the safety of the student and/or the safety of
others.
iii.
There are no medical contraindications documented by a licensed physician;
iv.
There are no psychological or behavioral contraindications documented by a licensed mental health
professional;
v.
The student’s Parent has provided voluntary, informed, written consent to the use of prone restraint; and
vi.
The building Principal, or designee, has provided written approval.
Attleboro Public Schools will not use prone restraint unless the above circumstances have been documented in advance.
Staff Training
Training for All Staff:
All staff/faculty will receive training regarding the District's physical restraint policy within the first month of each school year, and employees
hired after the school year begins will receive training within one month of starting their employment.
Required training for ALL staff will
include review of the following:
a.
Attleboro Public Schools Physical Restraint Policy
b.
School building-level physical restraint procedures, including the use of time-out as a behavior support strategy;
c.
The role of the student, family, and staff in preventing physical restraint;
d.
Interventions which may preclude the need for restraint, including de-escalation of problematic behaviors and alternatives to
restraint;
e.
When in an emergency,
the t
ypes of permitted physical restraints and related safety consideration, including information regarding
the increased risk of injury to a student when any restraint is used;
f.
Identification of Attleboro Public Schools’ staff who have received in-depth training in the use of physical restraint.
In-Depth Training
At the beginning of the school year, the building Principal will identify those designated staff who will participate in in-depth training
and who will then be authorized to serve school-wide resources to assist in ensuring proper administration of physical restraint.
Designated staff members shall participate in approximately sixteen (16) hours of in-depth training in the use of physical restraint,
with at least one refresher training annually.
In-depth training will include:
a.
Appropriate procedures for preventing the need for physical restraint, including the de-escalation of problematic behavior,
relationship building and the use of alternatives to restraint;
b.
A description and identification of specific dangerous behaviors on the part of students that may lead to the use of physical restraint
and methods for evaluating the risk of harm in individual situations in order to determine whether the use of restraint is warranted;
c.
The simulated experience of administering and receiving physical restraint, instruction regarding the effect(s) on the person
restrained, including instruction on monitoring physical signs of distress and obtaining medical assistance;
d.
Instruction regarding documentation and reporting requirements and investigation of injuries and complaints;
e.
Demonstration by participants of proficiency in administering physical restraint; and
f.
Instruction regarding the impact of physical restraint on the student and family, including but not limited to psychological,
physiological, and social-emotional effects.
Physical Restraint Reporting, Review of Physical Restraints, Use of Time-Out, and Grievance Procedures
Physical Restraint Reporting
1.
Report to Building Principal:
a.
Staff shall verbally inform the Principal of any physical restraint as soon as possible, and by written report within
one (1) school day.
b.
The Principal or designee shall maintain an ongoing record of all reported instances of physical restraint.
2.
Report to Parent(s) of Physically Restrained Student:
a.
The Principal or designee shall make reasonable efforts to verbally inform the student’s Parent of the physical
restraint within twenty-four (24) hours.
b.
The Principal or designee shall provide the Parent a written report of the physical restraint within three (3) school
days. This written report may be provided via email, if the Parent has provided the District with an email address.
1)
The Parent and/or student may respond to the Principal or designee to comment on the use of the
physical restraint and the information in the written report. The Parent and/or student may also
pursue the Grievance Procedure.
3.
Report to Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE):
a. Attleboro Public Schools shall report physical restraint data annually to DESE, in the manner directed by DESE
including injury to the student or any school community member.
b. Whenever a physical restraint results in injury to the student or any school community member, the District will
maintain a copy of the written report and the ongoing physical restraint log from the past thirty (30) days to
provide to DESE if requested.
Review of Physical Restraints
a. School Principal or designee will conduct a weekly review of physical restraint data to identify individual students who
have been restrained multiple times during the week, and if any such student(s) is identified, to convene a review team to
assess the student’s needs.
b. School Principal or designee will conduct a monthly, administrative review of school-wide physical restraint data.
Use of Time-Out
Building Principals will establish a procedure that shall include the process by which staff will obtain the Principal or designee’s
approval for any time-out lasting longer than thirty (30) minutes. Such approval shall be based on the student’s continuing agitation.
Grievance Procedures
This grievance procedure is established to ensure procedures are in place for receiving and investigating complaints regarding
physical restraint practices. Any individual who believes that a physical restraint of a student may have been unwarranted or
conducted inappropriately may file a complaint by utilizing this procedure.
a. The complaint must be submitted in writing or on audiotape to the Office of the Superintendent within 10 days of
receiving the report.
b. The Superintendent or designee will meet with the complainant within ten (10) school days of receipt of the complaint.
c. A thorough investigation will be conducted which may include interviewing witnesses, staff involved and/or the student;
reviewing all written documentation leading up to and pertaining to the incident and all reports filed with the Office of the
Superintendent and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
d. A written report will be developed by the Superintendent or designee and provided to the complainant.
Source: MASC August 2015
Legal References:
• MGL 71:37G
• 603 CMR 46.00
File: JRA: STUDENT RECORDS
In order to provide students with appropriate instruction and educational services, it is necessary for the school system to maintain
extensive and sometimes personal information about them and their families. It is essential that pertinent information in these
records be readily available to appropriate school personnel, be accessible to the student's parents or legal guardian and/or the
student in accordance with law, and yet be guarded as confidential information.
The Superintendent will provide for the proper administration of student records in keeping with state and federal requirement; and
shall obtain a copy of the state student records regulations. The temporary record of each student enrolled on or after June 2002
will be destroyed no later than seven years after the student transfers, graduates or withdraws from the School District. Written
notice to the eligible student and his/her parent of the approximate date of destruction of the temporary record and their right to
receive the information in whole or in part, shall be made at the time of such transfer, graduation, or withdrawal. The student's
transcript may only be destroyed 60 years following his/her graduation, transfer, or withdrawal from the school system.
The Committee wishes to make clear that all individual student records of the school system are confidential. This extends to giving
out individual addresses and telephone numbers.
Source: MASC February 2019
Legal References:
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974,
• P.L. 93-380, Amended
• P.L. 103-382, 1994
• M.G.L. 66:10 71:34A, B, D, E, H
• 603 CMR: 23.00
Cross Reference:
• KDB: Public’s Right to Know
File: KBBA: NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS’ RIGHTS
As required by Massachusetts General Law, a non-custodial parent may have access to the student record in accordance with law
and Dept. of Elementary and Secondary Education Regulations. The Attleboro Public School District will follow the law and the
regulations developed by the Massachusetts Dept. of Elementary and Secondary Education to standardize the process by which
public schools provide student records to parents who do not have physical custody of their children ("non-custodial parents").
As required by law, a non-custodial parent may have access to the student record in accordance with the following provisions.
a) A non-custodial parent is eligible to obtain access to the student record unless the school or district has been given
documentation that:
1. The parent has been denied legal custody or has been ordered to supervised visitation, based on a threat to the
safety of the student and the threat is specifically noted in the order pertaining to custody or supervised visitation, or
2. The parent has been denied visitation, or
3. The parent's access to the student has been restricted by a temporary or permanent protective order, unless the
protective order (or any subsequent order modifying the protective order) specifically allows access to the
information contained in the student record, or
4. There is an order of a probate and family court judge which prohibits the distribution of student records to the parent.
b) The school shall place in the student's record documents indicating that a non-custodial parent's access to the student's
record is limited or restricted pursuant to regulation.
c) In order to obtain access, the non-custodial parent must submit a written request for the student record to the school
principal.
d) Upon receipt of the request the school must immediately notify the custodial parent by certified and first-class-mail, in
English and the primary language of the custodial parent, that it will provide the non-custodial parent with access after 21
days, unless the custodial parent provides the principal with documentation that the non-custodial parent is not eligible to
obtain access as set forth in regulation.
e) The school must delete all electronic and postal address and telephone number information relating to either work or
home locations of the custodial parent from student records provided to non-custodial parents. In addition, such records
must be marked to indicate that they shall not be used to enroll the student in another school.
f) Upon receipt of a court order which prohibits the distribution of information pursuant to law, the school shall notify the
non-custodial parent that it shall cease to provide access to the student record to the non-custodial parent.
Source: MASC October 2016
Legal References:
• M.G.L. 71:34D; 71:34H
• 603 CMR 23.07 Access Procedures for Non-Custodial Parents
• 20 U.S.C. §1232g Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
File KE: PUBLIC COMPLAINTS
Although no member of the community will be denied the right to bring their complaints to the Committee, they will be referred
through the proper administrative channels for solution before investigation or action by the Committee. Exceptions will be made
when the complaints concern Committee actions or Committee operations only.
The Committee believes that complaints are best handled and resolved as close to their origin as possible, and that the
professional staff should be given every opportunity to consider the issues and attempt to resolve the problem prior to involvement
by the Committee. Therefore, the proper channeling of complaints involving instruction, discipline or learning materials will be as
follows:
1. Staff Members
2. School Building Administration and/or Director of Special Education
3. Assistant Superintendent
4. Superintendent
5. School Committee
If a complaint, which was presented to the Committee and referred back through the proper channels, is adjusted before it comes
back to the School Committee, a report of the disposition of the matter will be made to the Committee and then placed in the official
files.
Complaints about school personnel will be investigated fully and fairly. However, before any such complaint is investigated, the
complainant must submit his complaint in writing. Anonymous complaints will be disregarded.
Matters referred to the Superintendent and/or School Committee must be in writing and should be specific in terms of the action
desired.
The Committee expects the professional staff to receive complaints courteously and to make a proper reply to the complainant.
Source: MASC October 2016
Legal References:
• MG.L. 76:5
• 603 CMR 26.00
File: KI: VISITORS TO THE SCHOOLS
While the Attleboro Public Schools encourage the involvement of parents and community members in the education of district
students, Attleboro has a duty to ensure that the educational process is not unnecessarily disrupted, as well as to protect the safety
and confidentiality of its students. As a result, certain rules and procedures must be followed to ensure that visits are not harmful to
the students or the educational process.
Parents, guardians, and caretakers will be allowed to enter school buildings for quick visits for the purpose of dismissing a student,
bringing in medications, dropping off forgotten lunches, gym clothes, etc. Such “quick visits” need not be prearranged; however, such
visitors may not be allowed beyond the main office, depending on circumstances.
Visitors will be allowed to enter school buildings for purposes of prearranged meetings, visits, or observations. All visitors to the
Attleboro Public Schools must report to the main office immediately upon entrance into a school building. All visitors whose
destinations are other than the main office must sign in, noting the time of their arrival and identifying the location and purpose of
their visit. These visitors must wear a visitor badge at all times while in the school building. The building principal will designate a
staff member to escort visitors to their appropriate destination. Teachers are encouraged to ask visitors if they have registered in
the Principal’s Office.
Upon completion of their pre-arranged meetings, visits, or observations, all visitors shall proceed directly to the main office. They
must sign out, noting the time of their departures, and return their visitor’s badges. Visitors may not proceed to any areas of the
building other than the designated locations of their meetings, visits, or observations, without first returning to the main office and
obtaining express administrative approval to access other areas of the building.
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact the principal.
Source: MASC October 2016
APPENDIX B
LEGAL ISSUES
The following Federal Regulations and Massachusetts General Laws were used as guidelines in the development of
this Handbook.
Chapter 51 Protective Eye Devices
Chapter 71, Section 32A Parental Notification Act
Chapter 71 Tobacco Use
Chapter 119, Section 51A Child Abuse
Chapter 266, Section 102A-1/2 Hoax Devices
Chapter 269, Section 17 Hazing
Chapter 622 & Title IX
Title IX Sex Discrimination
Chapter 622 Discrimination in Public Schools
MGL 151C, Chapter 622 Harassment
Chapter 71, Section 34H Non-Custodial Parents’ Rights
Chapter 71, Section 37H Expulsion: Weapons/Assault
Chapter 71, Section 37H-1/2 Suspension/Expulsion: Felony
Chapter 272, Section 99 Audio, Video Taping
CHAPTER 51
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, Section 32A
Parental Notification 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.
CHAPTER 71
Tobacco Use
According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, there is to be no use of any tobacco products by any student or staff in
SCHOOL, on SCHOOL GROUNDS, or in a SCHOOL BUS (subject to disciplinary code.) Additionally: tobacco products visibly
displayed by any student will be surrendered to any faculty, staff, or administrator.
Attleboro Health Department Regulation 23, Section 6A, make it unlawful for any person to smoke on public and private school
grounds. Such violation shall be subject to fines and penalties. Attleboro Health Department Regulation 23, Section 10 prohibits a
minor from possession of a tobacco product in any public place, and or open public place within the City of Attleboro. Any minor
found in possession of any tobacco product shall have the product confiscated and be subject to fine and penalty.
CHAPTER 119, Section 51A
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 Children and Families.
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 by 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.
Existing laws criminalize false fire alarms (G. L. c. 266 sec. 13) and false reports of the location of any explosive or other
dangerous substance (G. L. c. 266 sec. 14).
CHAPTER 269, Section 17
This law was amended in 1985 to include the following sections on prohibiting the practice of hazing:
Hazing
Whoever is principal 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 U. S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights, 33 Arch Street, Ninth Floor, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110. Telephone: 617-289-0111.
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 Office of the Civil Rights, U.S. Department
of Education, Five Post Office Square – 8
th
Floor, Boston, MA 02109-3921 - (617) 289-0111.
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.
Harassment
Massachusetts General Laws: MGL 151C, Chapter 622
Attleboro Elementary Schools will provide to all an environment free from harassment. The schools are committed to courteous and
considerate treatment of students and employees at all times as an accepted standard of behavior. Attleboro Elementary Schools
will have an atmosphere free of tension caused by demeaning or inappropriate gender identity, religious, racial, sexual, or ethnic
comments. It is the policy of Attleboro Elementary Schools 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 all Attleboro Elementary Schools
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 all Attleboro Elementary Schools, and covers all relationships
including, but not limited to, peer relationships, student/staff, and student/teacher. Everyone in all Attleboro Elementary Schools is
responsible for ensuring that his or her behavior is free from sexual harassment or any form of harassment and no individual should
engage in, condone, or encourage harassing behavior.
Definitions
Harassment:
In General: Harassment includes communications such as gestures, jokes, comments, innuendoes, notes, display of pictures or
symbols, communicated in any form, including orally, in writing, or electronically via the Internet, cell phones, text messaging or in
any other way, that shows disrespect to others based upon race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or
disability. The act of bullying/cyber-bullying may accompany harassment.
Bullying/cyber-bullying is the severe and/or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal, or electronic expression, or a
physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at another student that has the effect of:
● causing physical or emotional harm to the other student or damage to the other student’s property;
● placing the other student in reasonable fear of harm, or of damage to their property;
● creating a hostile environment at school for the other student;
● infringing on the rights of the other student at school; or
● materially and substantially disrupting the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
Sexual Harassment:
While all types of harassment are prohibited, sexual harassment requires particular attention. Sexual harassment includes sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
1. Acceptance of or submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment or
education.
2. The individual’s response to such conduct is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting an employee as a basis
for education, disciplinary, or other decisions affecting a student.
3. Such conduct interferes with an individual’s job duties, education, or participation in extracurricular activities.
4. The conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or school environment.
HARASSMENT AND RETALIATION PROHIBITED
Harassment in any form or for any reason is absolutely forbidden. This includes harassment by administrators, certified and support
personnel, students, vendors, and other individuals in school or at school-related events. In addition, retaliation against any individual
who has brought harassment or other inappropriate behavior to the attention of the school or who has cooperated in an investigation
of a complaint under this policy is unlawful and will not be tolerated by the Attleboro Public Schools.
Persons who engage in harassment or retaliation may be subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, reprimand,
suspension, termination/expulsion, or other sanctions as determined by the school district administration subject to applicable
procedural requirements.
NONDISCRIMINATION/ANTI-HARASSMENT PROCEDURES
Investigation Process
Any individual who believes he or she has been harassed, or who has witnessed or learned about the harassment of another person
in the school environment, should inform the School Principal or appropriate discrimination/harassment complaint official as soon as
possible. If the individual does not address the problem in an effective manner, the individual should inform the appropriate
discrimination/harassment complaint official. The discrimination/harassment complaint officials for the Attleboro Public Schools are:
Titles VI, VII, IX, Chapter 622, and Age Discrimination Coordinator
Laurie Regan, Assistant Superintendent
Attleboro Public Schools
One Blue Pride Way, Attleboro, Massachusetts 02703-2799
(508) 222-0012, ext. 10010
Section 504/Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Ivone Medeiros, Director of Special Education and Student Support Services
Attleboro Public Schools
One Blue Pride Way, Attleboro, Massachusetts 02703-2799
(508) 222-0012, ext. 10057
Titles VI, VII, IX, Chapter 622, Section 504/ADA, and Age Discrimination Appeals Officer
Laurie Regan, Assistant Superintendent
Attleboro Public Schools
One Blue Pride Way, Attleboro Massachusetts 02703-2799
(508) 222-0012, ext. 10010
U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights
Five Post Office Square, 8th Floor
Boston, MA 02109-3921
Phone: (617) 289-0111
Fax: (617) 289-0150
The Attleboro Public Schools will promptly investigate every complaint of harassment. If it determines that harassment has occurred,
it will take appropriate action to end the harassment and to ensure that it is not repeated. Confidentiality will be maintained to the
extent consistent with the school’s obligations under law and under applicable collective bargaining agreements.
Complaints between the alleged victim and the alleged harasser may be handled two ways: through an Informal or Formal Procedure.
A. A student who has a complaint against another student may choose to use the Informal Procedure.
B. An employee who has a complaint against another employee may choose to use the Informal Procedure.
C. A student who has a complaint against an employee shall be handled only through the Formal Procedure.
In certain cases, the harassment of a student may constitute child abuse under state law. The Attleboro Public Schools will comply
with all legal requirements governing the reporting of suspected cases of child abuse and will report suspected criminal activity to the
appropriate authorities.
Please note that if the student or employee who is the alleged victim or the alleged harasser chooses not to utilize the Informal
Procedure; or feels that the Informal Procedure is inadequate or has been unsuccessful, s/he may proceed to the Formal Procedure.
APPEALS
A party may appeal the decision of the school principal or the discrimination/harassment complaint official in writing to the
Superintendent within fifteen (15) workdays of receipt of the findings of the formal procedure. The Superintendent will review the
adequacy of the investigations and the conclusions. Parties will be given an opportunity to present their case to the Superintendent.
REPORTING OF POTENTIAL PHYSICAL AND/OR SEXUAL ABUSE
Several behaviors listed as sexual harassment may also constitute physical or sexual abuse. Sexual abuse is defined as any act or
acts by any person involving sexual molestation or exploitation of a child, including but not limited to incest, prostitution, rape, sodomy,
or any lewd or lascivious conduct involving a child. Thus, under certain circumstances, alleged harassment may also be possible
physical and/or sexual abuse under Massachusetts law. Such harassment or abuse is subject to the duties of mandatory reporting
and must be reported to the Department of Social Services within 24 hours of the time the educator becomes aware of the suspected
abuse.
CONFIDENTIALITY
The Attleboro Public Schools recognizes that both the alleged victim and the alleged harasser have strong interests in maintaining
the confidentiality of the allegations and related information. The privacy of the alleged victim, the individual(s) against whom the
complaint is filed, and the witnesses will be respected as much as possible, consistent with legal obligations to investigate, to take
appropriate action, and to comply with any discovery or disclosure obligations.
CHAPTER 71, Section 34H
Non-custodial Parents’ Rights
General Laws Chapter 71, Section 34H, commonly referred to as the Non-Custodial Parents’ Rights. It is the policy of the Attleboro
School Committee that, as required by General Laws Chapter 71, section 34H, a non-custodial parent may have access to the student
record in accordance with law and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Regulations. The school District will follow
the law and the attachments recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to
standardize the process by which public schools provide student record to parents who do not have physical custody of their children
(“non-custodial parents”). The implementation of this policy will hopefully encourage parents to be involved in and informed about the
education of their children, while protecting the rights and safety of all parties. (File KBBA)
CHAPTER 71, Section 37H
EXPULSION FOR POSSESSION OF A DANGEROUS WEAPON OR A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE OR ASSAULT OF
EDUCATIONAL PERSONNEL
The Superintendent of every school district shall publish the district’s policies pertaining to the conduct of teachers and students.
Said policies shall prohibit the use of any tobacco products within the school buildings, the school facilities or on the school grounds
or on school buses by any individual, including school personnel. Said policies shall further restrict operators of school buses and
personal motor vehicles, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, from idling such vehicles on school grounds, consistent with
section 16B of chapter 90 and regulations adopted pursuant thereto and by the department. The policies shall also prohibit bullying
as defined in section 37O and shall include the student-related sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan required by
said section 37O. Copies of these policies shall be provided to any person upon request and without cost by the principal of every
school within the district.
Each school district’s policies pertaining to the conduct of students shall include the following: disciplinary proceedings, including
procedures assuring due process; standards and procedures for suspension and expulsion of students; procedures pertaining to
discipline of students with special needs; standards and procedures to assure school building security and safety of students and
school personnel; and the disciplinary measures to be taken in cases involving the possession or use of illegal substances or
weapons, the use of force, vandalism, or violation of a student’s civil rights. Codes of discipline, as well as procedures used to
develop such codes shall be filed with the department of education for informational purposes only.
In each school building containing the grades nine to twelve, inclusive, the principal, in consultation with the school council, shall
prepare and distribute to each student a student handbook setting forth the rules pertaining to the conduct of students. The student
handbook shall include an age-appropriate summary of the student-related sections of the bullying prevention and intervention plan
required by section 37O. The school council shall review the student handbook each spring to consider changes in disciplinary
policy to take effect in September of the following school year, but may consider policy changes at any time. The annual review
shall cover all areas of student conduct, including but not limited to those outlined in this section.
Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain the following provisions:
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, in his 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 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. Any school district that suspends or expels a student under this section shall continue to provide educational
services to the student during the period of suspension or expulsion, under section 21 of chapter 76. If the
student moves to another district during the period of suspension or expulsion, the new district of residence
shall either admit the student to its schools or provide educational services to the student in an education
service plan, under section 21 of chapter 76.
f. Districts shall report to the department of elementary and secondary education the specific reasons for all
suspensions and expulsions, regardless of duration or type, in a manner and form established by the
commissioner. The department of elementary and secondary education shall use its existing data collection
tools to obtain this information from districts and shall modify those tools, as necessary, to obtain the
information. On an annual basis, the department of elementary and secondary education shall make district
level de-identified data and analysis, including the total number of days each student is excluded during the
school year, available to the public online in a machine-readable format. This report shall include district level
data disaggregated by student status and categories established by the commissioner.
g. Under the regulations promulgated by the department, for each school that suspends or expels a significant
number of students for more than 10 cumulative days in a school year, the commissioner shall investigate and,
as appropriate, shall recommend models that incorporate intermediary steps prior to the use of suspension or
expulsion. The results of the analysis shall be publicly reported at the school district level.
CHAPTER 71, Section 37H1/2
SUSPENSION/EXPULSION FOR A FELONY CHARGE OR CONVICTION
Notwithstanding the provisions of section eighty-four and sections sixteen and seventeen of chapter seventy-six:
(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 or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may suspend such student for
a period of time determined appropriate by said principal or headmaster if said principal or headmaster 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 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 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 behalf
and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or
headmaster, 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 city, town, or regional school
district 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 or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may expel said student if such principal
or headmaster 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 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 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 behalf and shall have the
right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or headmaster,
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 city, town, or regional school district
with regard to the expulsion.
Any school district that suspends or expels a student under this section shall continue to provide educational services to the
student during the period of suspension or expulsion, under section 21 of chapter 76. If the student moves to another district during
the period of suspension or expulsion, the new district of residence shall either admit the student to its schools or provide
educational services to the student under an education service plan, under section 21 of chapter 76.
CHAPTER 71, Section 37H3/4
SUSPENSION/EXPULSION FOR ALL OTHER STUDENTS
This section shall govern the suspension and expulsion of students enrolled in a public school in the commonwealth who are not
charged with a violation of subsections (a) or (b) of section 37H or with a felony under section 37H1/2.
a) Any principal, headmaster, superintendent or other person acting as a decision-maker at a student meeting or hearing,
when deciding the consequences for the student, shall exercise discretion; consider ways to re-engage the student in the
learning process; and avoid using expulsion as a consequence until other remedies and consequences have been
employed.
b) For any suspension or expulsion under this section, the principal or headmaster of a school in which the student is
enrolled, or a designee, shall provide, to the student and to the parent or guardian of the student, notice of the charges
and the reason for the suspension or expulsion in English and in the primary language spoken in the home of the student.
The student shall receive the written notification and shall have the opportunity to meet with the principal or headmaster,
or a designee, to discuss the charges and reasons for the suspension or expulsion prior to the suspension or expulsion
taking effect. The principal or headmaster, or a designee, shall ensure that the parent or guardian of the student is
included in the meeting, provided that such meeting may take place without the parent or guardian only if the principal or
headmaster, or a designee, can document reasonable efforts to include the parent or guardian in that meeting. The
department shall promulgate rules and regulations that address a principal’s duties under this subsection and procedures
for including parents in student exclusion meetings, hearings, or interviews under this subsection.
c) If a decision is made to suspend or expel the student after the meeting, the principal or headmaster, or a designee, shall
update the notification for the suspension or expulsion to reflect the meeting with the student. If a student has been
suspended or expelled for more than 10 school days for a single infraction or for more than 10 school days cumulatively
for multiple infractions in any school year, the student and the parent or guardian of the student shall also receive, at the
time of the suspension or expulsion decision, written notification of a right to appeal and the process for appealing the
suspension or expulsion in English and in the primary language spoken in the home of the student; provided, however,
that the suspension or expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing. The principal or headmaster or a
designee shall notify the superintendent in writing, including, but not limited to, by electronic means, of any out-of-school
suspension imposed on a student enrolled in kindergarten through grade 3 prior to such suspension taking effect. That
notification shall describe the student’s alleged misconduct and the reasons for suspending the student out-of-school. For
the purposes of this section, the term “out-of-school suspension” shall mean a disciplinary action imposed by school
officials to remove a student from participation in school activities for 1 day or more.
d) A student who has been suspended or expelled from school for more than 10 school days for a single infraction or for
more than 10 school days cumulatively for multiple infractions in any school year shall have the right to appeal the
suspension or expulsion to the superintendent. The student or a parent or guardian of the student shall notify the
superintendent in writing of a request for an appeal not later than 5 calendar days following the effective date of the
suspension or expulsion; provided, that a student and a parent or guardian of the student may request, and if so
requested, shall be granted an extension of up to 7 calendar days. The superintendent or a designee shall hold a hearing
with the student and the parent or guardian of the student within 3 school days of the student’s request for an appeal;
provided that a student or a parent or guardian of the student may request and, if so requested, shall be granted an
extension of up to 7 calendar days; provided further, that the superintendent, or a designee, may proceed with a hearing
without a parent or guardian of the student if the superintendent, or a designee, makes a good faith effort to include the
parent or guardian. At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony, cross-examine
witnesses and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal in writing within 5
calendar days of the hearing. That decision shall be the final decision of the school district with regard to the suspension
or expulsion.
e) No student shall be suspended or expelled from a school or school district for a time period that exceeds 90 school days,
beginning the first day the student is removed from an assigned school building.
Attleboro Public Schools
Parent Acknowledgement
I have reviewed and I understand the regulations and policies contained in the Attleboro Public Schools High School
Handbook as they pertain to my son/daughter.
I understand that my son/daughter is responsible for following the regulations and policies of the High School.
I am aware of the parental role regarding attendance, tardiness, dismissal, emergency information, publications
releases, family vacations, general information, medical information, transportation policy, Student Code of Conduct,
disciplinary policy, district policy, and legal issues.
I understand that Attleboro Public School Policy Book is available on the district website and individual school websites
as well as in the Superintendent’s Office. I may call and make an appointment to review it.
Student Name: ____________________________________ Grade: _______________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________________________ Date: ________________
THE ATTLEBORO PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON
THE BASIS OF AGE, COLOR, DISABILITY, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RACE, RELIGION, SEX, GENDER IDENTITY OR
SEXUAL ORIENTATION.
