| Student / Parent Handbook -> Agenda WATERTOWN HIGH SCHOOL – STUDENT HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS Clicking on Table of Contents item takes you to the topic description.
I STUDENT INFORMATION Mission Statement, Watertown Board of Education
Mission Statement, Watertown High School
Accreditation
Anti-Hazing Policy
Asbestos Notification
Special Education Identification
Nondiscrimination Policy
Sexual Harassment
Bullying Policy
Agendas
Age of Majority
Attendance Policy
Tardiness to School
Tardiness to Class/Study Hail
Early Dismissal
Class Participation
Dances
Dress Code
Driver Education
Code Orange (Emergency Procedures)
Evacuation
Field Trips
Fire Drill
Homework Policy
ID’s - Student
Information – Parent
Internet, Use of
Library Media Center
Lockers
Lunch
Nurse – Health Office
10th Grade Physicals – (Health Assessment)
Plagiarism
Residency
Student Parking
School Materials
Study Halls
Transportation
Visitors
Working Papers
Writing Lab II DISCIPLINE Code of Conduct - Overview
Rules for Saturday Detention
Drug and Alcohol Policy III ACADEMIC PROGRAMS Credits
Dropping of Subjects
Graduation Requirements
Graduation Performance Standards
Guidance – School Counselors
Honor Roll
Marking System
Pass/Fail Subjects
Transcripts
Watertown Tuition Summer School IV SPECIAL SUPPORT PROGRAMS
Watertown Intervention Strategy Team (WIST) Advisory Link Crew V EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Clubs & Organizations VI ATHLETICS Athletic Physicals – (Health Assessment)
Sports, Fall, Winter, Spring
Jackets VII CLASS SCHEDULE VIII CREATING A BIBLIOGRAPHY WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Watertown School District, with determination to be a world-class educational leader and a centerpiece of a dynamic and growing community, is to meet the diverse needs of each student - academic, artistic, athletic, emotional, ethical, social and technological to develop members of our community who: 1. embrace lifelong learning;
2. are caring and responsible citizens;
3. have a sense of social justice; This will be accomplished by: 1. establishing high expectations for all students;
2. partnering with parents and the community as a whole;
3. providing the differentiated instructions, guidance and resources necessary to achieve these high expectations set forth for our students, staff, and community.
WATERTOWN HIGH SCHOOL
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Watertown High School is to prepare its students to succeed in the 21st century by providing educational programs that fulfill the rights and needs of all students. We are committed to fostering the skills, attitudes, and habits essential for life-long learners in a technological, multicultural, global society. Consequently, through the interaction of the students, staff, administration, family and community, students are encouraged, challenged, and expected to achieve their highest potential in order to become responsible citizens and productive members of society. Academic Expectations for Student Learning
Watertown High School students will:
1. Utilize decision-making and problem-solving techniques based on critical thinking skills.
2. Communicate effectively for a variety of purposes.
3. Employ computational and mathematical skills appropriately.
4. Apply technology to acquire, process, and impart information.
5. Develop understanding, appreciation, and skills in the arts.
6. Apply principles and processes of the sciences to analyze phenomena and solve problems related to the natural world.
7. Develop knowledge of world cultures and examine America’s role in the world community.
Civic and Social Expectations for Student Learning
Watertown High School students will:
1. Take responsibility for their own learning and behavior.
2. Participate in school co-curricular, and community activities to demonstrate civic and global awareness.
3. Recognize that knowledge is interrelated and cumulative.
4. Make appropriate choices in dealing with health, wellness, and environmental issues.
5. Demonstrate social and emotional growth by respecting themselves and others.
Expectations for District and Community Performance
Citizens of the Watertown School District will:
1. Provide the financial support necessary for Watertown High School to meet its academic, social, and civic expectations.
2. Support the school community through volunteer efforts, attendance at student activities, and participation in booster groups.
3. Foster a spirit of cooperation between Watertown High School and local business and community groups.
ACCREDITATION
Watertown High School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., a non-governmental, nationally recognized organization whose affiliated institutions include elementary schools through collegiate institutions offering postgraduate instruction.
Inquiries regarding the status of an institution’s accreditation by the NEASC should be directed to the administrative staff of the school or college. Individuals may also contact the Association: COMMISSION ON PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS
NEW ENGLAND ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
209 BURLINGTON ROAD
BEDFORD, MA 01730-1433
(781) 271-0022
ANTI-HAZING POLICY
The district strictly prohibits students from engaging individually or collectively in any form of hazing or related initiation activity on school property, in conjunction with any school activity or involving any person associated with the school. Any student who participates in hazing or related initiation activity, or conspires to engage in hazing, will face immediate disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion, exclusion and loss of participation in extracurricular activities. In addition, students who participate in hazing may be referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities and may face subsequent prosecution.
ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION
Watertown High School is inspected every six (6) months as required by 19a-333-1 through 13 of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies, “Asbestos-Containing Materials in Schools”; to determine any changes in the condition of identified asbestos-containing building materials. Additionally, the school is reinspected every three years by an accredited inspector following the same basic criteria as stated in the asbestos management plan.
The high school maintains a complete updated copy of the asbestos management plan in its main office. It is available during normal business hours for inspection. Additionally, a master copy of the plan for all schools is maintained in the office of the Director of Operations at the Board of Education.
This notification is required by law and should not be construed to indicate the existence of any hazardous conditions in our school buildings.
SPECIAL EDUCATION IDENTIFICATION
Identification of a student as eligible for special education services begins with a written referral. That written request may come directly from the parent/guardian or directly from the school’s Intervention Strategy Team. Either route requires that a request be in writing. By or before the 45th day a meeting of staff and parents will have been called to review the evaluations done by school staff, a decision arrived at regarding eligibility for services and a program designed, ready to be implemented on the forty-fifth day if the child is declared eligible. Parents are encouraged to pick up a copy of their Rights at the main office.
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
The Watertown Board of Education is committed to comply with nondiscrimination practices to the end that no person in its employ or under its jurisdiction shall, on grounds of age, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, handicap, sexual affinity, marital status, present or past history of mental disorder or physical disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in employment or in any program or activity.
The Board designates the Asst. Superintendent of Schools, Watertown School Department, 10 Deforest St., Watertown, CT (Telephone, 945-4800) as compliance officer (hereinafter, Equity/Title IX Officer) and Marylu Lerz, Principal, Swift Middle School, 250 Colonial, Oakville, CT (Telephone, 945-4830) as compliance officer for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
All outside agencies and organizations given assistance by the Board shall be required to abide by this policy. Any person who believes themselves to have been discriminated against in violation of this policy may file a grievance in accordance with the Equity/Title IX Grievance Procedures.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment will not be tolerated among students of the school district. It is the policy of the Board of Education that any form of sexual harassment is forbidden whether by students, supervisory or non-supervisory personnel, individuals under contract, or volunteers subject to the control of the Board. Students are expected to adhere to a standard of conduct that is respectful and courteous to employees, to fellow students and to the public.
Guidelines: Sexual harassment is prohibited in the school system. Sexual harassment can occur when, but is not limited to:
1. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis of academic decisions affecting the individual.
2. The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact upon the individual's academic performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.
3. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision affecting the individual regarding services, honors, programs, or activities available at or through the educational institution.
4. Suggestive or obscene letters, notes, invitations, derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, epithets, assault, touching, impeding or blocking movement, leering, gestures, display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or cartoons.
5. Continuing to express sexual interest after being informed that the interest is unwelcome.
6. Coercive sexual behavior used to control, influence, or affect the educational opportunities, grades, and/or learning environment of student, including promises or threats regarding grades, course admission, performance evaluations, or recommendations; enhancement or limitation of student benefits or services (e.g. scholarships, financial aid, work study job).
7. Inappropriate attention of a sexual nature from peer(s) i.e. student-to-student, employee to employee.
Procedure for Students to Follow It is the expressed policy of the Board of Education to encourage victims of sexual harassment to report such claims. Students are encouraged to promptly report complaints of sexual harassment to the Vice Principal or Principal of the school. Complaints will be investigated promptly and corrective action will be taken when allegations are verified. Confidentiality will be maintained by all persons involved in the investigation and no reprisals or retaliation will be allowed to occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment.
WATERTOWN BOARD OF EDUCATION SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
Sexual harassment is "any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, when (1) submissions to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment decision affecting the 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 work environment". (Work place will be translated as school environment). These behaviors will not be tolerated in the Watertown Public Schools. All members of the Watertown Public School community can work and learn in security and dignity and are not required to endure insulting, degrading, or exploitative treatment. Any violation of this policy including engaging in the following behaviors is a basis upon which disciplinary action will be taken up to and including dismissal:
1. Abusing the dignity of a student or employee through insulting or degrading sexual remarks or conducts;
2. Threats, demands, or suggestions that a student's, employee's, or potential employee's status is contingent upon his/her tolerance of, or acquiescence to, sexual advances; or
3. Retaliation against a student or employee for complaining about the behavior described above. The Board designates the Assistant Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee, Watertown School Department, 10 DeForest Street, Watertown, Connecticut (Telephone 945-4802) as compliance officer (hereinafter, "Equity/Title IX Officer).
All outside agencies and organizations given assistance by the Board shall be required to abide by this policy.
Any person who believes themselves to have been subject to behavior in violation of this policy may file a grievance in accordance with the Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures which can be found in Appendix A of the course selection catalogue.
Forms are available in the main office at all schools and the business office of the Board of Education.
BULLYING POLICY
It is the policy of the Watertown Board of Education:
To provide staff with instruction about the nature of bullying and its long lasting and harmful effects on the victim(s). To engage all students from pre-school through high school in instruction about the nature of bullying and its long-lasting harmful effect on the student-victim(s) and to practice interpersonal skills that ensure against the initiation of, or, continuance of bullying. To educate all students about the importance of reporting bullying. To provide a simple, anonymous vehicle by which students can report bullying to teachers/administrators. To provide a simple vehicle by which parents/guardians can report suspected bullying. To mandate teachers and staff reporting of reported or witnessed bullying, in writing, to the building administration. To mandate that administrators or their designees investigate such written or anonymous reports, or oral reports by a student too young/unable to write and to implement follow-up with the offender(s) at an appropriate developmental level. To mandate that the parents or guardians of students who commit verified acts of bullying, as well as the parents of the victim, be notified by the administrator orally and in writing. To maintain by school, a list of the number of verified acts of bullying, such as numeration to be considered public information. To afford all due process rights to the student or students accused of bullying: an individual opportunity to meet with the administrator to tell his/her side of the incident, before imposing discipline; and to have parent/guardian present if an incident arises to the level of a felony and the police are involved in any proceeding. To publish in the schools’ handbooks a definition of bullying and the grade level consequences of a verified case of bullying. Approved: Board of Education, October 28, 2002
Effective Date: October 29, 2002 for the 3rd quarter
I. STUDENT INFORMATION
Agendas
Student Agenda planners must be carried by the student at all times. They may be required by teachers for classroom assignments and activities. Agendas contain pages to be used for student passes signed by his/her teacher. A student may not use the agenda of another student for pass purposes. Replacement agendas may be issued at student cost. All passes must be written in students' agendas.
Age of Majority
The State of Connecticut recognizes persons who are 18 yrs. old and have reached the age of majority. The Watertown Board of Education has determined that all reasonable school regulations are to apply to all students regardless of age and that persons 18 years of age or over will be considered students first and adults second. The school system recognizes its moral responsibility to the parent regardless of the age of the students in its charge. All contacts and records shall continue to be maintained with the home.
Attendance Policy
The Watertown Board of Education has established an attendance policy requirement for all courses offered based on the following conclusions:
1. Students are expected to attend school and be on time.
2. Time lost from class is essential irretrievable.
3. Required attendance to all classes is essential to fulfill academic requirements and to ensure the most meaningful learning experience for each student.
If a student exceeds (4) unexcused absences in a course during an academic quarter and has a grade higher than 60, a grade of 60 will be given. If a student’s course grade is below 60, the actual grade will be given.
For purposes of this policy, all absences will count except for:
1. Participation in school-approved activities
2. Personal illness confirmed by a physician
3. Mandatory court appearance
4. Religious holidays
5. College interview with completed form from admissions office or written verification from parent/guardian
6. Death in family
7. Suspension from school
8. Limited absence from school for special activities with parental consent, subject to prior approval of principal/assistant principal.
Family trips/vacations will not be regarded as reasons for exceeding the absence limitation. Parents are strongly discouraged from contemplating family vacations when school is in session. Any parent contemplating family vacations during school should contact the school at least two weeks prior to the contemplated vacation dates to ascertain its probable impact on the child’s academic and credit situation.
Parents are asked to call the school on a day when their child will be absent. Prolonged or frequent illness, which causes a stuednt to be absent from a class more than six times in one marking period must be confirmed by a physician. Parent notes are accepted to excuse absences of less than six days but these notes must be received within five days of the student's return to school.
Note: Students who are absent from school may not participate in athletic or extracurricular activities on the day of the absence.
Tardiness to School
A tardy is defined as arrival to class or school after the bell. Students who are tardy to school must sign in at the office and receive a late pass to class.
Reasons for excused tardiness to school are the same as those identified for approved absences.
Students who arrive to school late due to car trouble or oversleeping are not considered excused. Each student will be allowed two tardy arrivals to school per semester without detention penalty, provided that they arrive at school by 8:30 AM. Arriving at school after 8:30 will result in a class cut for the first block and any other blocks missed and the assignment of disciplinary consequences per the Code of Conduct.
Note: Students who are tardy to school may not participate in athletic competitions on that day without administrative approval.
Tardiness to Class and Study Hall
Students are expected to attend all classes and study halls.
An unapproved tardiness occurs when the student arrives to class or study hall late without a pass signed by a faculty/staff member, nurse or administrator.
Two unapproved tardies to class will translate to one absence, which will count toward the quarterly attendance limit.
Students who miss more than forty minutes of a class or study will be considered absent from that class/study, no matter what the reason.
Students will be issued a detention for each tardy to study hall. Detentions for tardiness to class will be at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Detentions for tardiness to class will be at the discretion of the classroom teacher.
Early Dismissal
Requests for early dismissals from school must be presented in writing to the main office before school begins. The reason for the dismissal must be stated and the note signed by a parent or guardian. Parents may not call the school to initiate an early dismissal. Parents should not request this privilege for matters that may be concluded outside of school hours or which are of a routine nature.
Permanent Early Dismissal
Students obtaining a permanent early dismissal must be in a senior homeroom or participating in an authorized work-study program.
If an eligible student has a study hall the last period of the school day, the student will be permitted to leave at that time. Students may not leave prior to 12:40.
In order to be academically eligible for permanent early dismissal, students are not allowed any failing grades or incomplete grades for the previous quarter report card in the current academic year.
A completed and approved early dismissal form must be on file in the main office, signed by a parent/guardian. Signed forms are due by the tenth day of the semester.
Students must have an appropriate early dismissal card updated each term.
Students must sign out at the assistant principal’s office before exiting the building.
APPEALS PROCESS for students who exceed 4 absences in a course during an academic quarter
The first level of appeals will be with the Assistant Principal.
All requests for an appeal must be made in writing to the Assistant Principal within (5) days of the notification by the Assistant Principal of course failure to parent/guardian.
The administration will review such documentation at the end of the quarter.
The earned grade may be restored if the Assistant Principal is satisfied with the explanation of the absences.
If the Assistant Principal’s decision is to sustain the grade reduction, the student may request a meeting with the Attendance Appeals Committee, comprised of an administrator, a counselor and a classroom teacher. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend this meeting, and come prepared with all necessary documentation to support the appeal.
The Appeals Committee may restore the earned grade when it fees that there are justified, extenuating circumstances outside the excused absence policy.
Class Participation
Student participation includes being present, prepared, on-task, respectful, and contributing to the learning community. Students need to be actively engaged in their learning. Class activities are an integral part of the learning process and increase the probability of student achievement. Students should be acknowledged and reinforced for effort and participation.
Dances
School sponsored dances are subject to the following regulations:
1. Watertown High School dances are for Watertown High School students currently in attendance only. No guests or visitors will be permitted to attend except for proms or semi-formals.
2. If decorations are to be used they must be fire retardant and flameproof.
3. With the exception of proms and semi-formals, school dances will be held from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM.
4. Tickets will be sold at the door from 7:30 PM until 9:00 PM. Students will not be allowed to enter a dance after 9:00 PM unless approved by the administration.
5. Students may leave a dance at any time. However they will not be permitted to reenter.
6. Break-dancing or any other type of dancing that may cause injuries is not permitted.
7. There is to be no loitering on school property while a dance is being held.
8. All school rules and regulations are in effect at school dances.
Dress Code
The responsibility for the appropriate appearance of students rests with the parents and the students themselves. They have the right to determine such student dress providing that such attire is not destructive to school property, does not endanger the safety of students, complies with the health code of the State of Connecticut, and does not detract from the educational process. This right may be restricted by the school administration in order to provide the best educational environment for the student. (See Code of Conduct)
Driver Education
Driver Education is offered by an outside agency that uses school facilities. This is done after the normal school day. Periodically announcements will be made providing information for the students.
Code Orange (Emergency Procedures)
A “code orange” announcement, made by an administrator, indicates that a potentially dangerous situation may exist in some portion of the building. Students are to remain in the rooms where they currently are until the code is cancelled. Any student in the hallway or lavatory should proceed immediately to the nearest classroom.
Evacuation
Watertown High School is equipped with an emergency evacuation alarm system. When the alarm sounds, students and staff should move to the areas outside the school designated for each classroom and await further instructions from the administration.
Field Trips
Field trips are activities that contribute to your education. Visiting various sites provides you with the opportunity to see theory put into practice. Since field trips are sponsored by the school supervision is required by the staff. All field trips are considered an extension of the school and the school day. All rules and regulations that pertain to students while in school or on school property are also in effect on field trips. Students going on field trips must be on time for school on the day of the trip.
Fire Drill
Students are to keep talking to an absolute minimum so instructions may be heard. Everyone is to move quickly out of the building without stopping at lockers.
All students are to remain on school property with their teacher away from cars and the bleachers and are to return to the building only when told to do so by either a teacher or an administrator.
Students In Rooms: 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 119 and 120 - Go down the corridor toward Guidance, down the corridor past the main office and out the door by the auditorium.
Library, Main Office, Nurse’s Office - Go down the corridor toward the auditorium and out the door by the auditorium.
109, 110, 111, 112, 114, 115, 116, 117,118, Senior Cafe - Go down the corridor toward the cafe, turn right and exit the door alongside the senior cafe. Note: during Blocks E and F, these rooms should evacuate through the doors at the guidance entrance to allow evacuation of the cafe.
129, 130, 131, 160, 163, 164, 166, Cafeteria - Go out the rear exit of the Vo-Ed Section.
133, 134, 138, 161, 165 - Go out the exterior exits of the classrooms and more to the rear of the building.
137, Pool, Auditorium, Girl’s gym - Exit via the pool corridor to the pool lobby and out the front door.
123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 135, 136, Boy’s Gym - Exit via the doors near the Boy’s gym locker area.
201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 218, 219, 220, 221 - Go down the corridor toward the front of the building, down the stairway and out the front door.
208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 214, 215, 216, 217 - Go down the south staircase, enter toward the new wing and exit through the first exterior doorway.
10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 - Exit via the exterior door in the stairwell on the bottom floor.
150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155 - Go toward the older wing, go down the short staircase and exit through the exterior door.
250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255 - Go down the staircase in the rear of the wing to the bottom floor. Exit via the exterior door in the stairwell on the bottom floor.
The end of a fire drill will be signaled by announcement from the office or by the continuous ringing of the bell. This will be the signal for you to return to the building and the classroom or station you left. If you have any questions see your classroom teacher.
Homework Policy
Homework is recognized as an integral part of this school’s educational program. It is a form of independent practice directly related to classroom work. Homework will be assigned in all grades. The kind and amount of homework will be determined by the teachers, department chairpersons and administrators. If homework is not done or is incomplete, lowered class grades and report card grades will result.
I.D.’s - Student
A student I.D. is issued to each student at the beginning of his/her freshman year. It must be carried by the student at all times and preserved for all four years of high school. Replacement I.D.’s will be issued at student cost. The bar code on each I.D. will serve as the student’s library card.
Information – Parent
In the event of a school emergency, parents will be provided with information via the local cable television station (Cable 5), local radio stations, and the Watertown High School website: www.watertownctschools.com Emergency telephone calls should be directed to the Munson House 945-4801 or the Watertown Police Department. Copies of the complete Watertown High School Crisis Management and School Safety Plan are available in the main office of the high school.
Internet, Use of
The Watertown Board of Education permits the use of electronic information resources in the schools, under staff supervision, to permit students to reach out to human resources, to share information, learn concepts, and support research. The use of on-line services must be in support of education and consistent with the educational objectives of the Watertown School District.
It is the responsibility of the students, parents, and staff to abide by the Board’s Electronic Information Resources procedures to ensure that the resources provided by the District are not abused and potential inappropriate materials are not accessed. Failure to abide by the Board’s policy and agreement signed by parents and students will lead to loss of privilege to use the Internet and disciplinary action including assessment of cost caused by willful misuse.
Library Media Center
The Library Media Center (LMC) is open from 7:30 AM until 3:30 PM on days when school is in session. The Library will be closed during the 1st half of the 1st block on Monday, 1st half of the 2nd block on Tuesday, 1sthalf of the 3rd block ono Wednesday, 1st half of the 4th block on Thursday and the last half of the last block on Friday. Library Media material is selected and purchased to supplement the students' classes and can answer most research questions relating to homework or personal information needs. Material is checked out for a two-week period and is renewable. Each overdue item is assessed a five-cent fine for each school day that it is late. Students must replace or pay for lost materials.
Passes are required for admittance during the school day and must be signed by a teacher. Students using the library must sign in at the main desk when they arrive; ten minutes before the end of the period, students must return to their study hall. Materials should be checked out or returned to the proper place at this time and all work areas should be left neat.
Other LMC rules: - Passes to other places are not provided by the library staff.
- Food of any kind is not allowed.
- Graffiti found on any library property will result in the artist losing library privileges and may be a suspendable offense.
- Computers are for school use only. - If you are not courteous, respectful, quiet and working, you will be asked to leave.
Lockers
Each student is assigned a locker with a combination lock. The combination is confidential and should be known only to the student and the administration. Locks and lockers are provided so that you can secure school materials and personal property. The sharing of lockers is not encouraged. Students are urged to clean out their lockers periodically for health and safety reasons. Backpacks, jackets and hats must be stored in lockers unless permission has been granted by the school nurse or administration.
The combination locks issued for gym lockers are the property of Watertown High School and are to be returned at the close of the school year. If the lock is not returned the student will be charged the cost of the lock. During swimming classes valuables should be given to the teacher for safekeeping.
Lunch
All students are expected to report to the cafeteria at the appropriate time. Students may purchase a hot lunch in the school cafeteria or bring a lunch from home. All eating is to be done in the cafeteria. Exhibiting good manners and consideration of others and the cleanliness of the cafeteria is expected of all. Students are expected to clean up their immediate area after eating. Food is not permitted in any other part of the building with the exception of the school store.
During lunch students are not to leave the building or to leave school property.
Nurse - Health Office
Watertown High School has a full time school nurse. Office hours are from 7:30 AM until 2:30 PM daily. If a student becomes ill and wish to go to the nurse’s office they should ask their teacher for a pass. If they are unable to go alone, a student or teacher will accompany them. If the nurse is not in, then the student is to report to the main office. If the illness is such that a student cannot remain in school for the rest of the day, arrangements will be made for the student to be sent home.
Any absence from class prior to reporting to the nurse or main office shall be considered an unexcused absence.
Any injury occurring on school grounds must be reported to the teacher in charge or to an administrator.
10th Grade Physicals - (Health Assessment)
Evidence of a current health assessment and updated immunization record is required in the 10th grade. Notification of such is made to the parents of 9th graders in writing during the spring of the school year. The completed health assessment must be submitted directly to the school nurse no later than June of the 10th grade year. Students who do not meet this requirement will be excluded from school on the first day of Grade 11 and until this requirement is met. Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch may have their health assessment done by the school doctor free of charge, provided they complete the appropriate form.
The Athletic Physical DOES NOT take the place of the state mandated 10th grade physical.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the improper use, or failure to acknowledge another person’s writing or ideas. It can be as simple as simple as the inadvertent omission of quotes or references when citing another source or as dishonest as copying an entire paper verbatim and claiming it as your own work. The consequences can be severe and may include a grade of “0” on a term paper or project and/or disciplinary action.
Residency Students who are living in Watertown but not with both or either of their parents must make this fact known to the high school administration. Unless proper procedures are followed the parents of the student may be subject to tuition charges.
Student Parking
The use of student parking spaces is a privilege at Watertown High School. Due to space limitations and the size of the student body, parking spaces will be assigned to seniors first and then underclassmen on a first-come basis. Students must register their cars (a valid insurance card must be presented) by purchasing a decal. Cars without decals or parked in areas other than assigned will have parking privileges revoked and/or car booted or towed at owner’s expense.
Students who drive to school must obey all posted speed and stop signs. They must also obey all rules regarding stopping for school buses while they are loading or unloading passengers. Failure to comply with these rules will result in disciplinary action including revocation of parking privileges. Students are reminded that while in their cars on school property, all school rules apply including no smoking.
School Materials
School materials are issued by the teachers, coaches or other school staff and must be returned at the end of the school year, athletic season or when a student discontinues a course. Students are responsible for lost or damaged school materials.
Study Halls
All students must report to the study hall. Study hall teachers may write passes to the nurse, library and lavatories. If the student has a signed pass to an alternate destination (e.g., counseling office) the student will be permitted to leave. All study halls are quiet study halls. There is to be absolutely no eating in classroom study halls.
Transportation
For reasons of safety and courtesy, the Board of Education on October 2, 1974 adopted the following rules and regulations involving transported students:
Smoking, opening the rear door of the bus, spitting, destruction of property, profane or abusive language directed toward the bus driver, fighting and other similar activities are recognized as sufficient reasons for the denial of bus transportation.
Radios, CD players, and laser pens are not to be used on school bus transportation.
Violations of the above will result in a conference with an administrator for the first offense, three-day suspension of bus riding privileges for the second offense. A third offense will result in a five-day suspension of bus privileges. Subsequent offenses will result in a hearing with the superintendent.
Students who ride buses should be aware that the bus is an extension of the school and that behavior on the bus should be consistent with behavior in school. The bus driver should be shown the same courtesy, consideration and respect as any other staff member
A special form for long-term bus change is available. Bus changes cannot be made on a daily basis.
Visitors
For safety and security reasons, student visitors are not permitted at Watertown High School.
Parents are welcome in the school but are requested to sign in and obtain a visitor’s badge at the main office upon arrival. Parents wishing to visit a class or see a teacher should make arrangements in advance with an administrator.
Working Papers
Working papers are required for employment if you are fifteen, sixteen or seventeen years of age. An applicant when applying for working papers must have evidence of age and a written promise of employment, from his/her prospective employer. These materials should be presented to the main office and working papers will be prepared. If a student already has working papers but changes jobs, another written promise of employment is necessary along with a copy of the original working papers.
Writing Lab
The Writing Lab is available to students and staff for computer work and research. All have Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and Choices, a career search program. Each student is assigned a personal account and a password of their choice. The lab is open school days from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, closing only from 12:00-12:30 and class use. Students may come from study halls or classes only if they have signed agenda passes. Students must sign in and out and leave ten minutes before the end of the block.
Rules for the Writing Lab are: -Accounts may not be shared -Use is for school-related work only
-Do not damage the equipment
-Once in the lab you may not leave except to return to class/study hall.
-Passes are required for admittance -Courtesy, respect, and good behavior are expected
Consequences: -Improper use of accounts (such as sharing passwords) results in at least a two-week loss of Internet access for all involved.
-Inappropriate language or graphics result in the loss of computer use for a time determined by an administrator. II. DISCIPLINE
Overview
These rules and regulations are intended to create and maintain a safe atmosphere for learning and social interaction. The following statements are intended to be a guide to administrators who have the responsibility to execute due process and discretion as it applies to discipline. Obviously, a rule or regulation cannot be written to cover every eventuality, nor need it be, provided each of us acts in the best interest of our school and ourselves with good manners and common sense.
While students are fully protected and have all rights of citizens under the Constitution, it is the duty of the school authorities to prohibit and prevent student conduct that is dangerous, disruptive or destructive to the educational process. Therefore the school has the right to search student lockers and/or ask students to empty their purses or backpacks if there is a reasonable suspicion that a student is in possession of an illegal item or substance.
Detention begins at 2:10 and ends at 3:00. Anything other than exemplary behavior will result in the student being put out of the detention hall. At that point the student will be subject to additional detentions or Saturday detention.
Saturday detention is held each Saturday from 9:00 AM until Noon. Rules governing Saturday detention will be given to students when assigned.
Suspension and expulsion are serious matters and are not to be viewed lightly. However, to maintain an atmosphere favorable to the learning process, to protect the health and safety of both staff and students and to meet the requirements imposed by legal liability, the administration utilizes the process of suspension and expulsion when necessary.
Students suspended from school will be expected to make up all tests, quizzes and work missed within ten school days from the date of readmission if they expect to obtain credit for the work missed. When a student is suspended, he/she is not allowed to participate in any other school activities including but not limited to interscholastic activities and practice sessions. This exclusion begins at the close of the normal school day on which the incident took place and extends through the duration of the suspension. Parents wishing to appeal a suspension must submit a letter to the principal within twenty-four hours of the suspension.
Rules for Saturday Detention
1. Saturday detention would be held each Saturday morning from 9:00 until Noon.
2. Saturday detention would be held on long weekends, and the first Saturday of weeklong vacations to keep the punishment reasonable close to the time of infraction.
3. Assignment will be for a full 3 hours only.
4. There are no provisions for tardiness or early dismissal from Saturday detention.
5. Saturday detention is a quiet study hall. Students are expected to bring work and remain educationally engaged during the entire period. No sleeping is allowed.
6. Students should bring books and study materials home on Friday since there will be no access to lockers before, during, or after Saturday detention.
7. Students will be given a 10-minute lavatory break at the 1 1/2 hour mark.
8. No food or drink may be consumed during the break.
9. For students who are ill: -Parent will be called immediately
-Driving students may leave with parental permission.
-A parent will pick up non-driving students if the parent desires the student to come home
-Parent desiring to keep a student in Saturday Detention despite reported illness must come to the school immediately to personally check on the student’s condition.
-Students who go home ill will be reassigned to Saturday Detention in its entirety regardless of the amount of time already spent. 10. Procedures for Students -Minor offenses which do not undermine the desired atmosphere will be referred to the assistant principal on the first school day after Saturday Detention.
-Repeated minor offenses, or offenses which do undermine the desired atmosphere will result in a phone call to parent, dismissal from Saturday Detention and a 2 day Out of School Suspension.
Drug and Alcohol Policy
Through the use of approved curricula, classroom activities, community support and resources, a strong and consistent administrative and faculty effort, and rehabilitative and disciplinary procedures, the Watertown School District will work to educate, prevent, and intervene in the use and abuse of all tobacco, drug, alcohol, and mood altering substances by the entire student population.
It is the policy of the Watertown Public Schools to prevent and prohibit the possession, use and/or distribution of any drug or drug paraphernalia on school property, at school-sponsored events, and on school buses enroute to and from school.
All violations of this policy, including the possession, use, distribution of any drug or drug paraphernalia and being under the influence of any drug will be dealt with in accordance with the procedures described in the Administrative Guidelines. The consequences of such violations may ultimately result in expulsion from school.
Recognizing that drug use and abuse may be indicative of serious, underlying problems, every effort will be made to offer a student help and assistance, including early identification, referral to the parents for treatment and aftercare support by appropriate school staff.
Disciplinary procedures will be administered with the best interests of the student, school population and community in mind.
Due consideration will be given to the rights of students as required, and all relevant Board policies and student discipline procedures will be observed.
A student who on school grounds, during a school session, or anywhere at a school sponsored activity is under the influence of alcohol, drugs or mood altering substances or possesses, uses, dispenses, sells or aids in the procurement of alcohol, narcotics, restricted drugs, mood altering substances, or any substance purported to be a restricted substance shall be subjected to discipline pursuant to the provisions and procedures listed in the administrative guidelines.
Smoking, or the use of smokeless tobacco, is prohibited on school property and at all school related events and activities at all times.
III. ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Watertown High School complies with Title IX that prohibits gender discrimination in education. All subjects taught at Watertown High School are open to all students regardless of gender.
Credits
Typically, each full year subject is worth one credit if successfully completed. A half-year or one semester subject is worth one half credit if successfully completed and a quarter year or one marking period subject is worth one-quarter credit if successfully completed.
Dropping of Subjects
1. Students who withdraw with administrative approval or are withdrawn from a subject before the first four class meetings have elapsed will receive no credit or grade for that subject.
2. Students who withdraw from a full year subject after the first four class meetings have elapsed but before the end of the first semester, will receive no credit and a WF in that subject for a half year. Students who withdraw after the first day of the second semester will receive no credit and a WF in that subject for the entire school year. 3. Students who withdraw from a half year, or quarter year subject after the first 4 class meetings have elapsed will receive no credit and a WF in that subject.
4. The stipulations stated here in part 2 may be waived with the concurrence of the classroom teacher, school counselor and the principal.
Graduation Requirements
All students are required to take a minimum of six credits per year or its equivalent. In order to be eligible for promotion a student must receive these minimum credits: To the sophomore class 5 Credits
To the junior class 11 Credits
To the senior class 16 Credits
To graduate 23 Credits
CREDITS NEEDED TO GRADUATE # Credits Course
4 English
3 1/2 Math
3 1/2 Social Studies (to include US History 1 & 2 and Civics)
2 Science (to include 1 yr. of Biology)
1 Voc. Ed, Tech. Ed. or the Arts
1 1/2 Physical Education
1 Health
6 1/2 Electives
23 Total
The following conditions also apply: 1. Seventh or Eighth grade students who have successfully completed a course in French or Spanish will have that credit count toward the 23 credits. 2. Any student in grade 7 or 8 who takes and successfully completes Algebra I will have that credit count toward the 23 graduation credits and toward the mandated State mathematics requirement.
3. All students will be required to take and to pass 2 courses in Physical Education and thereby earn 1 1/2 credits as mandated by State and the Board of Education. (There is an exception to this.) The law states: “Any student who presents a certificate from a physician, stating that in the opinion of the physician, participation in physical education is medically contraindicated because of the physical condition of such student, shall be excused from the physical education requirement, provided the credit for physical education may be fulfilled by an elective.” (Section 10-221a) 4. Accounting and Business Math will be considered a Mathematics credit. 5. Data Processing will be considered a Computer credit. 6. Interdepartmental Publishing course will be considered 1 Vocational credit and 1/2 Computer credit. 7. Tech Drawing/CAD 2, Tech Drawing CAD/3 and 4 will be considered 1/2 Computer credit, 1/2 Vocational credit. 8. Graphic Arts 2, 3 and 4 will be considered 1/2 Computer credit, 1/2 Vocational credit. 9. Business Law may be considered a one-half Social Studies credit. 10. N ational Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has revised and updated its list of core courses that must be taken and passed to meet minimum initial eligibility requirements. Any student who may be interested in participating in a Division I or Division II college sports program should see his/her school counselor to plan a complete high school program that meets these requirements. Graduation Performance Standards
In addition to course and credit requirements, the following Performance Standards must be met in order for a student to qualify for graduation from Watertown High School.
Writing Performance Standard: Students shall assemble a portfolio of writing samples comprised on one piece of writing from each academic year and a fifth piece to be composed as their senior midterm exam. Each piece of writing shall meet the basic composition standards set forth by the English Dept. A score at or above goal level in total Writing on the Connecticut Academic Performance Test or a score equivalent to or above the State average on the SAT II in writing will satisfy the Writing Performance Standard.
Mathematics Performance Standard: Each student will satisfactorily complete an assessment composed of real-world application problems that require basic operations including fractions and decimals. The student shall also explain/justify in writing how he/she arrived at each answer. The student will be provided with required formulas. A score at or above goal level in total Mathematics on the Connecticut Academic Performance Test or a score equivalent to or above the State average on the SAT II in mathematics or on the mathematics section of the SAT will satisfy the Mathematics Performance Standard.
Technology Performance Standard: Each student will design a project requiring solution of an authentic, complex problem through the use of technology. Projects must be substantial and must allow the student to demonstrate his/her competence in the technology used.
Citizenship/Community Interaction: Students will be provided with opportunities to volunteer in the larger community. A total of twenty hours will be required over four years with the intent that a student will complete at least five hours each year.
Note: Additional information regarding Graduation Performance Standards may be obtained through the School Counseling Department.
In order for a student to participate in graduation exercises, he/she must complete the requirements for graduation, no later than the day of graduation.
Guidance – School Counselors
The School Counseling Department is here to help you make wise educational and vocational decisions regarding your future. School Counselors are available to help you with any problems that may arise from your schoolwork. Your school counselor will be happy to listen to any problem you may wish to discuss and will try to help you reach a desirable solution. The counselor is that person with whom you can feel free to discuss any matter. If the counselor cannot help you, he/she may be able to direct you to a person or agency where help may be obtained.
Appointments with your counselor must be made in advance, except in extreme circumstances. Appointment slips are available in the counseling office. Students visiting the counseling office for an appointment with their counselor must sign in and out.
Identification of a student as eligible for special education services begins with a written referral. That written request may come directly from the parent/guardian or directly from the school’s Intervention Strategy Team. Either route requires that a request be in writing. By or before the 45th day, after the referral, a meeting of staff and parents will be called to review the evaluations done by school staff, a decision will be made regarding eligibility for services and a program will be designed, ready to be implemented on the forty-fifth day if the child is declared eligible. Parents are encouraged to pick up a copy of their Rights to Due Process at the main office.
Honor Roll
There are two divisions of the honor roll at Watertown High School, high honors and honors.
To achieve high honors a student must:
1. Not fail any subject.
2. Have a 90.00 average for the marking period.
3. Have no grade below an 85.00.
To achieve honors a student must:
1. Not fail any subject.
2. Have an 85.00 average for the marking period.
3. Have no grade below an 80.00. For both divisions of the honor roll, the following courses, if taken must be passed: all pass/fail courses, physical education, band, chorus, special vocal, special instrumental, keyboarding, and strings. These courses are not included in the averaging and although they must be passed, they can be below the criteria of 85.00 for high honors or 80.00 for honors.
Marking System
The scholastic year is divided into four marking periods of approximately nine weeks each. At the end of each marking period students will receive a report card. Students who owe financial obligations will not receive a report card until payment has been made.
Examinations are given at the close of the 1st semester in January and at the close of the 2nd semester in June. Each of these examinations for a full year course is worth 10% of the final grade. For a semester course, the examination is worth 20% of the final grade. Seniors who maintain a 90 average in a full year or semester course may be exempt from the final examination.
Pass/Fail Subjects
We offer pass/fail subjects and opportunities to students who want to explore or enrich themselves without these subjects having a negative effect on their rank in class. There are certain stipulations some of which are spelled out below. If you are seriously considering this option you must see your guidance counselor. All students taking a pass/fail subject or a subject as pass/fail are expected to take the semester exam(s).
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