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- Agenda May 21, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting May 21, 2020 Executive Session 6:40 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Executive Session Pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A §405(6)(A) Employment of Officials/ Appointees/ Employees 6:40pm Call to Order Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input- please call 207-676-2234. BCTV will stream this meeting. 3. Minutes of May 7, 2020 4. Student Report 5. Teacher Agreement Approval 6. Donations Update 7. FDA Update 8. Authorize the Superintendent to shift 5% between cost centers 9. Assistant Superintendent Contract 10. Business Manager Contract 11. Administrators Contracts Approval 12. Review Meeting dates June 4, 2020, TBD June 18, 2020 and June 25, 2020 13. Update Student Waiver days 14. Discussion Head Coach Pay 15. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 16. Other 17. Public Input- please call 207-676-2234. BCTV will stream this meeting. 18. Adjournment
- Graduation Letter
May 15, 2020 Dear Class of 2020, We hope you are doing well and that your spirits are strong. Challenging times are opportunities for bold people to rise and learn that resilience overcomes setbacks. This letter is sent to update you on discussions /decisions the NHS administration, Class of 2020 Student Leadership, and Central Office have made regarding submission of materials and a modified graduation event. First, thank you for your patience. I have appreciated the majority of emails I have received from your Class, as many have articulated their understanding that there are no right answers during the pandemic. Whatever is put forward concerning graduation, some will like the determination, and some will not. We accept that and we have used the following guidelines to shape our decisions: Safety - we will follow social distancing, masks, limiting the number of people in one area, etc. Above all, safety is paramount! Diploma Receipt - while “handing” of the diploma will look different, we want you to have a photograph taken as you collect your diploma. Viewability - while we would wish to be able to conduct a traditional graduation at Bourbon Stadium with 2,000 or more of our closest friends and loved ones, we all know that is not possible. So, we have devised an alternate viewability plan. We will be conducting a virtual graduation (please refer back to my original letter) so that everyone can be included and a “drive up” graduation, which will be on our originally-scheduled graduation date, June 12th. More refined details will come out in the near future, but following are basic guidelines and information regarding the “drive up” event: Prior to the event, likely during the first week of June, students will have a turn in /pick up day. (i.e., technology /materials returned and cap and gown picked up). We will provide a graduation mask to each Class of 2020 member. The event will be livestreamed. (Thank you, Terri Wright of BCTV!) Speeches and other components will be recorded in advance and posted at some point. Each graduate may have one car at the drive up event. Only the graduate will exit the vehicle at any point. Graduates will pick up diplomas at a pedestal under the NHS front entrance canopy, where a keepsake picture will be taken. Those are the most salient points. Bear in mind, as I said, there are no right answers. Some students may not wish to pick up a diploma in person, so we will arrange to get cap and gown pictures to add to the eventual video post. We will continue to update and refine information. In the meantime, be well! Regards, Steve Connolly
- Minutes of April 9, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING April 9, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually on April 9, 2020 at 4:45 pm, with all members present. There were 0 people in the audience. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to go into executive session pursuant 1M.R.S.A. §405(6) (D) Labor Contract Discussion - Teacher Contract. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 4:46 pm. Out at 5:00 pm. The public meeting had 12 in the audience Ms. Mallett, Berwick Board Member shared the explanatory statements regarding public input. Public Input: None at this time Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to accept the minutes of April 2, 2020. All members voted in favor except Mr. Doiron who abstained and the motion passed. The Board held a conversation about the finalizing of the 20/21district budget. After a quick review, Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to adopt the 20/21 district budget of $42,724,732. The final budget was an increase in expenditures of 1.26 % with an impact to taxpayers of 3.40%. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The board then reviewed the Adult Education budget for 20/21. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to adopt the final Adult Education budget of $437,410. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The board then discussed that the cost to local taxpayers for the Adult Education budget would be $283,680. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to approve the local allocation of $283,680 for the Adult Education budget. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The board then discussed the 20/21 School Nutrition budget. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Mr. Doiron to adopt the School Nutrition budget of $1,545,047. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The board then discussed that the cost to local taxpayers for the School Nutrition Budget would be $126,000. Ms Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Mr. Doiron to approve the local allocation of $126,000. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Mallett asked that it be noted how appreciative she and the whole board is of the Food Service program and the work that they have been doing in these difficult times to keep students fed. Huge shout out to the food service program and Director Abbey Pelletier. The board then discussed the School Revolving Renovation Funds and the bond that would go before the community when the state referendum takes place. Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to approve putting the bond out. The local share of the funds would be paid back at $73,300 per year for 10 years. The state would provide over 1.2 million dollars to the district that would not have to be paid back. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. At the last meeting, the Assistant Superintendent shared with the board an update regarding remote learning: Our first word with all of our staff, students and parents is “connection.” From the onset of this pandemic, we’ve urged our staff to simply connect - to each other and to their students. We urge staff, students and parents to recognize that this is impacting everyone in a unique way and that our common connection through our schools can be a center of support and caring. We are living in a stressful and historical time. We encourage all within our community to lean on each other. Currently, MSAD 60 can be proud of the fact that: We have 1:1 technology for all students K-1 students have ipads. 2-12 have Chromebooks. We have 60 Hot Spots delivered to families who did not have access to the internet. We are hopeful that the MLTI team’s work to secure additional access points for students is successful. We still have a small number of students without access. Kindergarten through 3rd Grade Teachers are using Seesaw as their digital learning platform. 4th through 12th Grade Teachers are using Google Classroom as their learning platform. Assignments are given each day to students, including: Virtual class discussions using “Hangouts” at scheduled times Independent and collaborative work through Classroom / Seesaw. K-5 Students are continuing Literacy work through the LEXIA Core 5 Reading application. This app allows teachers to track student progress and provide interventions as necessary. We are in the process of implementing ZEARN to support our math curriculum for K-5 Staff professional development had been occurring prior to COVID-19 closures, but we have stepped up the opportunities and support exponentially. We have been holding daily Google Hangouts to support staff in using the digital tools that the district provides. We have had 100’s of teachers participate in these sessions each day. All of the sessions are Live and recorded and posted on our Remote Learning Hub link here...tech.rsu60.org Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to approve the remote learning plan as presented on April 2. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The Superintendent shared the retirements of two Hussey School Teachers, Ms. Elaine Chamberlin and Ms. Lorna Henley. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to accept the retirements of Ms. Chamberlin and Ms. Henley with regret. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The Superintendent shared the resignation of Mr. Kevin Jackson as the Basketball Coach at Noble High. The board wished him well in the future and thanked him for his service. The superintendent then shared with the board that Multiple Pathways teacher, Ben Chase, received a fellowship from Mount Holyoke College. This is the information about the fellowship. Qualification Criteria: The purpose of this fellowship is to assist in unique projects and research focused on improving educational outcomes for youth who are vulnerable or whose families have been involved with the child welfare system, the juvenile justice system, the immigration system, or other health- or welfare-based organizations or government agencies. Fellowship Application: To be considered for a fellowship, applicants must address the following question in 500-1000 words: How do you see yourself contributing to Mount Holyoke College’s projects and research focused on improving educational outcomes for youth who are vulnerable or whose families have been involved with the child welfare system, the juvenile justice system, the immigration system, or other health- or welfare-based organizations or government agencies? Why are you interested in this work? How is this connected to your long-term goals? Ben has an excellent reputation and we are very proud of him! Second Public Input: None at this time. Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 6:07 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Steve Connolly Secretary of the Board
- Minutes of April 2, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING April 2, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held virtually on April 2, 2020 at 6:00 pm, with all members present. There were 0 people in the audience. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to go into executive session for 405 6B Negotiations. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 6:02 pm. Out at 7:10 pm. The public meeting had 12 in the audience Ms. Mallett, Berwick Board Member shared the explanatory statements regarding public input. Public Input: None at this time Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to accept the minutes of March 5, 2020. All members voted in favor except Ms. Mallett and Ms. Hopper who abstained and the motion passed. Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to accept the minutes of March 19, 2020 as amended. All members voted in favor except Ms. Corliss who abstained and the motion passed. Student Report: Sam Grant and Caitlyn McCabe shared with the board an update. All of the information from the students who have shared with the student reps feel that it’s been a positive situation and students are feeling that they are getting things that are keeping them involved and that they are feeling like they are learning. Ms. McCabe shared that her sister is in a different grade level and it seems that she is moving along well and that each subject area is trying to keep things going. The Assistant Superintendent shared with the board an update regarding remote learning: Our first word with all of our staff, students and parents is “connection.” From the onset of this pandemic, we’ve urged our staff to simply connect - to each other and to their students. We urge staff, students and parents to recognize that this is impacting everyone in a unique way and that our common connection through our schools can be a center of support and caring. We are living in a stressful and historical time. We encourage all within our community to lean on each other. Currently, MSAD 60 can be proud of the fact that: We have 1:1 technology for all students K-1 students have ipads. 2-12 have Chromebooks. We have 60 Hot Spots delivered to families who did not have access to the internet. We are hopeful that the MLTI team’s work to secure additional access points for students is successful. We still have a small number of students without access. Kindergarten through 3rd Grade Teachers are using Seesaw as their digital learning platform. 4th through 12th Grade Teachers are using Google Classroom as their learning platform. Assignments are given each day to students, including: Virtual class discussions using “Hangouts” at scheduled times Independent and collaborative work through Classroom / Seesaw. K-5 Students are continuing Literacy work through the LEXIA Core 5 Reading application. This app allows teachers to track student progress and provide interventions as necessary. We are in the process of implementing ZEARN to support our math curriculum for K-5 Staff professional development had been occurring prior to COVID-19 closures, but we have stepped up the opportunities and support exponentially. We have been holding daily Google Hangouts to support staff in using the digital tools that the district provides. We have had 100’s of teachers participate in these sessions each day. All of the sessions are Live and recorded and posted on our Remote Learning Hub link here...tech.rsu60.org The Board then discussed what the final budget will be looking like at this point. Originally we had a 4.99% increase to the taxpayers but we are looking to reduce that into the lower 3% area given the current economic picture that seems to be in front of us. Mr. Doiron left the meeting at 7:58pm. Adult Education Budget. Ms. Denise Van Campen, business manager, shared with the board the Adult education budget. Ms. Brenda Gagne, Adult Education Director, gave an overview to the board on the budget. School Nutrition Budget. Denise Van Campen, business manager, shared with the board the School Nutrition budget. Ms. Abbey Pelletier, Food Service Director, gave an overview to the board of the upcoming budget. She highlighted increases in equipment, food costs, marketing and highlighted a decrease in paper products etc. The Superintendent then updated the board regarding the school calendar for the remainder of the year in terms of the clarification of how the rest of the year will be played out due to the ongoing changes. The superintendent was hoping to have an update regarding procedures for town meetings. Thus far we have had no guidance yet. Stay tuned for adventure. The Assistant Superintendent gave an overview of the next steps for the Superintendent search. We will be interviewing next Thursday evening, April 9, after the conclusion of the board budget meeting. The online recording of the public night in Lebanon is still available on the BCTV. We will take feedback up until Monday night at 7 pm. Second Public Input: None at this time. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 8:37 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Steve Connolly Secretary of the Board
- Agenda for Board Meeting Wednesday 6, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting May 6, 2020 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Executive Session Pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A §405(6)(A) Employment of Officials/ Appointees/ Employees
- Agenda for May 7, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting May 7, 2020 Executive Session 6:30pm Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:30 pm AGENDA Executive Session Pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A §405(6)(A) Employment of Officials/ Appointees/ Employees 6:30pm Call to Order Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input- please call 207-676-2234. BCTV will stream this meeting. 3. Minutes of April 9, 2020 and April 16, 2020 4. Student Report 5. Noble Strong T-shirt and Donations update 6. Attendance Update 7. Senior Letter 8. Financial Summary for March 9. Vote to Call and Approve the Warrants for the Budget Meeting and the Validation Referendum and to Authorize the Notice of Amounts Adopted 10. Vote to Call the School Revolving Renovation Fund 11. SRRF and Construction Updates 12. Second Reading Policy EDC(nr)- USE OF DISTRICT VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT EHB(nr)-SCHOOL RECORD RETENTION EHB-R(nr)-SCHOOL RECORD RETENTION PROCEDURES AND SCHEDULES JJIBC (nr)- RELATIONS WITH BOOSTER CLUBS 13. Assistant Special Education Director Hiring 14. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation Nomination of Probationary Teachers 15. Other 16. Public Input- please call 207-676-2234. BCTV will stream this meeting. 17. Adjournment
- Senior Letter May 1, 2020
May 1, 2020 Dear Senior Class of 2020, I remember thinking back at the turn of the 21st century: what will education look like for the Class of 2020? 2040? 2060? I envisioned a little bit of the Jetsons maybe, robots doing a lot of the domestic work at home (I have a Roomba!), communication happening live, face to face (Yes, I can work that part of my smartphone…), and transportation being different (My car talks to me, tells me to stay in my lane!) Something I didn't envision for the Class of 2020 was the COVID-19 pandemic. I feel for the losses your class is facing, and I hope in some way there is some good that comes out of this… maybe the creation of more resilient citizens? My own family is not immune to the situation, as my nephew is a Westbrook senior. I speak with him (don’t see him, though) frequently and hear how this is impacting him. There must be a silver lining somewhere... Beyond the loss of interpersonal relationships with peers and school personnel, sports and club activity, there are things like: Red Carpet Week, Project Graduation, walking the halls of your previous schools in caps and gowns, and senior ball that will be lost or will take on significantly different looks. Our job right now as NOBLE STRONG people is to figure out what we can do to make the best of the toughest situation faced by a graduating class in a very long time. This past weekend I saw National Corona Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx in a Meet the Press interview. She was asked what she thought about states choosing to ease restrictions at this time. Her appropriately-guarded response was, "Social distancing will be with us through the summer to really ensure that we protect one another as we move through these [reopening] phases." Governor Mills shared her phases to reopen the state yesterday, and the banning of gatherings of more than 50 will be in place at least through August. While the NHS administration is working on alternative plans for as many replaceable events as possible, the biggest question is obviously graduation. Given the current circumstances, it is honestly not possible for any district to project a realistic graduation date or to predict fully what can be accomplished for a Class in terms of a public celebration. To offer a later graduation summer date provides false hope at this time. We are currently developing a virtual graduation ceremony. We want to bring closure for the graduates of the Noble class of 2020 and we want to ensure 100% participation. Your class will always be known for the struggles around COVID-19. We grieve the loss of physically coming together to celebrate in June, but we want to focus on your accomplishments and allow you to move into the next phase of your lives with some finalization. Our hope is that we will be able to develop a future celebratory event; however, we want to be practical in our stance that we cannot see what the future of the COVID-19 pandemic holds. You will be receiving communication from the NHS administration outlining a request for information to contribute to the virtual graduation ceremony. We ask that you follow the directions carefully regarding what can or can’t be included and provide that material according to communication deadlines. At the very least, let’s make sure the video becomes a keepsake and hallmark of your achievements versus merely a result of the pandemic. In closing, I hope you and your families are all well. This is an interesting way to go into retirement. I was hoping to celebrate on that stage with you in June; however, I will be with you in spirit. Your continued patience and understanding until more is known will be yet another testament to your Class. STAY NOBLE! Sincerely, Steve Connolly Superintendent of Schools
- Mr Connolly Reads
The Book that Never Ends
- Agenda for May 1, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting May 1, 2020 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Executive Session Pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A §405(6)(A) Employment of Officials/ Appointees/ Employees
- Noble Strong
For a limited time MSAD 60 will be selling Noble Strong t-shirts. All proceeds from each T-shirt sale goes directly to the Noble Food Service Program enabling its ability to continue feeding ALL students. To order your NOBLE STRONG t-shirt click here.
- Mr. Connolly- "Get Nana"
https://bit.ly/2VCDjoB
- COVID-19 School Closing Update
April 21, 2020 Dear MSAD 60 Students, Parents, and Staff, The current five-week remote learning experience has been a roller coaster ride for many students, families, and staff. I wish to commend and offer a virtual pat on the back to each of you, as we continue to experience twists, turns, and “G” forces. (“Gee, we’ve never done THIS before!” May be heard in every home daily.) I think some of the Grateful Dead lyrics are relevant to the situation the pandemic has created for all of us: What a long strange trip it’s been! (‘76) While I don’t care for some of the song’s lyrics, I found these lines applicable: One of these days they know they better get goin...' Out of the door and down on the streets all alone… You're sick of hangin' around and you'd like to travel... Ok, enough homage to roller coasters and Jerry. I write to you today to notify you of an adjustment to the end of the student school year. After discussion with the MSAD 60 Board of Directors, we have determined that the final day of remote school for students will be Friday, May 29. There are several reasons for this decision, by example: A fairly significant number of students and families are struggling around the educational component at this point. At only 24 days into remote school learning with 28 more days until May 29, even that span of time seems daunting. Families have many challenges pressing in on them from several sides right now, and we are hearing that remote learning is a significant pressure point. School leaders and their staffs will need significant time to close out this school year. Student placements, continuous reworking of standards, a major shift in grading practices, the creation of new transitions systems (i.e., K screenings, Step Up Days, graduation, orientations), End Of Year state reporting, requisitions for September 2020, room closures in a controlled social distancing set up, and physical classroom moves (i.e., 7 or 8 rooms will need to be packed and moved just at NHS). Staffs will also need to be prepared for the potential of renewed remote learning for the early part of the ‘20-’21 school year. We hope the decision to close school early and the amount of time we are providing for families to prepare are beneficial to you. Building principals or department directors will provide more information as we progress further down this long strange trip. One piece I will share before closing is that tech devices will not be collected from Kindergarten through eleventh graders (seniors only). More information to follow! Be well. Best wishes to all, Steve Connolly Superintendent of Schools
- Next Superintendent Announcement
April 17, 2020 Dear MSAD 60 Students, Parents, and Staff, As you may be aware, I announced my retirement from the position of MSAD #60 Superintendent of Schools in late November 2019. Since that time, the district, led by Board Chair Astrida Schaefer, Board members Denise Mallett and Joanne Potter, and Assistant Superintendent Sue Austin have created, implemented, and resolved a superintendent search. Kudos to this group for countless hours of work, attention to detail, assembling a stellar plan, and opportunity for significant stakeholder inclusion! Last night, the Board undertook the momentous task of approving a new superintendent. While I stayed out of the process and watched from the sidelines, I was so pleased to see that the Board of Directors showed strong support for the final candidate, Ms. Audra Beauvais. Does that name sound familiar to you? To many, it should! Ms. Beauvais has been principal of Hussey School and - until recently - Knowlton School in Berwick for more than two decades. She has also served the district and colleagues in a wide number of other capacities, such as: district literacy teamwork, stalwart Kindergarten JumpStart supporter, Data-Driven Dialogue coach, Facilities and Finance chairperson, Board /Teacher negotiations team member, Administrative Association President… the list is endless! I believe Ms. Beauvais will be approachable, visible, and will keep our momentum on several key initiatives moving forward. Her firsthand knowledge of the district, coupled with her incredible work ethic, problem-solving skills, and ethical practice is unrivaled. Ms. Beauvais has displayed the ability to see the big picture, break it down into manageable targets, and operationalize those smaller pieces into a cohesive whole. Do you believe in coincidences? Ms. Beauvais’ father was a highly respected New Hampshire district superintendent, and my father was a highly respected, long-term Cumberland County superintendent. I guess we both began training for superintendencies at very young ages! It has been my honor to serve the Berwick, Lebanon, and North Berwick communities for the last eight years. As I close out a 40+ year career in public education, I am so thankful MSAD #60 was my last professional home. Ms. Beauvias will officially transition into the role on July 1, 2020. I know she already bleeds maroon and loves our district. Please join me in welcoming her to her new role as MSAD #60 Superintendent of Schools. Congratulations Audra! Best wishes to all, Steve Connolly
- Agenda for April 16, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting April 16, 2020 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:00 pm AGENDA Call to Order Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input- please call 207-676-2234 ext1 and leave a message during this time: this message will be played during the meeting. Include your name and what town you reside in at the beginning of the message. BCTV is going to attempt to stream this meeting. 3. Minutes of April 9, 2020 4. Student Report 5. Budget Timeline Update 6. Superintendent Hire 7. Financial Summary for March 8. NHS Grading System/ Graduation Requirements for Spring of 2020 9. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 10. Other 11. Public Input Continued- please call 207-676-2234 ext1 and leave a message during this time: this message will be played during the meeting. Include your name and what town you reside in at the beginning of the message. 12. Adjournment Executive Session Pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A §405(6)(A) Employment of Officials/ Appointees/ Employees Executive Session Pursuant to 1 M.R.S.A §405(6)(D) Discussion of Labor Contracts Teacher, Support Staff and AFL-CIO Contracts
- IKF
NEPN/NSBA Code: IKF GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Overview In response to Maine LD 1627 and the current research indicating best education practices, MSAD #60 has adopted a standards and proficiency-based curriculum, instruction, and assessment system. Noble High School graduates, in order to be college-ready and career-ready, will need to demonstrate what they know, what they can do, and how well they can do it. A Noble High School standards and proficiency-based diploma provides evidence that our graduates have acquired the knowledge and skills to move on to postsecondary experiences. The proficiency-based diploma system also guides the implementation of interventions, supports, and flexible learning pathways for students. Communicating Graduation Requirements The superintendent, through the high school principal or other designee, shall be responsible for communicating accurate information concerning diploma requirements to incoming students and their parents prior to the start of their ninth grade school year. An overview of graduation requirements also will be reviewed with all incoming ninth grade students at the time of course selection. This policy will also be referenced in each edition of the high school student handbook and on the school district website. The Board has approved the following schedule of requirements for graduation, which includes minimum requirements specified by the State of Maine. The Board is aware that current law and regulations are subject to change. The Board expects the superintendent/designee to inform students and parents as soon as practical of any additional standards established by the State that must be met before students may be awarded a high school diploma. Academic Requirements for Graduation from Noble High School A. Commencing with the Class of 2020, every Noble High School student will demonstrate proficiency in the skills and knowledge described by the Common Core State Standards and Maine Learning Results for the following content areas: English Language Arts Mathematics Science and Technology Social Studies Health Education and Physical Education Visual and Performing Arts Career and Education Development World Language Students’ demonstration of proficiency in the above content areas will accumulate the following credits: English - 5 credits Math - 4 credits* ( Students must successfully complete Common Core 11 and be enrolled in a math course all four years) Science - 4 credits Social Studies - 3 credits Health - ½ credit Physical Education - 1 credit Fine Arts - 1 credit World Language- ½ credit Electives - 4 credits Total - 24 credits *(or 23 ½ credits) B. All graduating students must meet the cross content performance standards set forth by the Maine Learning Results’ “Guiding Principles.” These Guiding Principles are expressed in our Academic (A), Social (S), and Civic (C) Noble High School 21st Century Learning Expectations: A1. Effective Communication i. Written Communication ii. Presentations A2. Critical Thinking A3. Creative Use of Resources i. Research ii. Technology (supportive) iii. Design & Professionalism (supportive) A4. Work Habits S1. Collaboration S2. Social Responsibility and Awareness C1. Informed Citizenship C. All students will complete a Graduation Portfolio in order to graduate. The graduation portfolio consists of four elements: Student-led conferences (i.e. Roundtables) at the end of the freshman, sophomore, and junior years, and the Senior Project, through which students will demonstrate their knowledge and skills in conducting in-depth research, as well as proficiency in the presentation of their research through the application of technology. D. All students will complete 60 hours of community service. E. Completion of all components of the Maine High School Assessment during the third year of high school. Additional Considerations Applicable to the Awarding of a Diploma Most students will satisfy graduation requirements during a four-year experience; however, students may fulfill the requirements for a diploma in a time period that is accelerated or lengthened, based on their individual needs. These students are expected to develop a Personal Learning Plan with assistance from counselors, teachers and/or administrators. In order to pursue a multiple pathway to graduation, a student must have a Personal Learning Plan detailing how the student will demonstrate proficiency when a pathway is in lieu of core academic experiences. Each option must provide a quality learning experience that is rigorous. Multiple pathway experiences will be determined, assessed, and documented through the school. Pathway options include the following: Early College / Dual Enrollment Courses CLEP Testing Career and Technical Education Programming Online / Virtual Learning Alternative / At-Risk Programming Apprenticeships / Internships & Additional Field Work and/or Exchange Experiences Adult Education Transfer Students For students who transfer to Noble High School from another state, country, home-schooling program, or from an educational program that is not required to be aligned with the content standards of the Common Core or the Maine Learning Results, the principal shall determine the value of the student’s prior educational experience towards meeting graduation requirements for a high school diploma. The superintendent will ultimately determine whether these students are certified to receive a diploma. Home-schooled Students For home-schooled students wishing to receive a diploma from Noble High School, the principal shall determine the value of the student’s prior educational experience toward meeting graduation credit requirements. A home-schooled student must have attended Noble High School for a minimum of two (2) semesters in order to receive a Noble High School diploma. Students Receiving Special Education Services Students who successfully meet the graduation requirements, as specified in the goals and objectives of their Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and in accordance with Maine law, will be awarded diplomas. Delayed Awarding of Diplomas A student who leaves high school to attend an accredited, degree-granting institution of higher education may upon satisfactory completion of the freshman year be awarded a high school diploma, provided that the student has notified the principal at the time of the early admission. Extended Study Students are eligible for extended years of study to complete the requirements of a diploma if they have not reached the age of 20 at the start of the school year. Students eligible for extended years of study may be referred to adult education or other resources. Participation in the Graduation Ceremony A student must complete all Board requirements for a Noble High School diploma in order to participate in any graduation exercises. Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. § 4722-A (as revised) Proficiency-Based Diploma Standards Ch. 489 (Me. Dept. of Ed. Rule) (as revised) Cross Reference: IHCDA – Post-Secondary Enrollment Options IKFA – Early Graduation NHS Student/Athletic Handbook Adopted: March 12, 1987 Revised: July 11, 1996; February 1, 2001; July 10, 2003; March 3, 2005 and March 30, 2006 Revised: October 4, 2007 Revised: September 20, 2007 Revised: June 21, 2012 Revised: May 14, 2014 Revised: November 10, 2016 Revised: June 1, 2017
- Science fun with Mr. Connolly
Science fun with Mr. Connolly.
- JIH-R
NEPN/NSBA Code: JIH-R QUESTIONING AND SEARCHES OF STUDENTS - ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE The purpose of this administrative procedure is to provide guidelines for the conduct of student questioning and searches by school administrators. These are guidelines only and may be adjusted within reasonable and lawful limits on a case-by-case basis. A. Questioning by school administrators. 1. School administrators are under no obligation to notify a student’s parents/guardians prior to questioning a student regarding alleged violations of Board policies, school rules and/or federal/state laws. If law enforcement officers are involved, refer to policy KLG – Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities. 2. School administrators shall inform the student of the reasons for the questioning and provide an opportunity for the student to respond to any allegations. School administrators shall make a reasonable effort to question the student in a location out of the sight and hearing of other students. If a student fails to cooperate, lies, misleads or threatens any person during questioning, he/she may be subject to additional disciplinary action. B. Searches of Students and/or Personal Property in Students’ Immediate Possession 1. School administrators are authorized to search students and/or personal property in the students’ immediate possession when, in their judgment, there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a student has violated or is violating the Board policies, school rules and/or federal/state laws, or is interfering with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school. 2. All searches of students and/or personal property shall be authorized and conducted by a school administrator in the presence of a witness, except where the circumstances render the presence of a witness impractical. A reasonable effort will be made to conduct searches out of the sight and hearing of other students. 3. Searches should be reasonably related to the suspected violation and no more intrusive than necessary to discover the evidence for which the search was instigated. Searches may include the student’s outer clothing (e.g., pockets, jacket, shoes, hat) and personal belongings (e.g., purse, backpack, gym bag, lunch bag). The student may be given the opportunity to open any closed items or items that are not easily accessible to visual search. If the student refuses, the administrator shall open and search the items. If the search discloses evidence, a broader search may be justified. 4. Searches which disclose evidence that a student has violated Board policies or school rules will be addressed through school disciplinary procedures. Evidence of violation of federal/state laws may result in school disciplinary action and/or be forwarded to law enforcement authorities for possible investigation/prosecution. 5 School administrators are required to document all searches and items seized/impounded on the Student Search Form or by another reasonable method. C. Searches of Lockers, Desks and Other School Facilities 1. School staff, students and parents shall be informed of this policy/procedure on an annual basis. Students have no expectation of privacy in the school storage facilities or for any items placed in such storage facilities. School administrators have the authority to inspect and search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion and without notice or consent. 2. School administrators shall consult with the Superintendent prior to conducting random searches. 3. Searches of individual student lockers, desks or other storage facilities and their contents based upon reasonable suspicion will be conducted in the presence of the student and a witness, if practical under the circumstances of the search. 4. Searches which disclose evidence that a student has violated Board policies or school rules will be addressed through school disciplinary procedures. Evidence of violation of federal/state laws may result in school disciplinary action and/or be forwarded to law enforcement authorities for possible investigation/prosecution. 5 School administrators are required to document all searches and items seized/impounded on the Student Search Form or by another reasonable method. D. Patrolling of Parking Lots 1. Students may drive vehicles to school and park in designated areas in accordance with school rules. School administrators retain the authority to patrol parking lots. 2. If school administrators have a reasonable suspicion that a vehicle which a student has parked at school contains evidence that the student has or is violating a federal/state law and/or there is a substantial threat to the welfare and safety of the schools, law enforcement authorities will be requested to render assistance in accordance with Board policy KLG – Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities. E. Involvement of Law Enforcement Authorities 1. School authorities have the discretion to request the assistance of law enforcement authorities in accordance with Board policy. Cross Reference: JIH-E – Student Search Checklist KLG – Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities Adopted: May 24, 2001 Revised: September 22, 2005
- JIH-E
NEPN/NSBA Code: JIH-E STUDENT SEARCH CHECKLIST This checklist is to be completed for each individualized student search incident as soon as possible after the search. Name/Title of Person Performing Search and Completing Form: ________________________________________________________________ Date: ______________________ 1. Who was searched? ________________________________________________ 2. Date, time and location of search _____________________________________ 3. What factors caused you to have a reasonable suspicion that a search of this student or the student’s possessions would provide evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law, Board policies or school rules? ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ 4. Was student’s consent requested? __________ Given? ___________________ [Consent is not required for search to be conducted] 5. What was searched (i.e., person, personal belongings, storage facilities)? ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ 6. Who witnessed the search? ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ 7. What did the search yield? __________________________________________ A. What evidence was seized? _______________________________________ B. Was receipt issued for seized items? _______________________________ 8. Were police notified? _____________________________________________ 9. Was any evidence released to police? Yes _____ No _____ If yes, what evidence? _____________________________________________ 10. Were parents notified of the search, including the reasons and the scope? Yes _____ No _____ A. If yes, how were they notified? ________________________________ B. If no, why not? _____________________________________________ 11. Other relevant facts (if any)_________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ Signature of Person Performing Search and Completing Form: __________________________________________________ [NOTE: If search resulted in school disciplinary action and/or referral to law enforcement, this form should be retained in the student's file. If search did not result in disciplinary action, this form should be retained in separate file in school or superintendent’s office.]
- JIH
NEPN/NSBA Code: JIH QUESTIONING AND SEARCHES OF STUDENTS The Board seeks to maintain a safe and orderly environment in the schools. School administrators may question and/or search students in accordance with this policy and accompanying administrative procedure. Students, their personal property, and their vehicles may be searched upon reasonable suspicion that they possess any items or substances which are prohibited by law, Board policies and/or school rules, or which interfere with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school. When special circumstances exist, including but not limited to a suspected ongoing violation of the Board’s drug/alcohol or weapons policies, or when a potential threat to safety is identified, school administrators may search groups of students or the entire student body without individualized suspicion. Student use of all school storage facilities, including but not limited to lockers, desks, and parking lots, is a privilege granted by the school. All storage facilities are school property and remain under the control, custody, and supervision of the school. Only locks provided by MSAD 60 may be used to secure student lockers. Students have no expectation of privacy in school storage facilities or for any items placed in such storage facilities. School administrators have the authority to inspect and search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion, and without notice or consent. Canine patrols may be used. If a search produces evidence that a student has violated or is violating the law, Board policies and/or school rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by school administrators and appropriate disciplinary action may be taken. Evidence may be forwarded to law enforcement authorities as required by law or as deemed appropriate by school administrators. The Superintendent is authorized to develop and implement, with input from legal counsel, administrators, and/or other appropriate persons, any administrative procedures necessary to carry out this policy. This policy and the accompanying procedure will be included in student/parent handbooks. Such administrative procedures shall be subject to Board approval. Cross Reference: JICH – Drug and Alcohol Use by Students JIH - E Student Search checklist JIH - R Questioning and Searches of Students - Administrative Procedure JICIA – Weapons, Violence, and School Safety JK – Student Discipline KLG – Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities Adopted: October 20, 1994 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: September 22, 2005 Revised: September 19, 2019
- JICK
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICK BULLYING It is the intent of the MSAD #60 Board of Directors to provide all students with an equitable opportunity to learn. To that end, the Board has a significant interest in providing a safe, orderly and respectful school environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. The Board believes that bullying, including cyberbullying, is detrimental to student well-being and to student learning and achievement. It interferes with the mission of the schools to educate their students and disrupts the operations of the schools. Bullying affects not only students who are targets but also those who participate in and witness such behavior. Bullying Prohibited Bullying, including cyberbullying, harassment and sexual harassment are not acceptable conduct in MSAD #60 and are prohibited. Retaliation for the reporting of incidents of such behavior is also prohibited. In adopting this policy, it is not the Board’s intent to prohibit students from expressing their ideas, including religious, political and philosophical views that may offend the sensibilities of others, or from engaging in civil debate. However, the Board does not condone and will take action in response to conduct that directly interferes with students’ rights at school under applicable laws or with the educational mission, operations, discipline or general welfare of the schools. Definitions Bullying and cyberbullying have the same meaning in this policy as in Maine law: Bullying Bullying includes, but is not limited to a written, oral or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof directed at a student or students that: A. Has, or a reasonable person would expect it to have, the effect of: 1. Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property; or 2. Placing a student in reasonable fear of physical harm or damage to his/her property; B. Interferes with the rights of a student by: 1. Creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment for the student; or 2. Interfering with the student’s academic performance or ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or privileges provided by the school; or C. Is based on: a. A student’s actual or perceived characteristics identified in 5 MRSA § 4602 or 4684-A (including race; color; ancestry; national origin; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; religion; physical or mental disability) or other distinguishing personal characteristics (such as socioeconomic status; age; physical appearance; weight; or family status); or b. A student’s association with a person with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics or any other distinguishing characteristics; and that has the effect described in subparagraph A. or B. above. D. For the purpose of this policy, bullying does not mean teasing, put-downs, talking trash, trading of insults, or similar interactions among friends, nor does it include expression of ideas or beliefs so long as such expression is not lewd, profane, or does not interfere with student's opportunity to learn, the instructional program, or the operations of the schools. This does not preclude teachers or school administrators from setting and enforcing rules for civility, courtesy, and/or responsible behavior in the classroom and the school environment. Under Maine law: Sexual orientation means a person’s actual or perceived heterosexuality, bisexuality, homosexuality, or gender identity or expression. Gender identity means gender-related identity, appearance, mannerisms, or other gender-related characteristics of an individual, regardless of the individual’s assigned sex at birth. Cyberbullying Cyberbullying means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, including but not limited to, a transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted by the use of any electronic device including, but not limited to, a computer, telephone, cellular telephone, text messaging device. Retaliation Retaliation means an act or gesture against a student for asserting or alleging an act of bullying. Retaliation also includes reporting that is not made in good faith on an act of bullying. Application of Policy This policy applies to bullying that: A. Takes place at school or on school grounds, at any school-sponsored or school-related activity or event or while students are being transported to or from school or school-sponsored activities or events; or B. Takes place elsewhere or through the use of technology, but only if the bullying also infringes on the rights of the student at school as set forth in the definition of bullying. Consequences for Policy Violations Students Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion or a series of graduated consequences including alternative discipline or other behavioral interventions. The Board retains the right to impose disciplinary consequences for bullying and other conduct that occurs at any time or place that substantially disrupts the instructional program, operations of the schools or welfare of students. Any student violating this policy may also be subject to civil or criminal penalties. School Employees and Others Administrators, professional staff and all other employees who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal, and in accordance with any applicable collective bargaining agreements. Volunteers, contractors and visitors who violate this policy will be barred from school property until the Superintendent is satisfied that the person will comply with Maine’s bullying law and this policy. Any person violating this policy may also be subject to civil or criminal penalties. Any school-affiliated organization that authorizes or engages in bullying or retaliation is subject to forfeiture of Board approval/sanctioning and/or suspension or revocation of its permission to operate on school grounds. Staff Training MSAD #60 will provide professional development and staff training in bullying prevention and response. Delegation of Responsibility The Superintendent/designee will be responsible for developing and implementing procedures in accordance with applicable law to implement this policy. The Superintendent will designate the school principal and/or other school personnel to be responsible for implementation/enforcement of this policy and associated procedures on the school level. A student or his/her parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with a decision of the Superintendent or designee related to the taking or not taking of disciplinary action in the course of implementing this policy may appeal, in writing, to the Superintendent within 14 calendar days of notice of the decision. The Superintendent’s decision shall be final. Dissemination of Policy The Superintendent will be responsible for providing this policy, any associated administrative procedures and the names of the person(s) responsible for implementing the policy/procedure at the school level in writing to students, parents, school employees and volunteers in handbooks, on the school unit’s website and by such other means (if any) as may be determined by the Superintendent. Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. § 1001 (15(H) P.L. 2005, ch. 307 § 4-5 Cross Reference: AC - Nondiscrimination, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ACAA – Harassment and Sexual Harassment of Students ACAA-R Student Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Procedure ACAD – Hazing AD – Educational Philosophy/Mission ADAA – School System Commitment to Standards for Ethical and Responsible Behavior ADF - School Unit Commitment to Learning Results GCI – Professional Staff Development IJNDB-R - Student Computer and Internet Use and Internet Safety JI - Student Rights and Responsibilities JIC - Student Code of Conduct JICC - Student Conduct on School Buses JICIA - Weapons, Violence and School Safety JK - Student Discipline JKD - Suspension of Students JKE - Expulsion of Students KLG - Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities Adopted: October 19, 2006 Revised: June 25, 2009 January 16, 2020
- JICIA
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICIA WEAPONS, VIOLENCE AND SCHOOL SAFETY The Board of Directors believes that students and staff are entitled to learn and work in a school environment free of violence, threats and disruptive behavior. Students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in accordance with Board policies, school rules, reasonable unwritten behavior expectations, and applicable state and federal laws. School staff are required to immediately report incidents of prohibited conduct by students to the building administrator for investigation and appropriate action. Prohibited Conduct Students are prohibited from engaging in the following conduct on school property, while in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or at any time or place that such conduct directly interferes with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school: A. Possession and/or use of articles commonly used or designed to inflict bodily harm and/or to threaten, intimidate, coerce or harass another person. Examples of such articles include but are not limited to firearms, BB guns, pellet guns, any other kind of gun, ammunition, explosives, cross-bows, brass knuckles, switchblades, knives, chains, clubs, Kung Fu stars and numchucks; B. Use of any object, although not necessarily designed to be a weapon, to inflict bodily harm and/or to threaten, intimidate, coerce or harass another person. Examples of such articles include but are not limited to bats, belts, picks, pencils, compasses, objects capable of ignition (e.g., matches, lighters), files, tools of any sort and replicas of weapons (including toys); C. Possession and/or use of any object which, although not necessarily designed to be a weapon, has the potential to cause bodily injury or damage to property. Examples of such materials include but are not limited to: firecrackers, hazardous chemicals, etc.; D. Violent or threatening behavior, including but not limited to fighting, assault and/or battery, taking hostages, threats to commit violence against persons or property (e.g., verbal or written death threats, threats of bodily harm, bomb threats); E. Verbal or written statements (including those made on or through a computer) which threaten, intimidate, or harass others, which tend to incite violence and/or disrupt the school program; F. Willful and malicious damage to school or personal property; G. Stealing or attempting to steal school or personal property; H. Lewd, indecent or obscene acts or expressions of any kind; I. Violations of the school unit’s drug/alcohol and tobacco policies; J. Violations of state or federal laws; and K. Any other conduct that may be harmful to persons or property. Disciplinary Action Principals may suspend and/or recommend expulsion of students who violate this policy based upon the facts of each case and in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Conduct which violates this policy is deliberately disobedient and deliberately disorderly within the meaning of 20-A MRSA § 1001(9) and will be grounds for expulsion if found necessary for the peace and usefulness of the school. Such conduct may also be grounds for expulsion under other provisions of 20-A MRSA § 1001(9 and 9-A) that specifically prohibit the use and possession of weapons, infractions of violence, and possession, furnishing and trafficking of scheduled drugs. Students who are found to have brought a firearm to school (as defined by federal law), shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year, unless this requirement is modified by the Superintendent on a case-by-case basis in writing. All firearms violations shall be referred to law enforcement authorities as required by law. Other violations of this policy shall be referred to law enforcement authorities at the discretion of the Superintendent. Students with disabilities shall be disciplined in accordance with applicable federal and state laws/regulations and Board Policy JKF. Theft of school property will result in the payment of restitution for the value of the property. Psychological Evaluation Risk/Assessment The Board authorizes the Superintendent to request a psychological evaluation of a student who engages in conduct prohibited by this policy when, in his/her opinion, such an evaluation will assist in assessing the risk the student poses to school safety if the student were to remain in school. The Superintendent is also authorized to request psychological evaluations of students who have been identified as posing a substantial risk of violent behavior. All such evaluations shall be performed at the school unit's expense. If the parent/guardian and/or student refuse to permit a requested psychological evaluation, the Superintendent and the Board may draw any reasonable inferences from the student's behavior concerning the risk the student poses to school safety for purposes of determining appropriate action. Legal References: 20-USC Sect. 7151 20-A MRSA §§ 1001(9); 1001(9-A); 6552 17-A MRSA §§ 2(9); 2(12-A) 5 - MRSA § 4681 Cross References: ACAA – Harassment and Sexual Harassment of Students ADC - Tobacco Use and Possession EBCA - Crisis Response Plan JICH - Drug and Alcohol Use by Students JK - Student Discipline JKD - Suspension of Students JKE - Expulsion of Students JKF - Suspension/Expulsion of Students with Disabilities JIH – Questioning and Searches of Students KLG - Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities Adopted: May 24, 2001 Revised: August 22, 2001 Revised: September 22, 2005 Revised: March 11, 2010
- JICH-R
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICH-R STUDENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE I. Voluntary Referrals to Social Worker/Guidance Counselor (“Voluntary Help”) A. A student concerned about his or her own use of Prohibited Substances, or those of another student, may seek the assistance of a school social worker, substance abuse counselor or guidance counselor. Voluntary Help will not result in any disciplinary action. However, a student may not use Voluntary Help to avoid consequences after a known violation of Policy JICH. B. Any staff member who has a concern or is approached by a student(s) about issues with Prohibited Substances shall refer the student(s) to a school social worker, substance abuse counselor or guidance counselor. C. Parents/guardians who have a concern about a student’s possible issues with Prohibited Substances are encouraged to notify a school social worker, substance abuse counselor or guidance counselor of their concern. However, such referrals cannot be used to avoid consequences after a known violation of Policy JICH. D. The school social worker, substance abuse counselor or guidance counselor will meet with the student and his/her parents/guardians (if appropriate). School staff will perform a non-clinical chemical health assessment and develop an action plan to meet the student’s particular needs, if necessary. E. Confidentiality of student information concerning issues with Prohibited Substances will be maintained in accordance with state and federal laws. The following progressive intervention and disciplinary procedures are intended as guidelines only. The administration reserves the discretion to impose consequences up to and including recommendation of expulsion for any violation of the Board’s student substance abuse policy. In determining the level of discipline, the administration may consider any relevant facts and circumstances, including but not limited to the student behavior accompanying the violation, the student’s willingness to cooperate with the investigation and referral recommendations, whether the student self-reported or voluntarily sought help, and the student’s prior disciplinary record. II. K-7 Procedures A. Disciplinary Action 1. Type 1: Consumption, possession, receiving or being under the influence of a prohibited substance. a. First Offense—The administrator shall: 1)Confiscate the prohibited substance and verify offense; 2) Meet with student; 3) Notify and meet with parent/guardian; 4) Notify Superintendent and/or law enforcement; 5) Refer student to designated school guidance counselor or Student Support Team (SST) member; 6) Have SST member or designated school guidance counselor meet with parent/guardian to share recommendations; 7) Consider referral to Department of Health and Human Services if parent/guardian refuses to cooperate with above procedure; and 8) Provide for disciplinary action as appropriate (e.g., 0-3 day in-school suspension). b. Second and Subsequent Offenses—The administrator shall 1) Follow steps 1 – 7 as for first offense; 2) Provide for disciplinary action as appropriate (e.g., in-school or out-of-school c. Discretion 1) The administrator has the authority and discretion to deviate from the disciplinary measures set out above. 2) The administrator shall take into account the degree to which a student voluntarily sought help. 2. Type 2: Furnishing, selling or buying of prohibited substances. a. First Offense—The administrator shall: 1) Confiscate the prohibited substance and verify offense; 2) Meet with student; 3) Notify and meet with parent/guardian; 4) Notify Superintendent and/or law enforcement; 5) Refer student to designated school guidance counselor or Student Support Team (SST) member; 6) Have SST member or designated school guidance counselor meet with parent/guardian to share recommendations; 7) Consider referral to Department of Health and Human Services if parent/guardian refuses to cooperate with above procedure; and 8) Provide for out-of-school suspension (up to 10 days) and/or refer to Board of Directors for expulsion hearing. b. Second and Subsequent Offenses—The administrator shall 1) Follow steps 1 – 7 as for first offense; and 2) Provide for immediate out-of-school suspension (up to 10 days) and refer to Board of Directors for expulsion hearing. c. Discretion 1) The administrator has the authority and discretion to deviate from the disciplinary measures set out above. 2) The administrator shall take into account the degree to which a student voluntarily sought help. III. High School Procedures (8-12) A. Disciplinary Action 1. Type 1: Consumption, possession, receiving or being under the influence of a prohibited substance. a. First Offense—The administrator shall: 1) Confiscate the prohibited substance and verify offense; 2) Meet with student; 3) Notify and meet with parent/guardian; 4) Notify Superintendent and/or law enforcement; 5) Refer student to designated school guidance counselor or Student Support Team (“SST”) member; 6) Have SST member or designated school guidance counselor meet with parent/guardian to share recommendations; 7) Consider referral to Department of Health and Human Services if parent/guardian refuses to cooperate with above procedure; and 8) Provide for in-school or out-of-school suspension. b. Second and Subsequent Offenses—The administrator shall: 1) Follow steps 1 – 7 as for first offense; 2) Provide for out-of-school suspension (up to 10 days) and/or refer to Board of Directors for expulsion hearing. c. Discretion 1) The administrator has the authority and discretion to deviate from the disciplinary measures set out above. 2) The administrator shall take into account the degree to which a student voluntarily sought help. 2. Type 2: Furnishing, selling or buying of prohibited substances. a. First Offense—The administrator shall: 1) Confiscate the prohibited substance and verify offense; 2) Meet with student; 3) Notify and meet with parent/guardian; 4) Notify Superintendent and/or law enforcement; 5) Refer student to designated school guidance counselor or Student Support Team (“SST”) member; 6) Have SST member or designated school guidance counselor meet with parent/guardian to share recommendations; 7) Consider referral to Department of Health and Human Services if parent/guardian refuses to cooperate with above procedure; and 8) Provide for immediate out-of-school suspension (up to 10 days) and/or refer to Board of Directors for expulsion hearing. b. Second and Subsequent Offenses—The administrator shall: 1) Follow steps 1– 7 as for first offense; and 2) Provide for immediate out-of-school suspension (up to 10 days) and refer to Board of Directors for expulsion hearing. c. Discretion 1) The administrator has the authority and discretion to deviate from the disciplinary measures set out above. 2) The administrator shall take into account the degree to which a student voluntarily sought help. Cross Reference: JICH – Student Substance Abuse Adopted: November 2, 1995 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: October 17, 2019
- Community Letter Update 4.8.20
April 8, 2020 Dear NOBLE Community, If you don’t like the news in Maine, wait a minute… Information from the Maine Department of Education and other organizations is changing so fast right now. For example, I didn’t even know the MDOE had sent a memo at 8:37 PM yesterday - about recommending continued remote learning for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year - until a colleague happened to ask me for my thoughts on the matter about an hour later. Maine covers a significant area of land, and we are all aware there is a significant difference in COVID-19 cases in Southern versus Northern Maine. Because of the differences between counties, Commissioner Makin “recommended” continued remote learning, instead of Governor Mills “requiring” such a move. While the close of the school year is replete with traditions (i.e., prom, convocation, Project Graduation, graduation, field trips, Celebration of Learning, fun field events, signing yearbooks, step up day), COVID-19 is going to significantly impact all of those, as well as so many other aspects of our lives it is already impacting. (Have you tried to buy alcohol-based hand wipes, Lysol, or toilet paper lately?) MSAD 60 will continue with remote learning for the remainder of the school year, which for students is June 10. While we don’t know what things in June will be like due to the virus, we do know the Administrative Team has a lot to determine, for example: What constitutes successful completion for seniors? How will final progress for all students be determined and recorded? What options are there besides the traditional June 12 graduation event with 1000+ people in attendance? We will work through all of these issues in as timely a manner as possible and will work to communicate with all groups as clearly as possible. Beyond student matters, we also have a Budget meeting scheduled for May 14 and the budget referendum scheduled for June 9. The Governor is currently considering rescheduling until July 15, and there is discussion about how to deal with the statute concerning the budget meeting. I’ll share news expeditiously. School administrators will be communicating schedules in late May regarding collecting personal belongings at schools and returning school technology and materials. In the meantime, please bear with us, as we all continue to work, teach, and learn in new ways. Most importantly, PLEASE be kind to yourself and others. We need to give ourselves permission to be unsure, feel confused, miss contact with others, AND to know that it’s OK for us to feel this way. Be well, Steve Connolly
- Mr. Connolly Checks In
Mr. Connolly checks in.
- Mr. Connolly Reads
Mr.Connolly reads- Creepy Pair of Underwear.
- Agenda for April 9, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting April 9, 2020 Executive Session 4:45pm Meeting Start Time 5:00pm End Time 6:00pm AGENDA Call to Order Executive Session Pursuant 1M.R.S.A. §405(6) (D) Labor Contract Discussion - Teacher Contract 4:45pm Flag Salute Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input- please call 207-676-2234 ext1 and leave a message during this time: this message will be played during the meeting. Include your name and what town you reside in at the beginning of the message. BCTV is going to attempt to stream this meeting. 4. Minutes of April 2, 2020 5. 2019-20 Calendar Conversation . 6. Final Superintendent Budget Update and Board Discussion 7. Board Budget Adoption 2020-21 (District, Adult Education and School Nutrition) 8. SRRF Consideration of Approval for Referendum 9. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 10. Other 11. Public Input Continued- please call 207-676-2234 ext1 and leave a message during this time: this message will be played during the meeting. Include your name and what town you reside in at the beginning of the message. 12. Adjournment
- Minutes of March 5, 20202
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING March 5, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held at Noble High School in North Berwick, Maine on March 5, 2020 at 7:00 pm, with all members present except Ms. Mallett and Ms. Hopper. There were 10 people in the audience. Mr. Doiron, Berwick Board Member shared the explanatory statements regarding public input. Public Input: None at this time. Mr. Doiron made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to add an executive session pursuant 1M.R.S.A. §405(6) (D)contract labor negotiations. In at 6:40 pm. Out at 7:00 pm. The minutes of February 27th were reviewed. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Corliss to accept the minutes of February 27th. All members voted in favor except Ms. Neubert and Ms. Beal who abstained and the motion passed. Ms. Rebecca Manning, Community Engagement Center shared with the board an overview of what she has been doing in the middle and high school with students in the community. She highlighted the relationships that she has created and is continuing to cultivate. Superintendent budget presentation, review of last week’s information. The board heard from the administrative team regarding the potential decision sheet considerations. Each of the considerations were put forth and each was discussed at length. The assistant superintendent updated the board on the superintendent search. Initial interviews took place on February 28th. Three candidates will be brought forward for visits to the district on March 12th and they would also be holding a public forum at Hanson Elementary School in Lebanon that evening. Final interviews will take place on April 9th. The Superintendent shared an update regarding the building committee. MSAD 60 Preliminary Const Costs 3.2.20 Second reading of Policy JJIBS-R (nr) Student Activity/ Booster Fund Cash Handling Procedure. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to approve the second reading of policy JJIBS-R. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The Superintendent shared the resignation of Ms. Laura Winter, elementary teacher at Hanson who is on leave of absence. Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to accept the resignation of Ms. Laura Winter. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. The Superintendent shared the letter of resignation of Ms. Jennifer Fenderson, educational technician at NBES. The Superintendent shared a letter that he has posted regarding the CoronaVirus. The principal of NMS, Mike Roberts, shared with the board that he would be providing a more consistent approach to disciplinary hearings in the future. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Mr.Doiron to go into executive session for contract negotiations. In at 9:33 pm. Out at 10:00 pm. Ms. Potter made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 10:01 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Steve Connolly Secretary of the Board
- Minutes of March 19, 2020
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING March 19, 2020 A meeting of the Board of Directors was held at Noble High School in North Berwick, Maine on March 19, 2020 at 6:00 pm, with all members present except Ms. Corliss. There were 4 people in the audience. Ms. Beal made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to go into executive session for 405 6B readmission of a student. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 6:02 pm. Out at 6:34 pm. Ms. Mallett made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Potter to readmit the student under consideration. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Ms. Mallett made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Neubert to go into executive session for 4056D, negotiations with the teachers association. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. In at 6:42 pm. Out at 7:00 pm The public meeting had 20 in the audience Ms. Mallett, Berwick Board Member shared the explanatory statements regarding public input. Public Input: Ms. Jaime Halbmaier-Stuart, Lebanon teacher and resident, shared with the board the appreciation that she and other teachers have regarding the support given to them and to their students as they are adjusting to the online learning format. Parents and Administrators have been very supportive She did ask about accountability for students being on line and completing their work and was hopeful that there might be more guidance in the future. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Mr. Doiron to table the minutes of Feb. 27th, 2020 until the next meeting. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Sam Grant shared the student report for this week. It has been difficult and stressful. However there is a lot of support and students are able to utilize google classroom etc. There is a lot of teacher support and the students feel like they can maintain their connections with staff and peers. This is a tough situation for all students but particularly the seniors. The superintendent and principals gave an overview of remote learning at this point. Mr. Mike Archambault gave a tip of the hat to technology, as did Ms. Patti Gilley and Ms. Audra Beauvais. They discussed the food distribution, the packet distribution as well as the moving into the SeeSaw applications and Google Classroom. The technology department has really gone above and beyond. Teachers are continuing to meet and work together virtually. Ms. Abbey Pellietier shared with the board the food distribution beginnings. The back pack program will also be beginning tomorrow thanks to the transportation program providing delivery. Andrew Elwell, co principal at MHA shared more information about the back pack program, thanked a lot of people and shared that the volunteerism has been outstanding to watch. He also told the board that MHA was ready to go remote on Monday. Mr. Chris Russo, technology director, shared with the board the incredible amount of positive momentum he is seeing with the staff, teachers, admin, everyone has been unbelievable. For a group of teachers to retool over basically 72 hours and be up and running for their kids almost immediately has been phenomenal to watch. Mr. Russo did state clearly that we should be able to end the need for snow days going forward now that we have this capability. Ms. Michelle Keniston, from ELKS, noted how impressed she is with the teachers with regards to google classroom etc. All of her teachers were ready to roll on Monday. Parent interaction has gone through the roof and is overwhelmingly positive. The level of collaboration has been outstanding. Mr. Joe Findlay, principal of NHS, shared that this might have been the longest week of his career! However, the staff and students are now prepared for full on remote learning on Monday. One more time, shout out to technology, for their incredible support and hard work. Ms. Ali Kearney, assistant principal at NHS, also wanted to send a positive thank you for the technology staff and the work that has been done. She noted that they have been pushing out the need to take care of “self-care” for our staff, students and community members. Susan Macri, special ed. Director, shared an update from the land of special education. There have been over 40 remote IEP meetings. Staff and students are working hard and she will be sending out a note to all parents about students making appropriate conferences MIke Roberts, Principal of NMS, also shared support for the technology department and how awesome the attitudes have been. The communication that is out to the district has been incredibly positive and we feel like we are in great shape going forward. Ms. Denise Van Campen shared and the superintendent shared with the board the financial summary for February. We are unsure as to how the Covid-19 shut down will impact us going forward. Stay tuned for adventure. The Superintendent then shared with the board a budget summary after adjustments have been made. The board went into a “workshop” style session regarding the budget needing to be presented to the community. The board asked a few questions regarding specific cuts or also the impact of this current crisis. Many of the questions are not answerable at this time as there are so many unknowns. We are currently thinking it will balance out, but we don’t know for sure. We can’t count on it at this time, one way or the other. Mr. Doiron asked about any other current revenue increases aside from the Title V funds that have been reinstated at some level. The board then reviewed the decision sheet one by one to determine which of these to cut or keep. The board felt it was important to keep the van and the half time guidance position in Lebanon. They also felt like it was important for us to keep the Knowlton School Fountas and Pennell kits. The insurance deductible is one that we can cut. The board then discussed reducing the supply budgets but not as deeply. The board discussed the MHA garage and settled on reducing the amount to $30,000 to get the project started. The Assistant Superintendent then shared with the board an update on the superintendent’s search. We have had feedback provided through exit tickets from the three candidate’s visits and will share that with board members. Currently our plan is to do the interviewing virtually on April 9th. Other… Ms. Schaeffer shared that she received an email for MSBA to extend the current e-rate to more households. She is encouraging folks to sign this to support technology at this time. Mr. Doiron noted that as a parent and as a school board member, thank you to our admin and our staff for all the hard work and keeping this going. So appreciated. Ms. Beal wanted to send out a shout out to parents for the hard work that they are doing in these difficult times. Ms. Neubert made the motion and it was seconded by Ms. Beal to adjourn. All members voted in favor and the motion passed. Adjourned at 9:05 pm. Respectfully Submitted, Steve Connolly Secretary of the Board
- JICH
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICH STUDENT USE OF ALCOHOL, DRUGS, TOBACCO AND OTHER PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES In order to promote the highest possible standards of learning, as well as the physical, social and emotional well-being of students, this policy is designed to aid students in abstaining from the unlawful use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco and other Prohibited Substances (as defined below); provide for early intervention when use is detected or a student seeks help; and provide consequences for policy violations. This policy is also intended to support and encourage students to meet the standards for ethical and responsible behavior identified in the Student Code of Conduct. Student compliance with this policy is mandatory. Any school staff member who has reason to suspect that a student has violated this policy is required to report the incident to an appropriate administrator as soon as possible. This policy shall be disseminated through student-parent handbooks and reviewed with students in assemblies or other appropriate forums. Prevention The School Department will provide students with information and activities focused on abstaining from the use of Prohibited Substances. Such information and activities will address the legal, social and health consequences of use of Prohibited Substances and will provide information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use Prohibited Substances. The School Department will work in partnership with students, parents, social service organizations and local law enforcement to reduce risks for students where possible. Intervention MSAD #60 schools provide assistance through appropriate school staff, such as social workers, substance abuse counselors and guidance counselors, to intervene and counsel students who are involved with Prohibited Substances and to assist students in continuing their education. Information will be provided, as appropriate, about outside programs and resources that are available to assist students. Prohibited Conduct Students are prohibited from consuming, possessing, furnishing, selling, receiving, buying, manufacturing or being under the influence of prohibited substances before, during and after school hours: At school, in any school building or on any school premises; In any school-owned vehicle or in any other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or school activities; Off school property at any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, event or function (such as a field trip or athletic event) where students are under the jurisdiction of the school unit; and At any time or place if the student’s conduct directly and substantially interferes with the operation, discipline or welfare of the schools. STUDENTS ARE ALSO PROHIBITED, AT SCHOOL OR DURING SCHOOL ACTIVITIES, FROM OFFERING OR ACCEPTING TO FURNISH, SELL, RECEIVE OR BUY PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES OFF SCHOOL PREMISES. Students who participate in co-curricular and extracurricular activities are subject to additional rules and sanctions (see Board Policy JJJ). Prohibited Substances The term “Prohibited Substance” shall include, but not be limited to: Alcohol (ethyl alcohol, “EtOH”); Scheduled drugs (as defined in 17-A MRSA § 1101); Controlled Substances (as defined in the federal Controlled Substance Act, 21 USC § 812); Tobacco products of any kind; Electronic vaporizer devices, including but not limited to e-cigarettes, e-hookahs, vape pens, or similar devices; Prescription drugs not prescribed for the student and/or not in compliance with the Board’s policy on administering medications to students (see Board Policy JLCD); Any substance possessed or used for ingestion to produce an intoxicating effect (including but not limited to aerosols, paints, solvents and glue); Steroids or any substance listed on the Maine State Chapter 223: Health, Nutrition, and Safety §6621. Paraphernalia – implements used for distribution or consumption of a Prohibited Substance; or Any look-alike drug or substance that is described as or is purported to be a Prohibited Substance defined in this section. Consequences for Policy Violations The consequences for violations of this policy and other information concerning implementation of this policy are contained in the accompanying administrative procedure, JICH-R. Legal Reference: 21 USC § 812 (Controlled Substances Act); 21 CFR Part 1300.11-15 21 CFR Part 1300.11-15 Title IV- 21st Century Schools (20 USC § 7101 et seq.) (Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act) 17-A MRSA § 1101 42 USC § 290dd-2; 42 CFR 2.1 et seq. 42 CFR § 2.1 et seq. 20 USC § 6081 (Pro-Children Act of 2001) 20-A MRSA §§ 1001(9); 4008; 6621 et seq. 22 MRSA § 1578-B Me PL 470 (An Act to Reduce Tobacco Use by Minors) Cross Reference: GBEC – Drug-Free Workplace IJNDB/IJNDB-R – Student Computer and Internet Use JICH-R – Administrative Procedure for Student Use of Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco, and Other Prohibited Substances JICIA – Weapons, Violence and School Safety JKD – Suspension of Students JKE – Expulsion of Students JJJ – Extracurricular Substance Abuse JLCD – Administering Medication to Students JRA – Student Records Adopted: January 4, 1996 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: December 1, 2005 Revised: November 16, 2006 Revised: November 10, 2016
- JICFA
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICFA STUDENT HAZING Maine statute defines injurious hazing as “any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student enrolled in a public school.” It is the policy of the Board that injurious hazing activities of any type, either on or off school property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with this school unit, are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times. No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school unit shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate injurious hazing activities. No student, including leaders of students organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities. Persons not associated with this school unit who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to ejection from school property and/or other measures as may be available under the law. Administrators, faculty members, students, and all other employees who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measures. In the case of an organization affiliated with this school unit which authorizes hazing, penalties may include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on school property or to receive any other benefit of affiliation with the school unit. These penalties shall be in addition to any civil or criminal penalties to which the violator or organization may be subject. The Superintendent shall assume responsibility for administering this policy. In the event that an individual or organization disagrees with an action—or lack of action—on the part of the Superintendent as he/she carries out the provisions of this policy, that individual or organization may appeal to the full Board. The ruling of the Board, with respect to the provisions of this policy, shall be final. A copy of this policy shall be included in all school handbooks or distributed to all school staff and students as deemed appropriate by the administration. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 6553 Adopted: November 12, 1992 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: June 1, 2017
- JICEC
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICEC STUDENT DISTRIBUTION OF NON-SCHOOL MATERIALS It is beneficial to the basic educational mission of the school for students to express their own views concerning a wide variety of topics and issues and share them in an appropriate manner with other students in the school. Students’ rights to express their views in the school, however, must be exercised responsibly and with consideration for the special characteristics of the school environment. The school has a duty to ensure students views are expressed in a manner that is consistent with the basic educational mission of the school. The following rules shall apply to student distribution of non-school materials on school premises. A. Distribution Limited to Student-Prepared Materials Student expression of their own views in their own words or through preparation of their own materials can have educational value. Materials that are not prepared by students, however, may not provide such educational benefit, and the schools shall not be used by outside individuals or groups to further their goals through communication with students and/or staff. All materials must meet the guidelines delineated in Section D. B. Copy for Principal 24 hours in advance of the time. A copy of the materials shall be provided to the principal at or before the time distribution is to begin, along with the name of the student or students who are distributing the materials. The principal shall determine whether the materials comply with the guidelines of this policy and shall consult with the Superintendent and legal counsel if necessary. The school's determination that the material complies with the guidelines does not imply approval of its contents by the school, the administrators of the school, the Board of Directors, or the individual reviewing the material submitted. The distributors and authors of the material shall be solely responsible for its contents. C. Guidelines - see section F Materials distributed on school premises shall not include expression that: (see Section G for definitions) 1. Is obscene to minors; 2. Is libelous; 3. Is pervasively indecent or vulgar, if distributed in the high school or junior high school; contains any indecent or vulgar language, if distributed in the elementary schools; 4. Advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law; 5. Constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence or harassment based on race, religion, ethnic origin, handicap or gender); 6. Presents a clear and present likelihood that it will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, or will cause/promote the commission of unlawful acts or violation of Board/school policies/rules; 7. Expresses religious beliefs or points of view that students would reasonably believe, due to the content or format, to be sponsored, endorsed or given official imprimatur *1 by the school; and/or 8. Is deemed inappropriate to the age and emotional maturity of students. D. Time, Place and Manner of Distribution Students may distribute materials at any entrance or exit to the school before and after school and in a location in the cafeteria designated by the principal during all lunch periods. Students shall not distribute materials in a manner which disrupts any school activity or blocks or impedes the safe flow of traffic within corridors and entranceways of the school. No students or staff members shall be compelled or coerced to accept any materials. Students who distribute materials shall be responsible for cleaning up materials thrown on the grounds and within school buildings. E. Compliance with Policy Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action. F. Policy Definitions 1. Obscene to minors is defined as: a) The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the written material, taken as a whole appeals to the prurient *2 interest of minors; b) The material depicts or describes sexual conduct in a manner that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community; and/or c) The material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value for minors. 2. Minor means any person under the age of 18. 3. Libel is a false statement about a specific individual that tends to harm the individual’s reputation or to lower him/her in the esteem of the community. 4. Distribution means circulation or dissemination of materials by means of handing out free copies, selling or offering copies for sale and accepting donations for copies. It includes displaying materials in areas of the school which are generally frequented by students. 5. Materials include any form of communication including but not limited to writing, printing, recorded tape, film, video, computer disk, and amplified voice. For purposes of this policy, “materials” include tangible objects bearing no verbal communication or messages that are nonetheless distributed for the purpose of communication or expression. Cross Reference: JICE – School-Sponsored Student Publications KHC – Public Distribution of Non-School Materials *1 A person's acceptance or guarantee that something is of good standard *2 Encouraging interest in sexual matters Adopted: November 12, 1992 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: June 1, 2017
- JICE
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICE SCHOOL-SPONSORED STUDENT PUBLICATIONS School-sponsored student publications are any publications approved by the school, supervised by school staff members and designed to impart particular knowledge or skills to student participants and audiences. These include but are not limited to the yearbook, the student newspaper, and the literary magazine. Administrators and staff shall exercise control of school-sponsored publications to assure that the participants learn whatever lessons the activity is designed to teach, that readers or listeners are not exposed to material that may be inappropriate for their level of maturity, and that the views of the individual writer or speaker are not erroneously attributed to the school. To the extent deemed educationally appropriate by teachers or advisors for school-sponsored publications, student editors shall have initial responsibility for determining content. Advisors and administrators shall give substantial and due regard to the judgment of student editors and to the educational value of the decision-making process. However, an advisor or administrator may override a student editor’s decision if they deem content to be inconsistent with the educational goals of the schools. Factors that advisors and administrators should consider in determining whether content is appropriate include but are not limited to: A. The educational objectives of the school-sponsored activity (for example, teaching accuracy and fairness are legitimate educational objectives of the student newspaper); B. The privacy and reputation of individuals and staff; C. The emotional maturity of the intended audience;KHC D. Whether the material might reasonably be perceived to advocate alcohol use, drug use, or irresponsible sex; promote hostility, disorder, violence; inhibit the rights of others; or disrupt the functioning of the school; E. Whether the contents are obscene or constitute “hate” literature that attacks ethnic, religious or any other group; F. Whether the content might be attributed to the school rather than the views of an individual; and G. Any other factors as appropriate to the materials and/or particular situation. Cross Reference: JICEC – Student Distribution of Non-School Materials KHC – Public Distribution of Non-School Materials Adopted: November 12, 1992 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revised: June 1, 2017
- JICC
NEPN/NSBA Code: JICC STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES Parents are responsible for the supervision of students before boarding and after leaving the bus at the end of the day. Once on the bus the student becomes the responsibility of the district. Because a school bus is an extension of the classroom, the Board shall require students to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior. If a student does not conduct him/herself properly on the bus, the problem will be brought to the attention of the building principal by the bus driver. The building principal will inform the parents immediately of the misconduct and request their cooperation in correcting the student’s behavior. Students who become a serious disciplinary problem on the school bus may have their riding privileges suspended by the principal. Any damage caused by students will be incurred by the student and the student's family. *Refer to Code of Conduct in Student Handbooks Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. §5401 Adopted: March 12, 1987 Revised: May 24, 2001 Revision: May 16, 2002 Revised: March 1, 2007 Revised: November 16, 2017
- JHB
NEPN/NSBA CODE: JHB TRUANCY I. Definition A student is habitually truant if the student: A. Is subject to the compulsory attendance law; and B. 1. Is at least seven years of age and has not completed grade six and has the equivalent of seven full days of unexcused absences or five consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year; or 2. Has completed grade six and has the equivalent of 10 full days of unexcused absences or seven consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year. II. Attendance Coordinators The Board shall appoint one or more attendance coordinators in accordance with state law. III. Truancy Procedure As required by law, the following procedure shall be followed when a student is habitually truant: A. The principal, upon determining that a student is truant, shall notify the Superintendent of the student’s truancy within five school days of the last unexcused absence. B. Within five school days of notification, the Superintendent/ designee will refer the student who has been determined to be truant to the school’s student assistance team. C. The student assistance team will meet to determine the cause of the truancy and assess the effect of the student’s absences, as well as any future absences for the student. If it is determined that a negative effect exists, the student assistance team shall develop an intervention plan to address the student’s absences and the negative effect of these absences. 1. Frequent communication between the teacher and the family; 2. Changes in the learning environment; 3. Mentoring; 4. Student counseling; 5. Tutoring, including peer tutoring; 6. Placement into different classes 7. Evaluation for alternative education programs; 8. Attendance contracts; 9. Referral to other agencies for family services; and 10. Other interventions including but not limited to referral to the school attendance coordinator, student assistance team, or dropout prevention committee. Failure of the student or the student’s parents to appear at scheduled meetings does not preclude school administrators from implementing a plan to address a student’s truancy. D. As part of correcting the problem informally, the Superintendent/designee shall require the student and his/her parents to attend one or more meetings with the student’s teacher or other school personnel designated by the Superintendent. The purpose of the meeting(s) is to reinforce the plan referenced in Paragraph A or to develop an alternative plan. Such meetings may involve others including but not limited to case managers, therapeutic treatment providers, and representatives of the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Corrections. The Superintendent/designee shall schedule the meeting(s) at mutually convenient times. C. If the Superintendent/designee is unable to correct the student’s truancy, the Superintendent/designee shall serve or cause to be served upon the parent in-hand or by registered mail a written notice that the student’s attendance at school is required by law. The notice shall: 1. State that the student is required to attend school pursuant to 20-A M.R.S.A. § 5001-A (the compulsory attendance law); 2. Explain the parent’s right to inspect the student’s attendance records, attendance coordinator’s reports, and principal’s reports; 3. Explain that the failure to send the student to school and maintain the student in regular attendance is a civil violation in accordance with 20-A M.R.S.A. § 5053-A and explain the possible penalties; 4. State that the Superintendent/designee may notify local law enforcement authorities of a violation of the habitual truancy statute, and, if the violation falls under Section I.B.2, may notify the Department of Health and Human Services; and 5. Outline the plan developed to address the student’s habitual truancy and the steps that have been taken to implement that plan. D. Prior to notifying local law enforcement authorities, the Superintendent/designee shall schedule at least one meeting as required in Section III.B and may invite a local prosecutor. E. If after three school days after the service of the notice described in Section III.C of this policy the student remains truant and the parent and student refuse to attend the meeting referred to in Section III.D, the Superintendent/designee shall report the facts of the unlawful absence to local law enforcement authorities. Local law enforcement may proceed with enforcement action unless the student is at once placed in an appropriate school or otherwise meets the requirements of the compulsory attendance law. F. When a student is determined to be habitually truant and in violation of the compulsory attendance law, and the Superintendent/designee has made a good faith attempt to meet the requirements of Section III. The Superintendent/designee shall notify the Board and local law enforcement authorities of the truancy. After this notification, a local law enforcement officer who sees the truant student may transport the student to the appropriate school if the truant student is off school grounds during school hours and not under the supervision of school personnel. IV. Annual Report to Commissioner The Superintendent shall submit an annual report regarding habitual truancy to the Commissioner of Education by October 1. The report must identify the number of habitual truants in the school administration unit in the preceding school year; describe the school unit’s efforts to deal with habitual truancy; account for actions brought to enforce the habitual truancy law; and include any other information on truancy requested by the Commissioner. Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. §§ 5001-A; 5051-A to 5054 Cross Reference: JEA - Compulsory Attendance JFC – Dropout Prevention Committee Adopted: January 31, 2008 Revised: November 16, 2017
- JFCK-R
NEPN/NSBA Code: JFCK-R STUDENT USE OF CELLULAR TELEPHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES SCHOOL RULES The Board recognizes that many students possess cell phones and other electronic devices. These devices may not be used at school or during school activities in any manner that disrupts the educational process or violates Board policies or school rules. a. K-5 parents need to write a letter explaining the reason why the student should bring a cell phone to school. b. During classes and school activities, all such devices must be turned off. c. The only exception to this rule is when a staff member specifically authorizes students to use such a personal electronic device for a specific purpose (such as entering an assignment in PDA). d. If this rule is violated, the staff member will immediately confiscate the device for the remainder of the school day, and discipline may be imposed as provided below. e. Students may use MP3 players and cell phones while riding district buses at the discretion of the bus driver. f. The use of cameras or camera/video function on any device, without permission, is strictly prohibited on school grounds or while engaged in school activities. Students are required to obtain permission before photographing or taking videos of any individual. Students are also required to obtain prior permission before posting any photos or videos of individuals taken at school on social media or elsewhere. g. When on school premises, the use of personal electronic devices that violates Board policy, administrative procedure or school rule is prohibited. In addition, accessing, viewing, submitting, forwarding, downloading or displaying any materials that are defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing, bullying and/or illegal is prohibited. h. Student cell phones and other electronic devices may be subject to search if there is reasonable suspicion that a student is violating Board policies, procedures or school rules, or engaged in other misconduct. School administration may confiscate electronic devices for as long as necessary to complete their investigation. 1. The use of cameras, including camera phones, is strictly prohibited in locker rooms, restrooms and classrooms. In other school locations, students are required to obtain permission before photographing any individual. 2. Any use of cellular telephones and other electronic devices that violates any Board policy, administrative procedure or school rule is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to violations of the student code of conduct, harassment and cheating. 3. Students violating these rules will be subject to discipline, which may include: a. Exclusion of the device from school for an extended period; b. Sanctions ranging from detention to expulsion from school depending upon the nature of the offense and the student's disciplinary record. Cross Reference: ACAA- Harassment and Sexual Harassment of Students ACAA-R- Student Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Procedure ACAB-Harassment and Sexual Harassment of School Employees ACAB-R- Employee Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Procedure JIH- Questioning and Searches of Students JIH-R-Questioning and Searches of Students - Administrative Procedure JFCK- Student Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices Adopted: November 16, 2006 Revised: June 21, 2012 October 18, 2018
- JFCK
NEPN/NSBA Code: JFCK STUDENT USE OF CELLULAR TELEPHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES The Board recognizes that many students possess cellular telephones and other electronic devices. These devices may not be used in any manner that disrupts the educational process or violates Board policies or school rules. MSAD #60 is not responsible for damage, loss or theft of such devices. The Superintendent is authorized to develop, with input from administrators, any school rules necessary to implement this policy. Cross Reference: IJNDB- Student Computer and Internet Use Policy IJNDB-R-Student Computer and Internet Use Rules JFCK-R Student Use Of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices School Rules JIH- Questioning and Searches of Students JICIA-Weapons, Violence and School Safety JICK-Bullying Adopted: November 16, 2006 Revised: October 18, 2018
- JFCA
NEPN/NSBA Code: JFCA SCHOOL RE-ENTRY POLICY It is the belief of the M.S.A.D. #60 Board of Directors that close communication is vital for a successful reintegration of students who have been absent for an extended period of time for the following circumstances. Therefore students who are absent for an extended period due to incarceration, substance abuse treatment, or hospitalization for a physical or mental health issue are required to attend a re-entry meeting with their parent(s) and school staff prior to returning to school. Students dismissed from school to obtain a risk assessment for concerns involving harm to themselves or others also require a re-entry meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to ensure that the school is prepared to best meet the needs of the student. These meeting will include the student’s parent(s), an administrator, counselor, nurse, and other school staff as needed. Meetings are required following: A long-term suspension for circumstances that warrant a re-entry plan Substance abuse treatment A hospitalization for any medical or physical ailment requiring accommodations (change in medication, mobility, accessibility, etc.) A hospitalization for a mental health issue A risk assessment An incarceration Please call your child’s Dean, Assistant Principal, or Guidance Counselor to schedule the re-entry meeting prior to your child returning to school. Parents are asked to bring any relevant information (discharge summary, physician recommendations) needed to develop a successful re-entry plan. Students will not be allowed to return to school or attend school sponsored events until the re-entry meeting is held. Adopted: January 5, 2012
- JFC
NEPN/NSBA Code: JFC DROPOUT PREVENTION STUDENT WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL The Board believes that a high school diploma signifies the minimum preparation for life. Therefore, the Board strongly urges every teacher, guidance counselor, principal, parent, and citizen to exert influence to keep all students in school through high school. Dropout Prevention Committee In order to reduce the school dropout rate, the Superintendent shall establish a Dropout Prevention Committee to study the problem of dropouts, habitual truancy, and the need for alternative programs, kindergarten to grade 12. The Committee will meet at least annually, make recommendations for addressing the problem, and submit a plan of action to the Board in accordance with the provisions in Maine law. The Committee will consider the following when developing its plan: reasons why students drop out of school; maintenance of continuing contacts with recent dropouts in order to extend opportunities for alternate educational program, counseling, and referral; education of teachers and administrators about the dropout problem; use of human services programs to help dropouts; the Board’s policies on suspension, expulsion, and other disciplinary action; and discriminatory practices and attitudes within the unit. Committee Membership As required by law, the Dropout Prevention Committee shall be composed of the following members: A. A member of the Board selected by the Board; B. A school administrator selected by the Superintendent; C. A teacher and a school counselor selected by the teachers’ organization; D. A parent selected by the local parent group or by the Board if no such group exists; E. A school attendance coordinator from the school system selected by the Superintendent; F. A high school student selected by the Dropout Prevention Committee members selected in paragraphs A to E; G. A dropout selected by the Dropout Prevention Committee members selected in paragraphs A to E; and H. Community resident of the district selected by the Dropout Prevention Committee members selected in paragraphs A to E. The Board recognizes the importance of success as a motivator and as a factor in a student’s commitment to education. For those students who have been identified as at risk of dropping out, every effort will be made to provide alternative instructional arrangements that take into account both the student’s need for success and the unit’s commitment to adequate minimum standards of achievement. Student Withdrawal From School In the event that students do withdraw from school, school administrators shall arrange for regular contacts to be made with them for the purpose of informing them of the process for readmission, making them aware of alternatives in the community for continuing their education and stating the unit’s willingness to assist them in their educational efforts. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA §§ 5001-A; 5102-5103 Cross Reference: JEA - Compulsory Attendance Ages Adopted: May 24, 2001 Revised: November 10, 2016
- JFABD
NEPN/NSBANEPN/NSBA CODE: JFABD ADMISSION OF HOMELESS STUDENTS The Board recognizes that homelessness alone should not be a sufficient reason to separate students from the mainstream school environment. MSAD #60 will strive to ensure that homeless students are identified and provided access to the same free and appropriate public education provided to other students in the school system. In accordance with federal and state law and regulations, the school unit will provide homeless students with access to the instructional programming that supports achievement of the content standards of Maine’s system of Learning Results and to other services for which they are eligible. Students shall not be segregated into a separate school or program based on their status as homeless, nor shall they be stigmatized in any way. I. DEFINITIONS A. “Homeless” students are those who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and include the following: 1. Children and youths who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement. 2. Children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designated for or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodation for human beings. 3. Children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings. 4. Migratory children who meet one of the above-described circumstances. B “School of origin” means the school that the child or youth attended when permanently housed or the school in which the child or youth was last enrolled. C. “Unaccompanied youth” refers to a youth not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian (e.g., runaway and “throwaway” children and youth). II. ENROLLMENT/PLACEMENT The school unit will determine, according to the best interest of the child or youth, whether the child or youth will be enrolled in the school of origin or in the public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child is actually living are eligible to attend. In determining the best interest of the child or youth, the school unit will, to the extent feasible, keep the child or youth in the school of origin, unless doing so is contrary to the wishes of the parent. If the youth is unaccompanied by a parent or guardian, the homeless liaison will assist in placement and enrollment decisions, with the views of the youth taken into consideration. The school selected shall immediately enroll the homeless child or youth, even if the child or youth is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment, such as previous academic records, immunization records, evidence of residency, or other documentation. The school unit may require a parent or guardian of a homeless child or youth to provide contact information. The school unit must provide a written explanation, including a statement regarding the right to appeal, to the parent or guardian of the homeless child or youth if the school unit sends the child or youth to a school other than the school of origin or other than a school requested by the parent or guardian. In the case of an unaccompanied youth, the homeless liaison will provide notice of the right to appeal. The enrolling school shall contact the school last attended by the child or youth to obtain relevant academic and other records. If the child or youth needs to obtain immunizations or immunization or medical records, the parent or guardian of the homeless child or youth will be referred to the homeless liaison for assistance. III. ENROLLMENT DISPUTES If there is a dispute concerning enrollment, the child or youth shall be immediately enrolled in the school in which enrollment is sought, pending resolution of the dispute. The parent or guardian will be provided, in writing, with a written explanation of the school unit’s decision and the right to appeal the decision. The homeless liaison shall ensure that an unaccompanied youth is enrolled in school, pending resolution of a dispute. IV. SERVICES Homeless students shall be provided services comparable to services available to other students in the school system including, but not limited to, transportation services; educational services for which the student meets the eligibility criteria, such as educational programs for disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, gifted and talented students, and students with limited English proficiency; vocational and technical programs; preschool programs; before and after school-care programs; and school meals/nutrition programs. V. TRANSPORTATION Homeless students are entitled to transportation to their school of origin or the school where they are to be enrolled. If the school of origin is in another school unit and the student is enrolled in MSAD #60, or if a homeless student’s school of origin is in MSAD #60 but he or she is enrolled in a different school unit, the school systems will coordinate the transportation services necessary for the student, or will share the responsibilities and costs equally. VI. RECORDS Any records ordinarily kept by the school, including immunization records, medical records, academic records, birth certificates, guardianship records, and evaluations for special services or programs, regarding each homeless student, shall be maintained so that records may be transferred when a student enters a new school system. Access to records will be available to parents and students in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). VII. HOMELESS STUDENT LIAISON A. The Superintendent shall designate an individual to act as the school unit’s Homeless Student Liaison. The school unit shall inform school personnel, service providers and advocates working with homeless families of the duties of the school unit’s Homeless Student Liaison. B. The Homeless Student Liaison will be responsible for ensuring that: 1. Homeless children and youths are identified by school personnel and through coordination activities with other entities and agencies; 2. Homeless children and youths enroll in and have a full and equal opportunity to succeed in schools within the school unit; 3. Homeless families, children, and youths receive educational services for which they are eligible, including Head Start, Even Start, and preschool programs administered by the school unit, and referrals to health care services, dental services, mental health services, and other appropriate services; 4. The parents or guardians of homeless children and youths are informed of the educational and related opportunities available to their children and are provided with meaningful opportunities to participate in the education of their children; 5. Public notice of the educational rights of homeless children and youths is disseminated where such children and youths receive services, such as schools, family shelters, and soup kitchens; 6. Enrollment disputes are mediated in accordance with law; 7. The parent or guardian of a homeless child or youth, and any unaccompanied youth, is fully informed of all transportation services, including transportation to the school of origin, and is assisted in accessing transportation to the school the student will be attending; 8. Unaccompanied youths are assisted in placement or enrollment decisions and provided notice of the right to appeal; and 9. Children or youths who need to obtain immunizations or immunization medical records receive assistance. Legal References: 42 U.S.C. § 11431-11435 20-A MRSA §§ 1(13-A), 261, 5161-5164, 5207(7) Ch. 14 (Me. Dept. of Ed. Rules) Maine State Plan for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Adopted: September 22, 2016
- MSAD 60 Reads
Mr. Connolly reads- Happy Pig Day
- Agenda for April 2, 2020
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT NO. 60 BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ Meeting April 2, 2020 Executive Session 6:00 Meeting Start Time 7:00pm End Time 8:15pm AGENDA Executive Session Pursuant 1M.R.S.A. §405(6) (D) Labor Contract Discussion - Teacher Contract 6:00pm with Attorney Campbell Badger Call to Order Flag Salute Public Input Statement-Vice Chair Public Input- please call 207-676-2234 ext1 and leave a message during this time: this message will be played during the meeting. Include your name and what town you reside in at the beginning of the message. BCTV is going to attempt to stream this meeting. 4. Minutes of March 5, 2020 and March 19, 2020 . 5. Student Report 6. Remote Learning Update 7. Budget Discussion 8. Adult Education Budget 9. Food Service Budget 10. 2019-20 School Calendar Revisit 11. Town Meeting and BVR Updates 12. Superintendent Search Update- Questions for the Candidates 13. Employment: New Hires, Retirement and Resignation 14. Other 15. Public Input Continued- please call 207-676-2234 ext1 and leave a message during this time: this message will be played during the meeting. Include your name and what town you reside in at the beginning of the message. 16. Adjournment
- Community Update
April 1, 2020 Dear NOBLE community, I hope you are all fairing physically and emotionally well. I want to thank you for your flexibility and support during the COVID-19 epoch. I applaud students, families, and staff for your continued optimism, words of support and encouragement, and efforts to do your part to reduce the potential spread of the virus. Governor Mills has extended the shelter in place order through May 1, 2020. That means the earliest possible date schools could reopen is Monday, May 4. In the potential that schools could restart on that date, we are adjusting our cleaning protocols. Starting Monday, April 6 we will move to a “clean and close” protocol. That means that classrooms and hallways will be fogged with hospital-grade disinfectant, which air dries. Then pods, classrooms, hallways, etc. will be closed, so that custodial staff do not have to continuously redouble their efforts. Also in Governor Mills’ communications, her agency shared the Department of Homeland Security’s posting of Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce. I wish to thank and tip my cap to our Essential Services Providers: custodians, food service, transportation, payroll, technology, human resources, administrators, and others who are performing their civic duty. A sincere THANK YOU to our frontline employees. You are keeping schooling viable! Lastly, following is a reminder of the changes to the spring school calendar: April 17 & 20, Patriots Day and the preceding Friday, will be no student /staff days. That allows a four-day respite. April 21, 22, 23, and 24 will be remote school student /staff days. May 22 & 25, Memorial Day and the preceding Friday, will be no student /staff days. That allows a second four-day respite. The K-11 school year, whether we return to school or not this spring, will end on June 10 (half day). Graduation is still scheduled for June 12. In closing, be well and STAY NOBLE! Regards, Steve Connolly Superintendent of Schools
- JFAA
NEPN/NSBA Code: JFAA ADMISSION OF RESIDENT STUDENTS The school unit shall admit as students those of legal school age whose parents or guardians legally reside within the unit. Adequate proof of residence shall be required. The Board reserves the right to verify residency through appropriate means for any enrolled student or any family applying for enrollment. “Residence” means bona fide residence—one’s actual residence maintained in good faith—and does not include a temporary or superficial residence established for the purpose of free school attendance in this system. It shall be considered the place where important family activity takes place—the place where the family eats, sleeps, relaxes and plays. It is a place which can be called a “home.” While it is possible for an individual to maintain property and pay taxes in more than one location or community, for purposes of student eligibility for school attendance, “residence” shall mean where the custodial parent maintains a home and where the student spends the majority of their time. Guardianship shall be substantiated by a copy of a court order or probated will appointing the resident as guardian of the student. No student shall be accepted for enrollment or allowed to continue in enrollment on the basis of guardianship established by a power of attorney. Resident students entering school for the first time shall be admitted upon presentation of an original birth certificate to the Principal, along with a record of required inoculations and pertinent health records. Photocopies shall be made and retained in the student’s file. New resident students who are transferring into the school system shall be admitted on the basis of age, immunization and academic records received from the previous school. However, original documentation may be required if deemed necessary to appropriately determine a student’s eligibility for enrollment and assignment. Legal Reference: 18-A MRSA § 5-201, et seq. 20-A MRSA §§ 5202 et seq., 6002 Maine Commissioner of Ed. Administrative Letter No. 13, 10/9/97 Adopted: May 24, 2001 Revised: November 1, 2018
- JEA
NEPN/NSBA Code: JEA COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE AGES Under state law, full-time school attendance is required of all children from their 7th to their 17th birthday except: A. A person who graduates from high school before their 17th birthday; B. A person who has: 1. Reached the age of 15 years or completed the 9th grade; and 2. Permission to leave school from that person’s parent; and 3. Been approved by the principal for a suitable program of work and study or training; and 4. Permission to leave school from the Board of Directors or its designee; and 5. Agreed in writing with that person’s parent and the Board of Directors or its designee to meet annually until that person’s 17th birthday to review that person’s educational needs. When the request to be excused from school has been denied pursuant to this paragraph, the student’s parent may appeal to the Commissioner; C. A person whose absence is excused under 20-A MRSA subsection 5051. The parent of a habitual truant who has been denied a waiver of this paragraph may appeal to the Commissioner in accordance with MRSA subsection 5051, (2) (E) (habitual truancy); or D. A person who has matriculated and is attending an accredited, post-secondary, degree-granting institution as a full-time student. An exception to the attendance in public school under this paragraph must be approved by the Commissioner. Alternatives to Attendance at Public Day School A. Equivalent instruction alternatives are as follows: 1. A person shall be excused from attending a public day school if the person obtains equivalent instruction in: a) A private school approved for attendance purposes pursuant to 20-A MRSA §2901; b) A private school recognized by the department as providing equivalent instruction; c) A home instruction program that complies with the requirements of 20-A MRSA § 5001-A(3)(A)(4); or d) Any other manner arranged for by the Board of Directors and approved by the Commissioner. 2. A student shall be credited with attendance at a private school only if a certificate showing the name, residence and attendance of the person at the school, signed by the person or persons in charge of the school, has been filed with the school officials of the administrative unit in which the student resides. 3. The following provisions apply to home instruction programs: a. The student's parent/guardian must provide a written notice of intent to provide home instruction that meets the requirements of 20-A MRSA § 5001-A(3) (A)(4)(a) simultaneously to the school officials of the administrative unit in which the student resides and to the Commissioner within 10 calendar days of the beginning of home instruction. b. On or before September 1 of each subsequent year of home instruction, the student's parent/guardian must file a letter with the school officials of the administrative unit in which the student resides and the Commissioner stating the intention to continue providing home instruction and enclose a copy of one of the forms of annual assessment of the student's academic progress described in 20-A MRSA §5001-A(3) (A)(4)(b). c. Dissemination of any information filed under 20-A MRSA § 5001-A(3)(A) is governed by the provisions of 20-A MRSA § 6001 (dissemination of information); the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, 20 USC § 1232g (2002); and the federal Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975, 20 USC § 1401-1487 (2002), except that "directory information" as defined by the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is confidential and is not subject to public disclosure unless the parent/guardian specifically permits disclosure in writing or a judge orders otherwise. Copies of any information filed under 20-A MRSA § 5001- A(3)(A) must be maintained by the student's parent/guardian until the home instruction program concludes. The records must be made available to the Commissioner upon request. d. If the home instruction program is discontinued, students of compulsory school age must be enrolled in a public school or an equivalent instruction alternative as provided for by law. The receiving school shall determine the placement of the student. At the secondary level, the principal of the receiving school shall determine the value of the prior educational experience toward meeting the standards of Maine's system of Learning Results. B. A person may be excused from attendance at a public day school pursuant to 20-A MRSA §5104-A or § 8605 (other public or private alternative programs). Excusable Absence A person's absence is excused when the absence is for the following reasons: A. Personal illness; B. An appointment with a health professional that must be made during the regular school day; C. Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during the regular school day; D. A family emergency; or E. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose which has been approved. Compulsory education is essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the people and the continued prosperity of our nation. Maintaining regular student attendance is necessary to achieve the goal of an educated citizenry. Public schools should ensure the rights of access for all school-age persons to an appropriate educational opportunity and, when necessary, should develop alternatives to regular school curricula for those children and youth at risk of becoming dropouts and those who may have left school. Parents are responsible for the attendance of students who are under 17 years of age. The Board shall work with families in an effort to ensure compliance. Secondary school pupils 20 years of age or more will not be admitted to the school system without prior Board approval. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 5001-A, et seq. Ch. 125.23 B,5,1 (Maine Dept. of Ed. Rule) Cross Reference: IHBG - Home Schooling Cross Reference: JFC - Student Withdrawal From School/Dropout Prevention Committee\ Adopted: January 15, 2004 Revised: November 20, 2014
- IMDB
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMDB FLAG DISPLAYS In accordance with Maine state law, the United States and Maine flags are to be displayed from the public school buildings of this school unit every school day and on appropriate occasions. Further, the American flag is to be displayed in every classroom in each public school in the unit. The Superintendent is responsible to furnish each school and facility accordingly, and to recommend to the Board annually the amount of expenditure necessary to provide sufficient flags and flagstaffs. This Board shall appropriate the necessary funds. It shall be the duty of instructors to impress upon the youth by suitable references and observances the significance of the flag, to teach them the cost, the object and principles of our government, the inestimable sacrifices made by the founders of our nation, the important contribution made by all who have served in the armed services of our country since its inception, and to teach them to love, honor and respect the flag of our country that costs so much and is so dear to every true American citizen. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA §§ 1055, 4805 Cross Reference: IMDA - Patriotic Exercises Adopted: February 1, 2001 Revised: September 17, 2015
- IMDA
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMDA PATRIOTIC EXERCISES Maine state law requires display of and instruction about the American flag in the classrooms of our schools. To foster appreciation and respect for our nation and its symbol, the Board of Directors requires that on each morning and other appropriate occasions in every school, the Pledge of Allegiance is to be given by all students and staff. It is the responsibility of the Superintendent through the Principal to ensure that this policy is adhered to, but he/she may determine the manner in which it will be done, such as through an intercom or by the individual classroom teacher. Students who object to participating in the flag salute as a matter of conscience shall be excused from doing so upon submission of a request in writing and signed by a parent/ guardian, which provides evidence of sincere conviction. Such excusal shall not intimidate nor embarrass the student. An excused student may stand, remain seated or arrangements can be made so that he/she may leave the room during the Pledge. When in the presence of staff and students conducting a salute, an excused student shall have appropriate respect for the others’ participation. A teacher may also be so excused, but is not released from the responsibility of regular supervisory duty of covering a classroom of students, nor of appropriate participation in teaching the curriculum including patriotic songs and holiday-based instructional activities. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA §§ 1055, 4805 Cross Reference: IMDB - Flag Displays Adopted: February 1, 2001 Revised: September 17, 2015
- IMD
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMD PERIOD OF SILENCE A one-minute period of silence may be made available in the schools prior to classes for reflection or meditation. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 4805 Adopted: February 1, 2001 Revised: September 17, 2015
- IMBB
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMBB EXEMPTION FROM REQUIRED INSTRUCTION The Curriculum of MSAD #60 is designed to include statutory requirements and other areas of study deemed appropriate by the professional staff and the Board. The curriculum includes topics and materials that are age and ability appropriate to the students. The Board acknowledges that from time to time individual students may be exposed to some ideas and materials with which they or their parent(s)/legal guardian disagree, but such disagreement alone is not a sufficient basis to exempt a student from the prescribed curriculum. Exemptions from the required curriculum should be minimized because they can detract from the overall instruction provided to the class as a whole and the educational objectives sought to be achieved by the curriculum. The Board recognizes, however, that there could be topics in the curriculum which may be objectionable to individual students and/or parent(s)/legal guardian based on their particular, sincerely held religious, moral or philosophical beliefs. Exemption from instruction which infringes on such beliefs may be requested by the parent(s)/legal guardian. Requests for exemption from instruction must be made in writing to the building Principal and are subject to the approval of the Principal. The Principal shall notify the Superintendent as soon as possible of any request for exemption from instruction and of his/her decision. If the Principal denies an exemption request, the parent(s)/legal guardian may appeal to the Superintendent, whose decision shall be final. In considering requests for exemption, factors that the Principal should consider may include: A. Whether the course of instruction is required by state law or school policy; B. Whether an exemption will adversely affect the instruction provided to other students; C. The educational importance of the material or instruction from which exemption is requested: D. Evidence regarding the sincerity of the belief on which the request is based; E. Whether the school has a legal obligation to accommodate the exemption request; and F. Other factors that bear upon the particular request. When a student is exempted from a portion of the regular curriculum, the staff will make reasonable efforts, within the scope of existing resources, to accommodate alternative instruction for the student. Alternative instruction may be provided by the school or through approved independent study. Any alternative instruction shall be approved in advance by the Principal in consultation with the classroom teacher, and shall meet the standards and objectives of the part of the curriculum that is being replaced. Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 6209 LD 1536 Chap. 51 Resolves Chap. 127 and 131 (Me. Dept. of Ed. Rules) Cross Reference: ADF – School District Commitment to Learning Results IJJ – Instructional and Library Material Selection IMB – Teaching About Controversial/Sensitive Issues IMBAA – Alternatives to Biological Dissection Adopted: October 17, 2002 Revised: October 1, 2015
- ILD
NEPN/NSBA Code: ILD EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH: STUDENT SUBMISSION TO SURVEYS, ANALYSES, OR EVALUATIONS In this policy, “surveys, analyses, or evaluations” refer to methods of gathering data for research purposes. No student shall be required as part of any program wholly or partially funded by the U.S. Department of Education to submit to any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning: A. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent; B. Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family: C. Sex behavior or attitudes; D. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; E. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships; F. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyer, physicians, and ministers; G. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parents; or H. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program) without the prior written consent of the student’s parent/guardian, or of the student, if he/she is 18 years of age or older. All instructional materials, including teachers’ manuals, films, tapes, or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any such survey, analysis, or evaluation shall be available upon request for inspection by the student’s parent/guardian. For the purpose of this policy, “instructional material” does not include academic tests or assessments. A parent may inspect, upon request, a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to a student. The Superintendent/designee will be responsible for implementing any procedures necessary to protect the privacy of participating students and to provide parents with access to surveys within a reasonable time before administration or distribution. MSAD #60 will notify parents of this policy at least annually at the beginning of the school year and within a reasonable time of any substantive change in policy. Insofar as practicable*, MSAD #60 will also directly notify parents annually at the beginning of the school year when surveys, analyses, or evaluations are scheduled or anticipated. Parents shall have the opportunity to opt their child out of participation in any survey, analysis, or evaluation. Students who are 18 years of age or older may opt out of such survey, analyses, or evaluations. * “Insofar as practicable” acknowledges that there may be circumstances in which a research request is made or is approved only after the school year has begun. When this occurs, MSAD #60 should notify parents far enough in advance for them to access surveys and related instructional materials and to opt their children out, if desired. Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232(h) Cross Reference: JRA – Student Educational Records Adopted: February 20, 2003 Revised: September 17, 2015
- ILA
NEPN/NSBA Code: ILA STUDENT ASSESSMENT/ LOCAL ASSESSMENT SYSTEM A "local assessment system" is defined as a coordinated collection of assessments administered to students that, as a whole, provides information on individual students, the school, and the school administrative unit with respect to achievement of the content standards of the system of the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Math, Next Generation Science Standards, and Maine's Learning Results. Through this policy, the Board adopts and directs the Superintendent to implement, the MSAD #60 Local Assessment System. The Superintendent shall be responsible for reviewing the Local Assessment System for compliance with applicable statutes and rules and for certifying to the Commissioner that it is in compliance with Maine Department of Education standards. The purpose of the Local Assessment System is to provide information that will be used to guide and enhance classroom instruction, monitor student progress, and certify student achievement with respect to the school system curriculum and Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Math, Next Generation Science Standards, and Maine's Learning Results. In addition, the Local Assessment System is designed to provide valid and reliable information on student achievement in order to evaluate educational programs and practices and to make informed decisions related to curriculum and instruction, professional development, and the allocation of resources to better meet students' needs. The following general principles apply to the Local Assessment System. A. Assessment will be aligned with the curriculum and with the performance indicators of the content standards of the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Math, Next Generation Science Standards, and Maine's Learning Result. B. The Local Assessment System will use multiple measures of student learning for each grade. The assessment measures should be developmentally appropriate for the age span. C. The system is intended to provide for a fair and equitable opportunity for students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding. D. The system will include at a minimum classroom, school, school administrative unit, and state level of assessment. Regional and commercially produced tests may be used, but commercially produced tests may not carry a majority of the weight in determining student performance. E. A commercially produced test may not be the only measure of student achievement. F. Effort shall be made to see that testing contributes to the learning process rather than detracts from it. G. Accommodations may be made in an assessment based on the needs of a student as established in the student's Individualized Education Plan or Section 504 plan. The Superintendent, through the Director of Teaching and Learning, will be responsible for the design of the Local Assessment System. The Board expects that there will be input from teachers and administrators in the development and refinement of the System. The Board recognizes that teachers and school administrators will be primarily responsible for administering assessments and for collecting, organizing, and interpreting information. School personnel should be appropriately trained to develop, use, and adapt assessment data. The Superintendent will be responsible for ensuring that provisions are made for review and analysis of information obtained through the Local Assessment System and for appropriate instructional intervention when individual students or groups of students fail to achieve performance standards. The Superintendent will be responsible for implementing a record-keeping and reporting system that will be used to provide understandable information to the Board and to students, parents, teachers/professional staff, administrators, and the community. Data will be presented in a way that conveys school and school unit performance on the content areas of the system of the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Math, Next Generation Science Standards, and Maine's Learning Results and allows for comparison to statewide performance. The Board will annually review the tests of the Local Assessment System. Legal Reference: 20-A M.R.S.A. §6201-6205 Ch. 127 §§ 2, 4 (Me. Dept. of Ed. Rules) Adopted: December 4, 2003 Revised: May 29, 2014




