honoring our past: transforming our future mptcs high ... · absence according to nj regulations...
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Honoring Our Past: Transforming Our Future
MPTCS High School of Culinary & Performing Arts
2018-2019
SCHOLAR & FAMILY HANDBOOK
Table of Contents
Mission & Core Beliefs……..2 General Information………..5 Our Schools Who’s Who: District leaders and Board of Trustees 2018-19 School Calendar School Hours Excused Absences/Tardiness/Leaving School Early Attendance Matters Public Transportation School Cancellation & Delays What to Wear: School Uniforms & IDs Assessment & Instruction…..14 Student Assessments Grading Progress Reports Homework Retention Academic Dishonesty Awards Commencement| Graduation Criteria Culture……………………….20 Community Meetings Competitions & Showcases Fundraising Activities Electronic Devices Internet Safety District Interim Assessments..23 Student Support Services…...24 Special Education
Intervention & Referral Services Threat to Self & Others Child Study Team Division of Child Protection & Permanency Behavioral Standards………….25 Code of Conduct Anti-Bullying Policy Discipline Prevention & Intervention Universal Behavior Management Plan Tiered Code of Conduct | Scholar Code of Conduct Discipline Policy Routines & Operations………….42 Field Trips & Off-site Experiences Lunch Lost & Found Personal Belongings Engagement and Communication...44 Family & Community Engagement (FACE) Volunteering Parent Code of Conduct Visiting MPTCS Academies Parent Meetings Procedures for Parent/Guardians Concerns & Complaints School to Home Communication Student Health & Safety…………..49 School Forms & Required Documents……………....50
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Mission & Core Beliefs Misson By every means necessary, our mission is to be a 21st century Village responsive to the needs of student, parents, staff and the Newark community at-large, where scholars become college and career ready. Motto It Takes a Whole Village to Raise a Child Theory of Change The MPTCS Theory of Change explains how are core beliefs drive our key activities that lead to our desired outcomes. It indicates the role each of our functions play toward the achievement of the school’s mission:
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Core Ethical Values The MPTCS staff emphasizes and reinforces the school’s “Core Ethical Values” for all members of the village, which are as follows:
● We are a village. We will treat everyone the way we want to be treated. (Caring) ● We respect everyone in our village and their differences, their uniqueness, and their opinions.
(Respect) ● We will always help and never hurt, in words or actions, anyone in our village. (Caring) ● We will always be honest, talk about our feelings, and always tell the truth. (Honesty) ● We will work as hard as we can to succeed together in school and in life. (Excellence) ● We will always be responsible to complete our work and study. (Accountable) ● We are all committed to being college and career ready. (Excellence)
REACH is an easy way to remember and reinforce our core virtues.
● R - Respect everyone ● E- Excellence to career and college ● A- Accountability for all action ● C- Caring for the village ● H- Honest at all times.
ROAR is how scholars approach work:
● R - Respectful ● O - Organized ● A - Attentive ● R - Responsible
Village Creeds & Affirmations Creeds build a common language within our village. They instill a sense of pride and honor in students and teachers. Our student and teacher creeds inspire, motivate, and challenge. Our village creeds are used to hold students and teachers accountable for their daily actions and decisions.
Scholar Creed I am disciplined, focused and on-time. I am organized, respectful, and responsible. I am on a mission to improve myself, my people and humanity. I will be college and career ready!
Staff Creed I am disciplined, focused, and on time. I am organized, respectful, and responsible. I am on a mission to educate, improve, and advance today’s youth. I believe I can achieve. I WILL make a difference. I AM an educator!
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School Call and Response The following call and response helps scholars and staff inculcate our mission and values:
Leader Scholars Who are we? A Village destined to do great things. Why are you here? To get an education. Why else? To be the extraordinary scholar I am meant to be. What will you have to do? Work hard, get smart. (claps) Work harder, get smarter. (claps) What will you need? To REACH: Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Caring, Honesty. (fist
out for each word) Where are you headed? To the college and career of my choice. Will you succeed? Yes! (hard stomp) And when you succeed, what will you do? Be a leader responsive to our Newark community.
Village Call and Response
The following chant helps scholars remember they are part of a larger village on a common mission: ● People, people can’t you see ● Our Village is a community ● People, people don’t you know ● College ‘n career is where we’ll go ● Say, our school ● Rising! ● Say, our school ● Shining! ● Say, We Believe! ● We believe <SCHOOL NAME >
o PAC o SELECT o STEAM o HS-CPA o Marion P!
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General Information
MPTCS High School of Culinary & Performing Arts 125 Sussex Ave. Newark, NJ 07103 (973) 621-0060, ext. 5000 | (862) 240-1212 - FAX MPTCS High School offers an innovative learning environment, blending college prep courses with culinary and performing arts. The high school’s unique curriculum prepares scholars, through rigorous instruction and experiences that cultivate marketable skills and develop talent, to continue on to college or enter the workforce. MPTCS High School Primary Contacts
Kimberly Wright-White [email protected]
Principal
Pramod Shankar [email protected]
Vice Principal
Winifred Patterson [email protected]
Vice Principal
Samuel Mcgee [email protected]
Dean of Families & Culture (12th grade)
Stevana Sims [email protected]
Dean of Families & Culture (11th grade)
Yalixza Valentin [email protected]
Dean of Families & Culture (10th grade)
Robert James [email protected]
Dean of Families & Culture (9th grade)
Cherlyn Williams-Jones [email protected]
Office Manager
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Doyal Siddell [email protected]
Family Liaison
Carol Collins [email protected]
School Nurse
Who’s Who: District Leaders and Board of Trustees
District Leadership Team
Misha Simmonds [email protected]
Interim Chief School Administrator
Femi Amorin [email protected]
School Business Administrator
Damon White [email protected]
Director of Operations
Michael Fletcher [email protected]
Director of Human Resources
Michele Griffin [email protected]
Chief Communications & Engagement Officer
Board of Trustees
Greg Collins Chairperson
Rev. Vincent Rouse Vice-Chair
Rev. Dr. Ronald Slaughter 2nd Vice-Chair
Femi Amorin Secretary/School Business Administrator
Reginald Petty Treasurer
Misha Simmonds Interim Chief School Administrator
David Blount Board Member
Tyisha Kidd Board Member
Khaatim Sherrer El Board Member
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Lesley Leslie Board Member
Joi Taylor-Dean Board Member
Michelle Jones Board Member
Briana Gilchrist Board Member
2018-2019 School Year Calendar
SCHOOL HOURS & BELL SCHEDULE The Marion P. Thomas Charter School adheres to an extended-day, extended year model. We are in session 192 days of the year. Full school day hours are Monday through Thursday. Half-days are scheduled for each Friday to allow staff to participate in professional development sessions. School hours are listed below:
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Tardiness Being late to school robs students of precious educational time. It is also very disruptive to the rest of the class and harms their learning as well. Therefore, tardiness should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
Punctuality: Students are expected to be present by 8:00 a.m. in order to have enough time to be prepared for school and eat breakfast if they choose to do so. School begins promptly at 8:35 am.
Late Arrival: If a student does not arrive to homeroom by 8:35 a.m. s/he is considered late to school. Late students are required to sign in at the front entrance and secure a late pass from the attendance counselor then report to their first block class. Any scholar arriving after 9:00 a.m. must be signed in by a parent or guardian. Scholars who arrive to school after 9:00 a.m. without the accompaniment of a guardian will result in disciplinary action. Excused Absences/Tardiness Absences/Tardiness not covered by the causes listed below shall be cumulative, and will affect the student’s attendance at MPTCS. Please note personal illness is not considered an excusable absence according to NJ regulations (NJAC 6A:32-8.3). Recognized excused absences require documentation and are for the following reasons only:
● Religious observance; ● A college visit (up to 3 days per school year, only for students in grades 11 and 12) ● “Take our Children to Work Day” (pursuant to a memo issued by the Commissioner) ● Participation in observance of Veterans Day (NJSA 18A:36-13.2 ● Participation in the district board of election membership activities (NJSA 18A: 36-33) ● The closure of a busing district that prevents a student from having transportation to
school NOTE: If your scholar has a disabled or prolonged illness and is not medically cleared to attend school, please have your medical professional contact the Social Worker or Nurse within 5 days of onset to arrange for home instruction. Recognized reasons for excused tardiness include the following
● Medical or dental appointments that cannot be scheduled outside of school hours; documentation required
● Court appearance; documentation required
Consequences for Unexcused Tardiness: ● Parents will be called each day a student is tardy. ● After 3 tardies, the parents will be required to attend a conference with the Dean.
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Leaving School During the School Day Scholars should bring a signed note, indicating the time and reason for early dismissal. The note should be submitted to the main office first thing in the morning. Parents should report to the Reception Desk in the lobby when picking up scholars. Your child will be sent to the lobby area for you. ATTENDANCE MATTERS Absence: MPTCS recognizes that there are occasions when a student is unable to attend school. When a scholar is absent from school, parents/guardians must call the main office by 8:15 a.m. on each day the scholar is absent and inform the school of the reason for the absence. An assigned staff person will call the home of any child who is not present. Whenever a scholar is absent from school, the student shall not be permitted to participate in any school activity on the day of the absence and until their official return to school. In addition, scholars are responsible for completion of missed assignments during absences. Chronic Absences: Whenever a scholar is absent 10 percent or more of the school year, it puts them at risk for academic setback. If this level of absenteeism should occur, MPTCS is required to develop a corrective action plan to improve the attendance of the scholar. High School credit(s) may be withheld if a scholar is absent 10 percent or more of the school year.
Absences – MPTCS Action Steps
# of Absences
Action Steps
1 day The main office or designated person calls parents/guardians of absent students every day.
3 consecutive days
Designated staff person calls parent/guardian and follow-up letter is sent to parent.
3 non-consecutive days
Letter sent to parent by Office Manager or Family Liaison.
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5 days Phone call from Family Liaison to alert parents of attendance and inform them additional absences will result in an Action Plan.
7 days Action Plan Meeting with designated staff; letter home.
10 days Chronic Absence 1. Identify the reason for the scholar’s absences. 2. Develop a plan that’s tailored to address the specific barriers
affecting regular attendance. 3. Review Action Plan with Principal, Family Liaison or designated
staff.
15 days An ALERT Letter is sent home to families regarding the attendance status of their child, noting the retention policy and a required home visit is scheduled.
18 days Retention meeting with principal; mandatory call to DCP&P by Family Liaison reporting educational neglect. Scholar will be retained (regardless of grade) in his/her current grade.
Public Transportation: MPTCS does not provide private bus transportation. However, the Newark Board of Education (NBOE) issues NJ Transit bus tickets for students (who reside in Newark) to and from school. You must complete and return the transportation form to qualify for the program. High School students who live 2.5 miles or further from MPTCS will be grranted tickets. Bus tickets will be distributed to high school students daily. School Cancellations & Delays Emergency Closings: In case of an emergency closing, due to inclement weather conditions, parents will be notified via phone blast, updates on the website, www.mptcs.org, and on the school’s social media sites: facebook.com/mptcs; twitter.com/mptcs and @instagram/marionpthomas. Please be aware that MPTCS does not follow the closures/delayed openings of Newark Public Schools. MPTCS makes informed decisions based on weather reports, street and school facility conditions and other issues that may impact the safety of our families and staff. For other emergency closings, parents will be notified via phone blast and written school notices, where appropriate and applicable. What to Wear: School ID & Uniforms
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School ID Scholars are expected to wear their MPTCS issued ID to school everyday to gain entry into the school building. Scholars are responsible for their ID at all times and it must be worn (via a lanyard). In the event that a scholar comes to school without a school ID or the scholar has lost the ID, the scholar will be charged a $5 replacement fee. Student Dress Code The MPTCS uniform policy is intended to help our school promote a more effective learning environment, foster school unity and bridge socioeconomic differences between children. Wearing a uniform teaches students appropriate dress and decorum in school, helps to improve student conduct and discipline and prepares them for their future workplace. The student dress code applies to all students for the entire school day. The dress code also applies to field trips. TOPS An official MPTCS top for high school students includes the following:
● Royal blue logo with school logo ● White or light blue oxford shirt (button up) with school logo ● Black or blue cardigan with school logo
NOTE: While students should appropriately dress for the weather on their way to school, they are not allowed to wear non-MPTCS outerwear inside the school building. Students concerned about their temperature should wear a MPTCS sweater with logo. A good rule of thumb is that the MPTCS logo should be visible always when a student is in school. BOTTOMS
● Khaki pants ● Khaki knee length skirts or skorts ● Khaki shorts (knee length shorts may be worn from the first day of school until
September 30, 2018 and from June 1, 2019 through the last day of school)
Please be advised that leggings, jeggings and/or skirts, skorts, shorts or pants of “jean” or cargo material are not acceptable. GYM UNIFORMS
● Black or navy blue t-shirt or sweatshirt with MPTCS logo ● Black or navy blue shorts or sweatpants with MPTCS logo ● Black or navy blue socks ● All black sneakers
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ACCESSORIES
● FOOTWEAR: Students are required to wear solid all BLACK shoes or sneakers, as well as black or navy blue tights or black or navy blue socks.
● HEADWEAR: Only religious head coverings are permitted and must be navy blue or black
● DRESS UP and DRESS DOWN DAYS: Both dress up and dress down days will happen periodically throughout the year for certain occasions at which point a notification to parents via email or flyer will be sent out.
Students must report to school in FULL MARION P. THOMAS CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL UNIFORM. Students must have their shirts tucked into their pants, skirts, shorts, or skorts. Scholars are not allowed to wear their gym uniform to school. Scholars must bring their gym uniform to school and change at the respective time of their gym class, and change back into their regular MPTCS uniform. Uniform stipulations
● To ensure your scholars safety, scholars are to refrain from wearing big hoops earrings, or nose rings.
● No nose piercing, bull nose ring or tongue piercing. Band-aids covering piercings are not permitted.
● All necklaces must be tucked inside the shirt. Excessive or distracting jewelry is not permitted.
● All make-up application, hair brushing and other cosmetic grooming are ONLY permitted to be done in the bathroom.
● No hats or other head coverings (except religious head coverings), including scarves, hairnets, headbands and bandanas are not permitted anywhere inside the school facility at any time.
● MPTCS staff may ask students to remove any items that distract students from the learning process or are not perceived as professional, safe, and respectful.
Uniform Infractions & Discipline Policy
● Students who are missing a uniform item(s) will report to the chosen designee. That person will work with the Family Liaison or Dean to secure uniform items (on loan) to avoid lost learning time, and a parent/guardian may be called to bring uniform items to
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school if MPTCS is not able to loan an item. All loaned uniform items must be washed and returned within one week or the family will be billed for the item.
● Three (3) uniform infractions: Friday or Saturday detention ● Six (6) uniform infractions: Saturday detention ● Nine ((9) uniform infractions: Parent conference and 1 day of in-school suspension (ISS) ● Twelve (12) uniform infractions: Parent conference, 2 days of ISS and a hearing before
the high school discipline committee ● Fifteen (15) uniform infractions: Parent conference, 1 day out-of-school suspension and a
hearing before the district discipline committee
ASSESSMENT & INSTRUCTION
Student Assessment Assessments are conducted to provide evidence of a child’s progress during a defined period of time. There are various measures of assessment. Together they should provide an inclusive, holistic portrait of a child, as both an individual and member of the school community.
To provide an objective measure for evaluating student learning, teacher performance, and curriculum alignment with subject matter and state standards, students will be assessed through various methods. Standardized assessments are administered to students in grades PreK-12 and provide a baseline for analyzing both school and/or student achievement. State and Board Mandated District Assessments measure how proficient students are with Common Core State Standards and how MPTCS is performing in comparison to the rest of the state and peer groups.
Grading Scholars shall be graded on the basis of their achievement in the program(s) approved by the board. They shall be given the opportunity to progress through the educational program at their level of ability. All factors pertinent to achievement shall be considered when assigning grades. The results of PARCC and the College Board suite of assessments shall not be used to determine student grades. A weight grade point average will be computed for each student. A quality point value is assigned to each letter grade according to the chart below:
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Scholars that do not earn a passing final grade of a 64 or higher will be required to attend summer school. Scholars who fail to attend summer school jeopardize their chances of graduating with their class. Once the scholar repeats the failed course, the original failing grade and the new grade will remain on the transcript and factor in to the student’s final GPA. Course Weights
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Incompletes When course requirements during a marking period have not been completed to the satfiscation of the teacher, an incomplete (INC) may be issued. The teacher shall communicate the student’s lack of progress to the student, parent, and guidance counselor. If students do not complete missing work within two weeks after the posted incomplete, zeroes for work not completed will be averaged with already recorded grades. This applies for marking periods 1, 2, and 3 only as no incompletes will be issued during marking period 4. An incomplete may be given for the final course grade as approved by the principal for the following reasons only: medical condition documented by a physician, loss of an immediate family member, or the event of a family crisis. Honor roll Honor roll certificates will be distributed at the end of each marking period if the following is met: Principal Scholars- Scholars must receive a numerical grade of a 96 or higher in all subjects. High Honor Roll- Scholars must receive a numerical grade of a 90 or higher in all subjects. Honor Roll- Scholars must receive a numerical grade of a 85 or higher in all subjects. Schedule Change After the first week of school, no schedule changes will be made except for the following reasons: placement change or counselor error. Any other request must be for significant reasons and approved by the Supervisor. Scholars who simply desire to drop or change a course will not be permitted to do so. Report card & progress report comments Every course receiving a grade for particular report card or progress report card will include a comment. More extensive comments will be presented in a separate, attached document. Comments will reflect the grade: for positive results, student efforts will be noted. For areas to work on, comments will point out specifically what a student can do to improve their performance. Differentiation will be made between comments for academic and behavior reasons. Report cards & progress reports MPTCS issues four report cards per year. The school also sends home interim progress reports for all scholars between report cards. These are a vital “early warning” system to keep parents informed and involved as the year progresses. Report card & progress report conferences Teachers are accountable for scheduling and holding conferences of about 15 minutes with each and every parent when report cards are issued. There will be scheduled Parent-Teacher
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Conferences Days for this. Conferences may also be held before, during, or after school. These will be positive, problem solving conferences designed to praise scholars’ legitimate accomplishments and enlist parents in a collaborative effort to improve achievement. Homework The following are MPTCS requirements for homework: Grades 9-12: 90 minutes/day (20 minutes for ELA, 20 minutes for math, 20 minutes for Science or Social Studies, including a minimum of 30 minutes reading log) consisting of review, practice and further exploration of materials taught in class, oral, written drill, recreational reading, written work, preparation of reports, direct follow-up work on the material covered during the day. Recent research indicates that homework is a good way to teach responsibility and work habits and can be an effective way to keep parents informed and involved in the curriculum. Student’s Homework Responsibilities: 1-To understand all homework assignments by listening to directions, asking questions when something is unclear, and reading directions 2-To gather all materials necessary to complete assignments before leaving the classroom 3-To complete all assignments to the best of his/her ability 4-To return materials and assignments on time 5-To make up any missed homework that the teacher requires Family’s Responsibilities: 1-To provide a routine and environment that is conducive to doing homework (i.e. a quiet and consistent place and time, necessary materials, etc.) 2-To offer assistance to the student, but not do the actual homework 3-To check that your child has edited his/her homework for spelling (Kindergarten and First Graders may use invented spelling as appropriate), punctuation, neatness, etc. 4-To notify the teacher when homework presents a problem 5-To read school notices and respond in a timely manner. Homework and school notices will travel home in the student’s MPTCS folder. Regular backpack clean-ups can be useful in helping students to organize their materials. 6-Parents should contact their child’s teacher should you see an incomplete grade or F on any assignment. Retaining scholars There are some scholars who benefit from retention. However, strenuous efforts will be made to bring every scholar up to standard. Key points:
1. Early intervention: if scholars are not meeting with success in the classroom after strenuous efforts will be made to try different approaches, they will be discussed by the team and counselors or assessed to find out the root of the problem.
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2. Normally, a child will be considered for retention only if they have failed 2 or more academic subjects for the year. Grades will reflect scholar achievement and skill level. If a scholar is far below level, then their grades will reflect it.
3. Retention for a student with an IEP can not be based on poor academic or behavioral performance due to a disability. Please speak to the Case Manager regarding your concerns.
4. The final decision on retention rests with the principal. There may be extenuating circumstances.
Retention Any student recommended for retention for a failure to meet the academic requirements must have been referred to I&RS and/or CST before they will be considered for retention. In addition, the academic retention policy will be shared in detail in a separate document. (Retention resulting from Attendance). After the second Marking Period, parents will be informed if their scholar is in danger of retention. The Principal will render final decision regarding retention. Academic Dishonesty In a competitive academic environment, the temptation to cheat is ever present. Cheating is dishonest and will be dealt with harshly. If a student is caught cheating on a quiz, test, report, or project, he or she will receive a grade of “0” on the work at hand. The parent/guardian of the student will be contacted by the teacher and provided with an explanation of the incident. A record of the incident will be placed in the student’s file. The student will also be given the following consequences
● 1st Offense: Detention ● 2nd Offense: Suspension ● 3rd Offense: Referral for Board Hearing
Plagiarism is also a form of academic dishonesty. It involves the copying of someone else’s writing without permission. Students who plagiarize will be given the same consequences as listed above. In addition, they will be required to rewrite the composition. Awards Scholars may be recognized for achievement in three areas: 1-Character: for scholars who display exceptional character through practice of the school’s core virtues of Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Caring, and Honesty. 2-Scholarship: to recognize strong academic achievement and growth, including placement of scholars each marking period on academic honor rolls. 3-Leadership: For scholars who display exceptional leadership through participation in service projects and unselfishly giving back to others. Awards for achievement in these areas, as well as for highest achievement and greatest
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growth, will be presented throughout the year: Commencement MPTCS holds annual commencement exercises in June, including: High School Graduation Participation in special commencement activities will require conduct of the highest caliber in all school situations. Criteria for exclusion from these activities concern consistent behavioral patterns and shall include, but not be limited to: 1-Consistent involvement in disciplinary action(s) 2-Suspension The Principal and Chief School Administration will have final authority to make these determinations. No scholar shall be barred from participation in graduation ceremonies for arbitrary or discriminatory reasons. A scholar who may be prevented from participation and his/her parents/guardians shall be so notified in advance and no later than 10 days prior to the close of the school year, unless the incident occurs within 10 days of graduation. Scholars with disabilities educated in out-of-district placements are invited to participate in graduation and will be awarded a diploma from MPTCS, as they are MPTCS students.
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High School Graduation Criteria The following promotion criteria is used to determine promotion and retention of all high school students:
CULTURE Community Meetings Community meetings take different formats – morning, weekly, whole group, grade level. They provide an opportunity for scholars, staff, and community to build culture, raise expectations, celebrate success, and learn new things. Showcases MPTCS uses showcases as an opportunity for scholars to display their learning in a more authentic format. In the past the school has held talent shows, poetry slams, science days, theatrical and culinary events. Other creative ideas are encouraged as long as they are rigorous. Fundraising activities MPTCS recognizes the value of having scholars participate in fundraising activities, both
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as individuals and as groups, in order to help defray the cost of certain non-curricular field trips, or other worthwhile programs, or in support of a MPTCS approved charitable cause. For purposes of this policy, “scholar fund raising” shall include the solicitation and collection of money from scholars for any purpose and shall include the collection of money in exchange for tickets, papers or any other goods or services except those goods and services which are part of a Board of Trustees-approved program of the school. MPTCS prohibits the collection of money in school or on school property or at any school-sponsored event by a scholar for personal benefit. Collections by organizations outside the schools or by scholars on behalf of such organizations shall be approved by the Chief School Administrator. MPTCS shall not be responsible for the protection of or the accounting of funds collected from scholars by organizations outside the schools, by teaching staff members when not required to collect money for a Board of Trustees approved purpose, and by school connected organizations. MPTCS reserves the authority to limit or terminate fundraising activities by school-sponsored groups or outside organizations that encourage or require door-to-door solicitation. MPTCS prohibits fundraising activities by school-sponsored groups or outside organizations that encourage or require door-to-door solicitation. Electronic Devices Cell phones and other electronic devices can be disruptive to the educational process in many ways. This year, to facilitate responsible cell phone use, we will be incorporating a system called Yondr to secure scholars cell phones. Every scholar will be issued a Yondr case at the beginning of the school day and will return it when they exit the school building. How does the Yondr case work? Yondr is a case that will temporarily lock once the scholar’s phone is placed in the bag, and will be unlocked when the scholar exits the school building. Yondr allows the scholar to maintain possession of their cell phone, but it takes away the urge of the scholar constantly looking at it, texting in the moment, monitoring social media or calling peers in another class. The Yondr process is as follows: Morning Arrival
● When scholars enter the school building, all electronic devices must be turned off and scholars’ electronic items will be locked in their assigned Yondr case.
During the school day
● Scholars electronic items will remain locked in their Yondr case during the duration of the school day and placed in their school lockers.
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Dismissal
● Scholars will report to the designated building exits to unlock their Yondr cases, take their electronic item out and store their Yondr in a container for use the next school day.
Note: The district assumes no liability for electronic devices that are brought to school if they are broken, lost or stolen. Administrative time will not be used to search for or investigate events surrounding lost or stolen items. The school prohibits the announced or unannounced recording of students or faculty. Students may not make recordings that contain the images, names, or other personal information of members of the school community. To do this is a violation of trust and respect and will result in the device being confiscated and depending on the content, turned over to the Newark Police Department. Parents, please do not call, email, or text your child on their cell phone during the course of a school day. Please contact the main office during normal school hours to relay a message to your child. Scholars are to go to the office to make phone calls home. Emergency phone calls can always be made in the main office during school hours; therefore, cellular phones are not needed during school hours. Any damage that is done to the YONDR cases is in direct violation of school code of conduct and will result in a $35 replacement fee. The following disciplinary consequences will follow for any scholar who violates the electronic devices policy:
● 1st Yondr infraction: Counseling with school social worker/parent or guardian contacted
● 2nd Yondr infraction: Saturday detention/parent and/or guardian will have to pick up cell phone from the Dean.
● 3rd Yondr infraction: Parent conference, 1 day of in-school suspension (ISS). Scholar will receive the cell after completing 1 day of suspension
● 4th Yondr infraction: Parent conference, 1 day of out-of-school suspension (OSS), appear before the high school discipline committee
● 5th Yondr infraction: Parent conference; appear before the district discipline committee
Internet Safety & Responsible Use of Technology MPTCS is committed to undertaking efforts that serve to make safe for students the use of MPTCS computers for access to the Internet. To this end, although unable to guarantee that any selected filtering and blocking technology will work perfectly, MPTCS uses technology protection measures that block or filter Internet access by:
● Minors to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or harmful to Minors, as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act
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● .Adults to visual depictions that are obscene or child pornography, and MPTCS uses procedures that provide for the safety and security of students using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications; monitoring the online activities of students using school computers; and restricting student access to materials that are harmful to minors. In addition, MPTCS prohibits the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding students; unauthorized online access by students, including hacking and other unlawful activities; and access by students to inappropriate matter on the Internet. All users of the school’s computer network, including access to the Internet, must understand that use is a privilege, not a right, and that any such use entails responsibility. They must comply with the requirements of this policy and state regulation, in addition to generally accepted rules of network etiquette, and MPTCS’ policy on the acceptable use of computers and the Internet. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action including, but not limited to, the revocation of computer access privileges. As part of this policy, MPTCS shall also provide age-appropriate instruction regarding appropriate online behavior, including:
● Interacting with other individuals on social networking sites and in chat rooms, and ● Cyberbullying awareness and response
District Interim Assessments District Interim Assessments measure student growth and mastery of content specific Common Core strands within the standards. These assessments also provide instructors with a barometer to gauge their instruction and provide administration with a lens into which professional development may be necessary for staff and what intervention strategies need to be employed for students.
2018-2019 Assessment Calendar
MPTCS has adopted the NJ State Learning standards. The school has many curricular materials available to support this teaching. The primary curricular resources are listed in the chart below: Grades ELA Math Science Social Studies
Pre-K Tools of the Mind
K Core Knowledge Language Arts
Go Math Foss Embedded in ELA curriculum 1
2
3 Engage NY
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4
5.
6 Lab Aids
7 HMH
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Our Village-wide Assessments include:
National- College/Career Readiness Assessments
State _ Summative/Diagnostic Assessments
District Interim/Diagnostic Assessments
● Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT)
● Scholastic Aptitude Test
(SAT)
● Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC)
● NJ Student Learning
Assessment-Science (NJSLA)
● World Class Instructional
Design Assessment (WIDA) for ELLs Only
● Achievement Network (ANet)
● Northwestern Evaluation
Association- Measures of Academic Progress (NWEA-MAP)
● Teaching Strategies GOLD
● Developmental Reading
Assessment (DRA2 )
Student Support Services Special Education The Marion P. Thomas Charter School District provides a system of comprehensive evaluation services and a continuum of special education placement options to students, beginning at five years of age. The purpose of special education is to provide supportive educational programming to students with special needs, according to the requirements of state and federal legislation. Once a scholar has been evaluated and determined eligible for Special Education and Related Services according to NJ Administrative Code (Title 6A Chapter 14) an Individualized Education Plan is developed. Our model is based on providing a program that allows the scholar to advance in their academic program in the least restrictive environment. A continuum of programs including, in-class support, pull-out resource support, and a Learning Disabilities specialized program are available at most grade levels. For more information about special education placements and programs please contact the Director of Scholar Support Services and Special Education at ext.5400.
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Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) New Jersey Administrative Code requires all school districts to have this service. The code is quoted below: 6A:16-8.1 Establishment of intervention and referral services
(a) District boards of education shall establish and implement a coordinated system in each school building for the planning and delivery of intervention and referral services that are designed to assist scholars who are experiencing learning, behavior, or health difficulties, and to assist staff who have difficulties in addressing these needs of the scholars. District boards of education shall choose the appropriate multidisciplinary team approach for planning and delivering the services required under this subchapter.
The purpose of the MPTCS I&RS Team is to:
▪ Identify learning, behavior, and/or health difficulties of scholars
▪ Collect thorough information on the identified learning, behavior, and/or health difficulties
▪ Develop and implement action plans which provide for appropriate school, community interventions, or referrals to school and community resources, based on the collected data and desired outcomes for the identified learning, behavior, and/or health difficulties
▪ Provide support, guidance, and professional development to school staff who identify learning, behavior, and/or health difficulties
▪ Provide support, guidance, and professional development to school staff who participate in each building's system for planning and providing Intervention and Referral Services
▪ Actively involve parents or guardians in the development and implementation of Intervention and Referral Services action plans
Parents of scholars that are referred to the team are expected to be full participants in the I&RS process. Parents are expected to attend all meetings that are scheduled. Individualized action plans are created to help the child do his/her personal best.
Threat to Self & Others If a student threatens his or her own life, this will be brought immediately to the attention of the MPTCS School Leadership Team. If the Leadership Team feels that the child is in imminent danger, the parent will be contacted and, for the child’s well-being, a psychological evaluation will be required before the child can return to school. When a student exhibits potentially suicidal behavior and the parent refuses to cooperate with the school or to take alternative preventative measures, the licensed mental health counselor must report this information immediately to DCP&P and local law enforcement.
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Child Study Team The MPTCS Child Study Team uses test results to place scholars into different programs, such as resource centers, in-class support, self-contained, or alternative educational placements. Child Study Teams write Individualized Education Plans, or IEP's which are reviewed annually, at a minimum. Typically, a Child Study Team (CST) is comprised of a school psychologist, a learning disabilities teacher consultant, and a social worker. Therapists, teachers, the nurse, counselors, and other ad-hoc members may also participate on the team.
A scholar can be referred to the CST once the scholar has gone through the I&RS process and/or the I&RS team feels as though it has exhausted all of its options. A direct referral to the Child Study Team may be made when it can be documented that the nature of the scholar’s educational problem(s) is/are such that evaluation to determine eligibility for special education services is warranted without delay.
Referrals may be submitted by instructional, administrative and other professional staff of the local school district, parents, and state agencies, including the New Jersey Department of Education concerned with the welfare of scholars. Scholars who are found ineligible for services will be referred back to the I&RS team for monitoring.
Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) The State of New Jersey requires any person having reasonable cause to believe that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect to immediately report this information to 1-877-NJ-ABUSE (1-877-652-2873). These calls can be made anonymously. Members of Marion P. Thomas Charter School village must follow the procedures indicated when it comes to calling DCPP for possible cases of neglect and/or abuse. When DCPP is contacted no one from MPTCS is obligated to contact the parent(s) or guardian(s). When DCPP is contacted the agency serves as the lead investigator in the incident. Behavioral Standards Code of Conduct: Positive Behavior Support Within MPTCS Since the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year, a group of our staff members developed the parameters for implementing the Positive Behavior Support in Schools (PBSIS) Project, a partnership between the New Jersey Department of Education and The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center of Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. The purpose of the project was to help our school create a positive learning environment that will lead to decreased discipline problems and increased opportunities for scholars’ learning. One of our school’s primary creeds, “Are you ready to ROAR?” identifies our school’s expectations and values: Be Respectful, Be Organized, Be Attentive, and Be Responsible.
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Furthermore, we have defined the meaning of good behavior in ways that exemplify those expectations for various areas of our school, especially those areas in which there is more scholar independence (e.g. cafeteria, hallways/stairways, bathrooms, assembly, playground, and arrival/dismissal areas). This school year, behavioral expectations and appropriate behaviors will be taught, modeled and reinforced. We will teach our scholars our behavioral expectations and, throughout the year, we will recognize those scholars who live up to the goals and expectations of the program. By establishing and teaching behavioral expectations, we recognize appropriate social behavior(s) and provide a common language for everyone within our village. We believe that by reinforcing good behavior, we will build a productive school community where all children can learn and grow. Anti-bullying Policy: Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying The Anti-bullying policy at MPTCS prohibits harassment, intimidation or bullying of any kind. No pupil, staff member, vendor, volunteer or visitor shall commit an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying of any kind against any member of the school community. Definition “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any gesture, written or electronic communication including telephone, cellular phone, computer, tablet, verbal or physical act that takes place on school property, at any school sponsored function or on a school bus and that: Is motivated by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or mental, physical or sensory disability and by any other distinguishing characteristic. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances that the act(s) will have the effect of harming a student or damaging the scholar’s property, or placing a scholar in reasonable fear of harm to his person or damage to his property. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of scholars in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with the orderly operation of school. This policy may impose consequences for acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that occur off school grounds, such as cyber-bullying, (e.g., the use of electronic or wireless devices to harass, intimidate, or bully), to the extent that this policy complies with the provisions of N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1. In all instances of harassment, intimidation, or bullying behavior occurring off school grounds, the consequences may only be exercised when it is reasonably necessary for the student’s physical or emotional safety and well-being, or for reasons relating to the safety and well-being of other pupils, staff or school grounds, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:25-2 and 18A:37-2, and when the conduct which is the subject of the a proposed consequence materially and
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substantially interferes with the requirements of appropriate discipline in the operation of the school. MPTCS believes that a standard for scholars’ behavior must be set cooperatively through interaction among the scholars, parents/guardians, staff and community members. This produces an atmosphere that encourages scholars to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect for self and others, as well as for district and community property on the part of scholars, staff, and community members. MPTCS believes that the best discipline is self-imposed, and that it is the responsibility of staff to use disciplinary situations as opportunities to help scholars learn to assume and accept responsibility and consequences for their behavior. Staff members who interact with scholars shall apply best practices designed to prevent discipline problems and encourage scholars’ abilities to grow in self-discipline. Based on broad community involvement, and in line with the school’s core ethical values the MPTCS has developed guidelines for scholar conduct and detailed regulations suited to the age level of our students and the mission and physical facilities of our school. All scholars in the school are required to adhere to the rules and regulations established by the school’s Board of Trustees, and to submit to such disciplinary measures as are appropriately assigned for infraction of these rules. Implementation In determining the appropriate response to scholars who commit one or more acts of harassment intimidation or bullying, administrators shall consider the following factors: 1-The developmental or maturity level of the scholars involved 2-The levels of harm 3-The surrounding circumstances 4-The nature of the behaviors 5-Past incidents or continuing patterns of behavior 6-The relationship between the parties involved and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred Concluding whether a particular incident constitutes a violation of this policy requires a determination based on all of the facts surrounding the circumstances. It is only after meaningful consideration of these factors that an appropriate consequence should be determined, consistent with case law, federal and state statutes, regulations and policies, and school policies and procedures. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for scholars who commit acts associated with this policy may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee
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who commits an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall be disciplined in accordance with school policies, procedures and agreements. Reporting The principal or principal’s designee is responsible for receiving complaints alleging violations of this policy, and all school employees are required to report complaints alleging violations of this policy to the principal or his/her designee. All other members of the school community, including scholars, parents/guardians, volunteers and visitors, are encouraged to report any act that may be a violation of this policy. While submission of a written report is not required, the reporting party is encouraged to make such a written submission, in any case oral or electronic reports are to be considered official reports. Anonymous reports may be made, however formal disciplinary action may not be based solely on an anonymous report. Investigation and Response The principal and/or designee is responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy. In doing so, the designated person shall conduct a prompt, thorough and complete investigation of the alleged incident. Some acts of harassment intimidation or bullying may be isolated incidents requiring an appropriate response to the individuals committing the acts. Other acts may be more serious, or parts of a larger pattern of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that require a response either at the classroom, school, or law enforcement level. Consequences and or appropriate remedial actions for students who violate this policy may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion from school as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1, Discipline of Pupils. In considering whether a response beyond the individual level is appropriate, the nature of the incident, circumstances of the act, level of harm, past incidents, patterns of behavior, and the context in which the alleged incident occurred is to be considered. School responses may range from support for victims, and community surveys to mailing to focus groups, adaption of research based bullying prevention programs, professional development, community meetings and training, and the involvement of law enforcement. Reprisal or Retaliation MPTCS prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act that is in violation of this policy. The consequences and remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the designated administrator after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, in accordance with case law, federal and state statutes and regulations and school policy and procedures.
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Consequences and appropriate action for a scholar found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation and bullying range from the positive behavioral reinforcement up to and including suspension or expulsion, as permitted under N.J.S.A 18A:37-1, Discipline of Pupils. Discipline and appropriate remedial action for a school employee found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment intimidation and bullying shall be disciplined in accordance with district policies, procedures and agreements. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for volunteers, visitors or vendors found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be determined by the building administrator after consideration of the nature, and circumstances of the act, including reports to appropriate law enforcement officials. References: N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15 Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying N.J.S.A. 18:36-20 Discrimination N.J.S.A. 6A:16-5.1 Code of Student Conduct N.J.S.A. 2C:33-4 Harassment DISCIPLINE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION MPTCS is committed to ensuring that our school is safe, secure, and has an orderly environment in which teaching and learning can take place each day. A safe and supportive school environment depends on scholars, staff and parent(s)/guardian(s) demonstrating mutual respect. To promote positive behavior, MPTCS provides a range of prevention and intervention strategies for all scholars throughout the school year. Interventions are included because inappropriate behavior or violations of the MPTCS Discipline Code may be symptomatic of more serious problems those scholars may be experiencing. Therefore, it is important that school personnel respond in a manner that is supportive to the needs of the scholar. When a scholar engages in misconduct, MPTCS provides an exhaustive list of interventions that should be considered. The discipline code separates student infractions into two categories: minor and major infractions. Scholars will receive interventions at all stages of the disciplinary process. Scholars consequences will depend on the classification of the infraction. Scholars who return from suspension require: Following any suspension, parents/guardians are REQUIRED to participate in a re-entry meeting right after the Morning Meeting on the morning the scholar returns to school. At this meeting, family members, the Dean of Culture and Families or a designated staff member, and the classroom teacher revisit the concern with the child and together discuss better choices, next steps and behavior expectations going forward. When all adults communicate a consistent
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message in this manner, it is a powerful experience for the child. This is a necessary step in the learning and growing process for everyone at the MPTCS. The range of disciplinary measures that are offered in the MPTCS Discipline Code ensure both consistency and equitable treatment for all scholars. The MPTCS Discipline Code enables the Board of Trustees, Chief School Administrator, Superintendent, Principal, Vice Principal and/or the Principal’s designee to exercise discretion and educational judgment. Severe major infractions may constitute an immediate Board referral for possible expulsion. Universal Behavior Management Plan The behavior management plan aims to promote positive behavior and character development as well as to ensure scholar accountability when behavior expectations are violated. Two facets will make up the behavior management plan: The Disciplinary Consequences and Conduct Improvement Interventions.
TIERED CODE OF CONDUCT
Tier I: Teacher Misbehavior on the part of the scholar which interferes with orderly classroom procedures or the orderly operation of the school.
Tier II: Teacher Misbehavior whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school.
Tier III: Administration Acts directed against persons or property, that directly impact scholar learning and/or environment.
Tier IV: Administration Acts which result in violence to another person or property or which pose a direct threat to the safety of the scholar or others in the school.
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*Chewing Gum *Disobedience *Disrupting class *Use of Profanity *Disruptive Transitions *Eating/Drinking in Class or Hallway *Habitually Unprepared for Class
* Repeated Level I Infractions * *Academic/Scholastic Dishonesty (K-8) *Continued & Willful Disobedience *Continuous Displays of Affection *Cutting Class *Disrespectful Behavior *Excessive Disruption *Horseplay *Misusing School Supplies *Tardy to Class *Technology Infraction * Uniform Infraction *Verbal Aggression Toward Peer/Verbal Aggression Toward Staff *Verbal Altercation
* Repeated Level II Infractions* *Academic/Scholastic Dishonesty (9-12) *Records Falsification Dishonesty *Campus/Mass Campus Disruption * Cell Phone/Electronic Device Infraction (K-12) *Cutting Detention *Damaging School Property/Damaging Scholar Property *Defiance *Disruptive During School-wide Testing *Fighting *Fighting off-campus *Gambling *Harassment, Intimidation, and/or Bullying *Improper Urination/Defecation (K-8) *Inappropriate Comments/Gestures/ Exposure *Instigation *Leaving Classroom Without Permission *Loitering *Physical Aggression Toward Peer/Physical Aggression Toward Staff *Physical Altercation *Safety Routine Misconduct *Sexual Misconduct *Stealing/Theft *Threat (minor) *Throwing Objects *Unauthorized location/Unaccounted for. *Vandalism
* Repeated Level III Infractions * *Arson *Assault *Battery *Drug and/or Alcohol Possession Unauthorized Prescription Drug *Drug and/or Alcohol Distribution or Use *Extortion/Robbery *False Alarm *Gang Activity *Improper Urination/Defecation (9-12) *Leaving School Grounds/Unaccounted for *Off-Campus Assault Towards Civilian *Possession/Distribution/Use of Firework *Extortion/Robbery *Terroristic Threat *Threat (major) *Trespassing *Weapon Possession/Use
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9-12 Intervention: *Teacher provides verbal/ non-verbal redirection *Teacher reassigns student seat or sends student to reflection space *Classroom management chart change */LiveSchool deduction *Private Individual Correction/Conversation (PIC) *Teacher calls parent. *Document in Realtime
9-12 Intervention: *Teacher calls parent. *Teacher provides verbal/ non-verbal redirection *Private Individual Correction/Conversation (PIC) *Teacher reassigns student seat or sends student to reflection space *Classroom management chart change *LiveSchool deduction *Peer Mediation *Conflict Resolution session mediated by teacher *Classroom Behavior Intervention Plan *Document in Realtime 9-12 Consequence: *Silent/Reflection lunch with teacher (teacher study hall) *After-school or Saturday Detention *Parent conference scheduled with Teacher *Document in Realtime
K-12 Intervention: *After-school Advisory *After-school Culture Boost *Conflict Resolution session mediated by administrator *School based community service *I&RS/School counselor referral *Classroom/School-wide Behavior Intervention Plan *School based counseling with Social Worker/Guidance Counselor *Outsource Referral/Assignment *Honor Hearing *Document in Realtime 9-12 Discipline: *Reflection lunch with an administrator *Mandatory Administrator Parent Conference with Teacher *In-school Suspension *Out of School Suspension. *After-school or Saturday Detention *Sports/ Extracurricular Activity/ School Trip Removal *Referral to Campus Discipline Committee *Document in Realtime
K-12 Intervention: *I&RS/school counselor referral *School based counseling with Social Worker *Outsource Referral/Assignment *Classroom/School-wide Behavior Intervention Plan *Document in Realtime K-12 Discipline: *Referral to District Discipline Committee *In-school Suspension *Out of School Suspension. *Referral to Board of Trustees *Alternate Education Placement *Home Instruction *Document in Realtime
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Scholar Code of Conduct: Infraction Glossary
Academic/Scholastic Dishonesty Records Falsification Dishonesty
Sharing false information. Academic dishonesty includes: cheating, fraud and plagiarism; the theft of ideas; and/or unauthorized computer/calculator/electronic device used to procure or change information. Scholastic dishonesty includes the forging of a parent/guardian’s name on school documents.
Arson Starting a fire or causing an explosion in or on the grounds of a school thereby purposely or knowingly placing person or group of specified individuals in danger of death or bodily injury; or with the purpose of destroying or damaging the person or group of individuals’ property that is in the school or on school grounds, a building or a structure of another. Arson does not include a simple act of lighting a match.
Assault A person attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causes--- bodily injury to another. Assault will be determined by School Resource Officer.
Battery (Physical Attack/Harm) The physical use of force or violence by an individual against another. This is different from fighting because either the person harmed is outnumbered or not engaged in mutual combat.
Campus/Mass Disruption Disruption of all or part of campus activities, school-sponsored event, etc. that poses a threat to the learning environment, health, safety, or welfare of others (examples: disruption of Community Meeting; disruptive behavior on the bus during field trip). This also includes the international activation, without valid cause, of alarm system, such as a fire alarm or door alarm, or the intentional reporting of a false emergency, such as dialing 911 and making false report
Continued & Willful Disobedience (at least two prior disciplinary entries of “Disobedience” as defined within the code of conduct)
Repeatedly, passively refusing to follow classroom rules or procedures. (e.g. silently refusing to move seat, ignoring redirections/prompts)
Continuous Displays of Affection Continued displays of affection regardless of staff redirections. Includes: kissing, caressing, massaging, groping, fraternizing, etc.)
Disrupting Class
Engaging in intentional behavior that causes interruption of a class or activity; may include loud talking, making noises with materials or body parts, or continuously getting out of one’s seat.
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Cell Phone/Electronic Device Infraction Possession of personal cellular phones, smart phones/watches/accessories, iPods, tablets, communication and recording devices are not allowed during the school day. Cell phones must be turned off and placed in a backpack. Cell phones are not to be visible in any way, including: attached to belts or in pockets. Cellphones are not to ring in the classroom at any time. Also, scholars cannot receive or send text messages during school hours or after-school programs. Cameras and camcorders are not allowed in school. It is strongly recommended that scholars DO NOT bring any valuable, portable electronic devices to school (i.e., Phones, smartphone accessories, iPods, Tablets, Handheld games, etc.). The school will not be held responsible in the event unauthorized devices are missing or stolen.
Chewing Gum Chewing gum is not allowed in school.
Disobedience Passively refusing to follow classroom rules or procedures. (e.g. silently refusing to move seat, ignoring redirections/prompts)
Cutting Class Reporting to school and failing to attend one or more programmed classes without authorization from instructional staff, building leadership, or administration.
Cutting Detention Refusal to be present for assigned detention.
Damaging School Property/Damaging Scholar Property
Purposely, knowingly, or recklessly destroying or defacing school, contracted, or personal property, causing an economic loss due to repair or replacement.
Defiance
Willful/Assertive refusal to follow a directive or order given by a staff member. (e.g. statement of refusal, physical demonstration of refusal)
Use of Profanity Using non-threatening, non-directed verbal or gestural messages that may include swearing, or words in an offensive manner.
Disrespectful Behavior The use of words or acts that demean, degrade, antagonize, or humiliate a person or group of persons. Disrespect is also action or attitude that shows disregard for authority. May include confrontational/provocative verbal/physical gestures/statement.
Disruptive During School-wide Testing Creating a disruption of any type, either in the testing site, outside of the testing site, or anywhere else on campus, that
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compromises the integrity of the testing administration/process.
Disruptive Transition Creating disruption within the hallways that inhibits other scholars ability to transition to their next location swiftly and in a professional manner. (IE: screaming, running, etc...)
Drug and/or Alcohol Possession Unauthorized Prescription Drug (medicine that is not stated in the scholar’s individualized healthcare plan)
Scholar is found with one or more of the reportable substance types in his or her locker or vehicle, or on his or her person. Reportable Substances: Alcohol, Anabolic steroids, Cocaine/Crack, Designer/Synthetic drugs, Heroin, Hallucinogenic drug, Amphetamine, Barbiturate, Marijuana, Medicine that is not stated in the scholar’s individualized healthcare plan, Unauthorized over-the-counter substances, Drug paraphernalia: any equipment, product, or material that is modified for making, using, or concealing illicit drugs. Substances that give an appearance of being real on school grounds or at school sponsored events are prohibited.
Drug and/or Alcohol Distribution Scholar sells, buys, or gives one of the reportable substance types to others, employs others to do the same, or is in possession of substances in such quantities or under such circumstances that it may be inferred that the student intended to distribute to others. Reportable Substances: Alcohol, Anabolic steroids, Cocaine/Crack, Designer/Synthetic drugs, Heroin, Hallucinogenic drug, Amphetamine, Barbiturate, Marijuana, Medicine that is not stated in the scholar’s individualized healthcare plan, Unauthorized over-the-counter substances, Drug paraphernalia: any equipment, product, or material that is modified for making, using, or concealing illicit drugs. Substances that give an appearance of being real on school grounds or at school sponsored events are prohibited.
Drug or Alcohol Use If a student is suspected of being under the influence of substances that student will be immediately reported to the principal, vice principal or nurse. The student will be taken to the nurse’s office for assessment and care by the nurse. A designated staff person may also conduct a search of the student’s person and/or belongings if there is reasonable suspicion that the student is concealing any substances. The student’s parent will be contacted to arrange for an immediate medical examination of the student to determine whether or not the student is under the influence of a substance.
Eating/Drinking in Class or Hallway Consumption of food and/or drink of any type (excluding
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water fountain usage) in any location other than the cafeteria.
Excessive Disruption Continual disruption of the school and/or learning environment that inhibits the learning of scholars, and demand the instructors attention for constant redirection.
Extortion/Robbery Attempting to obtain or obtaining money or any material thing (regardless of value) from another by means of violence, threat of immediate violence, or stated or implied threat of future violence.
False Alarm Initiating or circulating a report or warning of an impending fire, explosion, bombing, crime, catastrophe or emergency, knowing that the report or warning is false or baseless and that it is likely to cause evacuation of a school building, school bus, or other place of assembly on school grounds. This includes knowingly setting off a fire alarm when no fire exists.
Fighting Mutual engagement in a physical confrontation in which the offenders continuously aggress toward each other in an effort to harm one another.(e.g. punching, wrestling, slapping).
Fighting Off-Campus Mutual engagement in a physical confrontation in which the offenders continuously aggress toward each other in an effort to harm one another.(e.g. punching, wrestling, slapping) off school grounds.
Gambling Wagering of money or something of value on an event with an uncertain outcome with the primary intent of winning money or material goods.
Gang Activity A “pattern of criminal activity” and the conspiracy to commit, or solicitation of two or more crimes or acts by a juvenile that would be a crime if committed by an adult. “Gang activity” may include the wearing or displaying of specific colors,symbols,numbers or specific gang-related language.“Gang activity” may also include harassment, intimidation, bullying, fighting and other disruptive behaviors, and/or threats to students, staff and others involved in that environment.
Harassment, Intimidation, and/or Bullying See H.I.B. Policy
Habitually Unprepared for Class Student is consistently present for class and unprepared with materials required for instruction.
Horseplay Non-threatening physical interaction.
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Improper Urination/Defecation Urinating/defecating in unauthorized locations and/or inappropriate areas (i.e. sinks, playground, floor).
Inappropriate Comments/Gestures/Exposure Verbal or physical actions that constitute lewd behavior or insinuate offensive meanings.
Incomplete Homework Failure to complete and submit homework as assigned by a classroom teacher by a specific deadline.
Instigation The act or process of attempting to incite/inciting a disruption of any type that compromises the learning, safety, or positive culture/climate of Marion P. Thomas Charter School. This may also apply to situations off campus.
Leaving Classroom Without Permission Exiting a classroom or learning space without adult approval from staff ,teacher, or administrator.
Leaving School Grounds/Unaccounted for In order to keep our scholars in a supervised, safe, and orderly environment, MPTCS employs a “closed campus” policy for scholars. Once scholars arrive at school, they must remain on campus until the end of the school day. Scholars who leave campus shall be classified as truant and subject to disciplinary action.
Locker Usage STUDENTS SHOULD NOT SHARE THEIR LOCKER COMBINATION WITH ANYONE! ● Lockers may only be entered during designated locker times without special permission from a staff person. ● Coats, sweaters and outerwear must be stored in lockers. They are not to be brought to another classroom. ● Students can not store food in your locker. ● Students can not use tape or stickers to attach items to the inside of locker. Magnets should be used. ● Writing on the inside or outside of the locker is prohibited. ● Students can not decorate the outside of the locker. ● Students who experience difficulty with a locker and need repairs should report the information to their homeroom teacher who will report it to the main office. ● Damage to lockers and loss of locks will be the responsibility of the student and payment must be made for replacement of a lost lock and/or damage to a locker. The cost of a replacement lock is $5.00. ● Students are not allowed to store any illegal items in lockers. An MPTCS Administrator, School Safety Officer, or local law enforcement officer can search your locker at any time when a threat to our scholars and staff is suspected.
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Loitering Standing or waiting around idly without apparent purpose in an unassigned area.
Misusing School Supplies Student engages in misuse of property such as writing on books, destroying school supplies or inappropriate usage of what tools and supplies are intended for scholastic purposes.
Off-Campus Assault Towards Civilian Attempting to cause bodily injury to another person, or who recklessly, knowingly, or purposely causing bodily injury to someone else off school grounds.
Physical Aggression Toward Peer/Physical Aggression Toward Staff
Intentional physically aggressive actions causing physical contact. These actions have the potential to cause reasonable physical harm (e.g. hitting, kicking, throwing objects at, pushing, etc.)
Physical Altercation Actions involving physical contact between two or more scholars where injury may occur (e.g., shoving match, pushing, tussle, physical standoff where bodies come in contact, physical provocation/probing, slapping.)
Possession/Distribution/Use of Firework The possession, selling/distributing, or detonating of a self-fusing explosive device, no greater in size than two inches, and commercially sold as "fireworks" on school grounds. Cherry bombs, M80s and M90s are reported in this category.
Safety Routine Misconduct Inappropriate behaviors, and/or actions that are exhibited during a fire drill, lockdown drill, shelter in place drill, and evacuation. This includes real safety evacuations and lock downs.
Sexual Misconduct Sexual advances, inappropriate touching, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Stealing/Theft To take and/or carry away (something that belongs to another person) without permission and with the intention of keeping, distributing/selling, and/or discarding.
Tardy to Class (Less than 5 minutes) Late to class more than 5 minutes without proper documentation.
Technology Infraction Intentionally and without authorization changing, removing, altering, or otherwise interfering or causing disruption or malfunction to any school district computer, computer system, computer network, computer program, or data. Misuse of the Internet, in accordance with the Internet Safety & Responsible Use of Technology policy within the Family Handbook, will
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result in disciplinary consequences and loss of Internet privileges.
Terroristic Threat A terroristic threat involves a threat to commit violence communicated verbally or written with the intent to terrorize another, to cause evacuation of a building, or to cause serious public inconvenience, in reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience. It includes an offense against property or involving danger to another person that may include but is not limited to recklessly endangering another person, harassment, stalking, ethnic intimidation, and criminal mischief.
Threat (minor) Attempting by physical menace (e.g., verbal threats) to put another in fear of bodily injury.
Threat (major) Expressing either physically or verbally- the intent to commit one of the following violent offenses: Homicide, aggravated assault, sexual assault, kidnapping, and/or arson. The threat must be made for the purpose of placing another in imminent fear of one of these violent acts, under circumstances that would reasonably cause the victim(s) to believe the immediacy of the threat and the likelihood that it will be carried out.
Throwing Objects Propelling any object, small or large, with or without force in any scholastic setting.
Trespassing Entry onto school property or into a school building without permission. This includes during suspension or expulsion. Scholars are prohibited from opening doors and/or windows.
Unauthorized location/Unaccounted for Being in an area of the school, or anywhere on a school-sponsored trip, that is unassigned by the staff member responsible for you at a specific point and time.
Uniform Infraction Scholar is not wearing the proper uniform; scholar is wearing gym uniform on wrong day. (See Uniform Policy)
Vandalism Scholar engaging in the deliberate act of destruction or damage to the school and/or scholars property.
Verbal Aggression Toward Peer/Verbal Aggression Toward Staff
One sided use of threatening, directed verbal or gestural messages that may include deliberate insult, deliberate targeted profanity/swearing, deliberate name-calling, or words in an offensive manner. Note: If a staff notices repeated name calling from one scholar(s) targeted toward a specific scholar, please complete and submit H.I.B. referral form
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Verbal Altercation A mutual argument between two or more people.
Weapon Possession/Use Having on one’s person, in one’s locker or vehicle one or more of the listed weapon types. A weapon is any instrument readily capable of lethal use or of inflicting serious bodily injury (Injury which involves a substantial risk of death; extreme physical pain; protracted and obvious disfigurement; or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty). Components that can be readily assembled into a weapon are reported in this category. This category includes, but is not limited to: Bomb: an explosive device designed to injure or kill people or to damage or destroy property (includes grenade); Handgun; Rifle (includes shotgun); Air gun: includes bb gun, pellet gun, or other weapon of a similar nature in which the propelling force is a spring, elastic band, carbon dioxide, compressed or other gas or vapor, air or compressed air, or is ignited by compressed air, and ejecting a bullet or missile smaller than three-eighths of an inch in diameter, with sufficient force to injure a person; Knife/blade (includes razor blade and box cutter); and Spray: a device that projects, releases, or emits tear gas or any other substance such as pepper spray that is intended to produce temporary discomfort or permanent injury through being vaporized or otherwise dispensed in the air.
MPTCS High School Discipline Policy At Marion P.Thomas Charter High School of Culinary and Performing Arts we recognize that the teachers are the main disciplinarians within their respective classroom domains. Teachers are charged to attempt three (3) interventions to redirect the disruptive behavior of their scholars. Those three interventions can range from verbal redirections, calls to the parent or guardian, seat reassignment ect. If the three interventions implemented by the teacher do not aid in redirecting the scholars behavior, the teachers have the authority to give a scholar a detention that will be served with the issuing teacher. The issuing teacher will notify the parent/guardian of the scholar of the incident that took place for the scholar to receive a teacher detention. It is expected that the scholar serves the teacher detention, the day after the teacher issued the detention. Scholars will serve detention with the issuing teacher from 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM. If a scholar attempts to arrive to the teacher detention after 3:15 PM, the scholar will be unable to serve the detention. Failure to serve the teacher detention will lead to a referral to the scholars respective dean, in addition to more consequences disseminated at the discretion of the Administrative team.
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Administrative Detention At the discretion of the Administrative Team a scholar can be assigned a Friday or Saturday detention based upon the severity of the infraction the scholar has committed.
● Friday detentions are scheduled for and are expected to be served every Friday from 12:45PM to 2:45PM. Parents will be notified by the Administrative team when their scholar(s) is assigned a Friday detention. It is expected by the Administrative team that parents hold their scholar accountable, and aid in making sure that their scholar serves their Friday detention. Under the direction of assigned staff and personnel scholars will be expected to fully engage in social skills building activities, developing problem solving skills, and engaging in meaningful conversation.If a scholar does not engage in conversations, shows defiant behavior, or displays disrespect to their peers or staff, the scholar will be removed from Friday detention and will receive further consequences at the discretion of the Administrative team. If a scholar shows up to detention after 12:45PM, the scholar will not be permitted to serve the detention. Failure to serve the assigned detention will result in the dissemination of more consequences at the discretion of the Administrative team.
● Saturday detentions are scheduled for and expected to be served every other Saturday, 8:00AM to 10:00 AM. Saturday detentions will give scholars the opportunity to engage in but not limited to social skills building activities, PSAT/SAT prep, academic course work, and community service projects around the school. Scholars are expected to arrive in full Marion P.Thomas Charter High School uniform, or their Marion P.Thomas Charter High School gym uniform. Notification to parent(s)/guardian(s) of scholars whom receive Saturday detention will be notified via Marion P.Thomas automated phone call system and/or by an Administrative team member.
Routines & Operations
Internet Safety & Responsible Use of Technology MPTCS is committed to undertaking efforts that serve to make it safe for students to use MPTCS computers for access to the Internet. To this end, although we are unable to guarantee that any selected filtering and blocking technology will work perfectly, MPTCS uses technology protection measures that block or filter Internet access by:
● Minors to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography, or harmful to Minors, as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act
● Adults to visual depictions that are obscene or child pornography, and MPTCS uses procedures that provide for the safety and security of students using electronic mail and other forms of direct electronic communications; monitoring the online activities of students
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using school computers; and restricting student access to materials that are harmful to minors. In addition, MPTCS prohibits the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding students; unauthorized online access by students, including hacking and other unlawful activities; and access by students to inappropriate matter on the Internet. All users of the school’s computer network, including access to the Internet, must understand that use is a privilege, not a right, and that any such use entails responsibility. They must comply with the requirements of this policy and state regulation, in addition to generally accepted rules of network etiquette, and MPTCS’ policy on the acceptable use of computers and the Internet. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action including, but not limited to, the revocation of computer access privileges. As part of this policy, MPTCS shall also provide age-appropriate instruction regarding appropriate online behavior, including:
● Interacting with other individuals on social networking sites and in chat rooms, and ● Cyberbullying awareness and response
Reporting of Violation Violations of the Internet Safety Policy and this regulation by students and staff shall be reported to the School Leaders. The School Leaders shall take appropriate corrective action in accordance with authorized disciplinary procedures. Penalties may include, but are not limited to, the revocation of computer access privileges, as well as school suspension in the case of students and disciplinary charges in the case of teachers. Field Trips & Off-Site Experiences Field experiences are important parts of our educational model, and there will be opportunities for students to learn outside of our school building. MPTCS field experiences are defined as trips that classes of students take that take place off of the school grounds. For all field experiences parents and guardians will be required to sign a written permission slip. Students who do not return a permission slip signed by a parent or guardian by the date specified on the slip will not be allowed to go on the trip. Additionally:
● If a student cannot attend a trip for any reason, s/he is still required to attend school that day. Relevant academic work will be completed in another classroom.
● If funds are required to attend the school trip it will be outlined in the parental permission slip sent home with the scholar.
● Scholars who have disciplinary infractions at the time of the trip will be prohibited from participating.
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● Families who may not be able to financially contribute to field trip experiences, should contact the field trip coordinator or the Family Liaison at ext. 5101
Lunch All scholars will eat lunch in school. Scholars may not leave school property during lunch. We offer a free and reduced-price lunch program for qualifying families. Applications will be sent home at the beginning of the year and are also available at the office. Carbonated sodas and sugary snacks will not be permitted during lunch. If these items are brought to school, they will be confiscated by a staff member.
Lost & Found Articles lost or found will be held in the main office until they are claimed. All items not recovered at the end of the month will be donated. Scholars are reminded that placing their names on articles reduces the chance that items may be lost.
Personal Belongings Upon entry into the high school campus, random searches of scholars personal belongings (including book bags and coats) and lockers are conducted on a daily basis. This policy was implemented to ensure the health and safety of all scholars. Scholars should limit personal belongings they bring to school. The responsibility for these items is with the parents and the scholars. In the event of loss, theft, or damage of personal property the school cannot accept responsibility.
Family and Community Engagement & School Communication
Family Engagement Supporting student success at MPTCS is essential to creating an effective school community in which all students succeed. We look forward to partnering with families and would appreciate family support in the following areas:
1. Creating an effective learning environment at home
• Set a schedule and structure to make sure your child completes schoolwork. Limit TV and “electronic” time. Keep books and other reading materials available and set aside a time to read each day.
2. Learning about and supporting MPTCS’ values and programs
• Encourage your child to participate fully in fieldwork and extended trips.
• Be familiar with and discuss with your child the contents of this handbook.
• Attend school-wide activities during the year.
3. Staying informed about your child’s progress
• Attend all parent teacher conferences
• Attend formal presentations of student work when possible
• Read teacher communications and promptly return permission slips and other communications
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asking for family response.
Volunteer Opportunities Family and Community volunteers enrich the MPTCS Village and provide invaluable support for student success. At MPTCS we value adults as responsible models for students and we value the modeling of community service. We recognize that students need to increase their familiarity with their community and with the range of roles that adults play professionally and as citizens. Any time that is spent by adults in supporting MPTCS is deeply appreciated. Examples include:
1. Family and Community volunteers can provide in-classroom support as guest readers and assist with special projects and assemblies.
2. Volunteers can also assist with targeted discussion or feedback on school programs, suggested changes or other appropriate school-related concerns via focus groups.
3. Since some learning occurs out of the building in fieldwork settings, adult volunteers are sometimes needed on field trips and service learning experiences. Additional adult supervision is often helpful, allowing for smaller groupings of students and more individual attention.
3. In a school that encourages community engagement and a culture of warmth and acceptance, there are times when family members are needed to provide refreshments or supplies for events or to host or supervise events.
NOTE: Please refer to the MPTCS Volunteer Policy for more information about the volunteer guidelines and requirements
Parent Code of Conduct At MPTCS, we believe that our parents are a vital asset to our organization. Our parents provide positive support, care and encouragement. They help to mold and shape our scholars into responsible citizens. Therefore, we believe that our parents should conduct themselves in a manner in which our scholars can emulate. We have created a parent pledge, expected behaviors and consequences that all parents within MPTCS must follow to help ensure that we continue to create a safe, nurturing and healthy environment that is conducive for learning. Parent Pledge
● I will encourage positive behavior by demonstrating positive behavior to my child at all times.
● I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of a personal desire to win.
● I will build a positive working relationship with my child’s teacher. ● I will respect the staff, school property and help to maintain a safe and healthy
environment for my child to learn and grow.
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Visiting MPTCS Village Academies MPTCS is a school that encourages interaction with the wider community. The establishment of a friendly and informative professional community is a priority. In order to avoid interrupting instruction parents and community members are advised to adhere to the visitor’s policy which involves the following:
● Upon entering the building, visitors should sign in with the Security Guard and walk directly to the office.
● If parents are bringing in students late, they should be checked in with the Security Guard and left in the lobby on all days. Staff will escort them to class.
● At the conclusion of the visit, the visitor should exit directly out of the building, signing out with the Security Guard.
● If a parent seeks to speak to a teacher, the office will make an appointment. If it is urgent, they should see the principal or executive director first, and they will determine if disruption of class is warranted.
● Parents are welcome to schedule times to observe students while in classes. This is particularly helpful when students are having difficulties with adjustment to school, or are presenting behavioral concerns. However, it is important that parents limit observations so they are not excessive. When observing over a span of time, observations will be limited to no more than once a week.
● If a child is being picked up early, a staff member should retrieve that child. Parents are not permitted to go to classrooms to pick up their children.
● At no time should visitors go directly without staff escort to any room except the office. This includes classrooms and support staff offices.
Parent Meeting When a parent meeting takes place the parent(s) and/or legal guardian(s) of the scholar(s) will be contacted to participate in the meeting. When a disciplinary consequence takes place only the parent(s) and/or guardian(s) of the scholar(s) involved will be notified. As we value all instructional time, parents can only meet with a teacher or an administrator by appointment. Please email the teacher or contact the main office to schedule an appointment. Appointments can only be scheduled by a parent or legal guardian. When meeting with a teacher or administrator it is important that the meeting remains courteous and respectful at all times. If at any time the meeting is not conducted appropriately the meeting will be canceled until further notice. Parents that do not comply with our policy may be subject to the following actions
● Banned from the premises for a designated time frame ● Must be escorted through the building by security
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● All conferences and/or interactions with MPTCS staff must be supervised by administration
● Appearance before the Board of Trustees Unaccepted Behaviors and/or Clothing
● Do-rag, hair rollers, satin bonnets and/or head dressing that do not have a religious or cultural affiliation
● Revealing and/or inappropriate clothing ● Under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol ● Slippers and/or pajamas ● Profanity/Name Calling/Threats ● Behaviors deemed by administration as inappropriate
Procedures for Parents/Guardians Concerns & Complaints The process for communicating concerns at MPTCS is guided by the Grievance Policy, which encourages all members of the school community to work together to resolve conflicts between the parties where possible. In the event of a problem or dispute with other personnel, students, parents or the administration that cannot be resolved the following grievance procedure is provided as a means to resolve such disputes for the benefit of the entire village. Parties may submit a written complaint following the process described below: 1-The employee/parents will make a good faith effort to work with the teacher/appropriate staff member to resolve conflicts. This effort will consist of problem identification, possible solutions, selection of resolution, process for implementation of resolution and scheduling a follow-up. In the event that the complaint involves the immediate supervisor/teacher, the employee/parent will work with that individual’s supervisor. 2-If the issue is not resolved after a good faith attempt as outlined above, the employee/parent may submit the grievance in writing to the Principal within five (5) working days of the failure to resolve the incident. 3-The Principal has five (5) working days to review and respond to any grievance matters. 4-The party submitting the grievance has five (5) working days to appeal the decision of the Principal to the Board’s Grievance Committee. 5-If the grievance includes the Principal, the grievance should be submitted in a sealed envelope and placed in the Board of Trustees/Secretary mailbox at the school (skip steps 2-4).
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6-Within one week of receipt of the written complaint, the Grievance Committee shall schedule a hearing at a mutually convenient time and place for discussion of the complaint with fall parties involved. The process is similar to that of the initial good faith attempt at a resolution. 7-A decision shall be rendered at the completion of the hearing process in writing within ten (10) working days. 8-The party submitting the grievance has five (5) working days to appeal in writing the decision of the Grievance Committee to the Board of Trustees. 9-If members of the Grievance Committee have a conflict of interest in the subject of proceedings or are involved in the issue personally, those members shall be excused from their roles on the committee. School/Home Communication
MPTCS realizes that parents and students are busier than ever, but staying informed about what is happening at school is vitally important. There are several ways for you to stay connected with our Village: Website and Online Parent Portal All families will have access to MPTCS’ Learning Management System, RealTime, where they can log on and see their student’s progress on work. In addition, MPTC has a Parent section for families on the website with important information and regular updates.
Social and Online Media To keep abreast of school updates, activities and other happenings at MPTCS, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram or Twitter:
facebook.com/mptcs @marionpthomas twitter@mptcs Voice of the Village is MPTCS’ monthly newsletter, which is distributed to parents and the community each month. The newsletter will feature spotlights on students and staff; information about past and upcoming events and other important updates. Visit www.mptcs.org to register to
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receive the newsletter.
MPTCS Website and App Parents should check the MPTCS website, www.mptcs.org, to keep informed about the district.
The MPTCS App delivers updates and school information directly to your phone. To download the app visit the Google or Apple App store and type in Marion P. Thomas and follow the instructions. Student Health & Safety School Nurse’s Primary Role The school nurse's job is to provide temporary assistance for scholars who become ill or injured at school. Any scholar that suffers an injury or accident should report immediately to the supervising teacher. In case of illness or injury, a decision may be made to send a child home. However, there may be instances when a child becomes sick and must go home immediately. In such cases (i.e., fever of more than 101 degrees, vomiting, or a chronic cough, etc.), parents will be contacted to take the child home or to the doctor. The child will remain in the care of the Health Office until a parent or designee arrives for the child. It is expected that the parent/designee arrive to school in a timely manner (approximately one hour). If the parent refuses to pick up the child or fails to arrange for a designed to pick up the child within a timely manner, the NJ Department of Children and Family Services will be contacted. Dispensing Medication The school nurse must be informed of any prescription medication that a student is required to take at school. To dispense prescription medication to students, the school must receive a written order from the student’s doctor and a permission slip from the student’s parent. All
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medication should be brought to the school nurse in the original prescription container, labeled with the student’s name, name of the medication, date of expiration, and proper dosage. If your child has asthma, a chronic illness or severe allergies, provide the nurse with your child's action plan. It is imperative that you and the nurse discuss your child's access to medication in case of an emergency. Mandatory Health Exams A variety of medical forms must be completed by physicians and parents before a child can enroll at MPTCS. All returning students must have a complete physical and the doctor (or a representative) must complete a medical form, which must be submitted to the nurse’s office. Incident Reports The school nurse's job is to provide temporary assistance for scholars who become ill or injured at school. Any scholar that suffers an injury or accident should report immediately to the supervising teacher. In case of illness or injury, a decision may be made to send a child home. However, there may be instances when a child becomes sick and must go home immediately. In such cases (i.e., fever of more than 101 degrees, vomiting, or a chronic cough, etc.), parents will be contacted to take the child home or to the doctor. The child will remain in the care of the Health Office until a parent or designee arrives for the child. It is expected that the parent/designee arrive to school in a timely manner (approximately one hour). If the parent refuses to pick up the child or fails to arrange for a designed to pick up the child within a timely manner, the NJ Department of Children and Family Services will be contacted. School Forms and Required Documentation A number of school forms and documents must be completed to ensure scholars are properly enrolled in school, including: Address Verification documents: MPTCS, and all public and public charter schools in Newark, are required to annually verify the addresses/residency of their students. This process takes place at the end of the school year to ensure enrollment for the following year. Proof of address is required for returning families, as well as new families and must be completed by the deadline date. Emergency Contact Form: In case of an emergency it is vital that parents are reachable throughout the school day. The Emergency contact form including your address, home phone, cell phone and work phone, as well as other family members or friends who will serve as emergency contacts, must be completed within one week of receipt of the form. Additionally, forms must be immediately updated (within a week) for a change of address or phone number.
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Medical Form: As aforementioned, the appropriate medical forms must be completed and submitted to the school nurse. Student Media Release Form: In order to feature your child on social media, press announcements and other public forums, parents must sign a student media release form.
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