A.H.S. Student Handbook - Conduct & Discipline

Major Expectations

Students are expected to:

• Be in school all the days and hours when school is in session.
• Be in homeroom and class on time.
• Attend all assigned classes and study halls.
• Have a pass whenever passing through our school while classes are in session.
• Be respectful to all school employees, school property and fellow students.
• Adhere to all rules, regulations and procedures.

New Jersey Law (18A:37-1, 37-2, and 6-1)  

All pupils in the public schools of New Jersey are compelled by law to comply with all rules established in pursuance of law for the government of such schools, to pursue the prescribed course of study and to submit to the authority of the teachers and others in authority over them.  This is provided in Revised Statues of New Jersey 18A:37-1.

Consequently, any pupil who is guilty of continued and willful disobedience, or of open defiance of the authority of any teacher or person having authority over that individual, or of the habitual use of profanity or of obscene language, or who shall cut, deface, or otherwise injure any school property, shall be liable to punishment and to suspension or expulsion from school as per NJSA 18A:37-2.

In addition, the parents or guardian of any pupil who shall injure any school property shall be liable for damages for the amount of the injury to be collected by the Board of Education of the district in any court of competent jurisdiction, together with cost of the suit.

Disciplinary Policy  

One of the primary functions of school administrators and school instructional personnel is to contribute toward the creation of a climate which will provide a good learning environment for the young men and women entrusted to their care for the purpose of education.

It is the intent of our Board of Education that our schools assume the obligation of training young people to be responsible for their own actions and behavior and that classroom teachers develop this concept in their pupils.  Classroom teachers should make known their standards of satisfactory conduct and behavior so that, as much as possible, problems and misunderstandings can be avoided.

Corporal Punishment

No member of the school district staff shall use or cause to be used on a student, corporal punishment (i.e., infliction of physical pain by another, punishment causing or intended to cause bodily pain and suffering).  However, any staff member may, within the scope of his/her duties and responsibilities, use and apply such physical restraint as is reasonable in manner and moderate in degree for the following purposes:

• To quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to others.
• To seize weapons or other dangerous objects in the possession of a student.
• For purposes of self-defense.
• For the protection of persons or property.

Such acts by staff members shall not be construed as constituting corporal punishment within the meaning and intent of this policy.  When a student has to be physically restrained, as outlined above, by a staff member, the incident shall immediately be reported by the staff member to a building administrator.  The principal shall forward a written report of the incident to the parents and the superintendent.

Authorized Corrective Disciplinary Measures or Punishments for Student Misconduct

1. Deprivation of Privileges
   • Saturday morning detention/extended Friday detention.
   • Isolation or separation from selected students in classrooms.
   • Temporary or permanent withdrawal of selected privileges, (i.e., use of cafeteria, free movement in hallways, dismissal at normal leaving time, bus transportation, use of personal automobile).  This can be done in the form of pass restriction, suspension from any activity, and/or participation in extra-curricular activities/athletics.
   • Placement of student on temporary probationary status in the school with consequent special requirements for student movement and conduct, and parental and staff contacts.
   • In-School suspension or temporary restriction to a stipulated location and assigned tasks in that location in the school.
   • Out-of-School suspension or temporary separation from the school environment; transfer to home instruction.
   • Expulsion or permanent separation from the school environment.  (Board of Education action required.)
2. Restitution of Damages
   • Restitution or payment in money, in kind, and/or in voluntary labor expended to school system, to staff member, or to another student for property damaged, destroyed, defaced or stolen.
   • Voluntary apology, oral or written, to individual offended.
   • Required school service activity by student as condition for continuation in school with full privileges.
3. Counseling
   • Required periodic contact with school guidance counselor/student assistance coordinator for continuing intervention.
   • Required parent/guardian conference or periodic contacts by parent/guardian with school officials.
4. Referral
   • Reporting of criminal offense to police, authorities for investigation and possible prosecution.
   • Referral to a corrective or social agency for counseling, therapy, treatment, or to the district Child Study Team.
   • Referral to Intervention and Referral Services Committee.
   • Referral to an alternative educational site.
5. Community Service
   • Agreed upon by the administrator and the student.
   • Must be voluntary on the part of the student.
6. Misbehavior
   • Other student misbehavior, not specifically addressed in the Code of Conduct, will be handled as fairly and reasonably as possible.  If the student did something that the student knew (or reasonably should have known) to be wrong, the student would be subject to the disciplinary code.  Also, for students who are continually disobedient and incorrigible, see the section in this handbook labeled "PRE-EXPULSION POLICY."

CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Students are encouraged to be respectful and follow the rules at all times.  However, for those students who choose to break the rules, a demerit system is used to track the infractions.
2. Students should realize that participating in the following infractions will result in the assignment of the specific number of demerits.  Many of these infractions will also lead to further administrative actions.

Demerit System

Category 1 (1 Point)

Annoying behavior
Food violation
Loitering

Category 2 (2 Points)  

Late to class
Cutting after-school detention
Failure to sign into school in a timely manner
Minor inappropriate network behavior/minor e-mail infraction
Inappropriate physical conduct
Out of bounds
Inappropriate language
Outstanding library books, athletic equipment and uniforms
Dress code violation, includes in possession of or wearing hats, hoods, head coverings
Minor unsafe act

Category 3 (3 Points)

Disturbance:  class, cafeteria, in-school suspension, study hall or bus
Card Playing
Use/beepers, pagers, cell phones, Walkmans, I-Pods, etc. during school hours (confiscated)
Parking violation
Leaving or refusing ISS
Repeated lack of cooperation
Inciting or running toward a fight

Category 4 (4 Points)

Deceitful conduct
School bus/defiance
Late to school/defiance
Leaving school grounds without permission
Gambling
Cutting class
Bias incident/sexual harassment
Cheating
Forgery/misrepresentation
Cutting Friday/Saturday detention
Defacing school property/vandalism (minor)
Defiance
Disrespect, abusive language or threat to staff member
Drug possession, use or intent to distribute
Under influence
Fighting
Major e-mail infraction/Major inappropriate network infraction
Possession, use or intent to use weapons
Smoking/tobacco use
Theft (minor)
Truancy
Unsafe act

Category 5 (5 points)

Assault
Bias incident/sexual harassment
Defacing school property (major)
Drug possession/distribution or intent to distribute
Possession, use or intent to use weapons
Theft (major)
Threatening behavior
Bullying/intimidation of staff or student on or off school grounds

In the event that an incident does not clearly fall into the above categories, the Admiistration reserves the right to interpret the code and adjust the demerit points.  The Administration also has the right to notify the police if the situation merits.

Please Note: the High School Administration will always call the police for any criminal behavior. 

Category - Other

Drugs, weapons and assaults on staff are specifically addressed in the school policy and
state law.

The chart below designates the appropriate disciplinary measures that will be
followed when a student obtains 15 demerit points or more.

Definitions

Annoying Behavior - After being warned, the student exhibits persistent petty unpleasantness.

Appropriate Administrative Action - Formulating a suitable penalty/remedy for a student's misconduct based upon the offense committed and the student's cumulative discipline file.

Assault - A person attempts to cause, or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another.

Bias Incident - Student indicates a judgment upon another student based on ethnicity, religion, gender, race or color, sexual orientation, etc.

Building Blocks - A program offered on Saturdays/selected evenings during the school year.  Students will be required to attend when they reach the 30 and/or 50 demerit levels.  Parents are also invited and encouraged to attend.

Bullying - Any gesture, written, verbal, or physical act that has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or staff member on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, mental, physical or sensory disability or other distinguishing characteristics.

Card Playing - is not allowed in school at any time.

Cell Phones - may not be seen/used during school hours.  They must be off and put away.  Cell phones may not be used to check time, text message, take pictures or any other function.  If cell phones are out and/or used, they will be taken by staff members, given to the Administration, and must be picked up by parents. If a student's cell phone is taken, the student should turn off his/her phone when given to the staff member.  Students may not record fights or other student interactions on cell phones or other electronic devices.  If the Administration has reason to believe a student recorded other students in a fight or other inappropriate activities, the Administration will search the phone for evidence.

Cheating - Acting dishonestly when taking a test/quiz or when completing any assign-
ment for a class (see Academic Integrity, page 42).  Any cheating infraction of a National Honor Society member will be referred to the Principal/National Honor Society Faculty Council.

Conflict Resolution Sessions - Mandatory sessions with the Student Assistance Counselor and those involved in the confrontation.

Cutting Class/Study - Not being in a classroom when assigned and without the subject teacher's knowledge and permission.  A student cannot expect another teacher to write a pass for him/her and be exonerated.  Prior written permission must be obtained from the subject area teacher whose class would be missed.  If students cut a class, they are not permitted to make up the class work or tests given that day.  Parents will be notified either by phone or mail.

Cutting Detention - Not attending, arriving late, or being removed from detention.

Cutting Friday Saturday Detention - A student, after being notified, does not report for his/her assigned detention.

Deceitful Conduct - purposely misleading or providing false information when asked or confronted by a staff member.

Defacing School Property - Any action of a student where the physical property of the school is deliberately marred.

Defiance - The action by which a student challenges the authority of the staff member or a school rule.  Examples:  any student who repeatedly parks a car on school grounds that is not registered to an assigned parking space; any student who fails to behave appropriately on a field trip; students who fail repeatedly to comply with the dress code.

Disrespect - Making gestures, using abusive language, inappropriate comments or threats to a student or staff member which would be deemed offensive/hostile by that person. Purposely embarrassing actions or comments towards students or staff.

Disturbance (Class, cafeteria, study or bus) - Interfering directly or indirectly with the instructional climate, the rights of others, or the normal, safe operation of the school.

Dress Code Violations - Any student who is wearing clothing which is not respectful of the dress code.  This is considered defiance of school rules.  Students will be requested to change their clothes into T-shirts provided by the administration unless the student has appropriate clothes. (See pages 36 and 37.)

Electronic Devices  - Any type of Walkman, MP-3 players, I-Pods, Side-kicks, pagers, etc., or any other electronic device are not allowed to be used or seen during the school day.  They must be kept in student's hallway locker or they will be taken by staff, given to Administration, and must be picked up by parents. The school will not be responsible for lost, misplaced or stolen electronic devices.

Failure to Sign into School in a Timely Manner - Each student who is late to school must sign in to school at the Attendance office.  A student who fails to do this will incur the appropriate penalty.

Food Violation - a student may have food in the cafeteria or in a designated outside eating area.

Fighting - Mutual engagement in a physical confrontation that may result in bodily injury to either party or others.  Does not include verbal confrontations or a minor confrontation such as a shoving match.

Forgery/Misrepresentation - Plagiarism, copyright infringement or falsifying written information so as to misrepresent the views, facts as expressed by teachers, staff, or parents.  Turning in work, written or verbal (giving a speech), that is plagiarized or copied directly from another source as one's own work.

Functional Assessment and Intervention System:  Improving School Behavior - The FAIS provides a comprehensive set of assessment tools, practice guides and procedures that are designed to identify the intent or function of a student's challenging behavior.  By gaining a clear understanding of the student's needs, school personnel can design functionally appropriate interventions.

Gambling - Betting, games of chance, 50/50's, card playing for money are not allowed at school unless the participants have received a permit and administrative approval.

General Detention - Any detention assigned by an administrator.  The detention is served after school in the assigned detention room.
Hats - Any head covering may not be worn during school hours.  Hats may not be carried around during school hours.  This is a violation of the Dress Code policy.

Inappropriate Language - The use of curse words or offensive language, be it casually in the hallway or when used in the presence of (but not directed at) a teacher or school official.

Inappropriate Physical Conduct/Intimate Physical Behavior - Physically acting in such a way that it may cause harm to themselves or others.  Intimate behavior in school, kissing, fondling, excessive hugging or other inappropriate touching/behavior.

Inciting or Running Toward a Fight - Any student who aggravates, irritates and otherwise encourages a fight or, in fact, looks to add to the fight will incur the appropriate penalty.

In-School Suspension - Students will be assigned by the administration for infractions of the school rules.  Teachers will send work to the ISS room.  A certified teacher will be available to assist with assigned work.  Students assigned to ISS will also be required to complete a self-reflection form looking at why they are in ISS and what they can do differently.  This form will be mailed home, requiring the parent/guardian to sign and return the form to the administration.

Insubordination - When a student refuses to comply with direction given by any member of the staff.

Lack of Cooperation - when a student does not follow written or oral directions given by a teacher, administrator or staff member.  Failure to cooperate or interfering with any investigation.

Lateness to Class/School-Defiance -  Late to class or school is defined as not being in your homeroom or class at the time the bell ceases ringing, indicating the beginning of class. 

Leaving School Grounds Without Permission - Arriving on school property and then leaving without securing consent from a school official.  Before leaving, students must sign out in the Attendance Office.  Students who are 18 years old cannot sign themselves out of school without parental permission.

Loitering - No student should remain in the school building (or in its immediate proximity) after school hours unless he/she is attending an official after-school activity.  The teacher or coach of the activity should provide students with a late bus pass.

Major E-Mail Infractions - Abuse of the e-mail privilege includes, but is not limited to:  sending abusive messages to fellow students; initiating trouble in or out of school with inciteful messages; harassing fellow students or groups; using mail in classes where one is instructed by his/her teacher not to; mass mailings and advertising; and monopolizing workstations for the purpose of using E-mail.

Major Inappropriate Network Behavior - Computer network misuse or unauthorized system access including the commission of acts that endanger network security, such as securing unauthorized rights and permissions; breaking into the computer network; reading, copying or destroying unauthorized files and directories; creating ghost files; bypassing blocks; compromising the system, etc.  For those students who import viruses from the use of EXE., .dot, .com, zip files, will incur a suspension from 1-3 days and those offenses that pose a major threat to the network will incur administrative action not limited to suspension.

Consequences for library infractions involving the computers:

• First offense will result in loss of library privileges in the Library Media Center for the day the infraction occurred plus 1 day following the infraction.

• Second offense will result in loss of library privileges in the Library Media Center for 3 days following the infraction.  Two demerits for minor inappropriate network behavior will be given for the second violation of the UFRNET Acceptable Use Policy.
• Third offense will result in loss of library privileges in the Library Media Center for 5 days.  Administration will be notified.  Four demerits for defiance will be given for the third violation of the UFRNET Acceptable Use Policy.
• Fourth offense will result in loss of library privileges in the Library Media Center for 2 weeks plus consultation with counselor and/or system administration, and administration will be notified.  Demerits will be given accordingly.
• Persistent offenses will result in further consultation with counselors, media specialist, and/or system administrator.  Parents will be contacted.  Administration will be notified and will determine the length of suspension of library privileges.  Removal of library privileges will be judged according to each individual situation.

Minor E-Mail Infractions - When a student personally abuses the E-mail privilege for which it was intended.

Minor Inappropriate Network Behavior - Committing acts which are a nuisance to network users such as using unauthorized commands and/or menus, placing of offensive materials in open files and directories, failure to secure personal password, etc.

Out of Bounds - Not being where a student is supposed to be and without permission.

Out-of-School Suspension - Students suspended out of school are not allowed on school property.  Their work will be gathered and sent home.

Parking Violation - Only seniors have the privilege of applying for and receiving a parking sticker with the understanding that there are rules that come with the privilege.  If any of these rules are broken, the appropriate penalty will be incurred.

School Bus Defiance - Failure to follow the rules of the drivers, creating a disturbance and/or unsafe conditions.  Students who take the late buses without having stayed after school for school-related business.  All students must obtain a bus pass from the staff member they were with.

Staff and Peer Intimidation - Applying pressure through the use of physical force or by verbal threat upon another to do something other than what the individual wishes to do.  Disturbing personal property in any way.  Bullying behavior towards others is a form of intimidation which will result in serious consequences.

Sexual Harassment - Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  Examples:  invades personal space while working with someone, makes obvious sexual gestures towards someone, asks questions about personal and/or sexual life, communications which are sexually offensive, touches, rubs or grabs someone's body.

Smoking/Use of Tobacco - All uses of tobacco, including but not limited to holding a lit or unlit cigarette, possession of tobacco products, chewing tobacco, being in a lavatory stall where smoke is evident, and smoking in cars while on school property.  In addition, where a staff member suspects a student of smoking, the odor of tobacco or the exhaling of smoke will be sufficient to apply the appropriate penalty.  Students who act as "lookouts" to facilitate other students' smoking will be subject to appropriate administration action.

Social Skills Behavioral Programs - Offered on Saturdays during the school year. Students will be required to attend when they reach the 30 and/or 50 demerit levels. Parents are also invited to attend.

Substance Abuse - Bringing to school, or to a school sponsored activity; personally using in the school, showing symptoms in the school of prior use of alcohol or other drugs, possession in personal automobiles, lockers, or clothing; giving, selling, or persuading others to use alcohol or other drugs or what is believed by the student to be controlled dangerous substances or alcohol.

Teacher Detention - A detention that is assigned to a student by a teacher.  The detention will be assigned to serve with the teacher or in general detention.

Theft - Any item which is the property of the school, a staff member, visitor or another student and is stolen must be reported to the administration.  For items over $10, an incident report must be filled out by the student, signed by the parent and presented to an administrator who will forward the report to the police.  In the cases where an item costs less than $10, the administrator will attempt to locate the item and the perpetrator. This will be considered a minor theft infraction.

Threat to Staff/Another Student - Any overture which intends to harm an individual, be it verbal or physical.

Truancy - Failing to report to and remain in school when parent/guardian is under the impression that you will be in school.

Unsafe Acts - Committing acts which threaten or potentially threaten the safety of others and/or oneself, i.e., lighting matches/lighters; reckless movement in the hall; piercing or tattooing each other while at school; pushing/shoving, etc.; throwing stones, snowballs, reckless or careless driving, etc. There are two levels of unsafe acts:  Minor - 2 demerits, Major - 4 demerits.

Vandalism - an action in which a student purposefully abuses school property and may incur physical damage to the property.

Points Accumulation

Maximum Points:

• A student may have multiple infractions and accompanying disciplinary actions, but the student cannot receive more than 5 demerit points for any one infraction.

15 Point Accumulation:

• Parents or guardians are called and a letter is sent home.
• Student serves 2 after-school detentions starting the day after notification (need 24-hour notice).  All extracurricular activities, whether they are social, athletic, practices or games, cease until the day after the 2 days' detentions are fulfilled.

30 Point Accumulation:

• Parents or guardians are called to explain the process and arrange a time for the parents/guardians and student to go before the Discipline Review Committee.
• A letter is sent home.
• Student will be reffered to the Intervention and Referral Services Committee.
• Student serves a minimum 3-day in-school suspension starting the day after notification.  A student is automatically placed on social probation upon obtaining 30 demerit points.  Probation is enforced until such time that demerits fall below 15 points.  Depending on the type of infractions, the student may be given a Functional Assessment and Intervention System Inventory:  Improving School Behavior.
• Probation, as defined, means being prohibited from attending games, participating in practices, games, competitions, fine arts activities, student government, dances, prom and field trips.  For those who drive, parking and driving privileges will also be revoked during the time of probation and parking sticker will be confiscated.  While on probation, students may not be on school property following the end of the school day unless accompanied by a teacher for academic reasons or administrative approved athletic events.
• Seniors will also lose their privilege to park on school grounds until their demerits fall below 15.
• In an effort to better serve the student and to modify his/her behavior, a drug test may be requested. 
• The student will be required to attend a meeting with the Disciplinary Review Committee.  The parents/guardians of the student will be invited to attend.
• If the student does not have a mentor, one will be assigned.
• The student's classroom teachers and guidance counselor will be invited to attend.  Students may choose a teacher or staff member as an advocate to attend the Discipline Review Committee meeting.
• A plan of action will be discussed with the student; the vice-principal will be given a recommendation by the Committee (i.e., assign a tutor, referral to student assistance for counseling).  The student and parents/guardians will be notified of probationary status.  Students will be issued an individual contract.
• If students continue to accumulate demerits following their 30 point hearings, the following procedures will be in place:

Post 50 Point Accumulation:

Principal's Hearing

• Parents or guardians are called to explain the situation and procedures that will follow, and to arrange a time for the parents/guardians and student to appear before the Principal's Discipline Review Committee.
• A letter is sent home with the scheduled meeting time.
• The Principal's Discipline Review Committee is convened.  That hearing is arranged with  parents or guardians, the student, the student's teachers, guidance counselor, attendance officer, the vice principal and members of the Discipline Review Committee.  This committee will make recommendations to the Principal.  An individual contract will be issued.
• Student will be assigned an in or out-of-school suspension - length to be determined.  Student will be required to attend selected Saturday or evening Building Blocks program.  Parents are also invited and encouraged to attend.
• If student is involved in extracurricular activities, he/she will not be allowed to continue these activities.  Student is placed on social and extracurricular activity probation until such time that the demerits fall below 15 points.  Participation in
  the graduation ceremony may be in jeopardy.
• The student will be given a Functional Assessment Intervention System Inventory to improve school behavior.  The Principal will oversee the contract. 
• In an effort to better serve the student and to modify his/her behavior, a drug test may be requested.

Program and Placement Review and Possible Board of Education Action:

• If four weeks after 50 point hearing no improvement has been documented, the Superintendent will be contacted for program and placement review and possible Board of Education action.

Rewards for Improved Behavior

The point system at Allentown High School allows for students to have demerits removed for improved behavior.  The following outlines the student's responsibility to receive this reward:

• If a student goes five (5) consecutive school days without a demerit, the student will be eligible to have one demerit point removed from the accumulated point total.
• It is the responsibility of the student to contact an administrator (the vice principal in charge of his/her grade level) for this to occur.  It will not automatically be done.
• Points cannot be credited toward future demerits and a student can receive no more than 4 points of credit per month for good behavior.
• Students can reduce the number of points they have by arranging a community service project with the administration.  The student will be asked to propose a project and the administration must approve the project, prior to its completion, for credit to be given.  One demerit will be removed for each hour of Community Service up to 12 demerits per month.

Tobacco Awareness Program

The Upper Freehold Regional School District Board of Education policy prohibits all use and possession of tobacco products by students on school premises.  In the past, violation of this policy resulted in a suspension from school.  The Tobacco Awareness Program (TAP) provides remediation rather than punishment for first-time offenders.  A student is eligible for this program only once during the school year.

The program is offered as an alternative to suspension from school for first-time offenders in grades 9-12.  Additional disciplinary action may be taken by the administration depending upon the circumstances.  If the student chooses not to attend this session, the original suspension will be reinstated.  The instructor is Mr. Rick Rivera, Student Assistance Coordinator.  Students who have not violated Board policy but are in need of education in this area may be enrolled by a parent or guardian request or by self-referral.  The program consists of a two-hour session held after school on one day each month. 

Community Service

A form (signed by an administrator) will be required for each student prior to participation in a community service project.  If the project is not approved, students cannot be expected to be given credit.  A list of suggested community service projects will be available with each administrator.  However, if a student does not have demerits, points will not be credited toward future demerits.  In addition, students who complete pre-approved community service will have one demerit point taken off for each hour of service.  A student cannot receive more than 12 points of credit for community service during any given month.

Students interested in attending the prom must have demerits below 15 and all community service completed by two weeks prior to scheduled date of prom.

Detention

Teacher Detention is assigned by a teacher for misconduct and is served with that teacher in the room he/she designates or in general detention.  Cutting the teacher detention will be treated in the same manner as cutting an administrative detention.

General Detention - This is assigned according to the demerit system and at any other time that an administrator/teacher deems an assignment of a detention is necessary. 
The types of infractions, the point accumulation and the categories are discussed under the section on the Code of Conduct.  Detentions will be held Monday - Thursday,
2:15 p.m. - 3:25 p.m.  Students who do not show up for their assigned detention will be dealt with in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

If a student is absent from school on a day or days when he/she has been scheduled for a detention, that detention will automatically be scheduled for the next possible detention day.  It is the student's responsibility to make sure that he/she attends this re-
scheduled detention.

A.M. Detention will be offered in lieu of P.M. detentions.  The detentions will last for 2 days from 6:35 a.m. to 7:10 a.m. each morning.  Students attending A.M. detention may not leave campus after detention.

Friday Detention - Friday detentions will be held on some Fridays during the year from 2:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. (dates will be announced).  Students will be eligible to take the 5:45 p.m. buses home.  Students are expected to report to the detention room by 2:15 p.m. and will not be admitted after 2:20 p.m.

Saturday Detention - Saturday detention will be held on some Saturdays during the year from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (dates will be announced).  Students must provide their own transportation to and from school on those days and are expected to report to the detention room promptly at 9:00 a.m.  Students must bring textbooks and assignments with them.  Additional assignments may be provided.  Students arriving late (up to 9:15 a.m.) will serve the Saturday session and also be assigned a regular detention the following week.  Students more than fifteen minutes late will not be admitted and will be deemed as cutting the Saturday session.

AFTER SCHOOL DETENTIONS, A.M. DETENTIONS AND FRIDAY/SATURDAY DETENTIONS MAY NOT BE CHANGED EXCEPT UNDER EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES, INCLUDING A PARENT REQUEST, WHICH ARE APPROVED BY AN ADMINISTRATOR.

FAILURE TO SERVE ANY ASSIGNED ADMINISTRATIVE DETENTION WILL RESULT IN A LOSS OF ALL PRIVILEGES INCLUDING PARKING AND PARTICIPATION IN ANY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/ATHLETICS UNTIL THE DETENTION OBLIGATION IS FULFILLED.

In-School Suspension Policy

In an effort to bring about positive behavior modification in students whose disruptive behaviors force their temporary removal from the regular classroom, in-school suspension (ISS) will be conducted in Allentown High School in accordance with the following guidelines:

An in-school suspension will be assigned a student after accumulating 30 points and when the disciplinarian deems it necessary for the general safety of the school and where indicated in the school discipline policy.

• Students will be assigned to in-school suspension by school administrators.
• Failure or refusal to report to in-school suspension will result in an out-of-school suspension.  Upon the student's return, the assigned term in ISS will be made up.
• The high school administration will inform staff members of the names of those students assigned to in-school suspension.
• Parents will be notified in writing that their child has been assigned to in-school suspension, listing the reason(s) for such assignment.  A parent conference may be required prior to the student's readmission to the regular school program.
• The length of time assigned for in-school suspension will be determined by the school administration.
• Individual or group counseling may be offered to students assigned to in-school suspension.
• If the student misbehaves or is found unable to conform to this learning environment, the terms of the suspension will be modified to include a period of  out-of-school suspension.  However, students who are either suspended out-of-school or are legitimately absent from school will still have to fulfill their in-school suspension assignment before being readmitted to the regular school program.
• Students are expected to complete all assignments given to them.  They will receive assignments which are to be worked on during the in-school suspension.  Students will also be able to work on their projects, but will not be able to participate in group projects.
• ISS is located in Room 111.  Students assigned to the ISS will report to the center immediately after attendance is taken in first period.  Students who are late to the center may be assigned an increased number of periods or days in the center.  Students reporting late to school should first sign in at the Attendance Office and secure a pass to ISS.
• Students assigned to in-school suspension may bring their own lunches (no snacks).  They may buy milk and/or a sandwich -- these will be brought to the ISS room.
• At the conclusion of the school day, students assigned to ISS will leave the school grounds.  Students may not attend or participate in extracurricular activities while under in-school suspension.  If a detention is assigned on an ISS day, the detention must be served.

Suspension (Out-of-School)

Continuous and willful refusal to accomplish school tasks even though able to do so, insubordination, disorderly, illegal or immoral conduct, and persistent violation of school regulations are causes for suspension from school.  This includes (but is not limited to) fighting, threats, assaults, violations of narcotic laws, use of alcoholic beverages, hazardous or unauthorized use of automobiles, use of weapons or fireworks, or violation of any local, state of federal law.  In addition, accumulation of demerit points can lead to in or out-of-school suspension.

Length of suspension will be determined by school authorities and will reflect the offense committed.  Parents or guardians will be notified in writing of the action taken, and will have custody and jurisdiction of their child during the suspension.  A suspended student may not appear on school property, unless an appointment is scheduled by the Child Study Team, nor appear at any school sponsored activity at or away from school.  He/she will be required to make up all work and tests missed.  Students/parents should contact the Guidance Office in order to request make-up work which can be done while on suspension.  This work will need to be picked up in the Guidance Office by someone other than the student who is suspended.  A student will be readmitted to school after a satisfactory solution to his/her conduct is agreed upon by the parent and administration during a conference.  After returning from suspension, it is the individual student's responsibility to finish any additional work/tests which could not be completed while on suspension.

Pre-Expulsion Policy

Students who have exhibited a consistent pattern of disobedience will be subject to an administrative hearing to determine whether or not the offenses committed (or offense, in the case of an extraordinary misbehavior) would warrant consideration of expulsion at the Superintendent/Board of Education level.  Normally, a pre-expulsion hearing will be held during the third out-of-school suspension.  The administration reserves the right to eliminate the building level pre-expulsion hearing when students are accused of serious disciplinary infractions.

The administration also reserves the right to hold a pre-expulsion hearing whenever it is apparent that a student has displayed a pattern of violent, disruptive or insubordinate behavior during his/her years at Allentown High School, regardless of the number of suspensions actually served during the current school year.  In addition, a pre-expulsion hearing may be held upon the accumulation of  50 demerit points.

Pre-Expulsion Procedures

In the event a student is suspended, pending a pre-expulsion hearing, he/she will be excluded from school until the hearing is arranged.  If the exclusion is for a duration longer than 10 school days, the Guidance Office will be directed to secure home instruction for the student.  If a student is suspended and is a special education student, the Child Study Team will be notified for possible action/intervention.      

Pre-Expulsion Hearing

In attendance at the pre-expulsion hearing will be the hearing examiner (a high school administrator), the student's teachers (if possible), the student's guidance counselor who will serve as the student's advocate (in the event a classified student's case is being heard, the Child Study Team may wish to use one of their members as the advocate), the school
attendance officer, a Child Study Team member, members of the Discipline Review Committee, the student and his/her parents or guardians.

The hearing examiner (or his/her designee) will present the charge(s).  The student and parent/guardian will be given the opportunity to speak.  The advocate will react.  The other participants will be asked for their reaction to the situation.  A period of open discussion/questioning will follow, moderated by the hearing examiner.  A summation will be offered by the hearing examiner and by the advocate.  The parents/guardians and the student will be asked to leave the room as the teachers deliberate on their recommendation.

The hearing examiner will poll the teachers present, on the question "Should the student's case be forwarded to the Superintendent and the Board of Education level for expulsion consideration or should it not?"  The recommendation will be determined by majority vote with the hearing examiner voting only in a case of a tie.

The parents/guardians and the student will be immediately informed of the recommendation.  The principal will review and may amend any or all recommendations made at the hearing.  The principal will formally notify the parents/guardians of his/her decision.

In the event the student's case is recommended to be heard at the Superintendent/Board of Education level, the student's suspension may be extended pending disposition at that next higher level.  Home instruction will be initiated (or continued, if it has already begun) through the Guidance Office.  The parents or guardians have the right to secure legal counsel at the Board of Education level.

In the event the student's case is not recommended for further consideration, the student will be readmitted to school and a student contract will be issued.  The student and the parents/guardians will be warned by the hearing examiner that if the student continues to misbehave or if the contract is not followed, as determined by the high school administration, the student's case will be referred automatically to the next higher level with a recommendation for expulsion from school.  The normal standard for referral to the Superintendent/Board of Education level will be the next out-of-school suspension for reason(s) which brought about the pre-expulsion or the third out-of-school suspension for new offenses.

Pass Restriction 

Students who abuse pass privileges may be placed on pass restriction to be determined by the administration only.  A student would not be allowed passes when on pass restriction.  In case of an emergency, he/she would need to be escorted by a hall monitor or other staff member.  Teachers may place students on pass restriction during their classroom period.

Social Probation

If a student is on suspension, exclusion, etc., he/she is automatically on social probation and will not be allowed to attend school sponsored activities, i.e., dances.  In addition, a student who accumulates 30 or more demerit points will be placed on social probation for a given period of time as stated in the discipline policy.  EXAMPLE:  A student who is suspended would not be permitted to attend the Junior/Senior Prom, or when a student accumulates 30 points the student is on probation, and if that is during the time of the prom, the prom will be missed. 

Student Smoking

Allentown High School and surrounding school property is a smoke-free school zone.  The Upper Freehold Board of Education adopted a resolution on July 27, 1983, banning student smoking on all school grounds, as well as school buildings, effective September 1, 1984.  The Board of Education has taken this position because the use of tobacco in any form is detrimental to the health of students.  New Jersey State law also prohibits smoking on school grounds.

Therefore, smoking, possession of tobacco products or the use of tobacco in any form by students while in or on school properties or under the school's jurisdiction, or while participating in a school-sponsored event, is prohibited.  Students violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, suspension and/or an after school tobacco education program offered by the school and will face prosecution under the appropriate municipal and health ordinances.

In addition to the normal school penalties for a smoking violation, on the second offense, the school will file a complaint in the local municipal court for violation of State code 26:3d-17 which prohibits smoking in any public school building K-12.  Penalties for such an offense may include the following:  up to $500 fine, up to 60 days in jail and/or community service.

For purposes of this policy, smoking shall mean all use of tobacco, including but not limited to holding a lit or unlit cigarette, chewing tobacco, possession of tobacco products, being in a bathroom stall where smoke is evident, and smoking in cars while on school property.  In addition, where a staff member suspects a student of smoking, the odor of tobacco or the exhaling of smoke will be sufficient to apply  the above policy.  Students who act as "lookouts" to facilitate the other students' smoking will be subject to appropriate administrative action.

Students are reminded that during days in which school is in session, the Presbyterian Church parking lot and surrounding areas adjacent to the elementary school are considered school property.  Consequently, students will be subject to appropriate penalties should they smoke in these areas.

Substance Abuse

In addition to the penalties for substance abuse outlined in the discipline section of this handbook, students and parents should be aware of the following Board of Education Policy:  5530 and Regulations:  R5530.

If the administration has reason to believe a student is under the influence of alcohol, on school property or at school-sponsored events they will administer the Breathalyzer test.  Parents will be notified immediately of the results and appropriate actions taken.

District Regulation
5530 - SUBSTANCE ABUSE
 Section: Pupils
 Date Created: February, 2004
 Date Edited: July 13, 2006    

The following procedures are established in implementation of Policy No. 5530, Substance Abuse.

A. Definitions

1. "Evaluation" means those procedures used by a certified or licensed professional to make a positive determination of a pupil's need for programs and services which extend beyond the general school program by virtue of learning, behavior or health difficulties of the pupil or the pupil's family.
2. "Intervention" means those programs, services and actions taken to identify and offer help to a pupil at risk for learning, behavior or health difficulties.
3. "Involved with substances" means that the pupil is influenced by the use of substances by the pupil or a member of his/her family, whether or not on school premises or during the school day.  A suspicion or determination that a pupil is involved with substances does not depend on a finding that the pupil is immediately under the influence of a substance or possesses or distributes a substance on school premises.
4. "Parent" means the natural parent(s) or adoptive parent(s), legal guardian(s), foster parent(s) or parent surrogate(s) of a pupil.  Where parents are separated or divorced, "parent" means the person or agency who has legal custody of the pupil, as well as the natural or adoptive parent(s) of the pupil, provided such parental rights have not been terminated by a court of appropriate jurisdiction.
5. "Substance" means alcoholic beverages, controlled dangerous substances as defined at N.J.S.A. 24:21-2, anabolic steroids, any chemical or chemical compound that releases vapors or fumes causing a condition of intoxication, inebriation, excitement, stupefaction, or dulling of the brain or nervous system, including, but not limited to, glue containing a solvent having the property of releasing toxic vapors or fumes as defined at N.J.S.A. 2A:170-25.9 or over-the-counter and prescription medications which are improperly used to cause intoxication, inebriation, excitement, stupefaction, or dulling of the brain or nervous system.
6. "Substance abuse" means the consumption or use of any substance for purposes other than for the treatment of sickness or injury as prescribed or administered by a person duly authorized by law to treat sick and injured human beings.
7. "Under the influence" of substances means that the pupil is observed in the use of a substance or exhibits physical and/or behavioral characteristics that indicate the immediate use of a substance.

B. Discipline

Any violation of Board rules prohibiting the use, possession and/or distribution of a substance is a serious offense, and the pupil who violates a substance abuse rule will be disciplined accordingly.  Repeated violations are more severe offenses and warrant stricter disciplinary measures.  Pupils who violate the substance abuse rules will be disciplined specified below:

Refusal or failure to comply with policy and procedures will be considered a violation of the Substance Abuse Policy and be treated as a positive result with the same discipline and supportive actions and possible referral to DYFS.  Any action, by any person, intended to alter the results of any test specimen will be treated as positive and considered a violation of the policy, and disciplinary and supportive actions will be invoked.

A parent(s) or legal guardian (s) whose refusal to comply with N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-12 frustrates the operation of these regulations shall be deemed to have violated the compulsory attendance statute, N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 and 18A:38-31, and/or the child abuse and neglect statutes, N.J.S.A. 9:6-1 et seq., and may be subject to prosecution.

1. Under the influence of alcohol, drugs, steroids, or substance identified in N.J.A.C. 6:29-6.3; or in possession of alcohol, drugs, steroids, or substance identified in N.J.A.C. 6:29-6.3(a); or in possession of such a substance; or in possession of drug paraphernalia as identified in N.J.A.C. 6:29-6.3(a).

Any Student who tests positive for a controlled substance or is in possession of a substance or paraphernalia will be:

First Offense

• Student will be assigned to 2 days of OSS and 5 days of ISS.
• Suspended from participation on a Team/club activity/student organization/parking and grade related privileges for 45 days.
• Referred to the Intervention and Referral Services Committee.
• If a student has completed a treatment program and a negative drug test result is obtained, student may reduce the suspension from the above to 30 days for first offense only.
• Three screening sessions with the SAC, which must occur during OSS/ISS.

Second Offense

• Student will be assigned to 4 days of OSS and 3 days of ISS.
• Suspension from participation on a Team/club activity/student organization/parking and grade related privileges for 45 days.
• Referral to Child Study Team
• Three Screening sessions with the SAC which must occur during OSS/ISS.

Third Offense

• Student will be assigned 10 days OSS and mandatory Board of Education Hearing. Homebound instruction will begin on the fifth day of OSS.
• Removal from participation on a Team/club activity/student organization/parking and grade related privileges for 45 days.

Note: Police will be notified for possession of a controlled substance and for drug paraphernalia for every offense.  Police may be notified if a student is suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance.  Once a student has tested positive for any controlled substance, random substances screenings will be imposed for one year from date of incident with parental consent.

Random Screenings

Positive Result - First Offense

• An additional 5 days of counseling sessions with the SAC will be required

• Suspension from participation on a Team/club activity/student organization/parking and grade related privileges for 45 days.

Positive Result - Second Offense

• Mandatory ten counseling sessions
• 60-day suspension from participation on a Team/club activity/student organization/parking and grade related privileges.

2. Distribution, transferring or selling controlled dangerous substances or possession of amount large enough to indicate possible intent to distribute, transfer or sell.
 
Each Offense

• Parents/legal guardians informed.
• Minimum 10-day out-of-school suspension pending a disciplinary hearing before the Board of Education. Homebound instruction will begin on the fifth day of OSS.
• Police informed.

3. Conviction for violation of the drug abuse law committed off school property.

• The school will take whatever action it believes is necessary to protect the rights and well-being of the student body.
• Parents/legal guardians notified of the action.

4. A pupil convicted of drug use, possession, and/or distribution may be admitted to school on the recommendation of the Child Study Team.

5. A pupil who has been removed from school for his/her involvement with drugs, other than a pupil who has been expelled from school, shall be placed on home instruction.

C. Identification and Remediation of Pupils Involved with Substances.

1. Teaching staff members shall be alert to the signs of a pupil's involvement with substances, in accordance with the training offered in in-service training sessions.

2. A teaching staff member who suspects that a pupil is involved with substances, but not under the influence of them, should refer the pupil to the School Nurse, the Substance Awareness Coordinator, a Guidance Counselor, the Child Study Team, or another professional staff member or trained resource person, as appropriate.  The staff member shall notify the Principal of the referral; if appropriate, the Principal or his designee should notify the pupil's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the referral and discuss with the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) the possibility of medical or therapeutic treatment.

3. When a pupil involved with substances has discussed his/her involvement with a teaching staff member with an expectation of confidentiality, the staff member may respect that confidence.  The teaching staff member should encourage the pupil to seek aid from a professional trained in counseling and to confide in his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s).  When the staff member believes that the pupil requires professional counseling or intervention that the pupil will not seek on his/her own, the staff member may report the pupil to the Principal or his designee, who shall determine whether to notify the pupil's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and may report the pupil to an appropriate district professional or trained resource person or to an appropriate agency for evaluation and possible treatment.

D. Reporting and Examination of Pupils Under the Influence of Anabolic Steroids

1. Any staff member who has reason to believe that a pupil has used or may be using anabolic steroids shall report the matter as soon as possible to the School Nurse or the school medical inspector or a Substance Awareness Coordinator and to the Principal (or, in the Principal's absence, to a person designated by the Principal).

2. The Principal or his/her designee shall immediately notify the pupil's parent (s) or legal guardian (s).

3. The Principal shall arrange for the immediate examination of the pupil by a doctor selected by the parent (s) or legal guardian (s) or by the school medical inspector.  An examination conducted, at parental request, by a physician other than the school medical inspector shall not be at district expense.

4. The pupil shall be examined as soon as possible for the purpose of diagnosing whether or not he/she has been using anabolic steroids.

5. A written report of the examination of the pupil shall be furnished by the examining physician to the pupil's parent(s) or legal guardian(s).

6. If it is determined that the pupil has been using anabolic steroids, the pupil shall be evaluated by a Substance Awareness Coordinator or other appropriately trained  teaching staff member for the purpose of determining the extent of the pupil's involvement with steroids and the possible need for treatment.  Following the three required screening sessions with the SAC, which must occur during ISS/OSS, a student who has a positive test for use of drugs, steroids or alcohol must have a minimum of five counseling sessions with the SAC.

7. If it is determined that the pupil's use of steroids represents a danger to the pupil's health and well-being, the evaluating staff member shall refer the pupil to an appropriate treatment program approved by the Commissioner of Health.

E. Evaluation and Treatment of Pupils Under the Influence of a Substance Other Than Anabolic Steroids

1. Any staff member to whom it appears that a pupil may be under the influence of a substance other than anabolic steroids on school property or at a school function shall report the matter as soon as possible to the School Nurse or the school medical inspector and the Principal (or, in the Principal's absence, to a person designated by the Principal).  If neither the School Nurse nor school medical inspector is available, the staff member responsible for the function shall be notified.

2. The Principal or his/her designee shall immediately notify the pupil's parent(s) or legal guardian (s). 

3. The Principal shall arrange for the immediate examination of the pupil by a doctor selected by the parent (s) or legal guardian (s) or, if the parent(s) or legal guardian (s) doctor is not immediately available, by the school medical inspector.  If neither the parent (s) or legal guardian (s) doctor nor the school medical inspector is immediately available, the pupil shall be taken to the emergency room of the nearest hospital for examination.  The pupil shall be accompanied by the pupil's parent (s) or legal guardian (s) if possible and by a member of the school staff appointed by the Principal.  An examination conducted, at parental request, by a physician other than the school medical inspector shall not be at district expense.

4. The pupil shall be examined as soon as possible for the purpose of diagnosing whether or not he/she is under the influence of a substance other than anabolic steroids.

5. A written report of the examination of the pupil shall be furnished by the examining physician to the pupil's parent (s) or legal guardian (s), the Principal. 

6. If the written report of the examination is not so submitted within twenty-four hours, the pupil, with documentation that an exam was completed, shall be allowed to return to school until a positive diagnosis of substance use is received.

7. A pupil found to be under the influence of a substance shall be returned to his/her home as soon as possible.  The pupil shall not be readmitted to school until a written report, signed by an examining physician and certifying that the pupil is physically and mentally able to perform in school, has been submitted to the parent (s) or legal guardian (s), the Principal. 

8. If it is determined that the pupil has been using anabolic steroids, the pupil shall be evaluated by a Substance Awareness Coordinator or other appropriately trained  teaching staff member for the purpose of determining the extent of the pupil's involvement with steroids and the possible need for treatment.  Following the three required screening sessions with the SAC, which must occur during ISS/OSS, a student who has a positive test for use of drugs, steroids or alcohol must have a minimum of five counseling sessions with the SAC.

9. Additional evaluations may be required of a pupil once found to have been under the influence of a substance, in order to determine the extent of the pupil's substance use and its effect on his/her school performance.

F. Presence of Substances on School Premises

1. A pupil's person, effects, or school storage places may be searched for substances in accordance with Policy No. 5770.

2. The Principal or other school officer conducting the search shall confiscate as evidence any substance found in the pupil's possession.

a. Any controlled dangerous substance as defined in N.J.S.A. 24:21-1 or at N.J.S.A. 2C:35-2, including controlled dangerous analogs and drug paraphernalia, shall be handled in accordance with Policy No. 9322 and implementing regulations.

b. Any substance or evidence of the use of a substance other than a controlled dangerous substance shall be sealed in an appropriate container and labeled with the date, name of the pupil, and name of the school official who conducted the search and found the drug.  The evidence shall be locked in a secure place until it is no longer required for a determination of the pupil's involvement with a substance other than a controlled dangerous substance.

G. When a student verbally confirms to a staff member that he/she is under the influence, the student will be required to follow all disciplinary and supportive actions noted above and must be required to undergo a medical examination with urine screen.

H. Outreach to Parents

1. An outreach program will be provided for the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of pupils enrolled in the district.  The program will be conducted at times, including evenings and weekends, convenient to parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and on school premises or at suitable facilities closer to pupil's residences or parents' workplaces.

2. The parents' outreach program will include:

a. A thorough and comprehensive review of the substance abuse instruction curriculum to be taught to the children of the parents during the school year;

b. Recommendations as to the ways in which parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may enhance, reinforce, and supplement substance abuse instruction;

c. Information on the pharmacology, physiology, psychosocial, and legal aspects of substance abuse;

d. Instruction on the identification of the symptoms and behavioral patterns that might indicate a substance abuser;

e. Information on the state and local organizations available to assist in the prevention of substance abuse and the early intervention, treatment, and rehabilitation of substance abusers; and

f. Review of Board policy and administrative regulations on substance abuse with attention to the role of parents.

3. For students who are suspended due to a drug offense, parents will be requested to attend two sessions offered within the Parent Academy.

I. Records

1. Notations concerning a pupil's involvement with substances may be entered on his/her records, subject to Policy No. 8330 regarding confidentiality and limited access.  All such notations shall be expunged when they are no longer required for the counseling or discipline of the pupil or when the pupil leaves school.

2. Information regarding a pupil's involvement in a school intervention or treatment program shall be kept strictly confidential in accordance with §408 of the Drug Abuse Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act, 42 U.S.C. 290 ee-3, and implementing regulations, 42 CFR Part 2.

3. If a secondary pupil involved in a school intervention or treatment program provides information during the course of a counseling session in that program which indicates that the pupil's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) or other person residing in the pupil's household is dependent upon or illegally using a substance as that term is defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-9, that information shall be kept confidential and may be disclosed only under the circumstances expressly authorized as follows:

a. Subject to the pupil's written consent, to another person or entity whom the pupil specifies in writing;
 
b. Pursuant to a court order;

c. To a person engaged in a bona fide research purpose; except that no names or other information identifying the pupil or the person with respect to whose substance abuse the information was provided, shall be made available to the researcher; or

d. To the Division of Youth and Family Services or to a law enforcement agency, if the information would cause a person to reasonably suspect that the secondary pupil or another child may be an abused or neglected child.

Any disclosure made pursuant to a. and b. above shall be limited to that information which is necessary to carry out the purpose of the disclosure, and the person or entity to whom the information is disclosed shall be prohibited from making any further disclosure of that information without the pupil's written consent.  The disclosure must be accompanied by a written statement from the Principal advising the recipient that the information is being disclosed from the records the confidentiality of which is protected by P.L. 1997,362 (N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-7.1 et seq.) and that this law prohibits any further disclosure of this information without the written consent of the person from whom the information originated. 

Nothing in this policy prevents the Division of Youth and Family Services or a law enforcement agency from using or disclosing the information in the course of conducting an investigation or prosecution.  Nothing in this policy shall be construed as authorizing a violation of any federal law. 

The prohibition on the disclosure of information provided by a pupil shall apply whether the person to whom the information was provided believes that the person seeking the information already has it, has other means of obtaining it, is a law enforcement or other public official, has obtained a subpoena, or asserts any other justification for the disclosure of this information.  A person who discloses or willfully permits the disclosure of information provided by a pupil in violation of this policy is subject to fines in accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-7.2.

4. Each incident of substance abuse shall be reported to the Commissioner on the Violence, Vandalism and Substance Abuse Incident Report form. 

Issued:  18 February 2004
Updated: 2005
Updated : June 29, 2006

5530.1 - Student Random Alcohol and Other Illegal Drug Testing

It is the responsibility of the Board of Education to safeguard the safety of the pupils in the schools and to promote an orderly learning environment.  We recognize that the use and unlawful possession of alcohol and other illegal drugs, is dangerous and harmful.  As such, the Board maintains that the misuse of alcohol, other illegal drugs or steroids threatens the safety of the pupils and the orderly learning environment of the entire school community.  The Board of Education is committed to the prevention of alcohol, other illegal drugs and steroid abuse.

The Board of Education recognizes that the problem of alcohol and other illegal drug use presents a continuing challenge in its schools and a clear danger to the pupil population as a whole.  The district's committment to maintaining athletics, extracurricular and co-curricular activities and parking in a safe and secure environment requires a clear policy and supportive programs relating to the detrrence of substance use by pupils involved in these school sponsored activities.

The district is committed to being proactive in ensuring the safety of all pupils participating in athletics, extracurricular and co-curricular activities, and parking.  Participation in athletics, extracurricular and co-curricular activities and parking on campus are privileges.  Pupil participants, by virtue of their voluntary decision to participate in these extracurricular and co-curricular and athletic activities, and because of their position as school leaders and role models in the school community, have a heightenened responsibility to be alocohol and other illegal drug free.

Consistent with the U.S. Supreme Court Ruling, Board of Education of Independent School District No. 92 of Pottawatomie County et al v. Earls et al., 536 U.S. 822 (2002) and the New Jersey Supreme Court Ruling in Joye v. Hunterdon Central Regional High School Board of Education, 176 N.j> 568 (2003), the Board of Education directs the Chief School Administrator to implement and conduct a program of random drug testing of pupil participants in athletics, extracurricular and co-curricular activities, pupils granted parking permits for on-campus parking, pupils who have violated the district substance abuse policy, and pupils who voluntarily elect to participate in the program with parental consent.  Eligibility shall apply to the entire academic year.  The Principal or his/her designee shall oversee the Policy and Procedure.

Design of the program shall be consistent with the Board of Education's objectives, which are al follows:

• Promote safety;
• Deter drug use and counter peer pressure which may encourage indulgence;
• Promote an orderly lerning environment; and
• Encourage and invite voluntary testing.

Primary emphasis in administering this program shall be directed toward deterrence and remediation rather than punishment of pupils who test positive for alcohol, non-prescribed medications, other illegal drugs or their metabolites.  Sanctions and corrective action shall be designed accordingly.  This policy and its regulations shall be made available annually, at the beginning of the school year, to all school employees, pupils and parent(s) or legal guardian(s).  This policy is NOT intended to be disciplinary or punitive in nature.  No pupil shall be expelled or suspended from school as a sole result of any verified positive test conducted by the school under the Random Drug Testing Program.

This policy shall apply to all Upper Freehold Regional School District students in grades 9-12 who participate in any athletics,. extracurricular and co-curricular activities, or who possess a school parking permit.  This policy shall also apply to all Upper Freehold Regional School District students in grades 9-12 who voluntarily elect to participate in the program with parental consent.  This policy supplments other drug policies in effect in the school district.

Definitions

Drugs - All controlled substances designated and prohibited as stated in the Board's Substance Abuse Policy #5530 and NJSA 23:21-2, NJSA 2A:170-25.9,NJSA 2C:35.2.  For the purpose of this policy, a drug includes, but is not limited to: alcohol, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA (aka Ecstasy), methadone, methamphetamine, opiates, oxycodone, PCP, anabolic steroids, tricyclic antidepressants or any other substance which is defined as a controlled substance by New Jersey law or their metabolites.

Alcoholic Beverages  - includes beer, wine, distilled liquors and any other liquid containing alcohol.

Medications - all medications, including over the counter drugs, must be properly registered with the school nurse.  NJSA 18A:40-12.4.

Activities - any extracuricular activities not required by the Board of Education for graduation.

MRO - Medical Review Officer; must review all positive drug tests.

Non-negative - a drug screen that indicates the prsence of metabolites and needs to be sent to the laboratory for confirmatory testing.

Confirmed Positive - a positive result from confirmatory testing at the laboratory.

EtG Test - a laboratory test for the presence of Ethyl glucaronide (EtG), a biomarker resulting from the consumption or absorption of alcohol.

Consent Form
All students wishing to participate in any extracurricular, co-curricular and/or athletic program, obtain on-site parking, and/or participate in the voluntary drug testing program must provide student and custodial parent/guardian written consent for drug testing pursuant to the Allentown High School (AHS) Random Drug Testing Policy.  Written consent shall be provided on theform attached to this policy.  Any student who does not sign the consent form and have the form signed by his/her parent/guardian, willnot be able to participate.

Activity advisors, the Athletic Director and administrators will have consent forms that need to be completed before the student attends the next meeting, activity or before a parking space is issued.  Athletes will turn in their consent forms a week prior to the start of practice.

Testing Procedure
On a periodic basis during the course of the school year, the ID numbers of all participating students will be placed in a pool from which a designated administrator or contracted drug testing provider will randomly draw the names of a minimum of 10 percent of the participating number for testing.  Those students selected for testing shall be immediately notified and tested the same day.  A courtesy phone call will be made to the student's parents following the administration of the test.  Any student who refuses to be tested, deliberately avoids testing, whose test indicates any masking agents, or has a positive test result will be in violation of the AHS Random Drug Testing Policy.

Collection of Testing Samples
The student selected for testing shall complete a specimen control form, which bears an assigned identification number.  Thsi identification number shall be the means for identifying the specimens by all laboratory personnel.  Only the designated school personnel shall know the assigned number for each student selected for testing.

The student shall submit a urine sample according to the AHS Random Drug Testing Policy.

Confidentiality
The District respects the privacy of its students and shall maintain confidentiality regarding any drug testing.  All records and subsequent actions shall be kept in a file separate from the student's regular file.  The District personnel will not release records of drug tests or any resulting action to anyone other than the student and/or his/her parent/guardian without written authorization from the student and/or his/her parent/guardiant.

Response for Positive Test Findings:
(Note: these offenses are cumulative throughout the four years of high school.)

First Infraction
Given that the RDT policy's emphasis is deterrence and remediation, if a student is found to have a non-netagive test and confirmation is made by the MRO, the student will not be removed from any parking or extracurricular or co-curricular activity this first time, but will be contacted by the high school administration and SAC regarding assistance that can be provided to the family to assist the family to address the needs of that student.  If a second time, second infraction requirements will be enforced.

The principal or vice principal will contact the parents to remove the student from school and make arrangements for the mandatory medical examination pursuant to the statute, NJSA 18A:40A-12.  If a parent elects to use the school contracted medical services, the district picks up the cost.  If on the other hand, parents choose to use a family physician, the exam will be at the family's expense.

The student will complete a minimum of 5 counseling sessions with the substance awareness coordinator (SAC).

The substance awareness coordiantor will conduct an evaluation with the student, parent, and others deemed necessary to determine the appropriate level of treatment.

If determined appropriate by the substance awareness coordinator, the student may attend a prevention/education program at a licensed substance abuse treatment agency or sign into and complete a substance abuse in-patient rehabilitation program.  The student will continue in the recommended aftercare program as well as meet regularly with the substance awareness coordinator. Attendance in the rehabilitation program should begin within one week of the offense.  An information release form must be made available to the substance awareness coordinator.  The parent/guardian(s) is/are responsible for the cost of the treatment program.

The student will provide a minimum of three (3) subsequent drug tests after his/her initial prositive test.  The student will be tested each su bsequent random testing date until three (3) consecutive substance free tests have been provided.  Any test result indicating a relapse during this consecutive testing period will be considered a second infraction.

Failure to comply with the guidelines stated above may result in intervention on behalf of the student's safety and well-being. This may indlcue intervention meetings with the student, parent/guardian, SAC and administration as well as referral to the Division of Youth and Family Services for investigation.

Second Infraction
The principal or vice principal will contact the parents to remove the student from school and make arrangements for the mandatory medical examination pursuant to the statute NJSA 18A40A-12.  If a parent elects to use the school contracted medical services, the district picks up the cost.  If on the other hand, parents choose to use a family physician, the exam will be at the family's expense.

The student will complete a minimum of 10 counseling sessions withthe substance awareness coordinator (SAC).

The Substance awareness coordinator will conduct an evaluation with the student, parent and others deemed necessary to determine the appropriate level of treatment.

If determined appropriate by the substance awareness coordiantor, the student may attend a prevention/education program at a licensed substance abuse treatment agency or sign into and complete a substance abuse in-patient rehabilitation program.  The student will continue in the recommended aftercare program as well as meet regularly with the substance awareness coordinator.  Attendance in the rehabilitation program must begin within one week of the offense.  An information release form must be made available to the substance awareness coordinator.  The parent/guardian(s) is/are responsible for the cost of the treatment program.

The student will be suspended from participation on the team/activity/parking for a period of 60 calendar days.  This suspension will also include all Board of Education sponsored activities such as, but not limited to: attending athletic or fund-raising events; dances; senior trip; Prom and graduation activities.

In the event that the recommended treatment extends beyond the suspension period, the student may resume participation as long as he/she maintains required treatment attendance.

The student will provide a minimum of three (3) subsequent drug tests after his/her initial positive test.  The student will be tested each subsequent random testing date until three (3) consecutive substance free tests have been provided.  Any test result indicating a relapse during this consecutive period will be considered an additional infraction and may require administration and/or board of Education Intervention according to the best interests of the student.

Failure to comply with the guidelines stated above may result in intervention such as:
1) meetings with the student, paren/guardian, SAD and administration;
2) referral to the Board of Education for determination;
3) and referral to the Division of Youth and Family Services for investigation.

Third Infraction
The principal or vice principal will contact the parents to remove the student from school and make arrangements for the mandatory medical examination pursuant to the statute NJSA 18A40A-12.  If a parent elects to use the school contracted medical services, the district picks up the cost.  If on the other hand, parents choose to use a family physician, the exam will be at the family's expense.

The student will complete a minimum of 10 counseling sessions withthe substance awareness coordinator (SAC).

The Substance awareness coordinator will conduct an evaluation with the student, parent and others deemed necessary to determine the appropriate level of treatment.

If determined appropriate by the substance awareness coordiantor, the student may attend a prevention/education program at a licensed substance abuse treatment agency or sign into and complete a substance abuse in-patient rehabilitation program.  The student will continue in the recommended aftercare program as well as meet regularly with the substance awareness coordinator.  Attendance in the rehabilitation program must begin within one week of the offense.  An information release form must be made available to the substance awareness coordinator.  The parent/guardian(s) is/are responsible for the cost of the treatment program.

The student will be suspended from participation on the team/activity/parking for a period of 365 calendar days.  This suspension will also include all Board of Education sponsored activities such as, but not limited to: attending athletic or fund-raising events; dances; senior trip; Prom and graduation activities.

In the event that the recommended treatment extends beyond the suspension period, the student may resume participation as long as he/she maintains required treatment attendance.

The student will provide a minimum of three (3) subsequent drug tests after his/her initial positive test.  The student will be tested each subsequent random testing date until three (3) consecutive substance free tests have been provided.  Any test result indicating a relapse during this consecutive period will be considered an additional infraction and may require administration and/or board of Education Intervention according to the best interests of the student.

Failure to comply with the guidelines stated above may result in intervention such as:
1) meetings with the student, paren/guardian, SAD and administration;
2) referral to the Board of Education for determination;
3) and referral to the Division of Youth and Family Services for investigation.

Student Random Alcohol and Other Illegal Drug Testing 5530.1
Approved by the Upper Freehold Board of education, June 18, 2008

PROCEDURES:

A. Consent Form

All students wishing to participate in any extracurricular, co-curricular or athletic activity, obtain on-site parking, and/or participate in the voluntary drug testing program, must provide student and custodial parent/guardian written consent for drug testing pursuant to the Upper Freehold Board of Education Random Drug Testing Policy.  Written consent must be provided on the drug testing consent form attached to thse procedures.  The drug testing consent form will be mailed home annually over the summer and must be returned to the school's main office prior to participation in any of the above stated activities.  Additional copies of the drug testing consent form are available in the main office or on the school's website.  Only students with signed consent forms will be able to participate in the above noted activities.

A student database of participating students will be created and activity advisors, coaches and the athletic director will have access to this database.  Activity advisors and coaches must make certain all students enrolled in any activity, including parking, have the singed form on file.  The school administration will provide the selected testing services company with a list of Student ID numbers.

The consent form will be in effect throughout the student's enrollment at Allentown High School or until the submission of a written request from a parent/guardian to withdraw the original consent.  If a student withdraws during the school year, he/she must wait 365 days to re-enroll in random drug testing and participate in activities.

B. Testing Procedures

On a peridic basis throughout the school year, ID numbers of all participating students will be placed in a pool from which the Board contracted drug-testing provider will randomly and annually select a minimum of ten to twenty percent of students in the pool.  Students eelected for testing will follow the procedures listed below:

1. Students will be called to the main office and be taken individually to the testing location by the principal/vice principals.  The testing location will be the team room in the new gym.
2. A building administrator will remain in the testing location throughout the procedure.
3. These students selected for testing shall be notified and tested the same day.
4. The clinician will explain the process to the student.  Students will complete the specimen control form, which bears an assigned identification number.  The identification number whall be the means by which the speciments are identified by all laboratory personnel.  Only the principal/vice principals and the Medical Review Officer (MRO) from the contracted testing company shall know the assigned number for each student selected for testing.
5. The student shall submit a urine sample according to the Upper Freehold Board of Education Random Testing Policy.
6. A phone call will be made that day to the student's parents/guardian notifying them that their son/daughter was tested.
7. Any student who refuses to be tested, deliberately avoids testing, has a test that indicates any masking agents or has a positive test result, will be in violation of the UFRSD Random Drug Testing Policy.

C. Confidentiality

The school administration respects the privacy of all students and will maintain confidentiality regarding random drug/alcohol testing.  All records and subsequent actions will be kept in a separate file maintained by the principal/vice principals.  No one other than the principal/vice principals will have access to this information. District personnel will not release records of drug tests or any resulting action to anyone other than the student and his/her parents/guardian without written authorization from the student and his/her parent/guardian.  If the result of a random test is positive, in addition to the principal/vice principal, only the Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) will be made aware of the results and will implement the policy mandated counseling sessions.  If a student has a subsequent positive test result and is removed from any athletic or extracurricular activity, the staff member in charge of that activity will not be told the reason for the temporary removal.

D. Consequences

1. First Infraction

• The Medical Review Officer will inform the high school principal/vice principals about the results of the RDT.
• The principal/vice principal will contact the parents/guardian of any student who tests positive, have the student removed from achool and make arrangements for a mandatory medical examination pusuant to statute, NJSA 18A:40A-12.  This medical examination will be conducted by the physician at US Health Works at 441 Route 130, the Board appointed medical facility, or can be administered by the student's private physician.  If the parents/guardians use their private physcian, they will be responsible for the cost of the physical exam.
• Upon return from the physical examination, the school must receive a doctor's note indiciating that the student is able to return to school.  At the time the student returns to school with the doctor's note, a parent conference will be held to review the procedures for a 1st offence positive result.
• In attendance at the meeting will be: vice principal, parents/guardians, student and the SAC.
• At the meeting, a Memorandum of Agreement will be discussed and signed by the high school administration, the student, and the parents/guardians.
• The Memorandum of Agreement will include:
  • Review of the driving guidelines for parking on campus.
  • Acknowledgement of the three subsequent random drug tests following a positive result
  • Acknowledgement that the conference was held as attested to by the signatures on the Memorandum of Understanding.
  • Review of consequences for any subsequent positive RDT
  • At this point in the meeting, the vice principal will leave and the SAC will discuss the five mandatory counseling sessions with the student and his/her parents/guardians.
  • At the end of the five counseling sessions, the SAC will share the recommendatins for treatment with the parents/guardians and student only.
  • The administration will not receive a copy of the treatment recommendation for the first offense.
  • The information regarding the RDT results, parent meeting and treatment plans will not be shared with anyone other than those noted in these procedures.

2. Second Infraction

• The Medical Review Officer will inform the high school principal/vice principals about the results of the RDT.
• The principal/vice principal will contact the parents/guardian of any student who tests positive, have the student removed from achool and make arrangements for a mandatory medical examination pusuant to statute, NJSA 18A:40A-12.  This medical examination will be conducted by the physician at US Health Works at 441 Route 130, the Board appointed medical facility, or can be administered by the student's private physician.  If the parents/guardians use their private physcian, they will be responsible for the cost of the physical exam.
• Upon return from the physical examination, the school must receive a doctor's note indiciating that the student is able to return to school.  At the time the student returns to school with the doctor's note, a parent conference will be held to review the procedures for a 1st offence positive result.
• In attendance at the meeting will be: vice principal, parents/guardians, student and the SAC.
• At the meeting, a Memorandum of Agreement will be discussed and signed by the high school administration, the student, and the parents/guardians.
• The Memorandum of Agreement will include:
  •  
    • Review of the driving guidelines for parking on campus.
    • Acknowledgement of the ten subsequent random drug tests following a positive result
    • Acknowledgement that the conference was held as attested to by the signatures on the Memorandum of Understanding.
    • Review of consequences for any subsequent positive RDT
    • At this point in the meeting, the vice principal will leave and the SAC will discuss the ten mandatory counseling sessions with the student and his/her parents/guardians.
    • At the end of the ten counseling sessions, the SAC will share the recommendatins for treatment with the parents/guardians and student only.
    • Acknowledgement that the student will be removed from all activities and parking on campus for 60 days.
    • The information regarding the RDT results, parent meeting and treatment plans will not be shared with anyone other than those noted in these procedures.

3. Third Infraction

• The Medical Review Officer will inform the high school principal/vice principals about the results of the RDT.
• The principal/vice principal will contact the parents/guardian of any student who tests positive, have the student removed from achool and make arrangements for a mandatory medical examination pusuant to statute, NJSA 18A:40A-12.  This medical examination will be conducted by the physician at US Health Works at 441 Route 130, the Board appointed medical facility, or can be administered by the student's private physician.  If the parents/guardians use their private physcian, they will be responsible for the cost of the physical exam.
• Upon return from the physical examination, the school must receive a doctor's note indiciating that the student is able to return to school.  At the time the student returns to school with the doctor's note, a parent conference will be held to review the procedures for a 1st offence positive result.
• In attendance at the meeting will be: vice principal, parents/guardians, student and the SAC.
• At the meeting, a Memorandum of Agreement will be discussed and signed by the high school administration, the student, and the parents/guardians.
• The Memorandum of Agreement will include:
  •  
    • Review of the driving guidelines for parking on campus.
    • Acknowledgement of the ten subsequent random drug tests following a positive result
    • Acknowledgement that the conference was held as attested to by the signatures on the Memorandum of Understanding.
    • Review of consequences for any subsequent positive RDT
    • The SAC will discuss the ten mandatory counseling sessions with the student and his/her parents/guardians.
    • Acknowledgement that the student will be removed from all activities and parking on campus for 365 days.
    • At the end of the ten counseling sessions, the SAC will share the recommendations for treatment with the parents/guardians, student and the administration.
    • The information regarding the RDT results, parent meeting and treatment plans will not be shared with anyone other than those noted in these procedures.

 Failure to comply with the guidelines may result in one or more of the following interventions:

1) meetings with the student, parent/guardian, SAC and administration;
2)referral to the Board of Education;
3) and/or referral to the Division of Youth and Family Services for investigation.

Drug-Free School Zone Procedures:

These procedures were developed in collaboration with the Allentown Police Department with the objective of enforcing state law in deterring drug activity within our school drug-free zones.  School grounds will be routinely patrolled by the local police department during school hours and school events.

The penalties for even minor possession drug offenses within a school "Safety Zone" are:

• Payment of a penalty of $500.
• Mandatory requirement to perform not less than 100 hours of community service.
• Revocation of driving privileges for persons convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for any drug offense.  If the juvenile is under 17 years of age, the six-month suspension of driving does not take effect until the student reaches his seventeenth birthday.

These penalties are established by statute, and are above and beyond any school discipline which may include suspension, expulsion or other penalty imposed by the district.  Copies of the full administrative code are available upon request.

Memorandum of Understanding

A memorandum of understanding has been developed between the Allentown Police Department, New Jersey State Police, and the Upper Freehold Regional School District which outlines the responsibilities of the local police and the school district regarding the use and/or possession of alcohol or other drugs by students.*  School officials have the right to ask students to empty their pockets, search wallets, pocketbooks, lockers and other personal possessions if reasonable grounds exist.

*This agreement requires school officials to promptly notify the School Resource Officer, who in turn will notify the Allentown Police Department whenever any school employee has reason to believe that a violation of the Comprehensive Drug Reform Act has occurred.

School Weapons Policy

Students are forbidden knowingly and voluntarily to possess, handle, transmit, or use any instrument in school or on school grounds that is ordinarily or generally considered a  weapon.  Any object which could be used to injure another person and which has no school-related purpose for being in school or on school grounds will be considered a weapon for purposes of this code.  The following are examples of instruments ordinarily or generally considered weapons:  knives of all types, guns, lead pipes, wooden clubs, chains, chuck sticks, throwing stars, darts, metal knuckles, black-jacks, unauthorized tools, baseball bats, fireworks, explosives, mace, pepper gas, or other chemicals.

The penalty for the first offense for the possession of a gun, explosive or any of the other previously mentioned weapons which are being used to threaten or harm another student or staff member includes an out-of-school suspension for ten (10) days and a recommendation for a Board of Education Disciplinary Hearing.  The police will be contacted when there is a suspected violation of criminal law concerning weapons.

The penalty for the first offense for the possession of items such as a knife, lead pipe, chain, wooden clubs, chuck-stick, throwing star dart, metal knuckles, black-jack, unauthorized tools, baseball bats, fireworks, or chemicals is appropriate administrative action (possible five (5) day out-of-school suspension and police contact).

Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying Policy

The following statements have been excerpted from the Board of Education policy regarding harassment, intimidation and bullying:

Harassment, intimidation or bullying means any gesture, written, verbal or physical act that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function or on a school bus, and that:

1. a reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have the effect of harming a pupil or damaging the pupil's property, or placing a pupil in reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property or
2. has the effect of insulting or demeaning any pupil or group of pupils in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school.

The Board expects pupils to conduct themselves in keeping with their levels of development, maturity and demonstrated capabilities with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other pupils and school staff.

The following factors will be considered in determining the appropriate response to pupils who commit one or more acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying:
1. The developmental and maturity levels of the parties involved;
2. The levels of harm;
3. The surrounding circumstances;
4. The nature of the behavior;
5. Past incidences or continuing patterns of behavior;
6 The relationships between the parties involved; and
7. The contact in which the alleged incidents occurred.

Concluding whether a particular action or incident constitutes a violation of this policy requires a determination based on all of the facts and surrounding circumstances.

Reporting Procedure:

Complaints alleging violations of this policy shall be reported to the Principal or his/her designee.  All school employees are required to report alleged violation of this policy to the Principal or his/her designee.  All other members of the school community, including pupils, parent(s) or legal guardian(s), volunteers and visitors are encouraged to report any act that may be a violation of the policy.

Response to an Incident of Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying:

Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for pupils who commit an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion as permitted under N.J.S.A. 18A: 37-1, Discipline of Pupils.

A complete copy of the Board policy re: harassment, intimidation and bullying is available upon request.

Student Dress

Students are expected to dress modestly and appropriately so as not to cause disturbance within the school.  Any student who deviates from generally acceptable dress standards and general appearance which, in the judgment of school administration, is a disturbing influence in the school or at school functions, will be asked to change into appropriate attire or sent home to change, prior to re-admission to class and demerits will be issued.  Parents will be notified and asked to bring a change of clothes or students will be given a T-shirt to wear for the remainder of the school day.  A refusal to comply with this request is cause for suspension until the condition is corrected.

Allentown High School Dress Code:

STUDENTS MAY NOT WEAR:

• Clothing that is too tight or revealing
• Clothing that you can see through
• Halter tops
• Tube tops
• One shoulder or off-the-shoulder tops
• Spaghetti straps
• Tank tops
• Midriff or crop tops
• Fishnet clothing
• Very low riding shorts, pants and skirts which do not properly cover them when they are sitting
• Clothing advertising tobacco, alcohol, drugs
• Clothing containing profanity, inappropriate slogans or sexual innuendoes
• Clothing symbolic of racial or ethnic intolerance
• Hats, hoods, visors, goggles, sweat bands, bandana, nylon head coverings
• Underwear, including boxers, should not be visible at any time

STUDENTS MUST:

• Have shoulders covered with at least two inches of material
• Wear shorts and skirts that are NO shorter than finger tip length (if students stand with their arms down at their sides, the shorts or skirts must not be shorter than their fingertips)
• Have their midriffs covered (no bellybuttons should be showing)
• Be able to sit without skin and undergarments being displayed

Hat Policy

The wearing of hats, hoods, visors, goggles, headbands worn anywhere on the head or face, or any other head covering will not be permitted to be worn at any time inside the school building during the school day unless a specific activity warrants the use (i.e., field trip that day).  Students may not carry their hats around during the school day.  They must be kept in lockers.

Students wearing or carrying hats will be written up for discipline referral:  Dress
Code Violation.

All students who desire to do so will be permitted to wear hats on "Hat Day" during "Spirit Week."  Individual students may apply to the principal's office for an exemption for medical reasons, religious reasons, and other special circumstances.  Such requests must state the reason, be signed by the student and his/her parent, and specify the period of time for which the student is seeking permission to wear a hat in school.  Students seeking an exemption for reasons of health may be required to submit a doctor's note in support of the request.  Any student whose request for an exemption is granted will be issued a special pass which he/she must carry with him/her at all times to be shown to a faculty member upon request.

Dance Rules

• Students may not enter the dance during the final hour.
• Only A.H.S. students and approved guests are to be admitted.
• Once a student enters the dance, he/she may not leave and return.
• Smoking is not permitted at dances.
• All school rules and regulations are in effect during a dance.
• While under social probation, students will not be able to attend dances.

STUDENT PARKING POLICY

No student may park privately owned non-registered vehicles on property owned by the Upper Freehold Regional School District between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday on days when school is in session.  Failure to comply with this registration will result in penalties in accordance with the policies of the Upper Freehold Regional Board of Education.  To register a vehicle you must report to Mrs. Embley's office with the following:

• Vehicle registration
• Validated New Jersey driver's license
• Proof of insurance in accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey
• Signed parental permission slip.  All forms must be signed by a parent.  If the student is under 18 years of age,  THE PARENTAL SIGNATURE MUST BE NOTARIZED!!!
• A signed Random Drug Testing Consent form.

The following regulations are in effect once cars are properly registered:
Strict observance is expected and infractions will be monitored by the discipline policy.  Students are not permitted to go to their cars throughout the day unless accompanied by a school official or if previously arranged by the school attendance officer or a school administrator.  Failure to follow these guidelines will lead to forfeiture of parking privileges.

REGULATIONS FOR STICKERS:

• Must obey traffic and speed regulations (15 mph).
• Must park properly in appropriate student area and in their assigned, numbered spot.
• Must not drive recklessly.
• MUST NOT INTERFERE WITH PROGRESS OF SCHOOL BUSES.  SCHOOL BUSES ALWAYS HAVE THE RIGHT-OF-WAY.
• Must permanently display sticker on OUTSIDE REAR WINDSHIELD OR BUMPER, DRIVER'S SIDE. 
• Must re-register if a different vehicle is driven.
• MUST NOT GO TO PARKED VEHICLE DURING THE SCHOOL DAY WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE MAIN OFFICE.
• Must not use the vehicle to violate school rules regulating student attendance.
• Seniors who have 30 demerits will automatically lose their parking privilege until demerits fall below 15.  (Parking on campus is a Senior privilege.)
• Student must yield to crosswalk and pedestrian traffic.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ANY STICKER REGULATION will result in the issuance of a demerit and revocation of parking/driving privileges.