Hand Book

August 2008

Dear Students and Parents:

Welcome to Livermore Falls High School! You will find that LFHS offers excellent academic programs, athletic opportunities, and clubs and organizations. During your time at our school I hope you apply yourself and become involved.

The policies and procedures in this handbook are designed to promote the general welfare of the entire student body. Respect for other people, regard for public property, awareness of the cost of education to the citizens of MSAD #36, and consideration of the rights and welfare of all students should be the guide posts for the student behavior.

This handbook is not meant to be an all-inclusive list concerning the student code of conduct. Rather, these are the more common programs offered and the more common guidelines and responsibilities expected of all students.

MSAD #36 provides an excellent opportunity for a quality education. I urge you all to take full advantage of the opportunities provided. Our staff is here to assist you in obtaining the best education possible.

Sincerely,

Shawn L. Lambert
Principal

School Administrative District No. 36 - VISION STATEMENT

All citizens in MSAD #36 will work together to provide an environment where:

Learning occurs in a comfortable, safe, clean and attractive environment.
Learning occurs where educators, parents and students support and respect one another, and where acceptance of all people is encouraged.
Learning is personalized, exciting and fun.

Learning is an active process that depends on full participation by educators,
parents, students and other members of the community.
Learning is both an individual and a cooperative venture.
Learning is challenging, and it prepares students for a changing world.
Learning includes real tasks, and it is documented and assessed in a variety of ways.
Learning is valued for the power it has to change lives.
Learning is celebrated by educators, parents, students and community.

Livermore Falls High School - MISSION STATEMENT

Livermore Falls High School is committed to providing an educational environment where all learners may develop their academic, social, and civic potential.

Academic Expectations for Student Learning Students will

Communicate through oral, written, visual, artistic, and technological modes of expression.
Work independently, create educational and career goals, and make use of available resources.
Observe situations to define problems, use multiple disciplines to solve them, apply solutions, and evaluate the effectiveness of the response.
Apply knowledge and skills in and across the curricula.

Social Expectations for Student Learning Students will

Accept responsibility for personal decisions and actions.
Exhibit collaborative skills that create positive learning environment.
Demonstrate an understanding of workplace skills and a concern for quality.
Use the knowledge required to achieve personal health and well-being.

Civic Expectations for Student Learning Students will

Participate to contribute positively to the community.
Demonstrate the rights and responsibilities of a democratic society.

2008-2009 LFHS Calendar
August					September
M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
					1	2L	3F	4L	5F
					8L	9F	10L	11F	12L
					15F	16L	17F	18L	19F
					22L	23F	24L	25F	26L
25	26L	27F	28L	29F	29F	30L

October					November
M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
		1F	2L	3F	3L	4F	5L	6F	7L
6L	7F	8L	9F	10	10F	11	12L	13F	14L
13	14L	15F	16L	17F	17F	18L	19F	20L	21F
20L	21F	22L	23F	24L	24	25	26	27	28
27F	28L	29F	30L	31F

December					January
M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
1L	2F	3L	4F	5L				1	2
8F	9L	10F	11L	12F	5F	6L	7F	8L	9F
15L	16F	17L	18F	19L	12L	13F	14L	15F	16L
22	23	24	25	26	19	20F	21L	22F	23L
					26F	27L	28F	29L	30F

February					March
M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
2L	3F	4L	5F	6L	2F	3L	4F	5L	6F
9F	10L	11F	12L	13F	9L	10F	11L	12F	13L
16	17	18	19	20	16F	17L	18F	19L	20
23l	24f	25l	26f	27l	23F	24L	25F	26L	27F
					30L	31F

April					May
M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
		1L	2F	3L					1F
6F	7L	8F	9L	10F	4L	5F	6L	7F	8L
13L	14F	15L	16F	17L	11F	12L	13F	14L	15F
20	21	22	23	24	18L	19F	20L	21F	22L
27F	28L	29F	30L		25	26F	27L	28F	29L
					M	T	W	T	F

June
M	T	W	T	F
1F	2L	3F	4L	5F
8L	9F	10L	11	12
15	16	17	18	19

2008-2009 Schedules

Full Day Schedule

Regular Day A/A Day

Homeroom 7:40 – 7:50 7:40 – 7:50

Period 1 (AH) 7:50 – 8:30 7:50 – 8:25

Period 1 (BI) 8:30 – 9:10 8:25 - 9:00

Break 9:10 – 9:20 9:00 – 9:10

Period 2 (CJ) 9:25 – 10:05 9:15 – 9:50

Period 2 (DK) 10:05 – 10:45 9:50 – 10:25

A/A ------- 10:25 – 11:05

Period 3 (E/L) 10:50 – 12:35 11:10 – 12:45

1^st Lunch 10:50 – 11:15 11:10 – 11:35

2^nd Lunch 11:30 – 11:55 11:45 – 12:10

3^rd Lunch 12:10 – 12:35 12:20 – 12:45

Period 4 (FM) 12:40 – 1:20 12:50 – 1:25

Period 4 (GN) 1:20 – 2:00 1:25 – 2:00

Early Release Schedule

Regular Day A/A Day

Homeroom 7:40 – 7:50 7:40 – 7:50

Period 1 (AH) 7:50 – 8:15 7:50 – 8:12

Period 1 (BI) 8:15 – 8:40 8:13 – 8:35

Break 8:40 – 8:50 8:35 – 8:45

Period 2 (CJ) 8:55 – 9:20 8:50 – 9:12

Period 2 (DK) 9:20 – 9:45 9:13 – 9:35

A/A ------- 9:35 – 9:55

Period 3 (E/L) 9:50 – 10:40 10:00 – 10:45

Period 4 (FM) 10:45 – 11:10 10:50 – 11:12

Period 4 (GN) 11:10 – 11:35 11:13 – 11:35

Late Arrival Schedule

Regular Day A/A Day

Homeroom 9:40 – 9:50 9:40 – 9:50

Period 1 (AH) 9:50 – 10:15 9:50 – 10:12

Period 1 (BI) 10:15 – 10:40 10:13 – 10:35

Period 2 (CJ) 10:45 – 11:10 10:40 – 11:02

Period 2 (DK) 11:10 – 11:35 11:03 – 11:25

A/A ------- 11:25 – 11:45

Period 3 (E/L) 11:40 – 1:05 11:45 – 1:10

1^st Lunch 11:40 – 12:05 11:50 – 12:15

2^nd Lunch 12:10 – 12:35 12:17 – 12:42

3^rd Lunch 12:40 – 1:05 12:45 – 1:10

Period 4 (FM) 1:10 – 1:35 1:15 – 1:37

Period 4 (GN) 1:35 – 2:00 1:38 – 2:00

Staff Directory
Principal - Shawn L. Lambert
Assistant Principal - Vicki Thayer-Adams
Guidance Director - Sue Spalding
Nurse - Annie O’Shea
Social Worker - Chris Beaudoin
Secretary - Aurelie Merrill
Secretary/Athletic Director - Sally Boivin
Guidance Secretary – Wendy Nadeau
Art - Helga Heyck		Science - Alisa Lee
Consumer Skills - Donna Wilcox		Science - Robbin Nichol
English – Kymberly Bryant		Science - Gladys Russell
English – Jayne Costa		Social Studies - Michelle Brann
English – Daniel Fayen		Social Studies - Nathan Purrington
English – Sarah Fournier		Social Studies - Sue St. Pierre
English/Drama - Anne Weatherbee		Special Education - Wendy Berube
Foreign Languages - Anita Dube		Special Education - Debbie Hodges
Health - Darren Carter		Special Education - Phylis Holt
JMG – Barbara Jewett		Special Education - Ken Landry
Library - Cathi Howell		Special Education - Margaret Leclerc
Math - Carl Bauer		Special Education - Diane Maurais
Math - Eric Jewett		Special Education - Eileen Morin
Math - Robin Miller		Special Education - Megan Packard
Music - Darrell Roundy		Technology Education - Rick Hulbert
Physical Education - Mark Cyr		Computer/Technology Education – Bruce Houghton

Advisor/Advisee Program

The advisor-advisee program was created to ensure every student has at least one adult who: knows him or her both personally and academically. Students are grouped together with a teacher and meet with that teacher regularly. Advisors stay with that group of students throughout the students’ high school careers. The advisor’s role is to monitor the student’s academic progress. Occasionally, advisors plan group activities or outings that build unity and self-esteem. If parents have questions or concerns, the advisor is a person to contact.

Alcohol and Other Drugs

The MSAD #36 School Board requires a safe and healthy learning environment for district students, free of the detrimental effects of drugs and alcohol. Accomplishing this requires a cooperative effort among dstrict staff, students, parents, law enforcement and organizations concerned with the use of drugs and alcohol by school-aged youth.

In order to promote the safety, health and well being of students, the Board endorses a three-pronged approach to address drug and alcohol use, abuse prevention and education, and intervention and discipline. The Superintendent or his or her designee is responsible for developing appropriate administrative procedures, curricula and programs to implement this policy.

PROHIBITED CONDUCT

No student shall distribute, dispense, possess, use or be under the influence of any alcoholic beverage, malt beverage, fortified wine or other intoxicating liquor. Nor shall a student manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, use or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, anabolic steroid, any other controlled substance defined in federal and state laws/regulations, any look-alike substance, or any substance that is represented to be a controlled substance. No student shall use a legal substance inappropriately for the purpose of getting high or intoxicated.

These prohibitions apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline or general welfare of the school.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Drinking, possession of an alcoholic beverage, possession of drugs, or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs during school or at any school-sponsored activity, public or private, is prohibited. Violations of this policy may result in a ten (10) day out-of-school suspension based upon the facts of each case and in accordance with established disciplinary procedures. Students may also be referred to law enforcement authorities for investigation and/or prosecution.

During this suspension period, a building administrator will review each chemical substance suspension for signs of chemical dependency. With the cooperation of the student and parent or guardian, a possible referral for professional evaluation and/or treatment will be discussed. The assigned disciplinary measures may be reduced upon successful completion of this evaluation/treatment.

Students who violate this policy a second time will be referred to the Superintendent.

PREVENTION AND EDUCATION

The school will provide students with appropriate information and activities focused on educating them about drugs and alcohol and preventing their use. Programs shall teach students that the abuse of drugs and alcohol is wrong and harmful, how to resist peer pressure, and the legal, social and health consequences of drug and alcohol abuse.

INTERVENTION

The school will establish a team approach to intervention with students who have drug and/or alcohol problems. Students will be assisted in addressing their problems and in continuing their educational program. Students will be provided with information and referral if necessary to aid them in obtaining assistance from appropriate organizations. Student records concerning such interventions shall be kept confidential as required by state and federal laws.

Assemblies

Occasionally, LFHS holds class-wide or school-wide assemblies. The purposes of school assemblies include enrichment activities, performances, and student recognition. For the benefit of all in attendance, the following expectations must be followed:

Students will be dismissed, by room, to report to the assembly area.
All students will report with their respective teacher and will remain with their teacher in a designated seating area.
Once seated by class, students will remain seated for the entire program.
Screaming and whistling are not appropriate at an assembly.
sincere and respectful means of recognizing individuals and groups.
Talking while presentations are being made is rude and indicates disinterest and/or disrespect for those involved in the assembly.

Recognizing that some students may be uncomfortable with the subject matter at particular assemblies, any student who would like to be excused from an assembly must discuss his or her concerns with an administrator before the assembly begins. The administrator will determine whether the student should be excused.

Assessments

Assessments in a variety of formats will be administered in all classes. In particular, mid-term and final examinations will be administered on designated days in January and June, respectively. These examinations will be administered to all students and will be developed in keeping with course goals and objectives. The exams will be administered by the regular class-room teacher in the regular assigned classroom. All students are to take exams in each course. Homework other than exam review and preparation may not be assigned during exam periods. Any student who misses a mid-year or final exam must have a doctor’s note for the absence or a note from the principal.

Attendance

Participation in classroom activities is an extremely important part of any students’ education. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a specific attendance policy that requires minimum attendance standards in all classes in order for a student to receive credit in a particular course.

Regular school attendance is the first step in achieving academic success. Parents should help their children take responsibility for regular attendance. Maine law requires that all persons between the ages of seven (7) and seventeen (17) years attend a public day school, which serves the municipality in which the parent/guardian resides during the time that school is in regular session.

State of Maine Law, Title 20A, Section 5002, states a person’s absence is excused when the absence is for any of the reasons below:

Personal illness;
Appointments with health professionals that cannot be made outside the regular school day;
Observance of recognized religious holidays when it is required during the regular school day;
Emergency family situations;
Planned absence for personal or educational purposes that has prior administrative approval.

In addition, absences due to disciplinary suspension shall be considered excused absences. Any reason that does not fall within the guidelines stated above will be considered unexcused.

In addition to being in regular attendance, a student is expected to arrive at school on time and also to be in his/her class when it begins. Students will serve an office detention for the third and subsequent times they are tardy to school for an unexcused reason each quarter.

If an absence is unexcused, the student can have access to the missed work but will receive zeroes for that work. If an absence is excused, the student will be allowed to make up the missed work for each school day he or she was absent. It is the student’s responsibility to make contact with the appropriate teachers on the day he or she returns to school and take care of any make-up work.

Absences are excused when the parent calls or writes a note to the office indicating the absence was for one of the legally allowable reasons. Absences can ONLY be excused if the call or note is received within three (3) school days of the absence. If there are multiple contiguous absences the call or note must be received within three (3) days of the last absence.

When a student has accumulated more than five (5) unexcused absences in a course or courses during any quarter he/she will not be allowed to pass for that term and will be assigned a grade no higher than a 64%.

When a student has accumulated more than five (5) excused absences in a course or courses during any quarter he/she will not be allowed to pass for that term and will be assigned a grade no higher than a 64% unless the school has received formal documentation of a long term medical condition and a remedial academic plan is in place.

When a student misses class because of field trips, assemblies, rallies, athletic events, testing, or any other such activity that the principal deems necessary, these absences will not be counted against the student.

A waiver of this requirement may be approved upon the presentation of a doctor’s note certifying that the excessive absences were due to illnesses.

Students have the right to appeal any decision to reduce their grade under this policy. Students requesting an appeal will be allowed to meet with the principal to present evidence as to why they should be considered an exception to the course attendance policy.

Written parental requests for early dismissal must be presented in the main office by 9:00 a.m. Early dismissal shall not be granted to students to leave school or school grounds for lunch. An administrator shall determine the validity of an early dismissal. Appointments should be scheduled outside the normal school day whenever possible. When students are released on dismissal, they must sign the sign-in/sign-out sheet in the office.

Forms for requesting a planned absence are available at the Office of the Principal. If there are valid reasons not to accept the request as an excused absence, parents will be made aware that the absence is unexcused and could affect the child’s academic performance.

Bomb Threats

The MSAD #36 School Board recognizes that bomb threats are a significant concern to the school unit. Whether real and carried out or intended as a prank or for some other purpose, a bomb threat represents a potential danger to the safety and welfare of students and staff and to the integrity of school property. Bomb threats disrupt the instructional program and learning environment and also place significant demands on school financial resources and public safety services. These effects occur even when such threats prove to be false.

CONDUCT PROHIBITED

No person shall make, or communicate by any means, whether verbal or non-verbal, a threat that a bomb has been, or will be, placed on school premises. Because of the potential for evacuation of the schools and other disruption of school operations, placement of a bomb or of a “look-alike” bomb on school premises will be considered a threat for the purpose of this policy.

Communicating by any means that any toxic or hazardous substance or material has been placed, or will be placed, on school premises with the intent to endanger the safety and welfare of students or staff and/or to disrupt the operations of the schools is also prohibited. For the purpose of this policy, “toxic or hazardous substance or material” means any material or substance, including biomedical materials or organisms, that, when placed as threatened, could be harmful to humans.

THREAT PROCEDURE

At Livermore Elementary School, Livermore Falls Middle School, Livermore Falls High School, and the Cedar Street Complex, there is a procedure for responding to threats of bombs or of some other violence. Although there are variations in the plan at each school, the procedure is as follows:

Threats are assessed for credibility using a rubric based on United States Secret Service advice and publications.
If the threat is considered credible, the administrator, with consultation from the emergency response team, decides whether to lock-down or evacuate and implements that course of action.
The appropriate law enforcement agency is contacted.

Violence, in any form in our schools, is unacceptable. It undermines the learning process, creates an atmosphere of fear and diminishes the trust that parents and students place on school personnel to maintain a safe and orderly educational environment. The key to success, using our procedure, is honest communication. There is simply no way schools can guarantee that children will be perfectly safe from any harm, but helping students, parents, and staff know that every threat will be taken seriously, that a procedure is in place that has student safety as its top priority and that students who are caught making threats will be expelled and prosecuted by the judicial system to the full extend of the law should help stem the rising tides of terrorism in our schools.

Bus Transportation

To provide safe transportation for all students who ride MSAD #36 buses, it is extremely important that all students follow rules of appropriate behavior and safety. Any behavior that distracts the drivers from their primary responsibility of providing a safe ride to and from school will not be tolerated.

Riding a school bus is a privilege. This privilege will be revoked if students violate general rules for riding school buses or other rules and policies outlined in the school’s discipline code.

The bus driver is responsible for and has full authority over the conduct of pupils while on the bus. If problems occur, the bus driver will file a Bus Conduct Report with the appropriate building administrator. Serious or continuous violations will result in loss of bus privileges.

When bus privileges have been suspended, the school will not provide transportation; parents will be responsible for their pupil's transportation during suspension of bus privileges. Students are required by state law to be present in school every day even if their bus privileges have been revoked.

GENERAL RULES FOR RIDING SCHOOL BUSES

Be at the bus stop not earlier than five minutes prior to the usual pick-up time and be ready to get on quickly. All passengers must be seated motion.
Use the same established bus stop that is closest to your home throughout the year. Any changes must be approved by the Director of Transportation and the bus driver must be notified.
Bus stops are not play stops, There should be no fighting, pushing, chasing or shoving. Students are to stand at least ten feet from the roadway.
As the bus approaches, line up but do not approach the bus until it has completely stopped and the driver has opened the door.
Pupils who wish to cross to the other side of the street shall do so by passing ten feet in front of the bus immediately after alighting and by waiting until the driver signals that it is safe to pass.
Books and other property should be held on your lap. Keep aisles clear.If a need exists to transport to school large items or animals, ask your parents to transport you on those days.
Do not extend arms or heads out of the bus windows.
No eating or drinking is allowed on the bus.
Maintain an acceptable manner of conduct and appearance.Bare feet and swim suits are not permitted.Vulgarity, boisterous and loud shouting, unnecessary noise, or other improper conduct is not permitted and distracts the bus driver.
All Bus Conduct Reports given during the last two weeks of school will be carried over to the following school year.
When disembarking at school or at home, stay seated until the bus has stopped and the driver has opened the door.Leave quickly, but do not push or shove.
Insubordination to bus drivers or persons of authority is not permitted.
Immediate loss of bus privileges (including field trips, sports, etc.) will occur for:

Smoking or playing with fire
Attempting to open the emergency door unless instructed by the driver to do so.
Damaging or defacing any part of the bus.
Using firearms or explosives (fire-crackers, etc,.) on the bus
Any violation on the late bus

Electronic devices are allowed at the discretion of the bus driver.
All school rules and policies are in effect from the time you leave home until you return home after school.Also, all of these rules and policies apply to and from school sponsored field trips and athletic events. If a pupil's behavior is unacceptable, as outlined in the preceding rules, bus drivers are authorized to issue written reports.Suspensionsfrom bus transportation will be ordered by the assistant principal and/or the Director of Transportation.

Cheating

There is a clear expectation that all students will complete assignments with honor and integrity. There is no tolerance for students caught cheating. Cheating includes:

Copying or duplicating assignments that will each be turned in as “original”;
Exchanging assignments by print-out, computer transfer, or modem and then submitting work as “original”;
Writing formulas, codes, key words, etc. for use in a test;
Using hidden reference sheets during a test;
Using programmed material in watches, calculators, cell phones, or computers when prohibited;
Exchanging answers with others (either giving or receiving answers);
Submitting someone else’s assignment as one’s own;
Submitting material (written or designed by someone else) without giving the name of the author/artist and/or source;
Not following specific guidelines on cheating as established by department, class, or teacher;
Plagiarism of any type.

Students cheating will receive no credit on their assignments. Subsequent offenses may result in suspension, removal from elected position(s) and/or honorary organization(s), suspension from co-curricular activities, and/or other consequences determined by an administrator.

Civil Rights Policy

It is the policy of Livermore Falls High School to provide a safe learning environment for all students regardless of race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, sexual orientation and physical or mental disability, in accordance with the Maine Civil Rights Act. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken with students who violate the Civil Rights Policy.

MSAD #36 recognizes its responsibilities to address, investigate and take action relative to violations of individual Civil Rights, Hate Crimes, Intolerance and Prejudice that may occur on school grounds or at school sanctioned activities. In addition to school related discipline involving these specific areas, victims of such violations may be encouraged to go outside the school district and file their specific complaint with the Maine Department of The Attorney General and the Holocaust Human Rights Center.

Closed Campus

LFHS is a closed campus. Once students have arrived to begin their school day, they must stay from 7:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. During school hours, students are prohibited from walking on or passing through the parking lot or thoroughfare which surrounds the school building, unless authorized to do so or under staff supervision. There are certain exceptions to this including but not limited to Work Experience, Co-Op, and Senior Privileges.

Co-Curricular Activities

Livermore Falls High School is fortunate to offer a variety of co-curricular activities. In 2007-2008, the following non-athletic organizations will be active:

Banner Student Council Math Team

Drama Varsity “LF” Club National Honor Society

In 2007-2008, the following athletic teams will be active:

FALL WINTER SPRING

Cheerleading Cheerleading Baseball

Field Hockey Boys’ Basketball Softball

Football Girls’ Basketball Boys’ Track

Boys’ Soccer Boys’ Skiing Girls’ Track

Girls’ Soccer Girls’ Skiing

Golf

There are several policies and procedures that govern student participation in these activities. The first set of policies is related to eligibility. Students must be in good academic standing in order to participate. In particular:

Academic eligibility is checked eight (8) times per year. report cards and all four progress reports.
To be eligible, students must have passed all the courses required for graduation (when they are traditionally taken) the quarter before eligibility is being considered.
Students must seek help when they are in danger of failing any course.
Students who failed one course are eligible but will be placed on probation for five (5) weeks. This means they can practice, play, and participate. After five weeks, the students must have brought the grade in the failed course up to at least a 65 average. they have, they are no longer on probation. If they have not, they are ineligible.
Students who failed two or more courses are ineligible until the next time eligibility is checked.
Incompletes are counted as failures unless there are extenuating and administratively pre-approved reasons for the incompletes.
For fall sports, eligibility will be determined by the previous year’s fourth quarter grades. If students failed no more than one course in the previous fourth quarter, they can practice and play under probation status. A special eligibility check will be done on the third Friday in September to declare those students on probation as eligible or ineligible.
Students who have failed no more than one course may try-out under probation status.Students who failed more than one course may not try-out.
Students who withdraw-failing after the Add/Drop period will be declared ineligible for two (2) weeks.
Students may only be on probation while participating in an activity once per school year.
Students must be present by 9:00 a.m. to participate in an activity that day or on the weekend after (unless previously approved by an administrator).

Students who make up in summer school courses they failed the previous quarter are eligible to participate in the fall.

A suspension from school means that the student cannot practice or play for the duration of the suspension.

Students participating in co-curricular activities must have an up-to-date physical.

Athletes have a special responsibility as school representatives to exercise good sportsmanship and to conduct themselves in an acceptable, mature manner. No special privileges such as extra examinations, delayed marks, make-up opportunities, delayed disciplinary action nor other favors shall be granted to athletes. Any transportation required will be provided by MSAD #36. Under no circumstance will a student be allowed to be transported to or from any activity without the written permission of the principal or his or her designee.

The high school maintains a group accident insurance policy. This insurance is available to all members of the student body at a minimal cost and is sold soon after school starts in the fall. We strongly suggest that all students enrolled in shop classes be covered by insurance. All students participating in athletics, including cheerleading, are required to be covered by medical insurance of some type. Football participants are encouraged to subscribe to a further coverage recommended by the school.

Communication

Education is most effective when it is a partnership between parents and teachers. Teachers are encouraged to contact parents regularly. Formal Parent/Teacher Conferences are held each November. Parents are encouraged to call at any time of the year if there are questions concerning their child’s progress. Telephone extensions and email addresses of all teachers are listed in the front of this handbook..

In addition, MSAD #36 has implemented EDLINE, an online resource that allows parents to access up-to-date information on their child’s progress and assignments. User names and passwords are distributed through each school’s main office. Any parent or student who does not have a user name or access code can request it in the main office.

Confidentiality

Students are allowed to share confidential information with administration, guidance staff, faculty, and support staff personnel employed by the school. Any information that is shared in a confidential manner is expected to be kept confidential. Only in the case of an issue related to personal safety would a school department employee be exempt from the requested status of confidentiality on information shared with them by a student.

Course Credit

At Livermore Falls High School, all courses are based on Carnegie Units, commonly known as credits. Students earn credits or portions of credits for successfully completing courses.

POST-SECONDARY CREDITS

In addition to courses offered at LFHS, students may enroll in post-secondary courses through the University of Maine and the Maine Community College systems. Upon the recommendation of the high school principal and the school counselor, a junior or senior may enroll in up to two courses per year at a post-secondary institution. In exceptional cases ninth and tenth graders may be approved for college courses.

In most cases, students can earn college credit but not high school credit in these courses. Under certain circumstances, students may earn credit toward their high school diploma. To be eligible for this option, students must be a junior or senior, must have parental approval, and must submit a plan for approval to the high school principal detailing how the proposed post-secondary course meets graduation requirements. If the plan is approved, a copy of it will be placed in the student’s records. For the purpose of awarding credit, the post-secondary course must meet for one semester or its equivalent, the student must earn a C or higher, and the student must maintain a 3.0 GPA in his or her overall high school courses. One high school credit may be awarded for each three credit post-secondary course.

This policy will not apply for course work that is outside of the school day and which is not for graduation credit. LFHS is not responsible for any costs associated with enrollment in post-secondary courses including tuition, textbooks, course fees, and transportation. The Maine Department of Education may pay a portion of the applicable tuition costs for any students enrolled in a course under this policy.

CREDIT FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS

Students may take courses for credit from institutions other than Livermore Falls High School under certain conditions:

The student must have taken the course already and failed.
The student must not have the opportunity to make up the class in his or her regular day school schedule due to scheduling or time conflicts.
The student must be a full-time student at LFHS.
Permission must have been granted by the principal before the course begins.

The institution students most often use under the conditions above is MSAD #36 Adult Education. Admission in a MSAD #36 course is contingent on space availability and the decision of the Adult Education Director.

Crisis Management

In the event that there is a crisis affecting the LFHS community, the MSAD #36 and/or the LFHS Crisis Team will meet. The purpose of the team is to gather information about the event, design a plan to assist members of the school community in dealing with the event/incident, and implement/monitor the plan.

Dances

LFHS has dances several times throughout the year. These are sponsored by high school organizations or classes. The organization or class sponsoring a dance is responsible for obtaining three teacher chaperons, one of which should be female and one of which should be male. In addition to three teachers, one custodian will need to be present.

The following rules apply to all high school dances:

Once a person leaves the building he/she will not be permitted to re-enter unless special, permission to leave and return has been granted by the head chaperon.
Anyone suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to enter, will have his or her parents contacted, and will receive disciplinary action.
Dances will be open only to students attending LFHS and their dates of high school age or older.
Regular dances are held from 7:00 -11:00 p.m. with doors closing one hour after the start of the dance.
All expenditures for performing musicians and decorations or other expenses must be approved by the faculty advisors and the principal in advance of the dance.
All arrangements for dances should be completed at least one month prior to the scheduled date.A dance approval form must be submitted to the principal at least two weeks prior to the date of the dance.

Clean-up groups must be established prior to the dance and will be under faculty supervision. Duties include removal of all decorations and sets, return of all tables and chairs to their proper locations, and general cleaning. Cost of replacement or repair for any damage to school property will be charged to the sponsoring group.

Disciplinary Measures

Teachers may assign a teacher detention as a form of disciplinary measure. Students must attend this detention. Failure to do so will result in a referral to the assistant principal and further disciplinary action.

Administrators may assign office detentions for minor infractions. Office detentions are held Monday-Thursday 2:05 – 2:45 p.m. Student may not take the late bus home from office detentions.

Administrators may assign Saturday detentions. Saturday detentions are held on Saturdays from 8:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Administrators may assign an in-school suspension.

Administrators may assign an out-of-school suspension for a period up to ten (10) days. Students who are suspended may not be on MSAD #36 property. Students can make up work missed during a suspension.

In certain cases a student may be expelled by the MSAD #36 School Board. In an expulsion, a student is removed from the school for the remainder of the school year. During that period of time, no credits will be awarded, the student cannot participate in school co-curricular activities, and the student cannot be on MSAD #36 property.

Dissection

MSAD #36 believes that dissection is an important part of the study of life science; it allows students to compare both external and internal anatomical features. We do not believe that alternatives to dissection are as valuable to the student as participating in the dissection process. An effort will be made to make the laboratory experiences as non-threatening as possible.

If a student requests to be excused from the dissection process, he/she will be asked to look on with another student and to assist with any written work required. All dissections are done in groups of at least two students. If the student is still uncomfortable about the dissection, the instructor will try to find and provide alternative activities for that student.

Dress Code

Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing that does not interfere with the educational process.

Articles of clothing which promote the use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs may not be worn on school grounds or at school functions.
Clothing, footwear, insignia, or accessories that are intended to identify the wearer as a member of a particular gang are prohibited on school grounds or at school functions.
Articles of clothing with displays that are sexual, vulgar, lewd or indecent, or include insulting words are not permitted.
Clothing that is destructive of school property or which may be considered weapons are not permitted on school grounds or at school functions.
Hats, hoods, bandanas, or other headwear not manufactured explicitly for hair care are not permitted on school property from 7:15 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. or in detention.

Electronic Devices

Cell phones and other communication devices may not be used during the school day except in the office with administrative approval.

Electronic entertainment devices (e.g., CD players, radios, MP3 players, ipods) may not be used in classrooms or during detention. They may be used in hallways, during break, during lunch, and in study halls at the discretion of the supervising teacher. Any student using one of these devices when and/or where they are prohibited will be required to leave the device in the main office for the day. Refusing to comply with this policy will be considered insubordination.

Fighting

The safety of LFHS is everyone’s responsibility. And students participating in or instigating a fight through their words or actions will face disciplinary action.

Fire Drills

Periodically, LFHS will have fire drills to practice evacuating the building in an emergency. A fire drill evacuation sign is posted in each room. Students are expected to familiarize themselves with proper exits in each of their classrooms. The teacher in each classroom will give instructions on proper evacuation procedures. Students will evacuate the building in a quick, quiet, and orderly fashion. Running and loud disturbances will not be tolerated. All driveways, roads, and parking areas are to be kept clear of any obstructions so that emergency vehicles may move freely.

Food Service

The MSAD #36 Nutrition Program offers students a variety of food choices. A hot meal with fruit and vegetable choices and a la carte items may be obtained daily. Meals served meet the federal meal pattern requirements of the National School Lunch Program.

Students may also apply for free or reduced lunch by filling out and submitting the appropriate form. The forms are available in the main office. Students will be notified whether they qualify for one of these programs.

Neatness of the cafeteria is everyone’s responsibility. All dishes, utensils, and serving trays must be retuned to the designated window. Nothing should be left on the table. Students are expected to help clean up if asked to do so.

Grading

All classes are graded by the course teacher. The grade is the teacher's evaluation of the quality of a student's performance in a subject. The grading scale used is below:

A = 90-100 B = 80-89 C = 70-79 D = 65-69 F= below 65 I = Incomplete

Only numerical grades will be issued to determine the honor roll. A student is on High Honor Roll if every grade is 90 or above (no incompletes). A student is on Honor Roll if every grade is 80 or above (no incompletes). A student is on Highest Honor Roll if every grade is 95 or above (no incompletes).

Students are encouraged to challenge themselves in higher level classes. Recognizing the significant workload of Honors and Advanced Placement courses, Livermore Falls High School uses a weighted grading system to determine both a student's class rank and a career academic average in those classes. Grades in Honors classes are multiplied by a coefficient of 1.05. Grades in AP classes are multiplied by a coefficient of 1.10.

To be eligible for promotion at the high school, students must meet the following minimum credit standings:

Entrance to Grade 10 - 6 credits,

Entrance to Grade 11 - 12 credits ,

Entrance to Grade 12 - 16 credits,

Students who fail English must pass the level they have failed before taking the next level. Seniors may take two levels of English with permission of the principal and guidance counselor.

Graduation Requirements

Students must earn twenty-four (24) credits to earn a diploma from Livermore Falls High School. These credits must include the following:

English	4 credits	Mathematics	3 credits
Social Studies (1 credit in US History)	3 credits	Science Fine Arts	3 credits
Physical Education	1 credit	Health	1 credit

Students who do not complete all academic requirements before the day of marching practice will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. Diplomas will be mailed when the requirements are completed.

Guidance Services

K-12 MISSION STATEMENT

The Mission of the MSAD 36 K-12 Comprehensive Guidance Program is to provide advocacy and support services that empower students to successfully address their intellectual, emotional, and social needs, and that motivate students to become lifelong learners who will achieve their full potential. The Guidance staff will operate in partnership with the school and community implementing this program.

SERVICES

Guidance services are available to all students and their parents. Academic, college, career and personal counseling is available to assist students and parents with any questions or concerns that may arise during the year.

Academic counseling is available to help students gain skills to successfully communicate with teachers and deal with academic concerns; and help students to plan their academic program to suit their career plans and monitor credit status.

College counseling is offered to assist students in conducting their college search and application process. Information regarding PSATs and SATs is provided by the guidance counselor. Catalogues and videos from many schools of higher education are available for students to sign out for short term use. College planning and financial aid workshops are coordinated by the guidance office for students and parents. Many scholarships are made available through the guidance office, and students are encouraged to check regularly for scholarship information.

Guidance recommendations to colleges will be provided upon written request. Guidance recommendations may include subjective comments on personal conduct and character, major violations of the discipline code as well as academic records and potential.

Career counseling is available to help students identify their interests, strengths, and long-term goals. The guidance counselor can help students to create resumes and develop job search strategies.

Personal counseling is available on a short-term or emergency basis to assist any student who finds that personal concerns are interfering with his/her studies. The guidance counselor will assist with referrals for students who may need mental health or substance abuse services.

Students who wish to see the guidance counselor are asked to make an appointment and pick up a pass before school, from the guidance secretary. If possible, students should use study-hall time to visit the guidance office. However, any emergencies will be handled on a walk-in, no appointment basis.

Parents who wish to meet the guidance counselor are encouraged to call the guidance secretary to schedule an appointment. Parents who wish to schedule parent-teacher conferences should contact the guidance office.

Confidentiality is always observed unless a student reveals any instances of abuse or neglect, or any intentions to harm them self or someone else.

Hall Passes

Students must receive permission from classroom teachers to leave class for emergency reasons. All students in the hall during class must have a valid pass from a teacher and must sign out of their classroom on the appropriate log.

Harassment

MSAD #36 recognizes the rights of each student to work in an atmosphere free of intimidation, ridicule, hostility and offensiveness. In order to insure such an atmosphere students are prohibited from harassing other students where harassment is based upon race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, or handicap. Acts of this nature are not only a violation of this policy but also constitute illegal discrimination under state and federal laws. Examples of prohibited harassment include unwelcome sexual advances, gestures, comments or contact; threats; offensive jokes; and ridicule, slurs, derogatory action or remarks.

If students feel they are being harassed they should tell the person doing it that his or her behavior is not welcome or appropriate and that the behavior needs to stop. If a student is uncomfortable with confronting the alleged harasser, he or she should go to a guidance counselor or administrator with the complaint. Also, if a student has confronted the alleged harasser and the behavior has not stopped, the student should go to a guidance counselor of administrator. The guidance counselor or administrator will determine the extent of the harassment and begin an investigation if necessary.

During a harassment investigation, the student will complete a harassment report and the principal or his or her designee will interview the alleged harasser. The purpose of this investigation is to determine the facts and to get any harassing behavior to stop. If the behavior does not stop, disciplinary measures will be applied.

At any time in this process, the student who feels he or she is being harassed and/or his or her parents can contact the principal or the district’s Affirmative Action Coordinator for advice on the various options available to them. If the student and/or parents do not feel the situation has been resolved, they may also contact the Director of the U.S. Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education, Washington, D.C. State House Station #51, Augusta.

Hazing

Hazing activities of any type, either on or off district property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with this district, are prohibited at all times.

Maine laws defines hazing as "any action or situation, including harassing behavior that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of… any student enrolled in a public school."

No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the district shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate hazing activities. No student, including leaders of students' organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities. Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measures. Administrators, professional staff, and all other employees who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

In the case of an organization affiliated with this district that authorizes hazing, penalties may include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on District property or to receive any other benefit of affiliation with the District.

Health Services and Safety

The school nurse provides health services and programs that are beneficial to the students’ physical and emotional well being in the school environment. Health counseling and free health pamphlets are available. Students not in compliance with Maine law concerning immunizations may be excluded from school until the matter is resolved.

For emergency first aid and illness during school, assistance is available from the school nurse who will decide what should be done. When the nurse is not present, students should go to the main office. Students must not leave the building because of illness without authorization.

Physical examinations are recommended for all students entering kindergarten, grade six and grade nine, and are to be done by the students’ own physicians. A school physical form should be filled out by the student's physician, returned to the school nurse, and kept in the student's health record. Records shall be retained according to the current State schedules pertaining to student health records. The school nurse will report any identified medical problems to the principal for that student.

Information regarding a student's wellness, allergies, medications, precautions, and restrictions during physical education or school athletics should be given in writing to the school nurse and any of his or her athletic coaches.

The school will make every effort to inform the parents of an accident or illness occurring at school that may need care or observation at home. However, no students will be sent home unless a responsible adult is there to receive them.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION TO STUDENTS

MSAD #36 discourages the administration of medication to students during the school day. However, such administration may be necessary if there is a chronic or short-term illness, injury, or disabling condition. The school will not deny educational opportunities to students requiring the administration of medication in order to remain in attendance and participate in the educational program. In these cases, MSAD #36 disclaims any and all responsibility for the diagnosis, prescription of treatment, and administration of medication for any student, and for any injury arising from a student’s self-administration of medication.

In the event that medication must be administered during the school day, a student’s parent must request in writing that it occur. This request must include an acknowledgment and agreement that unlicensed personnel may administer the medication as per the health care provider’s instructions. In addition, the request shall indicate that information regarding the student’s medication may be shared with appropriate school personnel. Parents may provide the reason (diagnosis) requiring the administration of medication. Requests shall be valid for the current school year only.

All parental requests must be accompanied by a written order from the student’s health care provider substantiating the fact that the administration of a particular medication during the school day is necessary for the student’s health and attendance in school. Such order must include:

The student’s name,
The name of the medication,
The dose,
The form of administration (e.g., tablets, liquid, drops);
Time intervals for administration (e.g., every four hours, before meals);
Any special instructions;
The name of the prescribing health care provider.

It is the responsibility of the school nurse to clarify any medication order that he or she believes to be inappropriate or ambiguous. In accordance with Department of Education Rule Chapter 40 § 2(B), the school nurse may decline to administer a medication if he or she believes such administration would jeopardize student safety. In this case, the school nurse must notify the parent, the student’s health care provider, and the school administrator.

The student’s parents must deliver any medication to be administered by school personnel to the school in its original container. In the event that this is not practical, the parent must contact the school to make alternate arrangements. School personnel and the student’s parent shall account for all medications brought to school. The number of capsules, pills or tablets, and/or the volume of other medications brought to school shall be recorded.

No more than a 20 day (one month) supply of medication shall be kept at school, excluding inhalers and epinephrine pens. The parent is responsible for the replenishment of medication kept at school. If the health care provider’s order/prescription is for medication regulated by the Federal Narcotics Act, no more than a one week supply shall be kept at school.

The parent is responsible for notifying the school of any changes in or discontinuation of a prescribed medication that is being administered to the student at school. The parent must remove any medication no longer required or that remains at the end of the school year.

The school nurse shall be responsible for developing and implementing procedures for the appropriate and secure storage of medications kept at school, and all medications shall be stored in accordance with this procedure.

School staff administering medication shall document each instance the medication is administered including the date, time, and dosage given.

The school nurse shall maintain a record including the parent’s request, physician’s order, details of the specific medications (including dosage and timing of medication), and documentation of each instance the medication is administered.

To the extent legally permissible, staff members may be provided with such information regarding the medication and its administration as may be in the best interest of the student.

Homework

MSAD #36 believes homework is an integral part of the instructional process that supplements and extends classroom learning, providing students the opportunity to become independently responsible for their learning.. It will vary from simple, practical assignments completed in one night to involved projects covering several weeks. Whatever the nature and length of the assignment, students are responsible for doing homework.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement authorities may be notified of certain cases of student misconduct when it is deemed advisable by the administration for the protection of students, other persons, and public or private property.

Library and Media Services

The LFHS library media center (LMC) contains a wealth of information for student use. There are collections of print materials including hardcover and paperback fiction for pleasure reading and assignments. There is an extensive collection of non-fiction and reference materials for research needs and personal interests. A growing collection of books on tapes and CDs is available for listening options and there is a substantial variety of periodicals including newspapers, journals, and magazines available. Materials can also be borrowed from other libraries through the Maine State Library inter-library loan system.

Computers are available and are signed out on a first-come, first-served basis. Students using a computer must sign the computer use log designating the workstation they will be using. Only students who have turned in Internet permission forms are allowed to use the Internet. Internet permission forms are available in the main office and the LMC. Inappropriate use of computers or the Internet in the LMC will result in discipline.

Students in the media center must maintain a comfortable, working/learning atmosphere that allows all to accomplish their tasks. Homework is expected to be done in a study hall setting. Disruptive students will be returned to study hall or class and will lose their privileges to come to the LMC for one week. Food and beverages other than water are not allowed in the LMC with the exception of special functions.

To use the LMC, students must obtain a pass from a teacher for whom they have an assignment requiring LMC resources or from the media specialist. Study hall teachers may issue research passes for students to whom they have given assignments.

Students must sign-in and leave their passes at the circulation desk. Upon leaving prior to the end of a block, students must sign out at the circulation desk. Students need to ask permission to leave the LMC for any reason other than for returning to their classroom or study hall. Students must sign out and sign in upon their return.

Use of the photocopier is for school related materials ONLY.

Each student has an individually assigned barcode number to sign out LMC materials. LMC materials are signed out for a period of two weeks. Items may be renewed for a longer period of time if there is no demand for them. Fines are not charged for overdue materials; however, materials which remain unreturned at the end of the school year must be paid for by students. Failure to pay for unreturned materials will result in withholding of diplomas for senior students and withholding of class schedules for underclassmen.

The LMC offers credit for student library aides. See the LFHS Program of Studies for course description.

Lockers

Each student is assigned one locker. The lockers are the property of the school, and the school reserves the right to inspect them at any time. Students are responsible for the items in the lockers, and the school will accept no responsibility for items missing from lockers. Lockers should be kept locked at all times.

MSAD #36 Policies

All schools in MSAD #36 are subject to MSAD #36 policies. If there is a conflict between a LFHS policy and a district policy, the district policy shall be the one upheld.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

MSAD #36 does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, or physical or mental disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: MSAD #36 Affirmative Action Officer, Vicki Thayer-Adams.

Inquiries concerning the application of nondiscrimination polices may also be referred to the Regional Director, Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, S.W. McCormack POCH Room 222, Boston, MA 02109-4557.

Parking

Bringing a motor vehicle to school is a privilege that will be denied if it is abused. Students are permitted to drive their own cars and motorcycles to school. Students must obey all traffic signs and rules. The speed limit on school property is 15 m.p.h. Students must also operate their vehicles prudently at all times. Failure to do so will result in a variety of actions including loss of vehicle privileges, assignment of school discipline, and/or referral to the police.

All vehicles must be registered in the main office. Parking permits must be affixed to the vehicle at all times. Unregistered vehicles may be towed from school property at the owner's expense. There is no charge for the first permit. Second or replacement permits cost $2.00.

Students must lock their vehicles while parked on school grounds. Students are not allowed to go to their vehicles during the school day unless authorized to do so. Drivers are held responsible for any students or prohibited items found in their cars during school hours or after school hours at school event. Student drivers who are excused early must leave school grounds immediately. They are not to wait for riders in the parking lot.

Personal Property

The school is not responsible for the loss or theft of personal property and valuables. Students should report thefts to the main office as soon as possible. Large sums of money and valuable personal property should not be brought to school. All students are encouraged to maintain locks on their hall and gym lockers at all times.

Pledge of Allegiance

The Pledge of Allegiance will be conducted each morning. All students are encouraged to stand and recite the pledge.

Public Displays of Affection

Students should act in a manner that is respectful and does not interfere with the educational process.

Questioning and Searches

In order to maintain a safe and orderly environment in the school, administrators are authorized to question and search students. In addition, student use of all school storage facilities, including but not limited to lockers, desks, and parking lots, is a privilege granted by the school district. All storage facilities are district property and remain under the control, custody and supervision of the district. Students have no expectation of privacy in district storage facilities or for any items placed in such storage facilities. District staff has the authority to inspect and search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion, and without notice or consent.

If a search produces evidence that a student has violated or is violating the law or school or district policy, such evidence may be seized and impounded by the administrator and appropriate disciplinary action may be taken. Evidence may be forwarded to law enforcement authorities as required by law or as deemed appropriate by the administrator.

School Closures

In the event of school closing due to hazardous conditions, notification will be broadcast on these local radio and television stations: WKTJ 99.3 FM, WBLM 102.9, WABK 104.3 FM; WCSH Channel 6, WMTW Channel 8, and WGME Channel 13.

School Spirit

School spirit is a very important part of a student’s life at Livermore Falls High School, and it means loyalty to all functions of the school. Students must be courteous toward school personnel, teachers, fellow students, guests and officials of school activities; have pride in everything the school tries to and has accomplished; and have sportsmanship.

Senior Privileges

Members of the senior class, who maintain a GPA of 80 or better and have no failing grades from the previous quarter, who have a first or last period study hall, and who have signed permission from their parents, may leave school following their last class of the day. Seniors who are leaving for the day must leave the building and grounds during the passing period so they do not disturb classes in session. Excessive tardiness, poor daily attendance, poor conduct or attitude and poor or incomplete grades will result in the student losing their senior privilege. Seniors who are interested in obtaining Senior Privilege should pick up the application in the main office.

Special Education

Special education services are available for students who need specialized instruction and who qualify using federal guidelines. Any parent, teacher, or guidance counselor may refer a student to special education services. Once referred, the special education coordinator will review the student’s file to decide whether further assessment is warranted.

Students who have a disability that affects one or more life functions may qualify for accommodation services under Section 504. Any parent, teacher, or guidance counselor may refer a student to these services by contacting the guidance department.

Student Records

The School maintains accurate, updated records on all students. Parents have certain rights and responsibilities and should contact the principal with any questions on this policy.

Parents are responsible for completing the Student Information Sheet and returning it to the school as soon as possible. Parents are also responsible for contacting the school if any of the information on this sheet changes. It is imperative that the school know how to reach parents or have another designated person’s telephone number to use in the event of an emergency.

Parents shall have the right to inspect and review any and all official records, files, and data related to their children, including the material which is part of student’s cumulative record folder, and intended for school use or to be available to parties outside the school or school system, and specifically including — but not limited to — identifying data; academic work completed; level of achievement; attendance data; scores on standardized intelligence, aptitude, and psychological test; interest inventory results; health data; family background information; teacher or counselor rating and observations; and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.

MSAD #36 has established appropriate procedures for granting a parent request for access to their child’s school records. Such requests should be made at the principal. The school shall provide a school employee to interpret the information within the folder to the parents. Parents may request copies of materials contained in their child’s records at their own expense.

Information which the school maintains for student identification purposes may be released to other parties at the discretion of the principal. This information includes items such as name, address, parent’s name, etc. This information must be released to military branches and colleges who ask for them unless parents or students 18 years of age or older specifically request the information be withheld. These requests must be in writing and should be sent to the principal.

Student Technology Use

This information technology and network use policy governs the use of computers and networks in MSAD #36. As a user of these resources, students are responsible for reading and understanding this policy. It protects the consumers of computing resources, computing hardware and networks, and the system administrator.

MSAD #36 utilizes filtering technology designed to block any materials that are obscene or harmful to minors. The district is in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) as mandated by federal law. MSAD #36 is not responsible for internet use at home with equipment owned by the school.

Computers and networks can provide access to resources on and off school campus, as well as, communication with other users worldwide. Such access is a privilege and requires that individual users act responsibly. Users must respect the rights of other users, respect the integrity of the systems and related physical resources, and observe all relevant laws, regulations, and contracted obligations. Users must exercise care in acknowledging and respecting the work of others through strict adherence to software licensing agreements and copyright laws.

Users do not own accounts on MSAD #36's computers but are granted the privilege of use. Technology staff will have access to users’ files in the normal course of their employment when necessary to protect the integrity of computer systems or the rights or property of MSAD #36. All employees, students, parents and community members are expected to observe the following rules of network etiquette:

Do not disclose personal information about yourself or others.
Give credit to copyrighted materials found on the world wide web.
Use of e-mail must comply with MSAD #36's educational policies. Threatening or harmful e-mail will result in loss of privileges and possible further legal action.

Computers, networks and the Internet are provided for educational curriculum and applied research consistent with the learning objectives of MSAD #36. Each user is responsible for his/her actions and activities involving school unit computers, networks and Internet services, and for his/her computer files, passwords and accounts. Examples of unacceptable use that are expressly prohibited include but are not limited to the following:

Accessing inappropriate materials,
Illegal activities,
Violating copyrights,
plagiarism,
Copying software,
non-school related uses,
Misuse of passwords/unauthorized access,
Malicious use/vandalism,
Unauthorized access to chat rooms/news groups,
Unauthorized games, downloads and software installation.

MSAD #36 assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges made by students, including but not limited to credit card charges, long distance telephone charges, equipment and line costs, or for any illegal use of its computers such as copyright violations.

Be mindful that the availability of the Internet as a research tool is a tremendous benefit to the students, parents, employees and community users. Any attempts to vandalize, destroy data, will be cause for revocation of privileges.

Telephones

School telephones are business phones and are not to be used by the students except to call parents/guardians in an emergency. Incoming calls for students will not be accepted unless a parent/guardian has an important message they wish to be delivered to the student. The phones in the teachers’ rooms are for teacher use only. Students should not use classroom phones and must not use them without teacher permission.

Textbooks

Students will be issued textbooks in good condition in most classes. Students are responsible for maintaining the book in the same condition as when it was received. All textbooks should be covered. All textbooks must be returned at the end of the course. Students will be charged for lost of damaged textbooks and report cards will be held until outstanding obligations have been suitably satisfied. Students are further reminded that failure to satisfy these obligations may result in delay of awarding diplomas or processing of future transcript requests.

Tobacco Products

The health concerns of tobacco use have been well established and generally accepted by society. In order to reflect and emphasize the hazards of tobacco use; discourage students using tobacco products, protect the health and safety of students, employees, and the public; set an example of non-tobacco use by adults; comply with law that prohibits persons under the age of 18 from purchasing or possessing tobacco products; and promote the cleanliness of the district facilities, MSAD #36 has determined that no smoking of use of tobacco products shall be permitted on district grounds and in district facilities. This prohibition is for students, employees, and visitors.

Students who possess and/or use tobacco products while on district grounds shall be subject to confiscation of the tobacco product, suspension from school, and police intervention.

Vandalism

Livermore Falls High School is public property and students have the right and privilege to use it. School citizens have the responsibility to take care of the building and grounds and to see that others do not deface, destroy, or mar any part of it. It is important that all students assume the responsibility of appropriate behavior and discourage those who would damage or destroy school property. Disciplinary action will be taken in any instance of willful defacing of school property. Students who vandalize school property may have to pay twice the amount of restitution as allowed by Maine law.

Visitors

LFHS encourages the active interest and involvement of parents and citizens in the public schools. In order to avoid interruption of the instructional program and to promote the safety of students and staff, students are not allowed to bring visitors to LFHS unless the visitors are prospective students and the principal has given prior permission.

Weapons

Firearms, firearm replicas, knives, other weapons, or other objects which can be construed as weapons are expressly prohibited on school grounds. This includes and object specifically intended to do bodily harm. The minimum penalty is a ten (10) day suspension.

Wireless Communication Devices

Any communication device that is brought to school must be turned off and kept in the student’s locker until the end of the school day. If a student needs to call home (for instance, to arrange after school transportation; to pass on cancellation information; or to have something from home brought to school), he or she must use the office phone. Any device which goes “off” during the day will be confiscated and returned to the student’s parent.

Work Permits

Students who are fourteen or fifteen years old need a work permit to be legally employed in Maine. To apply for a work permit, students need to secure employment and report to the Superintendent’s Office at 15 Cedar Street in Livermore Falls. Applicants must bring with them a birth certificate, a social security card, and a parent or legal guardian.

2F

3L

4F

5L

6F

9L

10F

11L

12F

13L

16F

17L

18F

19L

20

23F

24L

25F

26L

27F

30L

31F

1L

2F

3L

1F

6F

7L

8F

9L

10F

4L

5F

6L

7F

8L

13L

14F

15L

16F

17L

11F

12L

13F

14L

15F

20

21

22

23

24

19F

20L

21F

27F

28L

26F

27L

28F

1F

2L

3F

4L

5F

8L

9F

10L

11

12

Period 4 (GN) 1:20 – 2:00 1:25 – 2:00

Early Release Schedule