HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-09-07 School Committee PacketOpen Session 7:00p.m.
Reading Memorial High School Library
Reading, MA
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
September 7, 2023
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
Page | 1
2018-07-16 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2023-09-07 Time: 7:00 PM
Building: School - Memorial High Location: School Library
Address: 62 Oakland Road Agenda: Revised
Purpose: Open Session
Meeting Called By: Thomas Wise, Chair
Notices and agendas are to be posted 48 hours in advance of the meetings excluding
Saturdays, Sundays and Legal Holidays. Please keep in mind the Town Clerk’s hours of
operation and make necessary arrangements to be sure your posting is made in an adequate
amount of time. A listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed at
the meeting must be on the agenda.
All Meeting Postings must be submitted in typed format; handwritten notices will not be accepted.
Topics of Discussion:
7:00 p.m. A. Call to Order
7:00 p.m. B. Public Comment
Consent Agenda
1. Minutes (08-24-2023)
2. Friends of RMHS Cheer Donation
3. Pegasus Springs Foundation Sense of Belonging Donation
4. Surplus Property
Warrant Reports
1. 08-24-2023
2. 08-31-2023
Reports
1. Superintendent
2. Liaison/Sub-Committee
7:20 p.m. E. New Business
1. MBTA Communities Presentation & Discussion
2. RMHS Student Handbook Review & Approval (A)
8:00 p.m. C. Personnel
1. Review Draft Superintendent Goals for FY23-24
8:30 p.m. E. New Business
3. Meeting Management & Presentation Protocol Discussion
F. Information / Correspondence
1.
Town of Reading
Meeting Posting with Agenda
This Agenda has been prepared in advance and represents a listing of topics that the chair reasonably anticipates will be discussed
at the meeting. However the agenda does not necessarily include all matters which may be taken up at this meeting.
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8:45 p.m. Adjourn
**Times are approximate
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Consent Agenda
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
September 7, 2023
Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
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2016-09-22 LAG Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
School Committee
Date: 2023-08-24 Time: 6:00 PM
Building: School - Memorial High Location: School Library
Address: 62 Oakland Road Session: Open Session
Purpose: Open Session Version: Draft
Attendees: Members - Present:
Shawn Brandt, Carla Nazzaro, Erin Gaffen, Tom Wise, Charles Robinson and
Sarah McLaughlin
Members - Not Present:
Others Present:
Superintendent Dr. Thomas Milaschewski, Assistant Superintendent of
Student Services Dr. Jennifer Stys, and Director of Finance and Operations
Dr. Derek Pinto
Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Olivia Lejeune on behalf of the chairperson.
Topics of Discussion:
A. Call to Order – Mr. Wise called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. to review the agenda.
B. Public Comment – None
Consent Agenda
1. Minutes (08-10-2023)
2. Warrant Reports (8-10-2023 and 8-17-2023)
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Mr. Brandt, and the
vote passed 6-0.
C. Personnel
1. Appointment of Superintendent to MSBA Killam Designer Selection Panel (A)
Mrs. Nazzaro gave a brief overview of the MSBA designer selection process and panel.
After receiving clarification, the memo in the packet is updated to reflect membership
information. The MSBA would like to see the Superintendent, Town Manager, and
someone from the building committee on the panel. After a review of the town charter,
the town council suggested each board vote to assign their representative to the panel.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to appoint Dr. Milaschewski, the Superintendent of Reading
Public Schools, to the Massachusetts School Building Authorities designer selection
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panel for the Killam School Building Project. The motion was seconded by Mr. Robinson,
the vote passed 6-0.
E. New Business
1. Review and Approval of District-Wide Student Handbook (A)
Dr. Stys provided the committee with an update on the District-Wide Student
Handbook. Last year, we made some great gains in standardizing the handbook. This
year we worked towards making the handbook more user-friendly. Dr. Stys pointed out
that the handbook is designed to notify legal requirements, so it tends to feel more
technical. We have linked the laws within the handbook and added a table of contents
that directly links to each section of the handbook.
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the District-Wide Student Handbook, seconded by
Mrs. Nazzaro. The committee discussed the removal of sex education in the handbook
and translation requirements for technical language. It was noted some links do not
work for those looking at the handbook outside of the district. Dr. Stys ensured the links
would be reviewed and updated. After no further discussion, the vote passed 6-0.
2. Outline Community Math Pathways Committee Timeline, Process, & Expectations
Dr. Milaschewski provided the committee with a brief update on the process for the
Community Math Pathways Committee. In the packet, there is a memo outlining what
to expect. Before the next School Committee meeting on September 7th, we will have
the launch of the Math Pathways Committee. This will be a recorded, virtual meeting
that can be shared afterward. The plan is to discuss in more detail the plan going
forward. Given the urgency of this project, the committee would close out their findings
by November 2nd and make a recommendation to the administration on the best path
forward therefore, we do anticipate some movement on this item in the next few
months. It is important to have community involvement and that has helped us in the
past.
Meetings will be held open to the public so even if you are not on the committee, you
would be welcome to join and listen in to the conversation happening at the table.
D. Old Business
1. Second Reading – DBDA – Special Education Reserve Fund (A)
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to approve the second reading of policy DBDA – Special
Education Reserve Fund, seconded by Mr. Brandt. Mr. Wise opened it up for
conversation in which the committee reviewed proposed edits. After no further
discussion, the vote passed 6-0.
2. Liaison, Subcommittee, and Charter Review Committee Appointment Notification
Mr. Wise briefly summarized the memo in the packet. Mr. Robinson has been appointed
to the Charter Review Committee, Mr. Wise and Mr. Brandt will pick up the Select
Board, Mr. Brandt will pick up the Finance Committee and Mrs. Gaffen will pick up the
Coalition.
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E. New Business
3. Policy Updates – Review and Vote on Amended Policies (A):
Mrs. Gaffen motioned to waive the reading of all policies in section E3 of the agenda,
seconded by Mr. Brandt, the vote passed 6-0.
Mr. Wise reviewed the following policies, and the committee discussed each one
individually:
Policy ADF: Mrs. Gaffen motioned to adopt policy ADF – School District Wellness
Program, seconded by Ms. Nazzaro, and the vote passed 6-0.
Policy DJE: Mrs. Gaffen motioned to adopt policy DJE – Procurement Requirements,
seconded by Mr. Brandt, and the vote passed 6-0.
Policy KCD: Mrs. Gaffen motioned to adopt policy KCD – Public Gifts to the Schools
as amended, seconded by Ms. Nazzaro, and the vote passed 6-0.
Policy DBJ: Mrs. Gaffen motioned to adopt policy DBJ – Budget Transfer Authority,
seconded by Mr. Brant, and the vote passed 6-0.
4. Appointment of School Committee Member to Wellness Committee
Mr. Wise stated this appointment was briefly discussed in the ADF policy conversation.
The intent is for this committee to meet quarterly and have a School Committee
member appointed. Mrs. Gaffen volunteered to be appointed to the Wellness
Committee. Mr. Wise appointed Mrs. Gaffen to the Wellness Committee
B. Reports
1. Assistant Superintendent of Student Services – Dr. Stys thanked SEPAC for speaking
at our leadership meetings with principals, assistant principals, and team chairs. This
week we kicked off our new staff orientation with 57 new staff attending. It has
been an exciting week and we are thrilled to have such enthusiastic and talented
new staff. Some of the highlights include the teaching staff receiving an overview of
reading and the brain, training on target literacy instruction, Crafting Minds Progress
Monitoring training, and Seeing Stars training. Thank you to the committee for the
support around literacy in the district.
2. Director of Finance and Operations – Dr. Pinto updated the committee starting with
IT. The team distributed freshman laptops last week ahead of schedule. The Food
Service Department is finishing up the installation of new equipment. Transportation
routes have been finalized and we have met with the transportation company to
make slight adjustments. Dr. Pinto and Ms. Lejeune will be riding the bus on the first
day of school.
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3. Superintendent – Dr. Milaschewski reminded the committee that staff start back on
Monday and we welcome students back on Wednesday. We are still hiring for a few
positions, so please let us know if you have anyone interested.
4. Liaison/Sub-Committee
a. Mr. Robinson – SWEC has met twice and both meetings were held to discuss
the RFI and finalization. There has also been a recreation meeting in which
pickleball was the highlight of the discussion.
b. Mrs. Nazzaro – The Killam School Building Committee meets regularly. At the
last meeting, the Request for Services document was discussed, and it is
going out soon to be submitted to the MSBA. The committee has been
presented with two separate schedules from the MSBA in which the more
accelerated schedule was approved.
c. Mr. Brandt – No Report
d. Ms. McLaughlin – No Report
e. Mrs. Gaffen – No Report
f. Mr. Wise – The Finance Committee met and free cash, while not fully
certified, was reported at $18.1 million, which is below the approximately
$19 million that was certified last year. The stabilization fund is still where it
was. That is quite good considering what was spent out of free cash last year.
Another thing for the committee to note, some things have been pushed
back in meetings given other topics so the next meeting will be a bit heavier
with one item specifically being the superintendent goal discussion. The
committee will also discuss the RMHS student handbook and review a
presentation on the MBTA communities.
G. Executive Session
1. Joint Session with the Finance Committee – To discuss strategy with respect to
collective bargaining if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the
bargaining position of the public body (Reading Teachers Association,
Paraprofessionals, and Secretaries)
Ms. Gaffen motioned to enter into joint Executive Sessions and not return to open
session with the Finance Committee to discuss strategy with respect to collective
bargaining Reading Teachers Association, Reading Paraeducators Association, and
Reading Administrative Secretaries Association as the chair states an open meeting will
have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the Reading School Committee,
seconded by Ms. Nazzaro.
Roll Call Vote – Roll Call Vote to adjourn to Executive Session, Mr. Robinson – yes, Ms.
Nazzaro – yes, Mr. Brandt – yes, Ms. McLaughlin – yes, Ms. Gaffen – yes, and Mr. Wise –
yes. The vote passed 6-0.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucg6sw2qzL4
Meeting Adjourned 6:52pm
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Olivia Lejeune, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
DATE: September 5, 2023
RE: Vote to Accept Friends of RMHS Cheer Donation
Please vote to accept a donation of $800 from the Friends of RMHS Cheer. The purpose of this donation
is to purchase custom mix music for the 2023 competition season for the RMHS cheerleading team.
Please find attached the award letter from Connie DiMeo, President & Secretary of Friends of RMHS
Cheer.
Thank you.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
MEMORANDUM
15 Lincoln Street, #315 ● Wakefield, MA 01880 ● 781-486-4554
To: Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent, Reading Public Schools
From: Craig Martin, Pegasus Springs Foundation
cc: Sarah Marchant, Principal, A.W. Coolidge Middle School
Rochelle Rubino, Principal, W.S. Parker Middle School
Date: August 15, 2023
Re: Donation to support “Sense of Belonging” middle school goals
Pegasus Springs Foundation is pleased to present you a donation of $20,000 to support the middle
schools’ “Sense of Belonging” goals. We agree whole-heartedly that all students deserve to feel part
of an unconditionally supportive learning environment where they feel safe, know they are
understood and respected as individuals, and have a strong sense of belonging within the community.
As research confirms, we know it is in such an environment where young people can best learn, grow,
and achieve—or, as you say in one of the School Improvement plans, that “students must also feel a
strong sense of belonging in their communities” in order to maximize their learning opportunities.
As this most likely is a multi-year goal, we are also happy to consider renewing additional funding for
the following school year, given an update on your progress and the specific steps being taking to
achieve your goals. Specifically, we would look forward to learning more about ways in which you are
creating an effective Tier 1 approach that positively impacts the entire school, how you are integrating
themes and approaches into the school’s daily programming, and how data and feedback from
students might be demonstrating progress toward your goals.
Your updates can help inform us on how we might best assist similar efforts in other school
communities, and we encourage you also to make the overall integration of your Tier 1 efforts a
model that you could share with other schools. As you move forward, feel free as well to let us know if
there are any other ways that we might be able to help support these efforts to benefit your students.
The Reading Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age or disability.
Memo Coolidge & Parker Middle Schools
To: Reading School Committee
Thomas Milaschewski
From: Sarah Marchant & Rochelle Rubino
Date: September 5, 2023
Re: Donation
Dear Reading School Committee Members,
Please accept this donation in the amount of $20,000 from the Pegasus Springs Foundation in support of
our “Sense of Belonging” work at Coolidge and Parker Middle Schools, in alignment with the District and
School Goals. We are very appreciative of the support of the Pegasus Springs Foundation as we work
to create a strong sense of community and belonging among all Coolidge and Parker community
members; their ongoing support of our district goals around equity, inclusion, and social-emotional
well-being have had a tremendous impact over the years.
Coolidge and Parker will be utilizing this grant to offer the Challenge Day Program to all 8th graders in the
district. The goals of the Challenge Day experience are to help all participants (students, staff, and
community members) to build a sense of care and community, to build empathy, and to internalize that no
one is alone. In addition to 8th graders, the program will include participation by middle school staff. If spots
remain open, we will also include District staff, parents and community members.
We are grateful for the current and historic support of this program from so many of our community
constituents. This includes our district leadership; the School Committee; the Reading Education
Foundation (who granted funding in year 1); the Coolidge and Parker School Councils (in their development
of our SIP and the integration of Challenge Day as one action item); the Coolidge and Parker staff; as well
as the Coolidge and Parker PTOs.
As the current data reflects, there is a mental health crisis happening post-pandemic with teens across our
nation. Our middle schools vow to create environments that work to support student well-being; we
prioritize this importance, as when students are well emotionally, they are then able to maximize their
academic potential. We do so through enrichment activities, strong SEL staffing and support, strong Tier 1
SEL programming, strong Advisory programming, and strong Tier 2 & 3 interventions. The student
feedback we have collected in the past about Challenge Day validates that this experience is one that
contributes greatly to fulfill these goals. While this is one piece of a much larger plan to support Sense of
Belonging in the district, we are very appreciative to be able to hold this experience again this year.
Thank you for your consideration.
Reading Public Schools Instilling ajoy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow TO:
FROM:
DATE:
RE:
Reading School Committee
Derek Pinto, Director of Finance and Operations
September 5, 2023
Request to Surplus Property
82 Oakland Road Reading, MA 01867 Phone: 781-944-5800 Fax: 781-942-9149
In compliance with the surplus disposition requirements of Massachusetts procurement law MGL
Chapter 30B, I ask that the School Committee declare the items outlined below as surplus property:
Item Number Age Reason
Student Chairs 25 15 years Oldest/no room in
storage due to fire
code
Desks 24 15 years Oldest/no room in
storage due to fire
code
File cabinet 1 30 years In horrible condition
toilet 1 ? Not needed and no
room for storage
Bathroom sink 1 ? Not needed and no
room for storage
metal carts 2 ? In poor condition
Once declared, the school department will take the required steps to offer these items to Town
departments, or resold, or disposed of in accordance with the laws and regulations of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Please feel free to contact me with questions about this
request.
Thank you.
New Business
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
September 7, 2023
Memo
To:Reading Public Schools School Committee
From:RMHS Principal,Jessica B.Callanan
Date:August 31,2023
Subject:Approved Changes to RMHS Handbook for 2023-24
The following changes and /or updates to the RMHS Student Handbook were voted on and
approved by the RMHS School Council on August 30,2023.Attached is a copy of the 2022-23
RMHS Student Handbook with the track changes to highlight where updates were made and will
be incorporated and published as the 2023-23 RMHS Student Handbook once approved by the
RPS School Committee.
●Change all dates from 2022-23 to 2023-24
●Change all references to “guidance counselor”to “school counselor”
●Change all references to “administration or Assistant Principals”to “principal or
designee”
●Update names and contact information where needed
●Correct minor grammar errors or tense agreements
●Update calendar from 2022-23 to 2023-24 and add link to RMHS website link
●Delete dated references to COVID or past graduating classes
●Add in the Academic Honors /Speakers of Graduation section,“Traditionally,both the
valedictorian and salutatorian give a speech at the graduation ceremony.In the event of
a GPA tie valedictorian and salutatorian will be determined out to the one hundredth.”
●When the National Honor Society (NHS)advisors and faculty council update the
requirements for students to gain admittance to NHS the new policies and requirements
will take the place of the current in the 2023-24 RMHS Handbook.
●Change references to “Foreign Language”to “World Language.”
●Add to RMHS Health Services -Screening section that “parents may opt out of
screenings by sending written notice to the School Nurse.”
●Update /Replace Health Services section with District Health Policy and add link
●Remove all references to “suspension”in areas that it no longer applies due to changes
in law and replace with “disciplinary consequences and /or interventions.”
●Change “library”to “library media center.”
●Remove expired links that no longer work.
●Change “no pass period”in Safety and Security section to “no pass period /hold.”
●Delete references to free and reduced lunch being temporary or not for all students
●Change references to “official pass”to “approved pass.”
●In Section K re:Mid-year and Final Exams and Senior Exam Exemption Guidelines the
sentence that reads,“Seniors who earn an average of at least a B though the end of 3rd
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quarters (83-86)and have been absent less than 6 days during second semester will be
exempt from taking the final assessment.”Change 3rd quarter to 4th quarter.
●Insert passage from attorney and replace sections of RMHS handbook that are
redundant as a result (Below):
Reading High School Language:
CODE OF CONDUCT
Disciplinary action for code of conduct violations shall be issued in compliance with all student
discipline due process requirements,pursuant to READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS 2023-2024
STUDENT HANDBOOK.
A safe,inclusive,and engaging learning environment is essential to the academic and
social-emotional development of all students.A comprehensive education should endow
students with the skills to develop and maintain respectful,healthy,and productive relationships
among themselves and with faculty members,and should prioritize citizenship and responsible
behavior at school and at school-sponsored events.
The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to 1)outline expectations for maintaining positive
relationships and upholding the fundamentals of good citizenship within the Reading Memorial
High School community and 2)establish accountability for students who fail to act as safe,
respectful,a safe,inclusive,and engaging learning environment is essential at school and during
school-sponsored events.
The Reading Memorial High School Code of Conduct and the potential approaches to
accountability for violations of the Code of Conduct apply to students during the school day,
when students are on Reading Public Schools grounds,while students are engaged in or
attending school or school-sponsored activities,and while students are traveling to and from
school or a school-sponsored activity.Students may be held accountable for violations of the
Code of Conduct while away from school at other times if the conduct or incident is related to
school,adversely impacts the school community,disrupts the school environment,or creates an
unsafe environment at school.
Accountability:An essential part of learning is the expectation that students be required to
account for the decisions they make and behaviors they engage in.At Reading High School,
accountability should include students accepting responsibility for their actions and engaging
logical,timely,and equitable consequences for these actions.The Code of Conduct is rooted in
the theory of restorative and progressive accountability and attempts to limit the use of
exclusionary accountability practices (i.e.suspension)when appropriate.
●Restorative Accountability:Either in lieu of or in conjunction with traditional,progressive
accountability practices,the school administration may recommend approaches to
accountability,especially when incidents arise as the result of conflict between Reading
Memorial High School community members.
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○Any approach to an incident or conflict will be with the intent to assist a student or
students to accept accountability by working with them to:
■Acknowledge responsibility,
■Directly engage with the person or people impacted,and
■Agree to a plan to avoid similar incidents or behavior moving forward.
○A resolution to an incident will also be with the intent to restore a sense of safety
and belonging for any Reading Memorial High School community member
impacted by an interaction or incident.
○Prior to facilitating any response to an incident,the administration will confirm that
all parties are willing participants,and have been oriented to the response
protocols.Additionally,when possible,the administration will enlist the support of
the school counseling faculty,or other sources of student support,to assist with
the process.
○Accountability interventions may consist of but are not limited to:
■Conferences
■School or community conferences
■Community service
■Additional supports for community members in need
■Restitution
■Academic and social-emotional support upon reentry/return to school
●Progressive Accountability:When requiring students to account for their behavior or
decisions,the staff may consider consequences that consist of,but are not limited to the
following,in accordance disciplinary due process requirements:
○Parent Outreach The school faculty will prioritize parental engagement when
requiring a student to account for violations of the Code of Conduct.This
engagement may be in the form of email communication,a phone call,or a
meeting.Parents may be required to meet with the school administration when
students repeatedly violate the Code of Conduct.This includes violations of the
Attendance Policy.
○Confiscation of Belongings:If the administration determines that a student has
something in their possession that either violates the law or substantially disrupts
the learning process for that student or for other students,the administration may
confiscate those items.
○Withholding of Privileges:This may include the withholding of privileges during the
school day or after school activities.
○Short Term Suspension:Will be determined by an administrator accordance with
disciplinary due process procedures;student’s removal from school for no more
than ten (10)school days.
○Long Term Suspension:Will be determined by an administrator accordance with
disciplinary due process procedures;student’s removal from school for more than
ten (10)to ninety (90)school days.
○Expulsion:Will be determined by an administrator accordance with disciplinary
due process procedures;student’s removal from school for more than 90 school
days,including permanent removal from school.
○When considering progressive accountability measures,the administration will
consider all relevant facts,which include,but are not limited to
■Previous incidents involving the student,
■The severity of the disruption caused by a student’s actions,
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■The degree of the safety risk or the harm to a student or other
students or staff members,and
■The degree to which a student is willing to change their behavior,or
has been willing and able to change their behavior in the past.
○When school administrators consider suspending students from school,as
the result of an inappropriate exchange,incident,or behavior,they will
adhere to the notification protocols and due process requirements
contained in Massachusetts General Law Ch.71,Sections 37H,37H1/2,and
37H3/4.
Behavioral Expectations:The physical and emotional safety of all students and Reading High
School community members is a top priority of the Code of Conduct.Additionally,in keeping
with the Core Values and Beliefs of the Reading Public Schools,Reading High School
community members are expected to foster respectful and responsible relationships and
contribute positively to a diverse and inclusive learning environment.Students who detract
from these community goals,or fail to act as positive community members,will be required to
account for their behavior in accordance with the school’s or progressive approach to
accountability.
Students will not engage in the following list of behaviors:
●Discrimination against a student based on that student’s race,color,religion,national
origin,ethnic background,gender,sexual orientation,gender identity,or disability
status.
●Targeting,ridiculing,or using as a source of humor another student’s race,color,
religion,national origin,ethnic background,gender,sexual orientation,gender identity,
or disability status.
●Create,post,or inappropriately comment on any online or social media item that
harasses,threatens,intimidates,abuses,or demeans individuals or groups on the basis
of race,ethnicity,religion,gender,gender identity,sexual orientation,creed,national
origin,or disability status.
●Possession,intent to possess,consumption,distribution,selling,purchasing,or being
under the influence of any drug or drug paraphernalia,alcoholic beverage,or intoxicant
of any kind,to include the possession,use,or distribution of tobacco related products,
electronic cigarettes,vaping products,and vaping paraphernalia.
●Possession of a weapon of any kind,including,but not limited to knives,blades,guns,
or other dangerous instruments such as lighters and pepper spray.This includes the
possession of mock weapons.
●Sexually harassing another person,either by words or actions.This includes words,
expressions,or images posted online or on social media platforms.
●The issuance of a criminal complaint charging a student with a felony or the issuance of
a felony delinquent complaint.
●Assaulting,fighting,or striking another person,or threatening to assault,fight,or strike
another person.
●Profanity,obscenity,discourtesy,or disrespect directed toward school staff members.
●Insubordination,or failure to comply with,or ignoring the requests of a staff member.
This includes a student’s failure to properly identify themselves when asked by a staff
member for their name.It is the expectation of all students that they comply with staff
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members’directives.If a student disagrees with a directive,they should at first comply
and then appeal to their counselor or assistant principal for support.
●Dishonesty,which includes,but is not limited to academic dishonesty (i.e.cheating
and/or plagiarism),forgery,and dishonesty about incidents or behavior.
●Theft,or attempts to steal,the belongings of another.This includes the theft or attempt
to steal school equipment,materials,or supplies.
●Vandalism or the destruction or attempt to destroy school property or the property of
others.This includes the misuse of lockers.
●Leaving the building,school property,or a mandatory school sponsored event without
permission.
●Being present in an unauthorized area of the building or the Reading High School
campus.This includes,but is not limited to,loitering in bathrooms,unsupervised use of
the athletic facilities before,during,and after school,parking in unauthorized (i.e.
faculty)parking spaces,and being in the lower parking lot during school hours.
●Failure to report to an assigned detention,to include assigned teacher detentions.
●Ordering food and having it delivered to school during school hours.
●Disrupting school by pulling a fire alarm or falsely reporting a risk that leads to an
emergency response (i.e.a bomb threat).
●Inciting or provoking another student to violate school rules,disrupt school or a
school-related event,or engage in dangerous or inappropriate behavior.
●Any behavior not listed above that compromises the discipline and routine of the
school day or a school-sponsored event or a person’s physical or emotional safety,or
that the administration determines is inappropriate for the school environment.
●All employees are required to report to the Principal any incident in which a student is
found in possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school property or a
student-sponsored event.Principals will file reports under as required by M.G.L.
Chapter 71,Section 37L.This state law then requires follow up reporting and
assessment for students.
Attendance Expectations:There are occasions when violations of the school Attendance
Policy may also be violations of the Code of Conduct,and students may be held accountable
for those violations.
The following attendance related concerns are considered violations of the Code of Conduct:
●Tardiness to school,before 8:15 am.Students can be assigned an Office Detention if
they arrive tardy to school more than three times in a single term.Students who arrive
tardy to school more than 8 times in a single term may be ineligible to participate in
extracurricular activities,which may include athletics,for the remainder of that term.
This includes students who arrive late to school with or without parental notes or
call-ins.
●Tardiness to school,after 8:45 am.Students who arrive to school after 8:45,without
appropriate documentation (i.e.signed doctor’s note),have missed more than 15
minutes of class and will therefore be considered to have skipped their first period.
These absences will count against the student’s absence limit in that class.Additionally,
students may be assigned an Office Detention for skipping that class.
●Tardiness to class,by less than 15 minutes.When students arrive late to a class by less
than 15 minutes,without a proper pass or permission,that student may receive a
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Teacher Detention.If a student’s tardiness continues,the teacher may submit a referral
to the administration.
●Tardiness to class,by more than 15 minutes.When a student arrives late to a class by
more than 15 minutes,without permission,that student will be considered to have
skipped that class.
●Skipping class.When a student misses more than 15 minutes of a class,without
permission,that student has skipped class.The administration will address students
who skip class.That absence will count against a student’s absence limit for the class.
Additionally,students may receive an Office Detention for skipping class.Students may
not be permitted to make-up work or receive credit for work missed as a result of
skipping.If students continue to skip class,the administration will consider
interventions consistent with a progressive accountability approach.
●Truancy.Students are truant from school when they are absent without parental
permission or knowledge.Absences due to truancy will count against a student’s
absence limit.Students who are truant from school may not be permitted to make-up
work or receive credit for work missed during their absence.
When working with students to account for attendance specific violations,the administration
will make every effort to avoid exclusionary accountability (i.e.suspension).However,there
may be occasions when a student’s poor classroom attendance disrupts the school learning
environment and compromises the experience of other students.Additionally,there may be
cases when students continually fail to account for or improve their poor attendance or
tardiness.In these instances,the administration may consider exclusionary accountability.
Student Leadership:Any student who holds a leadership position at Reading High School will
be held to a high standard of behavior to maintain their position.If a student leader engages in
a significant violation of the code of conduct or exhibits chronic behavioral problems,the
principal or designee maintains the right to remove the leadership position from the student.
Bus Expectations:Any violation of the bus code of conduct is expected to be resolved as soon
as possible.The bus driver and monitor will work closely with each school Principal,the
METCO Director,and the METCO Coordinator to make sure the bus rules and guidelines are
followed.To ensure students have a safe and efficient ride to and from Reading every day,all
students must adhere to the following rules and guidelines on the bus.
Rules:
1.Respect
●Be respectful to the driver,monitor and peers.
●Always remain seated.
●Use appropriate language and content.
●Physical contact,even as a form of greeting,is discouraged.
●No horseplay or play fighting.
●Recording of other students is not allowed.
2.Responsibility
●North Suburban Transportation prohibits eating on the bus,please respect that
by eating prior to entering the bus.
●Use of musical devices and cell phones with headphones is allowed.
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Speakers may not be used on the bus.
●Clean up after yourself.
3.Seating
●All students will sit two to a seat.
●No student will have their own seat unless designated by a building principal,
METCO Coordinator,METCO Director,or bus monitor/bus driver.
●Any student refusing to let a student who needs a seat sit with them will be
subject to disciplinary actions.
●High School students will be given the opportunity to pick their own seats.If
this becomes problematic,then the Principal,METCO Coordinator,or METCO
Director will assign seats.
●All 9th grade students will sit in the front of the bus,10th graders will sit behind
the 9th graders,11th graders will sit behind the 10th graders and seniors get
preference to the back seating.
Discipline:All disciplinary outcomes are meticulously determined by the principal,following a
comprehensive framework established by the district handbook and in strict adherence to both
Massachusetts state laws and relevant federal regulations.This structured approach ensures that
each disciplinary decision is fair,consistent,and aligned with the established guidelines,fostering
a safe environment for all students while upholding their rights and responsibilities.
All incidents on the bus can result in school suspension or any school disciplinary actions.
A bus suspension does not necessarily include a suspension from school.Students suspended
from the bus are still expected to attend school.Any student who is suspended from the bus and
does not attend school will be marked absent for the day(s).It is the parent/guardian’s
responsibility to arrange for transportation to and from school during a bus suspension.
SEX EDUCATION
In accordance with General Laws Chapter 71,Section 32A,all parents/guardians of students in
our school are notified by means of this handbook of the high school courses and curriculum we
offer that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues.
Parents/guardians of students who enroll in school after the start of the school year will be
provided with a handbook at the time of enrollment.If the planned curriculum changes during the
school year,parents/guardians will be notified of this fact in a timely manner before
implementation.
Within the scope of the existing curriculum,the following courses have components that include
issues of human sexual education or human sexuality issues for high school level courses and
curriculum:Diverse Voices,Anatomy &Physiology,Health,Biology,Psychology,Environmental
Science and Child Development.
Under Massachusetts Law,parents/guardians may:
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1.Exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involves human sexual
education or human sexuality issues,without penalty to the student,by sending a letter to
the principal requesting an exemption.Any student who is exempted by request of the
parent/guardian under this policy may be given an alternative assignment.
2.Inspect and review program instruction materials for these curricula,which will be made
accessible to parents/guardians and others to the extent practicable.Parents/guardians
may arrange with the principal to review the materials at the school and may also review
them at other locations that may be determined by the principal.
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1
Student Handbook 2022-
2023
Reading Memorial High School
62 Oakland Road
Reading, Massachusetts 01867
Phone: (781) 944-8200
Fax: (781) 942-5435
Mr. Kevin Tracey, Principal
https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/memorial/
“We believe our work centers on the pursuit of knowledge and the
cultivation of intellectual, emotional and physical well-being.”
Paper copies are available for view in the Main Office
August 2022
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Dear Members of the Reading Memorial High School Community,
This handbook includes helpful information, policies, and procedures about our high
school that reflect the traditional brick and mortar in school experience. It also includes
our behavioral expectations for students, which is designed to keep all members of our
high school community safe and secure. As part of our Core Values and Beliefs, we
expect all RMHS students to act with respect towards all members of the school
community, take responsibility for their actions, persevere through challenges and
exhibit scholarship in their studies. RMHS is a great place. Here, we value our
students and see them as individuals. However, we must all be responsible and
contribute to a culture of respect, safety, and tolerance. Know that upon entering and
exiting this building you represent Reading Memorial High School, a school rich in
tradition yet unafraid to embrace change.
It is important that all students feel safe to learn and grow academically, socially, and
personally. As you plan for the upcoming year, I encourage you to take advantage of
opportunities, as they are plentiful here at the high school. The rules, as outlined in this
handbook, are in place to make your high school experience a safe one. Know that
each year is a fresh start for our students. Take advantage of that fresh start. Thank you
in advance for your help in keeping our school a safe place to achieve inside and
outside of the classroom. With Respect,
RMHS Administration
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Handbook Disclaimer
The laws, School Committee policies, and school rules stated in this handbook are intended to ensure the
safe, orderly, and educationally sound operation of Reading Memorial High School. In addition to these
written provisions, there may be times where, to further insure the safe, orderly, and educationally sound
operation of the school, the school administration may enforce a standard of conduct upon students that
furthers this end. Furthermore, the school administration has the right to enforce any law, ordinance, or
School Committee policy not written in this handbook. If a new law or ordinance, or School Committee
policy is passed, it supersedes current rules.
The Reading Public Schools strives to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment in
which all students can thrive and succeed in its schools. The Reading Public Schools prohibits
discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, or
sexual orientation and ensures that all students have equal rights of access and equal enjoyment of the
opportunities, advantages, privileges, and courses of study.
Please see the RPS Handbook 23-24.pdf for additional information, and rights and responsibilities of all
Reading Public Schools students.
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Committee Approved Handbook
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
I. RMHS Core Values and Beliefs
II. Portrait of the Graduate
III. Expectations for Student Learning
IV. Academic Information
A. 2022-2023 School Year Calendar
B. RMHS Bell Schedule 2022-2023
C. Graduation and Promotion Requirements
D. Course Selection Process
E. Course Changes
F. Grading System and Associated Honors
G. Honor Roll
H. Weighted Grade Point Average
I. Academic Honors / Speakers for Graduation
J. Grade Reporting/Report Cards
K. Mid-Year and Final Exams
L. National Honor Society
M. Century Club
N. Summer School
O. Financial Obligations
P. Student Records
V. Student Supports
A. Academic Support
B. District Wide Curriculum Accommodation Plan
C. Education Proficiency Plans
D. Services and Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
E. Behavioral Health
F. RMHS Guidance Department
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G. RMHS Health Services
H. Library Media Center
I. Communication
J. Parent/Guardian Involvement
VI. Safety and Security
A. Visitors
B. School Resource Officer
C. Fire Drill / Evacuation / Lockdown Procedures
VII. Student Life
A. Cafeteria and School Lunches
B. Lockers
C. Parking Regulations
D. Insurance
E. Working Papers
F. Guests
G. Release of Students From Class For An Activity
H. Truancy from Directed Study
I. Pass System
J. Assemblies
K. Dance Contracts
L. Dress Code
M. Food Regulations
N. Identification
O. Leaving School Grounds
P. Skateboards and Inline Skates
VIII. Attendance
A. Attendance Expectations
B. Parent/Guardian & School Responsibilities for Attendance
C. Excused Absences
D. Reporting a Student Absence
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E. Attendance Guidelines
F. Loss of Credit Policy
G. Tardiness Policy
H. Due Process Hearing for Attendance Review and Credit Recovery
I. Dismissal
J. Vacation Absence Policy
K. Truancy Policy
L. Attendance and Participation in Co-Curricular and Athletic Activities
M. Massachusetts Laws Governing School Attendance
N. Age of Majority
O. Withdrawal
P. Additional Links for Support
IX. Code of Conduct and Behavioral Expectations
A. General Behavioral Guidelines Code of Conduct
B. Accountability
C. Behavioral Expectations
D. School-Wide Expectations
E. Classroom Expectations
F. Overview of Consequences and Interventions
G. Detailed List of Infractions and Consequences by Level and Type
H. Conduct at School and School Sponsored Events
I. Student Chemical Health Policies
J. Academic Integrity: Cheating & Plagiarism
K. Assault of a Faculty/Staff Member, Dangerous Weapons and Narcotics
L. Conduct of Students Outside of School Bus Expectations
M. Discipline
N. Overview of Consequences and Interventions
X. Reading Public Schools Virtual Technology Procedures and Protocols, Computer
Network and Internet Acceptable Use Policy For 6-12 Students
XI. Co-Curricular Activities
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A. Activities, Organizations and Clubs
B. User Fees
C. Student Leader/Team Captain Responsibilities
D. Athletic Participation Guidelines
XI. School and District Policies per Federal and State Laws and Regulations
A. Restraint
B. Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment
C. Harassment and Discrimination Policies
D. Bullying Prevention
E. Pregnant Students
F. McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act
G. Hazing
H. Student Due Process Rights under M.G.L. c 71 §37H & 37H1/2
I. M.G.L. c.71, §37H3/4
J. Discipline of Students with Disabilities
K. M.G.L. c.76, §21
L. M.G.L. c.71, §37L
M. Parent/Guardian Notification Regarding Sexual Education And Human Sexuality
Issues & Sex Education
N. Search and Seizure Policy
O. Use of Breathalyzers at School or School Sponsored Events
P. Use of Drug and Bomb Sniffing Dogs
XII. Appendices
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I. RMHS Core Values and Beliefs and Portrait of the Graduate
The primary goal of Reading Memorial High School is the preparation of students to be literate,
skilled, creative, healthy, competent and informed citizens-appreciative of the arts; capable of
critical thinking and problem-solving; and able to function intellectually, emotionally and
physically within a complex, interdependent and pluralistic world.
The Core Values that guide all members of the RMHS Community and all of our actions and
decisions are:
• RESPECT
• RESPONSIBILITY
• PERSEVERANCE
• SCHOLARSHIP
As educators, we believe our work centers on the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of
intellectual, emotional and physical well-being. We help our students enhance their ability to
think by teaching the symbols and concepts through which thought, and creativity take place,
and by developing the skills for using those symbols and concepts. The uses of intelligence with
which we are concerned include critical thinking, observing, information gathering, processing
and evaluating, listening, logic, computation, oral and written communication, and the
application of these skills in decision-making and problem solving. We help our students by
imparting knowledge of their bodies and providing opportunities for physical activity.
We believe that a positive learning community:
• is safe, caring, consistent, fair, flexible, open and democratic.
• meets the needs of all students through educational programs that promote individual
fulfillment in a variety of ways as well as encompasses the complex interdependence of
the world and the community.
• achieves educational excellence in an environment which promotes the free and open
exchange of ideas; encourages mutual respect, creative expression and problem-solving
skills; fosters human dignity; and recognizes and respects racial, ethnic, cultural and
sexual differences.
• promotes individuality; nurtures self-esteem, health and well-being; and encourages
participation in a democratic society.
We believe that the education of our young people is the shared responsibility of the school,
student, family and community.
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II. Portrait of a Graduate - Reading Public Schools
RPS Graduates are leaders of their own learning journey who demonstrate kindness and
empathy towards others and a commitment to wellness. They persevere through challenges,
embrace multiple perspectives, and aspire to be their best selves in the service of others to
better our community and our world.
Learn - Grow - Teach
RPS Graduates are critical thinkers and creative problem solvers. They take ownership of their
learning journey and are open to struggle to foster personal growth. They are confident in their
beliefs and consider the thoughts and ideas of others. They embrace collaboration to help
teach others and remain curious life-long learners.
Empathize - Consider Perspectives - Practice Communal Care
RPS Graduates show kindness and empathy towards others and a commitment to personal
wellness and communal care. They are able to persevere through challenges and demonstrate
resilience. They authentically reflect through hearing and understanding the experiences,
perspectives, and needs of people around them. To navigate relationships with generosity and
patience, they listen actively and compassionately.
Engage - Serve - Thrive
RPS Graduates responsibly shape our world through collaboration with their community. They
engage with and communicate multiple perspectives, aspire to be their best selves in the
service of others in order to thrive, and bring their skills and knowledge to action for the benefit
of each other and our world.
III. Expectations for Student Learning
• Students will Act Effectively and Responsibly
o Students will use sound reasoning to defend their own actions, thoughts and
decisions.
o Students will demonstrate an understanding of the need to act responsibly and
ethically in making life decisions related to economics, civics, and health related
behaviors.
o Students’ actions and thoughts will demonstrate an awareness of their place as
citizens in a global society.
• Students will Search for Knowledge and Understanding
o Students will pursue learning with persistence as demonstrated through reading,
comprehension, and interpretation in an effort to effectively access information
and deepen their understanding and quality of their work.
o Students will demonstrate cultural literacy.
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• Students will Communicate with Clarity
o Students will communicate clearly and effectively in written form.
o Students will effectively articulate in oral form a stand on issues and support their
position with credible information and cogent arguments.
o Students will use technology to communicate responsibly and effectively.
• Students will Think Creatively and Critically
o Students will demonstrate flexibility in his/her thinking by considering multiple
solutions to a problem.
o Students will work collaboratively with team members to produce/create complex,
well-conceived answers and solutions.
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IV. Academic Information
A. 2022-2023 School Year Calendar 2023-24 RPS / RMHS School Calendar
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B. RMHS Bell Schedule 2022-23 2023-24 RMHS Bell Schedule
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C. Graduation and Promotion Requirements
Each student who successfully passes all of the required courses listed in the table below, in
addition to receiving passing scores on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System
(MCAS) Subject Tests in English Language Arts, Mathematics and Science will earn a diploma
from Reading Memorial High School. Students are enrolled in major academic courses based
on teacher, counselor, and parent/guardian recommendations.
English: 4 years Math: 4 years
Science: 3 years Social Studies: 3 years
Foreign Language: 2 years Business/Technology: 1 year or 2 semesters
Physical Education: 4 Semesters Health Issues: 1 Semester (11th grade)
Intro to Health: 1 Semester (9th grade) Fine and Performing Arts:1 year or 2
Semesters
● The MassCore strongly recommends 4 years of math for all students
All students must pass 90 credits in order to graduate from Reading Memorial High School.
Also, Seniors must pass a minimum of 19 credits during their senior year.
Course credit is awarded on a yearly basis. Semester 1 includes Term 1 and 2 and the mid-year
assessment. Semester 2 includes Terms 3 and 4 and the end of year assessment. Only the final
course grade will appear on the transcript.
● All students must carry between 23-25 credits per year, unless approved and signed off
by the administration.
● 1 credit course - meets 3 or fewer times a cycle for a semester
● 2 credit course - meets 4 or more times a cycle for a semester
CREDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR PROMOTION AND GRADUATION
End of Grade 9 18 Credits
End of Grade 10 40 Credits
End of Grade 11 65 Credits
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End of Grade 12 90 Credits
● Students must pass a minimum of 19 credits during senior year
D. Course Selection Process
The Program of Studies is posted on the RMHS webpage and updated every year. The Program
includes a description of every course to be offered in the next academic year. Students are
required to make their first choices and alternates on the course selection sheets provided and
then to have these selections signed off by teachers in the appropriate department as well as by
a parent/guardian. In the event that a student does not submit a course selection sheet, a
schedule of courses will be devised by the student’s guidance counselor working in cooperation
with an assistant principal.
E. Course Changes
It is recommended that students choose courses carefully with the advice of their current
teachers and counselors. If a student finds a course difficult, s/he may request to transfer to a
more appropriate level of the same course. Schedule changes should be made by the
counselor during the first week of each semester. After that, the process for requesting a course
change is as follows:
Student or parent/guardian-initiated request
● A change request should be directed to the student’s guidance counselor who will
discuss the request with the student and outline the process to be followed.
● The student and parent/guardian will begin the process by discussing the change
request with the classroom teacher. Efforts to be successful in the course will be
considered. Meeting with the teacher of the course for extra help and completion of
assigned work are evidence of effort.
● The department chair will approve the change request.
● The counselor will make the schedule change and inform the new teacher receiving the
student of the reason for the change.
● The student must continue to attend the originally scheduled course until s/he is notified
that the schedule change has been finalized by the guidance counselor and, if
necessary, the appropriate administrator.
● The parent/guardian will be made aware when a schedule is changed.
Teacher, counselor or administrator-initiated request
● The change request should be directed to the appropriate guidance counselor.
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● The teacher or administrator will discuss the change request with the student and
parent/guardian.
● The department chair will approve the change request.
● The counselor will make the schedule change and inform the new teacher receiving the
student of the reason for the change
● The parent/guardian will be made aware when a schedule is changed.
Students wishing to drop a year-long course must seek permission from the assistant principal.
A grade of “WF” will be assigned to any course that is dropped after the third week.
F. Grading System and Associated Honors
The permanent transcript includes all end of year course grades. Transcripts sent as part of the
student’s college application process report only the final grades for grades 9-11. Transcripts
sent during senior year also include Quarter 1 and/or Semester 1 grades. Quarter 3 senior year
grades are sent as needed.
Report Card Grade Scale
A+ 97-100
A 93-96
A- 90-92
B+ 87-89
B 83-86
B- 80-82
C+ 77-79
C 73-76
C- 70-72
D+ 67-69
D 63-66
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D- 60-62
F 0-59
P Pass
N No Credit
I Incomplete *
X Medical Excuse
W Withdrawn
WF Withdrawn and failure - no credit given
● Note on Incomplete Grades: Work is incomplete because of illness or other verified
reason. Incompletes must be made up within two weeks of the end of the quarter.
Those not made up within two weeks may be considered failures. A student is not
eligible for the honor roll until all work is made up.
● Summer School Eligibility: Students who receive a failing grade of 50-59 are eligible to
take summer school to make up course credits. Students who receive a failing grade
below a 50 (0-49) must retake the failed course the following school year.
G. Honor Roll
Honor Roll is computed at the end of each quarter. Honor Roll is calculated in the following way:
● Quarterly grades are the basis for determining honor roll.
● There must be a minimum of 4 graded courses.
● There can be no “Incompletes.”
HIGH HONOR ROLL HONOR ROLL
All grades of A- and above All grades of B- and above
H. Weighted Grade Point Average
RMHS does not communicate Class Rank or Deciles on student transcripts. Both Weighted
and Unweighted GPA will be communicated on the student's official transcript. RMHS has
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adopted the University of Massachusetts Weighted GPA Scale which will be implemented for the
graduating classes of 2023 and 2024 and all subsequent graduating classes.
Unweighted Grade Point Average
The Unweighted Grade Point Average (GPA) includes all graded courses taken at RMHS and is
based on a 4.0 scale. Unweighted GPA will also be reported on transcripts.
Weighted Grade Point Average / Weighting Scale
● Only courses taken during the school day at RMHS are included in the calculation of
GPA. Credit towards graduation may be awarded for courses taken at other high
schools, summer school, night school, colleges, etc., but those courses are NOT
included in the calculation of GPA.
● Exceptions may be made for a student who has exhausted a sequential program of
courses offered at RMHS.
● The GPA calculation is cumulative and year end grades for the calculation.
● Courses taken on a Pass/Fail basis will be awarded credits but are not included in the
calculation of cumulative Grade Point Average.
● Most elective courses (such as those in business, art, music, and PE/wellness) are not
leveled. They will therefore be assigned no weight and will not be included in the
calculation of the Weighted Grade Point Average.
● There are multiple levels of weighting given to classes in the English, Social Studies,
Mathematics, Foreign Language and Science Departments as well as in Introduction to
Financial Accounting, Honors Accounting, and AP Art. Courses are weighted according
to their level of rigor. For example, an Advanced Placement course carries a higher
value than a College Preparatory course. Course levels and corresponding weighting
are as follows:
Grade College Preparatory Honors AP
Unweighted Weighted Unweighted Weighted Unweighted Weighted
A/A+ 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.5 4.0 5.0
A- 3.7 3.7 3.7 4.2 3.7 4.7
B+ 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.8 3.3 4.3
B 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.5 3.0 4.0
B- 2.7 2.7 2.7 3.2 2.7 3.7
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C+ 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.8 2.3 3.3
C 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.5 2.0 3.0
C- 1.7 1.7 1.7 2.2 1.7 2.7
D+ 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.8 1.3 2.3
D 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.5 1.0 2.0
D- .7 .7 .7 1.2 .7 1.7
F 0 0 0 0 0 0
I. Academic Honors / Speakers for Graduation
The Valedictorian and Salutatorian are named at the end of third quarter or the beginning of
fourth quarter senior year based on their weighted cumulative GPA. At a minimum, a student
must be enrolled as a full-time student at RMHS throughout both junior and senior year to be
eligible for Valedictorian and Salutatorian. Traditionally, both the valedictorian and salutatorian
give a speech at the graduation ceremony. In the event of a GPA tie valedictorian and
salutatorian will be determined out to the one hundredth decimal place.
J. Grade Reporting/Report Cards
Students, parents and/or guardians can access student grades via their log-in to Plusportals at any
time. Grades will be updated via student’s Plusportals account at least four times during each
quarter (roughly every 2-3 weeks). Mid-quarter grades and quarterly report cards are posted online
for all students. Year-end report cards will be sent electronically at the start of the summer. Paper
copies are available upon request.
K. Mid-Year and Final Exams
● Exams are scheduled for 4 days at the end of each semester (in January and in June).
Two exams are scheduled per day.
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● Semester-length courses generally have a 2 hour exam which counts for 20% of the
student’s semester grade. In courses where an exam may be inappropriate, an
alternative evaluative activity is scheduled. In courses that meet every other day,
appropriate assessments are scheduled.
● Students are not required to be in school except when they have a scheduled exam. ●
The usual school support services are available to students during exam days.
Senior Exam Exemption Guidelines
Seniors who earn an average of at least a B through the end of 3rd quarter (83-86), and have
been absent less than 6 days during second semester will be exempt from taking the final
assessment.
● The only absences that will be considered excused for the purposes of exam exemption
include: illnesses documented by a physician, bereavement, field trips, school-
sponsored exam (for example, AP exam) or extreme personal circumstances if verified
and approved by administration.
L. National Honor Society
*The qualifications for student acceptance to the RMHS National Honor Society Chapter
are currently under review by the NHS Advisors and Faculty Council to NHS. These new
guidelines will be accepted and applied once approved and an addendum will be added to
the RMHS School Handbook to reflect the changes.
Selection to the RMHS Chapter of National Honor Society conforms to the guidelines set by the
National Council. Eligible students are invited to provide information to the RMHS Faculty
Council to support their candidacy for membership. The selection process is open to juniors and
seniors who meet the following criteria:
● The student must maintain a weighted GPA of 3.5. The average is calculated based
upon grades in five college preparatory departments: English, Math, Social Studies,
Science and Foreign Language. However, low grades in subjects not included in the
GPA will be considered a character issue to be considered by the Faculty Council.
● The student must have devoted a minimum of 40 hours during the past year to
community service. Service must be documented and verified by a supervising adult.
● The student must have fulfilled a minimum of 2 significant leadership roles in school or
community activities since starting high school. Leadership must be documented and
verified by a supervising adult.
● The student must be considered of outstanding character. A letter of reference attesting
to the student’s character is required. (Outstanding character is demonstrated by:
honesty, integrity, responsibility, respectfulness, fairness, citizenship, and behavior
consistent with school rules and public law.)
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School Council
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● Students meeting the scholastic criterion for membership are asked to submit a portfolio
showing that they fulfill the other three criteria. Teachers are given a chance to submit
their observations about how well individual students meet the criteria. The National
Honor Society Faculty Council then selects those students who will be inducted into the
society. The portfolio requires a statement by the student regarding any discipline issues
beyond the classroom that involve the high school administration or police since the start
of high school. Any violation of school rules or public law substantial enough to result in
suspension from school will be grounds for not considering a student for selection as a
member until at least 12 calendar months have passed.
Once selected, members are expected to continue to meet the selection criteria. Each member
must:
● Maintain a 3.5 GPA
● Volunteer at least 20 hours of service every 6 months
● Participate in RMHS chapter activities.
● Continue to demonstrate good character.
● Fulfill at least one significant leadership role each year.
A member’s records will be reviewed at the start of each semester. Not meeting the above
standards will leave the member subject to the possibility of probation for a semester. Should
non-compliance extend into another semester, the member will be considered for dismissal from
the Society and a hearing will be scheduled. Any report of flagrant violation of either school rules
or public law by a member will cause the Faculty Council to:
● Review the report.
● Hear the member’s account of the situation.
● Determine whether probation, dismissal, or no action is merited.
TIMELINE FOR POTENTIAL NHS MEMBERS
● At the end of sophomore year, students who have a GPA of 3.45 or above are invited to
a meeting to learn about the criteria for selection to NHS.
● At the end of first semester, juniors who meet the academic eligibility requirements are
notified of a meeting explaining the selection process with instructions and the deadline
for submitting a portfolio, usually due by mid-March. The induction ceremony is held in
May.
● In September, seniors who are academically eligible are notified of the opportunity to
submit a portfolio in time for a fall induction ceremony.
Contact Information:
Information about the selection process and downloadable forms are available online. Contact
the NHS faculty advisor Ms. HollyBeth Murphy for more information.
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M. Century Club
The Century Club is an annual recognition of academically outstanding students in the high
school. All courses are included in the selection of Century Club members. There is no
application process. To be eligible a student must have completed a minimum of 10 credits
(freshmen 11 credits) during each of the first three-quarters of the current school year. Students
with I (Incomplete) grades during the current year will not be eligible. The eligible students with
the highest unweighted grade-point average are automatically selected: 40 seniors, 30 juniors,
20 sophomores, and 10 freshmen. Students selected are inducted into the Century Club as a
part of the high school's annual Awards celebration at the end of the year.
N. Summer School
While we hope for all of our students to be as successful as they can be, some students benefit
from additional instruction and reinforcement during the summer months. Summer school is
recommended for students who have failed required courses but have earned an average
higher than or equal to a 50% (F) in that course. Students whose average is 49% or lower must
repeat the course and are not eligible for summer school. Guidance has information on
approved summer school options at RMHS and other sites.
● Credit is only awarded for courses previously failed at RMHS.
● The original grade and the summer school grade appear on the student’s transcript.
● Summer school grades have no effect on weighted GPA
● All make-up work done during the summer vacation shall be subject to evaluation within
two weeks after the fall opening of school.
O. Financial Obligations
Students who owe the Reading Public Schools money for lost or damaged books & materials,
for vandalism damage, or for other reasons will be expected to pay for the cost of replacement
as promptly as possible. Students are encouraged to look and return the lost books/items and
ensure credit to their account. The parents of students owing bills will be notified in writing via e-
mail at the end of the school year or end of season if it is a sport or activity.
Athletic & Student Activities:
● Families for whom athletic and/ or co-curricular activities user fees present a hardship
may apply for fee waivers through the Federal Free and Reduced Meals (FFRM)
program. Please see the Financial Assistance Information document on the RPS District
Food Services web page.
● Applications for the FFRM are found online under Food Services.
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● User fees are payable the first week of each season. The online payment system
ESchool is the preferred method of payment.
● If paying by check, submit to the Athletic/Student Activities Department, Room 220.
Checks are payable to: Town of Reading.
● All outstanding financial obligations out of the Athletic & Student Activities Office must be
resolved before the next season in order for students to participate in extracurricular
activities and athletics.
● At the end of the school year any outstanding debt will be reported to the main office for
collection.
Library Books and Materials:
● Students who fail to return library books and materials can use materials in the library
but will not be permitted to sign-out overnight books or materials until they have settled
their debts.
● At the end of the school year any outstanding debts will be reported to the main office for
collection.
Other Material or Equipment:
● Students who lose equipment that has been issued or loaned to them, such as
computers, books, gym locks, will not be issued replacements until they have settled
their debts.
● At the end of the school year any outstanding debt will be reported to the main office for
collection.
Damaged Property:
● Students who owe money for breakage due to negligence or vandalism will be expected
to make restitution.
● If restitution as a single payment is not possible, the student and the building principal
will make an agreement on how and when restitution will be made.
● At the end of the school year any outstanding debt will be reported to the main office for
collection.
Senior Financial Obligations:
● Include any of the item’s listed above books, locks, athletic/activity fees, equipment, etc.
● Any outstanding debts from freshmen year to senior year that have failed to be collected
can be included in the final total to be collected.
● Students will be able to participate in the graduation week activities/ceremony only after
any outstanding financial obligations have been resolved
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P. Student Records
The Reading Public Schools complies with applicable federal and state laws and regulations
pertaining to Student Records. Those laws and regulations are designed to ensure a
parent/guardian’s and eligible student’s rights to access, inspect, and to request amendment of
the child’s student record.
The Massachusetts Student Record regulations and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy
Act (FERPA) apply to educational records maintained by a school on a student in a manner
such that he or she may be individually identified. The regulations divide the record into the
transcript and the temporary record. The transcript includes only the minimum information
necessary to reflect the student's educational progress. This information includes name,
address, course titles, grades, credits, and grade level completed. The transcript is kept by the
school system for at least sixty (60) years after the student leaves the system.
The temporary record contains the majority of the information maintained by the school system
about the student. This may include such things as standardized test results, class rank, school
sponsored extracurricular activities, and evaluations and comments by teachers, counselors,
and other persons. The temporary record is destroyed no later than seven (7) years after the
student leaves the school system.
The following is a summary of major parent/guardian and student rights regarding their student
records:
Inspection of Record: A parent/guardian, or a student who has entered the ninth grade or is at
least fourteen (14) years old, has the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon
request. The record must be made available to the parent/guardian or student within ten (10)
days of the request, unless the parent/guardian or student consents to a delay. In the event the
parent/guardian/student requests copies of a student record, the District may charge the
parent/guardian(s)/student for said copies at the District rate.
Confidentiality of Record: With a few exceptions, no individuals or organizations but the
parent/guardian, student, and authorized school personnel are allowed to have access to
information in the student record without specific, informed, written consent of the
parent/guardian or the student.
Amendment of Record: The parent/guardian and student have the right to add relevant
comments, information, or other written materials to the student record. In addition, with limited
exceptions under state and federal law, the parent/guardian and student have the right to
request that information of the record be amended or deleted. The parent/guardian and student
have a right to a conference with the school principal to make their objections known. Within a
week after the conference, the principal must render a decision in writing. If the parent/guardian
and student are not satisfied with the decision, the regulations contain provisions through which
the decision may be appealed to higher authorities in the school system.
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Directory Information: Federal law requires that the District release the names, addresses and
telephone listings of students to military recruiters, institutions of higher education and
businesses with which the Reading Public Schools are contracted to conduct business upon
request for recruitment and scholarship purposes without prior consent. In addition, the District
may release the following directory information about a student without prior consent: a
student’s name, address, telephone listing, date of birth, major fields of study, dates of
attendance, weight and height of members of athletic teams as required, class participation in
officially recognized activities and sports, degrees, honors and awards, post-high school plans
and directory information such as homeroom assignments. However, in all instances,
parent/guardian(s) may request that such directory information not be released without prior
consent by notifying their school building office in writing by the end of September of each
school year.
Destruction of Records: The regulations require that certain parts of the student record, such
as the temporary record, be destroyed a certain period of time after the student leaves the
school system. School authorities are also allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant
information in the record from time to time while the student is enrolled in the school system.
Before any such information may be destroyed, the parent/guardian and student must be
notified, and have an opportunity to receive a copy of any of the information before its
destruction.
Transfer of Records: It is the practice of the Reading Public Schools to forward the student
record of any student who seeks or intends to enroll, or already has enrolled in another public
school district, if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. The
parent/guardian or eligible student has the right to receive a copy of the school record that is
forwarded to the new school.
Non-Custodial Parents: Unless there is a court order to the contrary, a non-custodial parent
(parent without physical custody of the student) of any public school student has the right,
subject to certain procedures, to receive information regarding the student’s achievements,
involvement, behavior, etc. A non-custodial parent who wishes to have this information shall
submit a written request annually to the child’s school principal. Upon receipt of such a request,
the principal shall send written notification to the custodial parent by certified and first class mail
that the records and information will be provided to the non-custodial parent in twenty-one (21)
calendar days unless the custodial parent provides documentation of the non-custodial parent’s
ineligibility to access such information. In all cases where school records are provided to a non-
custodial parent, the electronic and postal address and other contact information for the
custodial parent shall be removed from the records provided. Any such records provided to the
non-custodial parent shall be marked to indicate that they may not be used to enroll the student
in another school. Upon receipt of a court order that prohibits the distribution of information
pursuant to G.L. c. 71, §34H, the school will notify the non-custodial parent that it shall cease to
provide access to the student record to the non-custodial parent. M.G.L. c.71, §34H, 603 CMR
23.07.
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Third Party Access: Authorized school personnel, to include: (a) school administrators,
teachers, counselors and other professionals who are employed by the school committee or
who are providing services to the student under an agreement between the school committee
and a service provider, and who are working directly with the student in an administrative,
teaching, counseling, and/or diagnostic capacity; (b) administrative office staff and clerical
personnel, employed by the school committee or under a school committee service contract,
and whose duties require them to have access to student records for purposes of processing
information for the student record; and (c) the Evaluation Team which evaluates a student, shall
have access to the student record of students to whom they are providing services, when such
access is required in the performance of their official duties. The consent of the parent/guardian
or eligible student shall not be necessary.
Complaints: A parent/guardian or eligible student has a right to file a complaint with the Family
Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW,
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901, (202) 260-3887 or with the Massachusetts Department of
Education, 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148, 781-338-3300. If you have any questions
regarding this notice, or would like more information and/or a copy of the Massachusetts
Department of Education Student Record Regulations, please contact the building principal.
V. Student Supports
A. Academic Support
Students are encouraged to seek academic assistance from their classroom teachers. Students
may be recommended for additional support by teachers, guidance counselors, or other building
professionals. Academic assistance opportunities include, but are not limited to:
● Flex Block
● General Peer Tutoring - contact Guidance for more information
● National Honor Society Tutoring – contact the NHS Coordinator or Guidance Counselor
● Academic Support Center - subject specific support for students, executive function and
study skills coaching (available to students through drop in, teacher referral and long
term assignment as needed to build necessary skills for success)
B. District Wide Curriculum Accommodation Plan
In accordance with M.G.L. c.71, §38Q1/2 and 603 CMR 28.03(3), the Reading Public Schools
has developed and adopted a district-wide curriculum accommodation plan to meet the needs of
diverse learners in the general education environment. Responsibility for implementation of this
curriculum accommodation plan in each school building is the responsibility of the building
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principal. For more information regarding the specific services that may be available, please
contact the guidance department or the building administration.
C. Education Proficiency Plans
Students who score below the Proficient level on MCAS exams in English Language Arts or
Mathematics are required to continue to enroll in coursework in that academic area. The
Guidance Department will prepare an Educational Proficiency Plan to guide the student’s
progress towards greater skill attainment.
D. Services and Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) and M.G.L.c. 71B, some students
with disabilities may be eligible for services if they require specialized instruction and/or
supportive services to help them make effective progress in school. These services can
include, but are not limited to, speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy,
specialized instruction, or placement in a learning center. Students may be referred to the
Special Education Department for an evaluation of eligibility for special education services.
Within five (5) school days of such a referral, a consent form authorizing an evaluation of the
student will be forwarded to the parent/guardian(s). Within forty-five (45) school days of receipt
of the parent/guardian(s)’ consent, an evaluation will be conducted and a Team meeting will be
held to determine if the student is eligible for special education services. If the student is found
eligible for special education services, the Team will develop an Individualized Education
Program (IEP) identifying the necessary services.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) is a federal law designed to protect
the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial
assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. Section 504 provides: “No otherwise
qualified individual with a disability in the United States . . . shall, solely by reason of her or his
disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to
discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance . . . .” Title II
of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Title II) is a federal law that applies to public
entities, including the conforming amendment to Section 504 that affects the meaning of a
disability under Section 504.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, protects the rights of individuals with disabilities in
programs and activities that receive federal funding or federal financial assistance. These
regulations require a school district to provide a “free appropriate public education” (FAPE) to
each qualified student with a disability who is in the school district’s jurisdiction, regardless of
the nature or severity of the disability. Under Section 504, a FAPE consists of the provision of
regular or special education and related aids and services designed to meet the student’s
individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of nondisabled students are met.
Compliance with the IDEA is one means of complying with Section 504. An appropriate
education may comprise education in regular classes, education in regular classes with the use
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of related aids and services, or special education and related services in separate classrooms
for all or portions of the school day. Special education may include specially designed instruction
in classrooms, at home, or in private or public institutions, and may be accompanied by related
services such as speech therapy, occupational and physical therapy, psychological counseling,
and medical diagnostic services necessary to the child’s education.
An appropriate education will include:
● education services designed to meet the individual education needs of students with
disabilities as adequately as the needs of nondisabled students are met;
● the education of each student with a disability with nondisabled students, to the
maximum extent appropriate to the needs of the student with a disability;
● evaluation and placement procedures established to guard against misclassification or
inappropriate placement of students, and a periodic reevaluation of students who have
been provided special education or related services; and
● establishment of due process procedures that enable parents and guardians to:
○ receive required notices;
○ review their child’s records; and
○ challenge identification, evaluation and placement decisions.
Due process procedures must also provide for an impartial hearing with the opportunity for
participation by parents and representation by counsel, and a review procedure.
The quality of education services provided to students with disabilities must equal the quality of
services provided to nondisabled students. Teachers of students with disabilities must be trained
in the instruction of individuals with disabilities. Facilities must be comparable, and appropriate
materials and equipment must be available.
In addition, students with disabilities may not be excluded from participating in nonacademic
services and extracurricular activities on the basis of disability. Persons with disabilities must be
provided an opportunity to participate in nonacademic services that is equal to that provided to
persons without disabilities. These services may include physical education and recreational
athletics, transportation, health services, recreational activities, special interest groups or clubs
sponsored by the school, and referrals to agencies that provide assistance to persons with
disabilities and employment of students. The Reading Public Schools is, however, generally
permitted to establish and utilize skill-based eligibility criteria for participation in extracurricular
programs and activities (e.g., school-sponsored athletics) so long as the criteria are rationally
related to the purposes and goals of the specific program or activity.
For more information regarding the services available to students with disabilities please contact
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(781) 942-9129. https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/departments/student-services/
https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/departments/student-services/sepac/
E. Behavioral Health
As always, it is important to share concerns with trusted adults throughout the building. This may
include a trusted teacher or staff member in the building. Additionally, guidance and adjustment
counselors, nurses, school psychologists, social workers, administrators and the School Resource
Officer (SRO) are available to assist students with issues that interfere with their school experience.
Referrals for assistance outside of school may be recommended in consultation with students and
families. More information about resources for students’ behavioral health is available via the
Behavioral Health link at: https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/departments/behavioral-health/
F. RMHS Counseling Department
Counselors assist students in making choices concerning their personal growth and
development that are realistic, suitable and align with the student’s goals. Emphasis is placed
upon educational, vocational, and personal interests. Conversations between students and
counselors are held in private and treated confidentially. Students can make appointments to
meet with their counselor at any time by arranging one directly with the counselor or by seeing
the guidance secretary.
Each student is assigned a counselor for 4 years alphabetically by last name. Please see the
counseling department page on our RMHS website to see a detailed distribution
The Developmental Counseling Program
Counselors meet with students in each grade level to present a sequentially designed program
of guidance workshops beginning in the fall of the freshman year. These sessions are
conducted often during our flex blocks in a classroom setting with approximately 15 to 25
students. Topics covered include:
➢ Grade 9: Transition from middle to high school and expectations at the high school level ➢ Grade 10: Career interests/aspirations ➢ Grade 11: Standardized testing and post-secondary issues/planning ➢ Grade 12: Transitional issues of moving on from high school to work or post-secondary
education.
Group and individual tests of learning ability, academic aptitude, academic achievement,
vocational aptitude and interest, or personality traits and characteristics may be administered by
the Student Services Department in order to gather objective data concerning the student's
relative strengths and weaknesses. This objective data is used by the guidance personnel in
assisting individual students with program planning and program changes.
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Each year the Counseling Department arranges a series of educational and occupational
conferences with representatives of colleges and universities, institutions of further training,
business, industry, labor, and the armed services.
G. RMHS Health Services
The School Nurses can be reached at 781-944-8200, Ext. 867. Medical excuses from Physical
Education should be brought to the Health Office. A complete and detailed account of the RPS
Health Policies and Procedures can be found on the RPS website at
https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/en-US/health-services-83f6862d/medical-policies-8ca35643.
● Screening
o Hearing and vision screening is performed for all 10th grade students.
o All 10th grade students will have their height and weight checked.
o Postural screening is performed on all 9th grade students unless verification of a
recent screening by a physician is provided.
o SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment) will be
conducted for all 10th graders.
o Parents / Guardians may opt out of some or all of health screenings annually by
providing written notice to the RMHS Health Office.
● Medication in School
○ The school nurse may dispense Tylenol and/or Ibuprofen if the parent/guardian
has signed permission for the nurse to do so as noted on the Emergency
Information Health Form. This form will be provided to each student on the first
day of school.
○ The only two medications that students are allowed to carry in school are Epi-
Pens and inhalers, provided the nurse has doctor’s orders and parental/guardian
permission forms updated each year.
○ Any prescription medication to be dispensed from the Health Office must be in a
container with a pharmacy label which includes the student’s name, drug’s name,
dosage, and time and duration of administration.
○ If a student is attending a school-sponsored event and requires medication, the
nurse must be notified and the same process should be followed. The nurse will
then provide an approved list of names to administration.
○ Any over-the-counter (OTC) medication, with the exception of Tylenol and
Ibuprofen, requires the labeled medication provided to the Health Office.
○ Doctors’ orders and parental/guardian permission forms are required for all
medication, with the exception of Tylenol and Ibuprofen.
○ The administration of medication in schools are subject to the provisions of 105
C.M.R. § 210.006.
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● Physical Examinations
○ All athletes are required to have a physical exam by the school doctor or their
personal physician before they can compete in the sports program.
● Illness
○ Any student who becomes ill during school should report directly to the Health
Office. The student should bring a pass from the classroom teacher.
○ If a child is demonstrating symptoms of illness that require dismissal from school,
the parent/guardian or responsible party shall be notified. Parental/guardian
permission is necessary for dismissal, unless the student has reached Age of
Majority and filled out the necessary form.
○ When reporting to the Health Office, students must be sure that they are signed
in by the Nurse.
● Immunizations
○ State law requires that all students attending high school should have been
sufficiently immunized during middle school years.
○ Parent/guardian(s) will be notified if a student needs a booster (DPT, polio and
MMR) according to school health records.
○ Parents/Guardians will be notified if a student needs any immunizations. Lack of
compliance with this law could mean risk of exclusion from school.
● Accident Reports
○ Students who are injured during school hours must report to the school nurse
and file an accident report in the Health Office if necessary.
○ If an injury occurs during an after-school activity, it should be reported
immediately to the advisor or coach.
● Home Hospital Tutoring
○ If a child will be absent from school for medical reasons for more than 10 school
days, contact the school nurse or guidance to discuss the procedures for
obtaining tutorial services if the student is physically unable to attend school for
medical reasons. It is the physician’s responsibility to fill out the “28R/3 form.”
Parent/guardian(s) may have to remind their physicians to take this action.
H. Library Media Center (Does this need to be updated?)
Library hours are typically 8:00 am – 3:30 pm, Monday – Friday. To attend the library during
study, students are required to obtain a library-issued pass and may do so prior to school at
between 8-8:30 am or after school the day before until 3:30 pm as availability may be limited.
Students must first check in with their assigned study hall teacher for attendance purposes prior
to reporting to the library. Students are expected to be in either their study or the library. If
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students go to a directed study, they may not leave halfway through the period to go to the
library, except for an academic emergency and only with a pass from their study teacher.
Students may not use cell phone devices to game in the library at any time. Failure to comply
with these policies may result in loss of access to the library. (Is this changing w/ new library
media specialist and pass system? Should we update the whole section?)
The following tips are provided to guide students in taking full advantage of the Library Media
Center:
● The Library Media Center is PC and Mac friendly/ Wireless internet access ●
Students have access to powerful research databases in all core subject areas.
● Equipment available for overnight reserve includes:
○ Laptops
○ Audio
○ Video and still cameras
○ Projectors
● Students and others may reserve project rooms for quiet or group study. Sign up at the
front desk.
● Students may stop by or make an appointment with for help in the following:
○ Managing research projects
○ Finding and evaluating sources
○ Digital video
○ Writing and Editing
○ Bibliography and documentation
The library prides itself on its student-friendly policies. If students have suggestions or would
like to request materials, please email Insert New Library Media Specialist’s Name and
email@reading.k12.ma.us
I. Communication
Communication between school and home is a key ingredient to school success. The RMHS
website and portal is one of the primary methods for broadcasting information from the school to
families. Parent/guardian(s) can keep updated regarding students’ grades by checking them on
plus portals (https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/memorial/), as grades are updated at least three
times in every quarter. Teachers may also be contacted via telephone voice message or e-mail
in order to engage in more interactive dialogue regarding student performance. Please
understand that due to the nature of a teacher’s role and responsibilities, teachers will not
necessarily have the opportunity to answer emails and phone calls immediately during the
school day. Consider the following when contacting a teacher or staff member:
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● Urgent and time sensitive issues can be facilitated by contacting the student’s
guidance counselor or Assistant Principal.
● Responses from teachers to parent/guardian(s) can usually be expected within 2
school days. Although teachers will make every attempt to check their email and
phone messages daily, due to the nature of the profession, this may not be possible.
Teachers are only able to check messages when they are not instructing students. ➢
Reading Public School email is a public record.
● Refer to the RMHS Protocols for Communication
J. Parent/Guardian Involvement
There are a variety of ways parents/guardians can contribute to the student experience at
RMHS. Volunteer opportunities are available through the various booster organizations for co-
curricular activities. The PTO meets quarterly and provides a forum for parents/guardians to
learn about and support our school. The School Council is an advisory body to the Principal with
parent/guardian, teacher, community, and student representatives.
VI. Safety and Security
A. Visitors
All visitors to Reading Memorial High School between the hours of 8:00am and 3:30pm must
report to the main entrance, state their purpose for entering the building, and then sign in at the
RMHS Main Office. Visitors must obtain a badge that will be displayed visibly during their visit.
This practice will ensure that only properly identified and approved visitors will be admitted to
offices where they may have direct or incidental contact with students. Finally, parents/
guardians must present a photo ID when picking up a student for dismissal.
B. School Resource Officer
The School Resource Officer (SRO) Brian Lewis has an office on Main Street within RMHS
along with Cooper, our comfort dog. Officer Lewis is available to students to discuss concerns
at any time and is a valuable resource in keeping our school safe and respectful for all. Officer
Lewis can be reached at blewis@ci.reading.ma.us or 781- 670-2806 RMHS Direct Line or 781-
944-1212 Police Department Direct Line.
The Reading Police Department sponsors a 100% anonymous Text A Tip line.
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C. Fire Drill / Evacuation / Lockdown Procedures
FIRE DRILL/EVACUATION PROCEDURE
➢ Exit under the direction of the teacher or as posted in the room (using the nearest exit). ➢ Do not go to lockers unless so instructed. ➢ Move out of the building, quickly, and quietly. ➢ If an alarm sounds during passing time, exit the building using the closest exit and check-
in with a faculty member outside.
➢ Move far enough away from the building to allow fire apparatus speedy access to the
building.
➢ All students must remain with their teacher in order to ensure proper supervision
and that attendance is taken during this important school safety event.
➢ Remain standing, away from parked cars. ➢ Do not return to the building until authorized by an administrator.
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ALICE PROCEDURE: ENHANCED LOCKDOWN
➢ An Enhanced Lockdown may be announced/utilized during situations that involve a
dangerous person. Depending upon the information provided regarding the person and
the location to this danger, students and staff may elect to do any of the following
actions:
➢ Evacuate if able (door, window, etc.) and run to safety with hands visible. If necessary,
run in a zigzag motion and follow law enforcement commands.
➢ Lockdown in the nearest classroom, office, kitchen, or other securable location.
Barricade using heavy objects and silence mobile devices.
➢ As an absolute last resort, counter the dangerous person by moving about the room,
making and throwing objects to distract, using body weight and force to gain control
NO PASS PERIOD (HOLD) ➢ In the event of a medical emergency or other special circumstance, a “No Pass” period
will be announced in order to ensure that responding personnel are not impeded in the
execution of their duties.
➢ Students should remain in their regularly scheduled classrooms or report to the nearest
alternate location should they be in a hallway when the “No Pass” period is announced.
➢ This period of time should be brief and regular educational practice should continue. ➢ Staff and students will be informed promptly when the “No Pass” period has ended.
VII. Student Life
A. Cafeteria and School Lunches (Will this be the same w/ the new cafe
manager?)
There are three thirty-minute lunch blocks daily. Hot lunches are served every day with two
different menus usually available. A la carte items are also available. Lunch is to be eaten in the
cafeteria or in designated areas approved by school administrators. Free and Reduced Lunch
application forms are available via the Food Services link online. Free breakfast and lunch
programs will continue through the 2022-23 school year. The first breakfast and lunch for each
student during the school day is free, additional meals are available for the established price.
https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/departments/food-services/
B. Lockers
Lockers will be in use for the 2022-23 school year. Every student will be assigned a locker with
a specific combination or a lock.
1. Students are advised to lock up valuable personal belongings.
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ensure they qualify for all possible assistance, school
breakfast and lunch are now universally and
permanently free for all students. This includes a
student's first breakfast and first lunch daily, meals
beyond 1 at each still incur a cost.
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2. Students are not to share lockers.
3. Personal locks are not to be attached to lockers. Lockers and locks issued to students
are the property of the Reading Public Schools and are issued to students for their use
while a student at Reading Memorial High School and therefore, there is no expectation
of privacy on the student’s behalf. RMHS reserves the discretion to search student
lockers at any time.
4. Master keys and combinations are kept by school officials.
5. The school does not assume liability for lost or stolen items.
6. Students must clean out lockers at the end of the school year. Any remaining articles
will be disposed of at that time by the school staff.
7. Vandalizing and/or defacing of lockers may result in suspension and/or monetary
restitution.
C. Parking Regulations
Students who drive automobiles or motorcycles to school should note the following regulations:
1. A student must register and receive a parking tag from the Main Office before being
granted permission to park on school premises.
2. Students are only to park in areas designated for students.
3. Students may not be in or near any automobiles during the school day without
permission. Students with no cause to be in or around cars will be considered to be
“Out-of-Bounds” and will be subject to disciplinary consequences up to and including
suspension.
4. Permission may only be granted by the administration to any student who makes a valid
request to go to his/her car during the school day.
5. Any student violating these rules will not be permitted to park on school grounds.
Furthermore, students violating motor vehicle laws will be reported to the Reading
Police Department. Students are reminded to be especially careful driving and
parking on Oakland Road, Park View Road, Longfellow Road, and Birch Meadow
Drive.
IDLING OF MOTOR VEHICLES
For the safety of staff and students, said policies shall further restrict operators of school buses
and personal motor vehicles, including students, faculty, staff and visitors, from prolonged idling
of such vehicles on school grounds and violators may be subject to a fine.
D. Insurance
● Every student is given the opportunity to purchase an accident insurance policy each
fall.
● All accident or injury insurance claims must be filed by the student on a special form
following an accident. The form can be obtained in the office of the assigned assistant
principal and is required to support an insurance claim using the school’s insurance
policy.
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E. Working Papers
● Every individual from fourteen to seventeen years of age in the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts must have a working certificate to hold a job (MA General Laws, Chapter
149, Section 86).
● Working certificates are issued through the Guidance Office.
● Proof of age must be presented.
● Students must appear in person to obtain working papers.
● A new work certificate must be obtained with each job change. If you are a student, your
certificate is good only for part-time work.
F. Guests
Students are discouraged from bringing guests to school as it may interfere with the educational
process. If a student wishes to bring a guest to school, permission must be obtained from the
assistant principal or the principal 72-hours prior to the visit, and it will be granted only if there is
a valid reason for the guest to be present in school. The guest must check into the office on the
day of the visitation and be introduced to the assistant principal or principal. Guests are
permitted to attend certain school dances, such as semi-formal and formal dances, for which the
guest has filled out and had authorized “Permission to Attend” form. Guests must be under the
age of 21.
G. Release of Students From Class For An Activity
● Students must obtain permission from the teacher excusing them from class prior to the
activity (minimum 2 days).
● Release of the student is at the discretion of the excusing teacher.
● Students who fail to obtain the permission of their teachers and miss class are subject to
a zero for that period's work.
H. Truancy from Directed Study
1st Offense 2 administrative detentions
2nd Offense 4 administrative detentions
Additional Offenses Possible in-house suspensions
I. Pass System (Is this changing w/ new pass system?)
Every student is assigned to a particular classroom or supervised area each period of each
school day. Students leaving any assigned area during class period must have an official
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written pass from the assigned teacher. Any student without an official pass is considered
unauthorized from class and will be subject to the penalties for cutting class.
J. Assemblies
Assemblies are scheduled periodically for class meetings or special presentations on topics
relevant to the RMHS school community. Respectful attention is expected during any school
assembly. Whistling, raucous applause, talking, using electronic devices and other distracting
actions are forbidden.
K. Dance Contracts
This contract states the rules that must be followed at all school events, on or off campus. This
includes dances/semi-formals/proms/banquets (heretofore referred to as dances). By signing
this contract, the student comprehends and will abide by its rules. All students are subject to a
bag search and breathalyzer check before admission to a school dance and during the event.
Furthermore, it is understood that if the student breaks a rule, s/he will be subject to the
consequences listed below. In order for a student to attend any school-sponsored events, both
the student and parent/guardian must sign the dance contract. Go to Appendix D for a copy of
the Dance Contract Form.
Rules and Consequences
● Students must attend school the day of the dance or they will not be admitted.
● If the event is on a weekend day, students must be in school on Friday or last school day
of the week to be eligible to attend.
● Students are expected to wear the appropriate attire for the occasion.
○ Consequence: Students will be denied admission.
● Consumption of alcohol or any controlled substance will not be allowed before or during
the dance.
○ Consequence: Parent/guardian(s) and police will be notified. A five to ten-day
suspension will result after a due process hearing.
○ Consequence: Suspension from sports and extracurricular activities. MIAA rules
will apply. (Refer to updated MIAA rules, Rule 62, in your Student Handbook.)
○ Consequence: Failure to abide by this rule will result in exclusion from up to three
dances, and the student must have administrative approval before attending a
dance. This will carry over to the following school year if applicable.
● Inappropriate language, gestures, and/or behaviors are unacceptable.
○ Consequence: A student will be removed from the dance and suspension may
result.d
● Once a student leaves the dance, they may not return.
○ Consequence: There will be no re-admittance for any reason.
● Students must remain within the physical boundaries of the dance area.
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○ Consequence: If a student is found beyond the specific dance area, s/he will be
removed from the dance. Parent/guardian(s) will be notified, and the student will
be sent home.
● Students must adhere to any specific rules for a particular dance.
○ Consequence: Failure to comply with rules will result in the student's removal
from the dance.
● Entrance to the dance will be closed one half hour after the stated beginning time. (If a
student is to be late for a valid reason, prior authorization for entry must be obtained
from the assistant principal.)
● Certain RMHS Dances may be open to guests. For these events, the Permission to
Attend Form must be submitted and approved before a ticket may be purchased. Go to
Appendix B for a copy of the Permission to Attend Form.
○ Consequences: Any non-RMHS students and their host will be asked to leave the
dance.
L. Dress Code
Reading Memorial High School students should take pride in their personal appearance so that
it reflects the qualities of appropriate dress and good grooming. When in school or representing
the school, (e.g., athletics, band, drama, competitions, and field trips), the following are
guidelines for student dress:
● Student dress should insure the health of the individual student.
● Student dress should insure the safety of the individual student and the school property
therein.
● Student dress should not create disruption which would directly interfere with the
educational process.
● The creation of a safe environment in our school requires the identification of students
by teachers, administrators, and other personnel in our building. The wearing of hoods
or other material that covers the face, other than face coverings worn in accordance with
Reading Public Schools policy EBCFA interferes with the identification of students.
Therefore, barring religious, public health, and/or medical circumstances, students are
not allowed to wear hoods while in the school building. Students are permitted and/or
required to wear face coverings in compliance with Reading Public Schools policy
EBCFA.
In an effort to maintain a respectful school environment that is focused on teaching and learning
it is requested that students follow these specific guidelines regarding their attire while attending
school.
Students are asked to refrain from wearing:
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● Shirts/tops that do not sufficiently cover the torso. ● Excessively short pants, shorts,
skirts or dresses.
● Articles of clothing that depict cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia or
language/gestures that are lewd, obscene or that violate the anti-discrimination policies
listed herein.
M. Food Regulations
● Due to sanitation issues, food must remain in the cafeteria or in approved designated
areas. If students are found with open containers of food outside those areas, they will
be told to dispose of them.
● Blatant disregard for the cleanliness of the building will result in further disciplinary action
such as detention, after-school custodial work, restorative justice, restitution, or loss of
café privileges.
N. Identification
All students asked to identify themselves by a staff member must do so. Failure to comply or
providing a false name will be considered insubordination and will result in a disciplinary
consequence up to and including suspension.
O. Leaving School Grounds
Students enrolled in internship programs such as Field Seminar and Career/Community Service
Internships, Real World Problem Solving, or part of the Field Biology class have specific
permission to leave school grounds during the school day as part of their educational program.
With the exception of those leaving for legitimate reasons, and with the exception of any open
campus policies in place during hybrid and partial hybrid learning, students are not allowed to
leave the campus. Those students who leave without permission during any part of the day are
subject to immediate suspension after being given the right to a due process hearing.
The following areas are out of bounds for students:
● Any area outside the building, including parking lots, walkways, and roads, without
permission.
In the vicinity of any cars in the parking lots during the school day or during any fire drill or
emergency evacuations. If a student needs to go to his/her car to get a book or lunch
money, s/he must have permission from an administrator. Students who are found to be
"out of bounds" will incur suspension. If a student is found to be sitting in a car for any length
of time, s/he may be subject to suspension.
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P. Skateboards and Inline Skates
Students who ride skateboards or wear inline skates to school must carry them to and from their
lockers and keep them in their lockers for the school day.
VII. Attendance
Reading Public Schools’ Attendance Policy and Quick Guide
The administration and faculty of Reading Public Schools believe the learning experiences that
take place through the classroom environment constitute the heart of the educational process.
Time lost from class is time lost from learning, time that is irretrievable, particularly in terms of
the opportunity for teacher instruction and the exchange of ideas. Research has shown a direct
correlation between attendance and grades, indicating high attendance contributes to high
achievement. Attending school regularly inspires purpose and a strong sense of
belonging and allows students to engage in rigorous purposeful tasks at school.
Repeated absences (including tardiness and dismissals that result in class absences) often
result in incomplete and unsatisfactory work, ultimately affecting course grades. Consequently,
the Reading Public Schools policy is meant to foster strong attendance so that each student
may have the opportunity to receive the necessary knowledge, experience, and skills for future
success.
B. Attendance Expectations
There are occasions when violations of the school Attendance Policy may also be violations of
the Code of Conduct, and students may be held accountable for those violations.
The following attendance related concerns are considered violations of the Code of Conduct:
• Tardiness to school, before 8:45 am. Students can be assigned an Office Detention if
they arrive tardy to school more than three times in a single term. Students who arrive
tardy to school more than 8 times in a single term may be ineligible to participate in
extracurricular activities, which may include athletics, for the remainder of that term. This
includes students who arrive late to school with or without parental notes or call-ins.
• Tardiness to school, after 8:45am. Students who arrive to school after 8:45, without
appropriate documentation (i.e. signed doctor’s note), have missed more than 15 minutes
of class and will therefore be considered to have skipped their first period. These
absences will count against the student’s absence limit in that class. Additionally,
students may be assigned an Office Detention for skipping that class.
• Tardiness to class, by less than 15 minutes. When students arrive late to a class by less
than 15 minutes, without a proper pass or permission, that student may receive a Teacher
Detention. If a student’s tardiness continues, the teacher may submit a referral to the
administration.
• Tardiness to class, by more than 15 minutes. When a student arrives late to a class by
more than 15 minutes, without permission, that student will be considered to have
skipped that class.
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• Skipping class. When a student misses more than 15 minutes of a class, without
permission, that student has skipped class. The administration will address students who
skip class. That absence will count against a student’s absence limit for the class.
Additionally, students may receive an Office Detention for skipping class. Students may
not be permitted to make-up work or receive credit for work missed as a result of
skipping. If students continue to skip class, the administration will consider interventions
consistent with a progressive accountability approach.
• Truancy. Students are truant from school when they are absent without parental
permission or knowledge. Absences due to truancy will count against a student’s absence
limit. Students who are truant from school may not be permitted to make-up work or
receive credit for work missed during their absence.
When working with students to account for attendance specific violations, the administration will
make every effort to avoid exclusionary accountability (i.e. suspension). However, there may be
occasions when a student’s poor classroom attendance disrupts the school learning environment
and compromises the experience of other students. Additionally, there may be cases when
students continually fail to account for or improve their poor attendance or tardiness. In these
instances, the administration may consider exclusionary accountability.
Student Leadership: Any student who holds a leadership position at Reading High School will be
held to a high standard of behavior to maintain their position. If a student leader engages in a
significant violation of the code of conduct or exhibits chronic behavioral problems, the principal
or designee maintains the right to remove the leadership position from the student.
B. Quick Guide for RPS attendance policies:
Topic Details
Excused
Absences
1. Illness supported by a doctor’s note
2. Medical appointment (a doctor or dentist certificate should be provided
for appointments scheduled during the school day)
3. Death in the student’s family
4. Observance of a religious holiday
5. Court appointments
6. College visits (gr.11/12 only)
7. School sanctioned absences: representing the school, field trips
8. Extreme personal circumstances as determined by administration
Parents or guardians must contact the school main office via email or phone to
report a student absent with the above listed reasons.
Notification Parents/guardians must notify the school of an absence, tardy or dismissal by
phone, email or Google form. RMHS Attendance Line: (781)-670-2819
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Unexcused
Absences Parents or guardians are legally responsible for ensuring a child under their
control attends school daily.
A school administrator will reach out to engage an RPS family when a student
is having an attendance issue to help mitigate the problem and provide
support to the family. At a minimum, the school administrator will reach out in
the follow circumstances:
● Each time a student is absent and it has not been reported by the
guardian, the school’s office staff must communicate with the family
(ex: robocall, personal call from administrative assistant)
● 5 absences per semester
● 8 absences per semester
Students who are chronically absent as outlined in the attendance policy could
be subject to loss of credit or have other consequences.
Truancy Truant - Under state law, a school-aged child who is not excused from
attendance and who "willfully" fails to attend school.
Habitually Truant- A school aged child is “habitually truant” when not otherwise
excused from attendance in accordance with lawful and reasonable school
regulations and willfully fails to attend school for more than 8 school days in a
quarter.
Tardies Students are expected to arrive on time per their school’s designated arrival
time. Late arrivals impede time on learning. RMHS starts promptly at 8:30am.
Dismissal If a parent/guardian wishes to have a student dismissed early from school for
any reason, a note/email must be given to the school’s main office prior to
morning attendance on the day the dismissal is desired.
Medical dismissals must be determined by the nurse.
A student is considered absent if they report to school after 12:00 p.m. or is
dismissed prior to 12:00 p.m.
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Co-Curricular
activities, Sports
All students must be in attendance at school in order to participate and/or
attend co-curricular activities that day. This includes PTO sponsored events
and after school programs. To be considered in attendance for the day (and be
eligible for co-curricular activities) a student must either arrive before 12 p.m.
and remain for the rest of the day or arrive on time and not be dismissed until
after 12 p.m.. Exceptions may be made, such as college visits, family
emergencies, funerals, scheduled appointments etc. These all require a note
and must be cleared by the Vice Principal who will notify the Director of
Athletics in advance, whenever possible. If a student athlete is dismissed by
the school nurse due to illness; he/she is ineligible to participate in athletics
that day. If a contest is scheduled on a weekend day or over a school
vacation, the student must be in attendance the preceding Friday in order to
participate.
Credit Recovery More than 8 unexcused absences in any class per semester may result in
potential loss of credit for that semester only.
Massachusetts
Laws
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s attendance policy
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Chapter 76 laws on attendance:
https://malegislature.gov/laws/generallaws/parti/titlexii/chapter76
Chronic
Absenteeism Students may receive a letter citing chronic absenteeism which is excessive
absences in a combination of both excused and unexcused absences
Massachusetts defines Chronically Absent as missing at least 10% of days
enrolled (e.g., 18 days absent if enrolled for 180) regardless of whether the
absences are considered excused, unexcused and/or for disciplinary reasons.
Being chronically absent can have a significant impact on a student's ability to
read at grade level, perform academically, and graduate on time.
DOE Guidelines
District Wide
Calendard
Age of Majority When a student turns 18 years old, they reach the Age of Majority, at which time they
may assume all responsibility for their academic affairs and earn the privilege of
writing their own excuse notes and submit appropriate documentation. See below to
read the steps to take to enact Age of Majority.
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Withdrawal At RPS, we are committed to partner with your family to help your child
experience a rigorous and purposeful education in our buildings. We will work
with your family to help your child matriculate through our program and
achieve high school graduation and a diploma. Research has shown that
young adults experience more opportunity and success when they graduate
high school.
See below for policies and expectations.
C. Excused Absences
The following reasons are considered excused absences from school/class:
1. Illness supported by a doctor’s note
2. Medical appointment (a doctor or dentist certificate should be provided for appointments
scheduled during the school day)
3. Death in the student’s family
4. Observance of a religious holiday
5. Court appointments
6. College visits (grades 11/12 only)
7. School sanctioned absences: representing the school, field trips
8. Extreme personal circumstances as determined by administration
Please consult with your student’s main office staff regarding questions about legitimate
absence from school.
Students are expected to make up any missed work within parameters defined by the teacher.
D. Suspension
Days missed because of suspension will not be counted as absences. Principals shall ensure
these students have an opportunity to make academic progress during the period of suspension
or expulsion, to make up assignments and earn credits missed, including, but not limited to,
homework, quizzes, exams, papers and projects missed. Principals shall ensure these students
have an opportunity to make academic progress during the period of suspension or expulsion,
to make up assignments and earn credits missed, including, but not limited to, homework,
quizzes, exams, papers and projects missed. The student is responsible for making up all
missed work. Students who are suspended for more than ten (10) consecutive days will also
have the opportunity to receive educational services. who are suspended for more than ten (10)
consecutive days will also have the opportunity to receive educational services.
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E. Notification - Reporting a Student Absence
If an absence meets the excused criteria above, a student must bring verification from a doctor’s
office, college, court, or home (if it is a death in the family or a religious holiday) to their school’s
main office on the day of their return for the absence to be considered excused.
These notes will provide an assurance that parent/guardian(s) are aware of their child’s
absenteeism and present documentation in the event of a loss of credit appeal determination.
Parents/guardians must notify the school of an absence, tardy or dismissal by phone or email
before the start time of the school day. The attendance line at RMHS is (781)-670-2819.
F. Unexcused Absences
Parents or guardians are legally responsible for ensuring that their child attends school daily. If a
student accumulates 5 unexcused absences or 10 half days in any semester, or a combination
of the two equal to 5 full days of absence the school administration may address the situation. If
a child reaches five (5) unexcused absences (as allowed by law) the school will notify the
parent/guardian of the student’s attendance record. Upon eight (8) unexcused absences, the
school will schedule a parent/guardian conference to discuss and/or investigate the root cause
and plan the implementation of intervention. Excessive unexcused absences could result in a
loss of credit/loss of other privileges and may be reported to the Department of Children and
Families. Department of Children and Families.
Absences are considered unexcused unless it meets the excused criteria above.
Each time a student is absent and it has not been reported by the guardian, the school’s office
staff must communicate with the family (ex: robocall, personal call from administrative assistant)
A student is considered absent if they report to school after 12:00 p.m. or are dismissed prior to
12:00 p.m. A student who has been absent from school is not eligible to take part in any practice
session, game, event, or co-curricular activity which is scheduled for the same day.
Students are expected to make up any missed work within parameters defined by the teacher.
Any student changing classes during the marking period will have their total accumulation of
absences in the former class carried over to the new class.
G. Vacation Absence
Family vacations should be planned for those times when school is not in session. If vacation
interferes with the school year, the principal should be notified in writing in advance. All classes
missed will be counted toward cumulative absences in each class. Vacations are unexcused
absences.
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As the last of the school year is a tentative date, referring to days reserved for Snow Day
makeup and other emergencies should be considered. Please refer to the Reading Public
School’s calendar.
“Teachers are not required to provide advance assignments to students, and the school and the
individual teacher(s) are not required to assume responsibility for providing individual tutoring or
extensive individual help for the student when he/she returns,”(per the Reading Public School
Policy Manual, Section J, Student Attendance).
Students are expected to make up any missed work within parameters defined by the teacher.
H. Truancy
A student will be considered truant when they are “willfully” absent from school without
permission of parent/guardian or school administration, or when a student is deliberately late to
school or leaves early without permission. This applies to students at all grade levels.
Truancy will result in an unexcused absence for each class period missed due to the absence.
These absences will be subject to the Loss Of Credit Policy. Students who are truant are subject
to disciplinary consequences up to and including suspension.
Students who are proven truant and are members of extra-curricular activities are ineligible to
participate in the activity for the duration of the truancy as well as during the resultant
disciplinary consequences unless excused by the Principal or designee.
Progressive Consequences and Interventions - The following are examples of will occur when a
student is truant from class:
First Offense
The Assistant Principal/Principal will have a conference with the student to determine
the reason for the truancy.
The Assistant Principal will assign a detention
The school will notify parent/guardian(s) by telephone and/or email.
Students may not be eligible to make-up work missed because of the truancy or work
that is due on the day of the truancy.
Second & Subsequent Offenses
On the second proven truancy in the same course, the teacher will notify the appropriate
Assistant Principal who may issue an in-house suspension.
The Assistant Principal will notify the parent/guardian.
Students will not be eligible to make-up work missed because of the truancy or work that
is due on the day of the truancy.
Under M.G.L. c. 119, § 21, a child may be eligible for “Child Requiring Assistance" services
through the juvenile court system if the child: repeatedly runs away from the home of a parent or
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legal guardian; repeatedly fails to obey the lawful and reasonable commands of a parent or
legal guardian, thereby interfering with the parent's or legal guardian's ability to adequately care
for and protect the child; repeatedly fails to obey lawful and reasonable school regulations; or is
“habitually truant.” A school aged child is “habitually truant” when not otherwise excused from
attendance in accordance with lawful and reasonable school regulations, willfully fails to attend
school for more than 8 school days in a quarter. The school may file a CRA or may file a CRA or
assist parent/guardian(s) with pursuing “CRA” services and supports.
Under Chapter 119, section 51A of the Massachusetts General Laws, a report can be filed on
behalf of a child under the age of sixteen for educational neglect if a child is chronically absent
without excuses. In this context, DCF defines neglect as failure by a caregiver, either
deliberately or through negligence or inability, to take those actions necessary to provide a child
with minimally adequate education for the child. This report of suspected Child Abuse or
Neglect, commonly referred to as a 51A, is filed with the Department of Children and Family
Services. By law, school personnel are mandated reporters.
I. Tardies
Arrival to school and classes should be ON TIME. On time in the morning means in class by the
start of the school day. Please note the high school starts promptly at 8:30.
Only legitimate medical or court-ordered reasons supported by official documentation will be
considered excused. It is incumbent upon the student to obtain and deliver this official
documentation for being tardy upon return, or the tardiness will be considered unexcused.
A student who is tardy on the day of a quiz/test may be expected to make-up this assessment
on the same day.
If a tardy meets the excused criteria listed in the Excused Absence Policy, a student must bring
verification from a doctor’s office, college, court, or home (if it is a death in the family or a
religious holiday) to their school’s main office on the day of their return for the absence to be
considered excused.
Secondary School Specific: A student not in their first period class at the designated school
start time is considered tardy to school and must sign in with the main office. The tardy count is
cumulative over the course of the quarter.
● One unexcused tardy equals ½ of an absence
● More than 8 unexcused absences in any class may result in loss of credit in that
class
● Frequent tardiness to school may also lead to disciplinary measures including
detention, or loss of privileges
● The parent/guardian will also be informed of recurring tardiness issues
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● If a student misses more than ½ of a period due to tardiness or dismissal, the
missed period will be logged as an absence for that class.
A student is considered absent if they report to school after 12:00 p.m. or is dismissed prior to
12:00 p.m.
J. Dismissals
If a parent/guardian wishes to have a student dismissed early from school for any reason, a
note/email must be given to the school’s main office prior to morning attendance on the day the
dismissal is desired. Written notes will be verified by a phone call to the parent/guardian.
Parent/guardian(s) are strongly urged to make medical and dental appointments at times that do
not conflict with the school schedule. Students should not be calling or texting home to be
dismissed during the day.
Parents/guardians must present a photo ID when picking up a student for dismissal.
All medical dismissals MUST BE processed through the Nurse’s Office.
The student should report to their school’s main office to sign out at the dismissal time.
Teachers will note students who have missed a test/quiz/lab as a result of dismissal after feeling
ill at school. On the second occasion, the school nurse may contact the parent/guardian. Any
further occurrence may be considered “test avoidance” and, upon investigation by a designated
administrator and a meeting with student and parent/guardian, the designated administrator
may determine that no makeup will be allowed. The school nurse or teacher will notify the
administration who will contact the parent/guardian.
Unscheduled dismissals are also permitted under certain circumstances. These dismissals will
require the following:
○ A personal appearance from the parent/guardian
○ Approval from the administration.
A student is considered absent if they report to school after 12:00 p.m. or is dismissed prior to
12:00 p.m.
K. Participation in Co-Curricular and Athletic Activities and Attendance
All students must be in attendance at school in order to participate and/or attend co-curricular
activities that day. This includes athletic events, dances, and proms.. etc.. If the event occurs on
a weekend, students must be in attendance on the Friday preceding the event. A student is
considered absent if they report to school after 12:00 p.m. or is dismissed prior to12:00 p.m.
Exceptions may be made if the absence from school is considered legitimate by administration.
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Students who are dismissed or tardy/absent (arrival after 12:00) must see their school
administration prior to dismissal or upon arrival for a decision on participation.
Students who are on suspension cannot participate and/or attend extra-curricular activities on
the day(s) they are suspended. If the suspension should occur on a day prior to a non-school
day, students cannot participate until they are reinstated in school as members in good standing
on the next school day.
L. Credit Recovery
More than 8 unexcused absences (or 16 tardies/dismissals) in any class per quarter will result in
potential loss of credit for that semester. (RMHS)
When a student has more than 8 unexcused absences in a quarter, their parent/ guardian may
be invited in for a conversation around attendance. During that meeting, the student will make
commitments to mitigate the attendance problem. Progress will be tracked and communicated
with the student and their parent/guardian.
If a student is passing an academic class, and has more than 8.5 absences in that class, they
may be eligible for credit recovery. The credit recovery assignment will be communicated to the
student and their parent/guardian. The student will have two weeks (14 calendar days) to
complete the assignment to reinstate the credit.
M. Massachusetts Laws Governing School Attendance
A. Laws Governing School Attendance Chapters 76 of the General Laws Relating to Education
in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts specifically state the responsibility of
parent/guardian(s), pupils, and the school regarding attendance. ● School attendance prior to
age 16 is compulsory.
The laws specific to school attendance, include:
M.G.L. c. 76 § 1 - Compulsory attendance for students under the age of 16
M.G.L. c. 76, § 2 - Parent responsibility to ensure that a child in their care attends school
M.G.L. c. 76, §§ 1A, 1B - Parents' responsibility to notify the school or absence. School’s
responsibility to contact the parent when no such notification has been received and school’s
responsibility to make a reasonable effort to meet with the parent or guardian of a student who
has 5 or more unexcused absences to develop action steps for student attendance.
M.G.L. c. 76, § 19 - School’s responsibility to appoint one or more supervisors of attendance.
M.G.L. c. 76, § 20 - Specifies some of the duties of the supervisors of attendance
M.G.L. c. 76, § 18 - Drop out prevention - sets forth a specific process before students are
permanently withdrawn from school.
When students turn 18 years old, they reach the “age of majority,” at which time they may
assume all responsibility for their academic affairs and earn the privilege of writing their own
excuse notes. First, they must fill out a form , which will then be mailed home to inform their
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parent/guardian(s). they must receive the written permission of their parent/guardian(s) and
approval from their Assistant Principal or designated school attendance personnel. Students
who receive this permission are responsible for the notes written. Students who have reached
the age of majority still will not be dismissed without an appropriate reason and are subject to all
the same rules and procedures.
M.G.L. c. 119, § 21- a child may be eligible for “Child Requiring Assistance" services through the
juvenile court system if the child is habitually truant. “Habitually truant” is defined as “a school-
aged child, not excused from attendance under the lawful and reasonable regulations of such
child's school, who willfully fails to attend school for more than 8 school days in a quarter."
;
M.G.L. c. 119, § 51A - a report can be filed on behalf of a child under the age of sixteen for
educational neglect if a child is chronically absent without excuse not attending school on a
regular basis. In this context, DCF defines neglect as failure by a caregiver, either deliberately or
through negligence or inability, to take those actions necessary to provide a child with minimally
adequate education for the child.
N. Age of Majority
When a student turns 18 years old, they reach the Age of Majority, at which time they may
assume all responsibility for their academic affairs and earn the privilege of writing their own
excuse notes and submit appropriate documentation. To implement age of majority, the student
must visit their Assistant Principal to complete and submit a form which will be mailed home to
inform parent/guardian. Students who receive the age of majority will not be dismissed without
an appropriate reason and will be subject to all community rules and procedures.
● School attendance prior to age 16 is compulsory.
● When students turn 18 years old, they reach the “age of majority,” at which
writing their own excuse notes. First, they must fill out a form in their school’s main
office which will then be mailed home to inform their parents/guardian. Students are
responsible for the notes written.
O. Withdrawal
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 76, § 18: . No student (16 years or older) who has not graduated from
high school shall be considered to have permanently left public school unless an administrator
of the school which the student last attended has sent notice within a period of 5 days from the
student's tenth consecutive absence to the student and the parent or guardian of that student in
both the primary language of the parent or guardian, to the extent practicable, and English. The
notice shall initially offer at least 2 dates and times for an exit interview between the
superintendent, or a designee, and the student and the parent or guardian of the student to
occur prior to the student permanently leaving school and shall include contact information for
scheduling the exit interview. The notice shall indicate that the parties shall agree upon a date
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and time for the exit interview, and that interview shall occur within 10 days after the sending of
the notice. The time for the exit interview may be extended at the request of the parent or
guardian and no extension shall be for longer than 14 days. The superintendent, or a designee,
may proceed with any such interview without a parent or guardian if the superintendent, or a
designee, makes a good faith effort to include the parent or guardian. The exit interview shall be
for the purpose of discussing the reasons for the student permanently leaving school and to
consider alternative education or other placements.
The superintendent or a designee shall convene a team of school personnel, such as the
principal, guidance counselor, teachers, attendance officer and other relevant school staff, to
participate in the exit interview with the student and the parent or guardian of the student.
During the exit interview, the student shall be given information about the detrimental effects of
early withdrawal from school, the benefits of earning a high school diploma and the alternative
education programs and services available to the student.
P. Additional Links for Support
● Attendance Works
● Present, Engaged and Accounted For
● Undroppable
● Absences add up
● School Refusal Guidance NASP
● Anxiety & Depression Association of America: School Refusal
IX. Code of Conduct and Behavioral Expectations , Discipline and
Interventions
This section of the handbook outlines the basic rules and regulations of Reading Memorial High
School. We expect students to respect the rights and well-being of all individuals and to take
responsibility for their actions. We believe that the following expectations and policies inspire
positive participation in all areas of the school, promote learning, and encourage the respect for
self and for others that lie at the heart of our school community. We leave many specific
applications of the following rules unstated, taking for granted the honesty and good judgment of
our students.
We expect the cooperation of parents and guardians in upholding our standards, as we are in
partnership, working together to inspire future leaders of our community. We will work with
students to support their understanding of and adherence to the values and principles of this
community, with safety for our community members remaining our number one priority.
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In any situation involving a threat to student or staff safety, or in which the continued presence of
the student poses a danger to persons or property, or materially and substantially disrupts the
order of the school, the principal or assistant principal may, consistent with the procedures set
forth below, order the immediate removal of a student from the campus. Depending on the
facts of the case, the removal may be extended through the appropriate due process
procedures.. Depending on the facts of the case, the removal may be extended through the
due process procedures.
Philosophy of Discipline
RPS Graduates are leaders of their own learning journey who demonstrate kindness and
empathy towards others and a commitment to wellness. They persevere through challenges,
embrace multiple perspectives, and aspire to be their best selves in the service of others to
better our community and our world. We expect students to conduct themselves in a manner
which promotes a safe, orderly, and respectful learning environment for all, and to take
responsibility for their actions.
The goal of positive discipline is to teach students to develop safe, socially responsible behavior
that promotes self-respect and respect for the feelings and property of others. Remember that
discipline and punishment are not the same. Discipline is guidance and teaching that promotes
positive behavior. Restorative discipline is proactive and supportive as much as it is responsive.
It aims to create conditions in which issues are less likely to arise, and in which, when they do
arise, we have the connections and skills needed to handle them and restore the community as
needed. Logical consequences help students look more closely at their behaviors, consider the
results of their choices, learn from their mistakes in a supportive atmosphere, and desire to
meet expectations.
We believe that the education of our young people is the shared responsibility of the school,
student, family, and community.
Students will be held responsible for their conduct while they are on school grounds, while they
are in attendance at all school-sponsored activities, and in all situations where the school code
of conduct applies. All students are expected to remember that their actions reflect who they are
and what they value. It is important for all students to demonstrate respect for those around
them and to contribute to the school community in a positive manner. Students are expected to
abide by the policies as set forth in the student code of conduct and to respect the authority of
all school personnel. Below is a list of school wide and classroom expectations.
A. Code of Conduct
Disciplinary action for code of conduct violations shall be issued in compliance with all student
discipline due process requirements, pursuant to READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS 2023-2024
STUDENT HANDBOOK.
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Behavioral Expectations
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A safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment is essential to the academic and social-
emotional development of all students. A comprehensive education should endow students with
the skills to develop and maintain respectful, healthy, and productive relationships among
themselves and with faculty members, and should prioritize citizenship and responsible behavior at
school and at school-sponsored events.
The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to 1) outline expectations for maintaining positive
relationships and upholding the fundamentals of good citizenship within the Reading Memorial High
School community and 2) establish accountability for students who fail to act as safe, respectful, a
safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment is essential at school and during school-
sponsored events.
The Reading Memorial High School Code of Conduct and the potential approaches to
accountability for violations of the Code of Conduct apply to students during the school day, when
students are on Reading Public Schools grounds, while students are engaged in or attending
school or school-sponsored activities, and while students are traveling to and from school or a
school-sponsored activity. Students may be held accountable for violations of the Code of Conduct
while away from school at other times if the conduct or incident is related to school, adversely
impacts the school community, disrupts the school environment, or creates an unsafe environment
at school.
B. Accountability
An essential part of learning is the expectation that students be required to account for the
decisions they make and behaviors they engage in. At Reading High School, accountability
should include students accepting responsibility for their actions and engaging logical, timely, and
equitable consequences for these actions. The Code of Conduct is rooted in the theory of
restorative and progressive accountability and attempts to limit the use of exclusionary
accountability practices (i.e. suspension) when appropriate.
• Restorative Accountability: Either in lieu of or in conjunction with traditional, progressive
accountability practices, the school administration may recommend approaches to
accountability, especially when incidents arise as the result of conflict between Reading
Memorial High School community members.
o Any approach to an incident or conflict will be with the intent to assist a student or
students to accept accountability by working with them to:
Acknowledge responsibility,
Directly engage with the person or people impacted, and
Agree to a plan to avoid similar incidents or behavior moving forward.
o A resolution to an incident will also be with the intent to restore a sense of safety and
belonging for any Reading Memorial High School community member impacted by
an interaction or incident.
o Prior to facilitating any response to an incident, the administration will confirm that all
parties are willing participants, and have been oriented to the response protocols.
Additionally, when possible, the administration will enlist the support of the school
counseling faculty, or other sources of student support, to assist with the process.
o Accountability interventions may consist of but are not limited to:
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Conferences
School or community conferences
Community service
Additional supports for community members in need
Restitution
Academic and social-emotional support upon reentry/return to school
• Progressive Accountability: When requiring students to account for their behavior or
decisions, the staff may consider consequences that consist of, but are not limited to the
following, in accordance disciplinary due process requirements:
o Parent Outreach The school faculty will prioritize parental engagement when
requiring a student to account for violations of the Code of Conduct. This
engagement may be in the form of email communication, a phone call, or a meeting.
Parents may be required to meet with the school administration when students
repeatedly violate the Code of Conduct. This includes violations of the Attendance
Policy.
o Confiscation of Belongings: If the administration determines that a student has
something in their possession that either violates the law or substantially disrupts the
learning process for that student or for other students, the administration may
confiscate those items.
o Withholding of Privileges: This may include the withholding of privileges during the
school day or after school activities.
o Short Term Suspension: Will be determined by an administrator accordance with
disciplinary due process procedures; student’s removal from school for no more than
ten (10) school days.
o Long Term Suspension: Will be determined by an administrator accordance with
disciplinary due process procedures; student’s removal from school for more than
ten (10) to ninety (90) school days.
o Expulsion: Will be determined by an administrator accordance with disciplinary due
process procedures; student’s removal from school for more than 90 school days,
including permanent removal from school.
o When considering progressive accountability measures, the administration will
consider all relevant facts, which include, but are not limited to
Previous incidents involving the student,
The severity of the disruption caused by a student’s actions,
The degree of the safety risk or the harm to a student or other students
or staff members, and
The degree to which a student is willing to change their behavior, or has
been willing and able to change their behavior in the past.
o When school administrators consider suspending students from school, as the
result of an inappropriate exchange, incident, or behavior, they will adhere to
the notification protocols and due process requirements contained in
Massachusetts General Law Ch. 71, Sections 37H, 37H1/2, and 37H3/4.
C. Behavioral Expectations
The physical and emotional safety of all students and Reading High School community
members is a top priority of the Code of Conduct. Additionally, in keeping with the Core
Values and Beliefs of the Reading Public Schools, Reading High School community members
are expected to foster respectful and responsible relationships and contribute positively to a
diverse and inclusive learning environment. Students who detract from these community
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goals, or fail to act as positive community members, will be required to account for their
behavior in accordance with the school’s or progressive approach to accountability.
Students will not engage in the following list of behaviors:
• Discrimination against a student based on that student’s race, color, religion, national
origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability status.
• Targeting, ridiculing, or using as a source of humor another student’s race, color, religion,
national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability
status.
• Create, post, or inappropriately comment on any online or social media item that
harasses, threatens, intimidates, abuses, or demeans individuals or groups on the basis
of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, creed, national
origin, or disability status.
• Possession, intent to possess, consumption, distribution, selling, purchasing, or being
under the influence of any drug or drug paraphernalia, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of
any kind, to include the possession, use, or distribution of tobacco related products,
electronic cigarettes, vaping products, and vaping paraphernalia.
• Possession of a weapon of any kind, including, but not limited to knives, blades, guns, or
other dangerous instruments such as lighters and pepper spray. This includes the
possession of mock weapons.
• Sexually harassing another person, either by words or actions. This includes words,
expressions, or images posted online or on social media platforms.
• The issuance of a criminal complaint charging a student with a felony or the issuance of a
felony delinquent complaint.
• Assaulting, fighting, or striking another person, or threatening to assault, fight, or strike
another person.
• Profanity, obscenity, discourtesy, or disrespect directed toward school staff members.
• Insubordination, or failure to comply with, or ignoring the requests of a staff member. This
includes a student’s failure to properly identify themselves when asked by a staff member
for their name. It is the expectation of all students that they comply with staff members’
directives. If a student disagrees with a directive, they should at first comply and then
appeal to their counselor or assistant principal for support.
• Dishonesty, which includes, but is not limited to academic dishonesty (i.e. cheating and/or
plagiarism), forgery, and dishonesty about incidents or behavior.
• Theft, or attempts to steal, the belongings of another. This includes the theft or attempt to
steal school equipment, materials, or supplies.
• Vandalism or the destruction or attempt to destroy school property or the property of
others. This includes the misuse of lockers.
• Leaving the building, school property, or a mandatory school sponsored event without
permission.
• Being present in an unauthorized area of the building or the Reading High School
campus. This includes, but is not limited to, loitering in bathrooms, unsupervised use of
the athletic facilities before, during, and after school, parking in unauthorized (i.e. faculty)
parking spaces, and being in the lower parking lot during school hours.
• Failure to report to an assigned detention, to include assigned teacher detentions.
• Ordering food and having it delivered to school during school hours.
• Disrupting school by pulling a fire alarm or falsely reporting a risk that leads to an
emergency response (i.e. a bomb threat).
• Inciting or provoking another student to violate school rules, disrupt school or a school-
related event, or engage in dangerous or inappropriate behavior.
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• Any behavior not listed above that compromises the discipline and routine of the school
day or a school-sponsored event or a person’s physical or emotional safety, or that the
administration determines is inappropriate for the school environment.
• All employees are required to report to the Principal any incident in which a student is
found in possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school property or a student-
sponsored event. Principals will file reports under as required by M.G.L. Chapter 71,
Section 37L. This state law then requires follow up reporting and assessment for
students.
B. School-Wide Expectations
● Arrive at school on time with school-issued computer and charger
● Comply with all classroom expectations
● Carry an official school pass when in the hallways, and refrain from wandering the halls
● Refrain from engaging in overt public displays of affection
● Dress appropriately
● Refrain from the use of profanity
● Treat others respectfully
● Respecting physical boundaries
● Clean up after oneself (ex. Classrooms, cafeteria, bathrooms, fieldhouse)
● Follow all school rules and/or guidelines for the use and maintenance of the facility
cafeteria, and its related grounds, as well as technology
● Comply with all school rules and/or adopted guidelines when participating in athletics,
co-curricular clubs and activities, school-related functions and events, and school-
provided transportation
● Keep a proper RMHS identification badge visible.
C. Classroom Expectations
● Arrive to class on time
● Participate in class
● Complete assigned tasks
● Bring the appropriate materials to class, including school-issued computer fully charged
● Remain attentive for the entire period
● Pass in assigned work on time
● Make up missed work in a reasonable timeframe
● Follow any rules and/or guidelines specific to a particular class/laboratory ●
Remain in class until the bell rings
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Summary of Conduct/Behavioral Expectations and Consequences for
Infractions
In the spirit of Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) philosophy, RMHS believes in being
clear as a community about sharing and teaching clear expectations to our students. We then
hope to acknowledge and recognize the many positive examples of our students successfully
demonstrating these expectations throughout the year with our various recognition programs
and our award ceremonies. Of course at times, even great kids make mistakes and require
clear and consistent interventions and consequences to get them back on track. Below is a
summarized list of consequences and expectations followed by a more detailed list of infractions
organized by level of severity (minor or major) and the corresponding intervention/consequence.
Please note that the consequences and interventions below are merely guidelines. In each
case, school administrators are expected to consider the individual circumstances, as well as
the student’s prior history. A school administrator always has the discretion to impose a more or
less severe consequence than described below.
D. Overview of Consequences and Interventions
Teacher Detention (used with minor infractions)
While teacher detentions are typically associated with work or conduct in the classroom that is
unsatisfactory, it should be clear to all students that any member of the faculty or staff has the
authority to correct misconduct at any-time, anywhere in the building or on school grounds;
therefore, it is not uncommon for a member of the faculty or staff to require a student who is not
in any of their classes to report to them for detention. Teacher detention will be served for a
period of time after school that is designated by the teacher. Students are expected to serve the
detention and any failure to report will result in a referral to administration for office detention(s).
It should also be noted that teacher detention takes precedence over all other in-school and out-
of-school commitments, work, and participation in co-curricular clubs and activities, or
interscholastic athletics.
Administrative/Office Detention (used with major infractions)
● Office Detention is held after-school Monday through Thursday. Location is in a classroom
determined by the Assistant Principals.
● Detention starts promptly at 3:05 P.M. and runs until 3:45 P.M.
● Students should be prepared to work while there. They will not be allowed to return to their
lockers.
● Any student who skips detention is subject to added consequences, including possible
suspension. Students who disrupt detention or who are in any way insubordinate may be
subject to suspension.
● Seniors must make up all detentions before they may attend graduation and receive their
diploma.
● Detention takes precedence over any other school related activity, including social
commitments and athletic competitions. There are few exceptions.
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● The Assistant Principal may consider outside conflicts or problems (doctor’s appointments,
work, etc.), if presented beforehand.
● Students are not permitted to communicate with others while in detention.
● Students are to check in their cellphones at the beginning of detention and will receive them
back after detention is served.
Social-Probation (used with major infractions)
Some violations of the code of conduct may cause a student to be placed on social probation for
a period of time to be determined by the administration. Social probation is defined as follows: ●
The student may lose the privilege of participating in athletic events, practices, or games or
after-school clubs and activities.
● The student may not attend school functions, including those open to the public.
● Student leaders (i.e. class officers, captains, etc.) must vacate their position during the term
ofthe social probation.
● Any violation of social probation may result in in-school suspension.
In-School Suspension (used with major infractions)
In an effort to minimize disruption to a student’s education, in-school suspension will often be
utilized by administration for frequent or more serious disciplinary issues. Students assigned an
in-school suspension will report directly to their Assistant Principal ’s office with their books and
laptop. Their Assistant Principal will then work jointly with the students’ teachers and school
counselor to provide academic support for the students. Any disruption or non-compliance on
the part of the student may result in emergency removal and/or out-of-school suspension.
Students are not allowed to use their cell phones during in-school suspension.
Out of School Suspension (Used with major infractions)
A student may be temporarily removed from school for disciplinary reasons. During the
suspension, the student is neither to enter the premises of Reading Memorial High School nor
participate in any school activity or athletic event. A suspended student shall have the
opportunity to earn credits, as applicable, make up assignments, tests, papers, and other school
work as needed to make academic progress during the period of his or her removal from the
classroom or school. Absences due to suspension will be exempt from the Loss of Credit policy.
Expulsion
Students may be expelled consistent with M.G.L. c. 71, Sections 37H and 37H ½.
Student Referrals to the Office for Discipline Purposes
Unless legitimately delayed by a staff member, students who fail to report to the office for
scheduled appointments may be subject to disciplinary consequences up to and including
suspension.
E. Detailed List of Infractions and Consequences by Level and Type (Major
or Minor)
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Commented [JC146]: Change to "The principal or
his/her designee"
59
Please note that the consequences and interventions below are merely guidelines. In each
case, school administrators are expected to consider the individual circumstances, as well as
the student’s prior conduct history. A school administrator always has the discretion to impose a
more or less severe consequence or determine that an offense should be addressed at a
different level than described below.
Level 1 Infractions & Consequences—Minor Infractions:
A student who fails to abide by the classroom or school-wide expectations listed above will
generally be warned on a first offense. A second offense may result in the assignment of a
teacher or office detention. Recurring offenses will result in an office detention.
Level 2 Infractions & Consequences—Major Infractions:
A student who commits an infraction from the list below will be referred to the office, and the
student might be suspended from school for a period of time lasting between one (1) and three
(3) school days, depending on the infraction. At the discretion of the administration, office
detentions, social probation, restriction from co-curricular activities, restorative
justice/restitution/community service or in-school suspension may be incorporated into the
resulting discipline as deemed appropriate. Examples of such infractions may include:
1. Verbal abuse, insolence, or insubordination toward school staff.
2. Truancy (see Attendance).
3. Refusing to hand in a personal electronic device if directed to do so by a staff member4.
Forging, falsifying, stealing or otherwise altering any school-related document or record
including passes.
5. Dropping or throwing food in cafeteria or stairwells
6. Disruptive behavior: Any actions that disturb lessons, classes, or disrupt the educational
process in the school building or during school-related functions.
7. Food deliveries. RMHS is a closed campus. Students should not order food for delivery to
RMHS. If a student violates this policy food/drink will be confiscated. We discourage delivery
of flowers, candy, and non-related school materials during the day.
8. Attempt to purchase/Use/possession of tobacco/nicotine product including delivery devices
such as vape pens, e-cigarettes, etc. (first offense--see smoking/tobacco policy)
9. Directing vulgar and/or abusive language or gestures at a member of the school community.
10. Gambling, or playing a game of chance for stakes.
11. Intimidating, bullying, or threatening another student (see Harassment).
12. Skipping class and/or leaving the school building without permission from an administrator.
(A student’s ability to succeed in school is severely impacted by choosing not to attend
class. Students who wish to see their school counselor, social worker, assistant principal,
nurse, etc. must obtain a pass through SmartPass and present it to their assigned teacher
prior to their appointment. Students may not be eligible to make up work missed because of
skipping class or work that is due on the day of the skipped class.)
13. Refusing to identify oneself upon request.
14. Misbehaving at a co-curricular activity or event, on a field trip, or at an interscholastic athletic
contest.
Commented [JC147]: Change to "will be subject to
additional consequences and / or interventions."
Commented [JC148]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC149]: Change to "the principal or
his/her designee"
Commented [JC150]: Replace with "assistant principal
or principal"
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15. Lying to a member of the faculty of staff or defying the authority of a member of the faculty
or staff through willful non-compliance or insubordination (not following instructions from
staff members.)
16. Speeding, reckless driving, or parking in areas other than the student parking lot. (This will
also result in the loss of the student’s privilege of driving the car on school grounds.)
17. Direct insubordination concerning penalties assigned by the Assistant Principal.
18. Refusing to report to the Assistant Principal when told to do so by a teacher.
19. Any unauthorized use/abuse of computer system or equipment.
20. Improper use of student ID. Students will be issued identification badges which must be
visible when in the building and for entrance to classrooms. Anyone in the school without an
identification badge will be considered to be an intruder and may be charged with
trespassing. Unauthorized use or reproduction of ID’s will result in disciplinary action.
Defacing, destroying, or altering assigned badges will be considered acts of vandalism and
restitution will be required.
21. Horseplay or roughhousing
22. Possession of drug paraphernalia
23. Repeated and/or extreme violations of Level 1 or 2 infractions.
Level 3 Infractions & Consequences—Major Infractions
A student who commits an infraction from the list below might be suspended from school for a
period of time lasting three (3) to five (5) school days. The administrator might also, in his or her
discretion, impose the sanctions set forth for Level 1 or Level 2 Infractions. Depending on the
nature and severity of the conduct in question, a referral to the police department might also be
made. Depending on the infraction, and at the discretion of the administration, Saturday
detention or in-school suspension might be incorporated into the resulting discipline.
1. Fighting (see Fighting).
2. Any student who records a fight without bringing it to the immediate attention of a school
administrator will be subject to disciplinary consequences, including suspension. Any student
who, by word or action, is determined to have provoked or instigated a fight involving
themselves or others will be subject to disciplinary consequences, including suspension.
3. Stealing, or being found to be in possession of stolen personal or school property.
4. Participating in the practice of hazing (see Hazing).
5. Enabling unapproved access to the school building to non-school personnel, or to students
who do not attend Reading Memorial High School.
6. Destruction, damaging, or defacing of school property, or any other deliberate act of
vandalism. (Restitution of property and any associated clean-up costs will be required and
police will be notified, if warranted.) parent/guardian(s) should know that under the Laws of
Massachusetts parent/guardians are liable in a civil action for any willful act committed by a
minor child which results in damage to the property of another person or municipality up to
$1,000.
7. Repeated and/or extreme violations of Level 1, 2 or 3 infractions.
8. Discriminatory Harassment
9. Sexual Harassment
Commented [JC151]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC152]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC153]: Change to "will be subject to
additional disciplinary consequences and / or
interventions."
Commented [JC154]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC155]: delete
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Level 4 Infractions & Consequences—Major Infractions
In the case of serious or flagrant disregard of school rules, the school administration may
consider long-term suspension or expulsion (under M.G.L. c. 71, 37H and 37H ½) Principal for
an expulsion hearing. The administrator might also, in his or her discretion, impose the
sanctions set forth for Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 Infractions. The student might also be subject
to an immediate referral to the police department.
1. Disrupting school by creating or perpetrating a false fire alarm or bomb scare.
Using, possessing, distributing, or selling controlled or banned substances, or items
purported to be controlled or banned substances, including but not limited to: drugs (see
JICH & JICH-R per Reading School Committee Policy and refer to detailed Chemical
Health Policies for RMHS outlined in Section IX Part F of the Handbook)
3. Possession of alcohol, dangerous weapons, and pyrotechnics.
4. Arson, or starting a fire.
5. Sexual Assault/Sexual Harassment
6. Violating another student’s civil rights—including hate crimes. Students have the right to be
free from discrimination including verbal or physical attacks based on gender, gender identity,
race, religion, national origin, ethnic background, color, age, sexual orientation, or disability.
Any student who violates another student’s or students’ rights to be free from discrimination
will be subject to disciplinary sanctions which will vary, depending on the seriousness of the
offense, from detention up to an d including expulsion. Particularly serious violations will also
be referred to the police.
7. Assaulting, and/or attempting or threatening bodily harm to a member of the faculty or staff.8.
Any attack or assault on another student that would appear to a neutral observer to be
unprovoked. (One-sided student on student attack)
9. Student is charged with a felony offense and their continued presence would have a
substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school.
10. Repeated and/or extreme violations of Level 1, 2, or 3, or 4 infractions.
F. Conduct at School Sponsored Events
Students are expected to display proper behavior at all school sponsored events. All school
rules regarding student behavior apply at school events on campus or on the property of venues
off campus.
G. Student Chemical Health Policies
In compliance with chemical health regulations JICH & JICH-R per Reading School Committee
Policy
NICOTINE-RELATED SCHOOL POLICIES OVERVIEW:
The Reading School Committee Chemical Health Policy pertains to all students restricting any
use/consumption, possession, to buy, sell or give away.
62
NICOTINE, VAPE AND/OR TOBACCO PRODUCTS:
A student will not be penalized for proactively seeking assistance. Resources are available for
any student that is in need of assistance.
The Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support (A division of the Reading Police
Department) currently coordinates the education and support program for policy violations with
our in-house educators.
All Students Affected Related Consequences
The Chemical Health Policy for nicotine
violations at ‘in-school activities’ or ‘at school
sponsored events’ affects ALL students at
Reading Memorial High School (RMHS).
students at Reading Memorial High School
(RMHS).
-Possible School Suspension
-1st offense- participate in the Chemical
Health Education Program, operated by The
Coalition
-2nd or higher offense- follow referral process
for outside services, operated by The
Coalition
Extracurricular Students Affected Related Consequences
Students enrolled in RMHS extracurricular
activities agree to additional requirements
when they join an activity.
These students are held accountable for any
nicotine violations that occur out of school
(24/7 including summers).
Impacts student participation in
extracurricular activities from the beginning of
the summer after 8th grade until 12th grade
completion of extracurricular activities.
Loss of competitive play/activity but
student remains on team/club. Length
of time varies by type of offense
starting at 25% of season
Student may lose leadership roles/captaincy
1st NICOTINE OFFENSE
-Referral to Chemical Health Education
Program, operated by The Coalition & RMHS
2nd NICOTINE OFFENSE
- Referral to Primary Care Provider and
completion of recommendations, operated by
The Coalition & RMHS
3 RD NICOTINE OFFENSE OR MORE ● - -
Follow-up with
Primary Care Provider for nicotine cessation
and completion of recommendations,
operated by The Coalition & RMHS
ALCOHOL/DRUG SCHOOL POLICIES OVERVIEW
The Reading School Committee Chemical Health Policy pertains to all students and restricts—
any use/consumption, possession, to buy, sell or give away ALCOHOL & DRUGS.
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A student will not be penalized for pro-actively seeking assistance in accordance with the Good
Samaritan Law.
The Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support (A division of the Reading Police
Department) currently coordinates the education and support program for Chemical Health
Policy violations. Resources are available for any student that is in need of assistance.
All Students Affected Related Consequences
The Chemical Health Policy for any
alcohol/drug violation at ‘in-school activities’
or ‘at school sponsored events’ affects ALL
students at Reading Memorial High School
(RMHS).
● Possible School Suspension for any
alcohol/drug offense (5 to 10 days) ● 1st
offense- participate in the Chemical
Health Education Program, operated by The
Coalition
● 2nd or higher offense- follow
referral process for outside services,
operated by The
Coalition
Extracurricular Students Affected Related Consequences
Students enrolled in RMHS extracurricular
activities agree to additional requirements
when they join an activity.
These students are held accountable for any
alcohol/drug violation that occurs out of
school (24/7 including summers).
Impacts student participation in
extracurricular activities from the beginning
of the summer after 8th grade until 12th
grade completion of extracurricular activities.
● Loss of competitive play/activity,
student remains on team/club. Length of time
varies by type of offense starting at 25% of
season.
● Student may lose leadership
roles/captaincy.
1st OFFENSE
● Referral to Chemical Health Education
Program, operated by The Coalition & RMHS
2nd OFFENSE
● Referral for Adolescent Assessment of
substance misuse and completion of
recommendations, operated by The Coalition
3rd OFFENSE OR MORE
● Referral for Adolescent Assessment of
substance misuse and completion of
recommendations, operated by The Coalition
Details of Chemical Health Policy and Approved Programs Explanation In School or
School Sponsored Event Violations- ALL STUDENTS
This section applies to students that attend RMHS and violate the School Chemical Health
64
Policy. The partner for the approved programs is the Reading Coalition for Prevention and
Support. The primary difference between ‘in school’ and ‘out of school’ is the addition of school
suspension and potential fines/community service at the discretion of the administrator.
Penalties for Tobacco, Nicotine, Vaping
First Offense Second Offense Third Offense
More than 3 Offenses
One day suspension
(possible)
Three day
suspension
Three day
suspension
Five-day suspension
Payment of a fine or
6 hours of
community service
Payment of $75 fine Payment of $75
fine
Payment of $75 fine
Notification to
parent/guardian and
parent/guardian
conference
Notification to
parent/guardian and
parent/guardian
conference
Notification to
parent/guardian
and
parent/guardian
conference
Notification to
parent/guardian and
parent/guardian
conference
Referral to Approved
Program (The
Coalition/RMHS
Chemical Health
Education Program
Class)
Referral to Approved
Program (Visit to
Primary Care
Provider)
Referral to
Approved
Program (Return to
Primary Care
Provider)
Referral to Approved
Program (Return to
Primary Care
Provider)
Confirmation of class
completion provided
by The Coalition
Confirmation of visit
to PCP provided to
The Coalition
Mandatory
parent/guardian
conference prior to
re-admission to
school
Mandatory
parent/guardian
conference prior to re-
admission to school
Penalties for Alcohol & Other Drugs including possession or use of a substance other than
nicotine occurring ‘in school’ or ‘at a school sponsored event’
● Possible Suspension
● Referral to The Coalition Chemical Health Education Program class (1st violation only)
● Conditions set by School Administrators. For a full explanation of the suspension and
hearing process, please view the official policy.
Out of School Violations- Approved Program
This section applies to students that participate in afterschool activities. This section is for those
students who violate the Chemical Health Policy ‘outside of school’. The partner for the
approved programs is the Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support.
Commented [JC156]: Replace with "disciplinary
consequences"
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disciplinary consequences
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consequences
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consequences"
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FIRST Violation due to possession or use of a substance
● Student Meeting with School Administrator(s)
● Parent/guardian Notification
● Student must complete the Approved Program
● Student experiences 25% loss of competitive sport/club/activity season if engaged in
extracurricular activities at RMHS.
The Approved Program for FIRST Violations contains three elements carried out by the staff of
The Reading Coalition for Prevention and Support and Reading Memorial High School (RMHS):
1. Group Education: The Coalition & RMHS host a monthly Chemical Health Education Program
(CHEP) class for 2 hours after school. The Coalition provides the class schedule to the School
Administrators for the school year. RMHS will send a letter home with the next class date
following the issuance of a first violation. The Coalition & RMHS staff will host the class as
directed.
2. Youth Support: At their class, students will be given a date to return to meet individually with
the designated staff member to debrief on their experience in the class. At their debriefing
meeting, students will receive their official “Letter of Completion.”
3. Family Follow-up: The Coalition will contact parent/guardian after the child completes the
class and mail a packet of resources for follow-up.
Student Responsibilities
● Attend Chemical Health Education Class and complete assignments.
● Attend debriefing meeting with Class Facilitator to obtain “Letter of Completion”
● Attend practices/meetings.
● Remain in good standing with their team/club/activity.
● Sit out 25% of competitive play/activities as directed by Assistant Principal
SECOND Violation due to possession or use of a substance
● Student Meeting with School Administrator(s)
● Parent/guardian Notification
● Student must complete the Approved Program for SECOND Violations
● Student experiences loss of competitive sport/club/activity for 40-60% of the season
The Coalition and RMHS coordinate the approved program for SECOND violations that comply
with the School Chemical Health Policy. The requirement for SECOND violations due to nicotine
including vaping is a visit with the child’s Primary Care Provider (PCP). The 57 approved
program for SECOND violations for all other substances is a Substance Use Assessment by a
Licensed Professional with a specialty in addiction counseling. A list of suggested providers will
be included in the information sent to parents/guardians by The Coalition.
Assessment: The Coalition will send a letter to the family outlining the requirement for their
child to meet with a Licensed Health Professional to assess their child’s level of substance use.
66
The Health Professional will complete the required Coalition form and make recommendations
for follow-up.
Counseling: Students that complete their assessment and follow the recommendations from
their Health Professional including counseling may reduce their competitive season penalty from
60% to 40%. Most professionals recommend at least 3 sessions of counseling and support for
students.
Confirmation: For nicotine violations, the PCP will return the required form to The Coalition. For
other substance use violations, the Licensed Professional will provide progress updates to The
Coalition. The Coalition will communicate with the necessary school officials upon completion of
requirements.
Student Responsibilities
● Attend PCP appointment and complete recommendations.
● Return with required signed paperwork provided by THE COALITION indicating completion of
recommendations.
● Remain in good standing with their team/club/activity.
● Sit out 40%* of competitive play/activities as directed by Assistant Principal (if requirements
above are met)
*Increases to 60% loss if program requirements are not met to seek assistance of a healthcare
provider.
THIRD Violation due to possession or use of a substance
● Student Meeting with School Administrator(s)
● Parent/guardian Notification
● Student must complete the Approved Program for 3rd violations which includes a formal
substance abuse evaluation or re-assessment and comply with treatment recommendations.
● Student experiences loss of competitive sport/club/activity for six months to one year.
Student Responsibilities
● Follow recommended program by Treatment Provider
● Provide required paperwork as directed
● Sit out competitive play/activities as directed by Assistant Principal
H. Academic Integrity: Cheating & Plagiarism
In order to develop the skills to become effective communicators, learners and ethical citizens of
the 21st century, students must maintain high standards of personal and academic integrity.
Cheating and plagiarism undermine the educational process and deny students the opportunity
to maximize their learning potential. Cheating is defined as obtaining an unfair advantage in
completing academic work. Examples of cheating include but are not limited to: 1. Copying
another student’s homework, paper, project or idea 2. Using books, calculators, translators,
notebooks, “cheat sheet”, or other resource during a test or to complete an assignment which
67
has not been authorized by the teacher 3. Using unauthorized electronic resources (cell phones,
text messages, iPods, etc.) to access information during an assessment 4. Copying or allowing
another student to copy answers during a test, quiz or exam 5. Any form of unauthorized
communication during an assessment or about an assessment 6. Purchasing an assignment
from another person or online resource 7. Discussing a test/quiz with students who have not yet
taken that test/quiz. Plagiarism occurs when a student copies information and/or ideas from
another source, fails to give credit to that source, and passes the information off as his/her own.
Examples of plagiarism include but are not limited to: 1. Failure to properly cite text, pictures, or
ideas obtained directly from books, articles, internet resources, instant messages, or emails 2.
Failure to cite quoted material or paraphrased material 3. Use of false data or citations 4. Buying
research papers or paying someone to write research papers and submitting them as original
work 5. Allowing someone else to submit your work as their own 6. Submitting someone else’s
work as your own Consequences for Cheating and Plagiarism (Please note that offenses are
cumulative over a student’s high school career)
First Offense 1. The teacher will notify administration to establish that this is a first offense. 2.
The student cannot receive a passing grade on the assignment and may receive a score of
zero. 3. The teacher will notify the student’s parent or guardian and guidance counselor 4. The
student should meet with his/her guidance counselor. 5. If the student has applied for entry in
the National Honor Society, NHS advisors will be notified of the infraction. 6. Administration
reserves the right to impose disciplinary measures, including suspension.
Second Offense: 1. The teacher will notify administration. 2. The student will receive a score of
zero on the assignment. 3. The teacher will notify the student’s parent or guardian and guidance
counselor 4. The student will meet with his/her guidance counselor. 5. Administration will
document the incident in the student’s discipline file. 6. If the student has applied for entry in the
National Honor Society, NHS advisors will be notified of the infraction. 7. Administration will
impose disciplinary measures that could include suspension.
Subsequent Offenses: All of the above with second offense and disciplinary measures
consistent with progressive discipline at the discretion of administration.
K. Assault of a Faculty/Staff Member, Dangerous Weapons and Narcotics
(M.G.L. c. 71, Section 37H)
Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain
the following provisions: 1. Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored
or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon,
including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter
ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, vaping paraphernalia
may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal. 2. Any student
who assaults a principal, Assistant Principal , teacher, teacher’s aide or other educational staff
on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games,
may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal. 3. Any student
who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (1) or (2) shall be notified in writing of an
opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along
with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal. 4.
Commented [JC160]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC161]: Change to "school"
Commented [JC162]: Change to "school"
Commented [JC163]: Change to "The principal or
his/her designee"
Commented [JC164]: delete
Commented [JC165]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC166]: Change to "school"
Commented [JC167]: Change to "school"
Commented [JC168]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC169]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC170]: delete
Commented [JC171]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
68
After said hearing, a principal may, in his/her discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a
student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (1) or (2). 5.
Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall
have the right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from
the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his appeal. The student has the
right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall
not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any
provisions of this section. 6. Any school district that suspends or expels a student under this
section shall continue to provide educational services to the student during the period of
suspension or expulsion, under section 21 of chapter 76. If the student moves to another district
during the period 60 of suspension or expulsion, the new district of residence shall either admit
the student to its schools or provide educational services to the student in an education service
plan, under section 21 of chapter 76. 7. Districts shall report to the department of elementary
and secondary education the specific reasons for all suspensions and expulsions, regardless of
duration or type, in a manner and form established by the commissioner. The department of
elementary and secondary education shall use its existing data collection tools to obtain this
information from districts and shall modify those tools, as necessary, to obtain the information.
On an annual basis, the department of elementary and secondary education shall make district
level de-identified data and analysis, including the total number of days each student is
excluded during the school year, available to the public online in a machine readable format.
This report shall include district level data disaggregated by student status and categories
established by the commissioner. 8. Under the regulations promulgated by the department, for
each school that suspends or expels a significant number of students for more than 10
cumulative days in a school year, the commissioner shall investigate and, as appropriate, shall
recommend models that incorporate intermediary steps prior to the use of suspension or
expulsion. The results of the analysis shall be publicly reported at the school district level.
(Mass. Gen. Laws ch.71, §37H) I. Conduct of Students Outside of School If a student were to
engage in unlawful and/or improper conduct outside of school, thus raising serious question
about the effect that his/her presence in school might have on the rest of the student body or the
staff, the principal/Assistant Principal may consider such out of school activity sufficient cause
for disciplinary action including suspension and or expulsion in accordance with the procedures
delineated with in other parts of this handbook. Massachusetts General Law relevant to felony
charges which occur outside of school provides as follows:
I. M.G.L. c. 71, §37H1/2 - Notwithstanding the provisions of section eighty-four and
sections sixteen and seventeen of chapter seventy-six: (1) Upon the issuance of a
criminal complaint charging a student with a felony or upon the issuance of a felony
delinquency complaint against a student, the principal or headmaster of a school in
which the student is enrolled may suspend such student for a period of time determined
appropriate by said principal or headmaster if said principal or headmaster determines
that the student's continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental
effect on the general welfare of the school. The student shall receive written notification
of the charges and the reasons for such suspension prior to such suspension taking
effect. The student shall also receive written notification of their right to appeal and the
process for appealing such suspension: provided, however, that such suspension shall
69
remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent. The
student shall have the right to appeal the suspension to the superintendent. The student
shall notify the superintendent in writing for their request for an appeal no later than five
calendar days following the effective date of the suspension. The superintendent shall
hold a hearing with the student and the student's parent or guardian within 61 three
calendar days of the student's request for an appeal. At the hearing, the student shall
have the right to present oral and written testimony on their behalf and shall have the
right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the
decision of the principal or headmaster, including recommending an alternate
educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the
appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such decision shall be the final decision
of the city, town or regional school district with regard to the suspension. (2) Upon a
student being convicted of a felony or upon an adjudication or admission in court of guilt
with respect to such a felony or felony delinquency, the principal or headmaster of a
school in which the student is enrolled may expel said student if such principal or
headmaster determines that the student's continued presence in school would have a
substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school. The student shall
receive written notification of the charges and reasons for such expulsion prior to such
expulsion taking effect. The student shall also receive written notification of his right to
appeal and the process for appealing such expulsion; provided, however, that the
expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the
superintendent. The student shall have the right to appeal the expulsion to the
superintendent. The student shall notify the superintendent, in writing, of their request for
an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the expulsion.
The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student's parent or
guardian within three calendar days of the expulsion. At the hearing, the student shall
have the right to present oral and written testimony on their behalf and shall have the
right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the
decision of the principal or headmaster, including recommending an alternate
educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the
appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such a decision shall be the final
decision of the city, town or regional school district with regard to the expulsion. Any
school district that suspends or expels a student under this section shall continue to
provide educational services to the student during the period of suspension or expulsion,
under section 21 of chapter 76. If the student moves to another district during the period
of suspension or expulsion, the new district of residence shall either admit the student to
its schools or provide educational services to the student under an education service
plan, under section 21 of chapter 76. IX.
K. Bus Expectations
Any violation of the bus code of conduct is expected to be resolved as soon as possible. The bus
driver and monitor will work closely with each school Principal, the METCO Director, and the
METCO Coordinator to make sure the bus rules and guidelines are followed. To ensure students
70
have a safe and efficient ride to and from Reading every day, all students must adhere to the
following rules and guidelines on the bus.
Rules:
1. Respect
• Be respectful to the driver, monitor and peers.
• Always remain seated.
• Use appropriate language and content.
• Physical contact, even as a form of greeting, is discouraged.
• No horseplay or play fighting.
• Recording of other students is not allowed.
2. Responsibility
• North Suburban Transportation prohibits eating on the bus, please respect that
by eating prior to entering the bus.
• Use of musical devices and cell phones with headphones is allowed.
Speakers may not be used on the bus.
• Clean up after yourself.
3. Seating
• All students will sit two to a seat.
• No student will have their own seat unless designated by a building principal,
METCO Coordinator, METCO Director, or bus monitor/bus driver.
• Any student refusing to let a student who needs a seat sit with them will be
subject to disciplinary actions.
• High School students will be given the opportunity to pick their own seats. If this
becomes problematic, then the Principal, METCO Coordinator, or METCO
Director will assign seats.
• All 9th grade students will sit in the front of the bus, 10th graders will sit behind
the 9th graders, 11th graders will sit behind the 10th graders and seniors get
preference to the back seating.
L. Discipline
All disciplinary outcomes are meticulously determined by the principal, following a comprehensive
framework established by the district handbook and in strict adherence to both Massachusetts state
laws and relevant federal regulations. This structured approach ensures that each disciplinary
decision is fair, consistent, and aligned with the established guidelines, fostering a safe
environment for all students while upholding their rights and responsibilities.
All incidents on the bus can result in school suspension or any school disciplinary actions.
A bus suspension does not necessarily include a suspension from school. Students suspended
from the bus are still expected to attend school. Any student who is suspended from the bus and
does not attend school will be marked absent for the day(s). It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility
to arrange for transportation to and from school during a bus suspension.
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VIII. Code of Conduct and Behavioral Expectations
A. General Behavioral Guidelines
Reading Memorial High School has reasonable rules and regulations for student behavior so
that a healthy and respectful climate for learning can be maintained. Students are expected to
display proper behavior in school and at all school events. All school rules regarding student
behavior apply at all school events on or off campus and on school-provided transportation.
The infraction and the consequences contained within this handbook are not exhaustive nor are
they meant to be; rather these are guidelines for addressing inappropriate conduct and
suggested disciplinary consequences. A range of discipline is possible within these guidelines,
and school administrators have the discretion to impose more severe consequences than
contained within these guidelines depending on the individual circumstances presented. In
some instances consequences may carry over from one year to the next. Please be aware that
some behavior warrants police investigation as the breach of conduct may also be a criminal
offense.
Summary of Conduct/Behavioral Expectations and Consequences for Infractions In the
spirit of Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) philosophy, RMHS believes in being clear
as a community about sharing and teaching clear expectations to our students. We then hope
to acknowledge and recognize the many positive examples of our students successfully
demonstrating these expectations throughout the year with our various recognition programs
and our award ceremonies. Of course at times, even great kids make mistakes and require
clear and consistent interventions and consequences to get them back on track. Below is a
summarized list of consequences and expectations followed by a more detailed list of infractions
organized by level of severity (minor or major) and the corresponding intervention/consequence.
B. Overview of Conduct Expectations
Classroom Expectations
1. Arrive to class on time.
2. Participate in class.
3. Complete assigned tasks.
4. Bring the appropriate materials to class.
5. Remain attentive for the entire period.
6. Pass in assigned work on time.
7. Make up missed work in a reasonable timeframe.
8. Follow any rules and/or guidelines specific to a particular class/laboratory.
9. Remain in class until the bell rings
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School-Wide Expectations
1. Arrive at school on time.
2. Comply with all homeroom and classroom expectations.
3. Carry an official school pass when in the hallways, and refrain from wandering the halls.
4. Refrain from engaging in overt public displays of affection.
5. Dress appropriately.
6. Refrain from the use of profanity.
7. Treat others respectfully.
8. Clean up after oneself.
9. Follow all school rules and/or guidelines for the use and maintenance of the facility
cafeteria, and its related grounds., as well as technology
10. Comply with all school rules and/or adopted guidelines when participating in athletics,
co-curricular clubs and activities, school-related functions and events, and school-
provided transportation.
M. Overview of Consequences and Interventions
Teacher Detention (used with minor infractions)
While teacher detentions are typically associated with work or conduct in the classroom that is
unsatisfactory, it should be clear to all students that any member of the faculty or staff has the
authority to correct misconduct at any-time, anywhere in the building or on school grounds;
therefore, it is not uncommon for a member of the faculty or staff to require a student who is not
in any of their classes to report to them for detention. Teacher detention will be served for a
period of time after school that is designated by the teacher. Students are expected to serve the
detention and any failure to report will result in a minimum assignment of two (2) office
detentions. It should also be noted that teacher detention takes precedence over all other in-
school and out-of-school commitments, work, and participation in co-curricular clubs and
activities, or interscholastic athletics.
Administrative/Office Detention (used with major infractions)
● Detention is held Monday through Thursday. Location is in the Assistant Principals’
offices.
● Detention starts promptly at 3:15 P.M. and runs until 4:15 P.M.
● Students should be prepared to work while there. They will not be allowed to return to
their lockers.
● Any student who skips detention is subject to added consequences, including possible
suspension. Students who disrupt detention or who are in any way insubordinate will be
subject to suspension.
● Seniors must make up all detentions before they may attend graduation and receive
their diploma.
● Detention takes precedence over any other school related activity, including social
commitments and athletic competitions. There are few exceptions.
Commented [JC172]: Delete b/c it is redundant
Commented [JC173]: Change to "determined by the
principal or his/her designee"
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● The Assistant Principal may consider outside conflicts or problems (doctor’s
appointments, work, etc.), if presented beforehand.
● Students are not allowed to use their cell phones during detention.
In-School Suspension (used with major infractions)
In an effort to minimize disruption to a student’s education, in-school suspension will often be
utilized by administration for frequent or severe disciplinary issues. Students assigned an in-
school suspension will report directly to their assistant principal’s office with their books. Their
assistant principal will then work jointly with the students’ teachers to provide academic support
for the students. Any disruption or non-compliance on the part of the student will result in the
student being sent home and assigned an out of school suspension. Students are not allowed to
use their cell phones during in-school suspension.
Out of School Suspension (Used with major infractions)
A student may be temporarily removed from school for disciplinary reasons. During the
suspension, the student is neither to enter the premises of Reading Memorial High School nor
participate in any school activity or athletic event. A suspended student shall have the
opportunity to earn credits, as applicable, make up assignments, tests, papers, and other school
work as needed to make academic progress during the period of his or her removal from the
classroom or school. Absences due to suspension will be exempt from the Loss of Credit
policy.
Student Referrals to the Office for Discipline Purposes
Unless legitimately delayed by a staff member, students who fail to report to the office for
scheduled appointments may be subject to disciplinary consequences up to and including
suspension.
X. Reading Public Schools Virtual Technology Procedures and Protocols,
Computer Network and Internet Acceptable Use Policy For 6-12 Students
DISTRICT’S EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS AND FAMILIES FOR APPROPRIATE
VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY USE
Protocol and Expectations for Video Conferencing
The Reading Public Schools is dedicated to providing engaging and effective remote learning
opportunities for our students. As part of our remote learning opportunities, the District is
offering these opportunities via a virtual platform. Prior to engaging in these virtual opportunities,
the District seeks to clarify expectations around appropriate use of virtual technologies for
educational opportunities. For questions regarding school policies and procedures, please
contact your child’s building principal.
Commented [JC175]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC176]: Replace with "can"
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his/her designee"
Commented [JC178]: Change to "the principal or
assistant principal's"
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assistant principal
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Commented [JC181]: delete
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1. Parents/guardians should review and sign electronically on the portal the Acceptable
Use Policy (AUP) for Internet and Technology Use as soon as possible. The documents
can be found for viewing on the first day of school fliers located here. During this
transition time, when students are accessing remote lessons the AUP is in effect for all
students.
2. Please note that during remote recorded or live telecommunication sessions, your child’s
image and voice will be transmitted over the internet and into other students computers
and homes, and that by allowing your child to participate in these telecommunication
services you understand and consent to the dissemination of your child’s image and
voice during these remote telecommunication sessions.
3. The District strictly prohibits screenshots, pictures, downloading, audio/video recording
and distribution of any virtual educational experience by students or parents/guardians in
order to protect student privacy, proactively prevent potential cyberbullying, prevent the
distribution of copyrighted materials and comply with Massachusetts law. Please note
that in Massachusetts, it is illegal to audio record another person through any medium
without his or her knowledge.
4. Teachers will record lessons when they are using Zoom or Microsoft Teams for
synchronous teaching and learning. Recorded instruction will be maintained by the
teacher and will be available for instructional purposes using the protocol described
below. Teachers may determine that some lessons will not be made available to
students and will not provide access.
5. The District has made good faith efforts to ensure virtual platforms used comply with
child Internet protection and confidentiality laws and do not sell, use or disclose any
personally identifiable information or data for commercial purposes or to third parties.
There are potential risks for Internet interruptions, unauthorized interruption by third
parties and technical difficulties. You can minimize the risk of breaches in confidentiality
by not sharing any links, username and passwords provided used for virtual
opportunities access.
6. Students, and where appropriate parents/guardians, agree to engage in virtual
educational experiences dressed appropriately, in a quiet, private area to the extent
practicable given the circumstances, in order to minimize background noise and
distractions and to protect the integrity of student engagement as well as student
confidentiality. It is the expectation that students use appropriate backgrounds for their
virtual calls.
7. The laws that protect the privacy and confidentiality of your child’s personally identifiable
information apply to virtual educational opportunities just as they do during in-person
services. Parents/guardians and other household members who normally are not privy to
day-to-day classroom and group service discussions agree to respect and keep
confidential any personal or private information (e.g. disability status) inadvertently
discovered about other students due to proximity of virtual education.
8. Parents and guardians agree that attendance in virtual education is necessary and
required. Parents/guardians will make best efforts for the student(s) to be present during
live lessons. Attendance will be taken each class period at the middle and high school
level and once in the morning and once in the afternoon at the elementary school level.
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Protocol for Access to Lessons
1. Teachers will use only Zoom or Microsoft Teams to record their lessons.
2. Recorded instruction will be maintained by the teacher.
3. Recorded lessons are available to the student for instructional purposes only and under
the following guidelines:
a. The student has been absent from virtual or in person lessons for several days
due to illness that did not allow them to access virtual or in person instruction.
Medical documentation will be necessary to support this guideline.
b. The student has been struggling academically and it has been determined by the
teacher that reviewing the recorded lessons would benefit the students academic
progress.
4. Teachers may decide that other one time events (i.e. power outage or extra help session
prior to an assessment) would be an appropriate reason to make a recorded lesson
available. Since the expectation and requirement is that students attend all synchronous
lessons, recorded lessons will not be available for general use. If a student needs extra
help on a particular topic, it is encouraged that the student/parent/guardian reach out to
the teacher for additional academic support.
5. If a student qualifies for one of the above categories, the teacher will contact the
parent/guardian to make the lesson available to them.
In Person and Remote Computer Network and Internet Use
The Internet is a worldwide network of computers that provides an opportunity for users to
communicate with each other, no matter how far apart they are geographically. The Internet
provides an almost limitless amount of information that can be used for educational purposes,
but the potentially limitless amount of information available on the Internet creates the potential
for the posting or retrieval, intentionally or unintentionally, of inappropriate or harmful material. It
is the purpose of these guidelines to assist all users of the Reading Public Schools Computer
Network to use this resource safely and appropriately.
The Reading Public Schools Computer Network, which includes World Wide Web access and
electronic mail capability, exists solely for educational purposes, which are defined as classroom
activities, research projects directly related to class assignments, career and professional
development, and high-quality self-discovery activities of an educational nature. The Reading
Public Schools computer network is not intended for use as a public forum or for any purpose
that is not directly related to the delivery of educational services.
Members of the Reading Public Schools community are responsible for good behavior on
school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or school hallway. Communications
on the network may reach larger audiences than face to face conversations or telephone
discussions. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. Access to network
services will be provided to those who act in a considerate and responsible manner.
The Reading Public Schools believes that the benefits to students from access to information
resources and opportunity for collaboration available through the Internet exceed the potential
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disadvantages. However, the parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and
conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information
sources. To that end, the Reading Public Schools respects each family’s right to decide whether
or not their child will have independent access to the World Wide Web and an individual email
account at school. In making this decision, families should be aware that the Reading Public
Schools intends to incorporate network use, Web access, remote learning and email in schools
according to grade level as follows:
a. Grades kindergarten through four: Students at these grade levels will not have
individual computer network passwords or email accounts unless they are issued a
Reading Public School computer for home and school use. During school time,
teachers of students in grades kindergarten through two will guide them toward
appropriate materials. Web access at these grade levels will be limited to teacher-
directed and teacher demonstrated use. Students will not be conducting
independent research on the world wide web, nor will they be sending or receiving
electronic mail independently.
b. Grades five through twelve: Students in grades five through twelve may be given
individual access passwords and receive individual Reading Public School student
email accounts. They may have the opportunity to access the Web and conduct
independent, self-directed research, both during classroom instruction and outside of
classroom instruction, under the supervision of a teacher or other staff member.
For students to be permitted to gain independent access to the web or individual email
accounts, they must agree to and abide by the rules set out below. For students under 18,
parents/guardians must provide written permission forms before students will be permitted to
gain independent access to the web or individual email accounts. If the Reading Public Schools
does not receive a signed user agreement and, if applicable, a signed parental/guardian
permission form, students will not gain independent access to the web or individual email
accounts, but they may still have exposure to the Internet during classroom instruction or library
research exercises.
The Reading Public Schools will make every reasonable effort to minimize the risk that users
will encounter objectionable material on the Internet. However, there is no absolute guarantee
that this will not happen. The Reading Public Schools intends to utilize any blocking or filtering
safeguards required by law. With these measures, in addition to user education,
implementation of this policy and grade-appropriate supervision, the Reading Public Schools
believes that the Internet can be used safely to enhance the delivery of educational services.
Rules:
1. Network access is a privilege, not a right. The use of the network must be consistent
with, and directly related to, the educational objectives of the Reading Public
Schools. A violation of the terms of this Acceptable Use Policy may result in
suspension or termination of network access privileges (other than directly
supervised access during classroom instruction) and may also result in other
disciplinary action consistent with the disciplinary policies of the Reading Public
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Schools and could also result in criminal prosecution where applicable. The Reading
Public Schools will cooperate fully with law enforcement officials in any investigation
relating to misuse of the Reading Public Schools computer network.
2. Violations of this Acceptable Use Policy include, but are not limited to, the following
conduct:
a. Cyberbullying, which is the repeated use by one or more students of an
electronic expression (including transfer of signs, signals, writing, images,
sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a
wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system,
including but not limited to, the electronic mail, the internet communications,
instant messages or facsimile communications, creation of web pages or
blogs in which the creator assumes the identity of another person, the
knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or
messages, or the distribution of communications to more than one person or
the posting of material on an electronic medium that be me accessed by one
or more persons), alone or in combination with any written or verbal
expressions or physical acts or gestures, directed at a victim that: (i) causes
physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property;
(2) places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or damage to his
property, (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the victim; (iv)
infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or (v) materially and
substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of the
school. See Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71, Section 37O.
b. Using profane, vulgar, threatening, defamatory, abusive, discriminatory,
harassing or otherwise objectionable or criminal language in a public or
private message.
c. Sending messages or posting information that would likely result in the loss of
a recipient’s work or system.
d. Sending “chain letters” or “broadcast” messages to lists or individuals,
subscribing to “listserves” or “newsgroups” without prior permission, or using
the Internet access for any other personal use, without prior permission.
e. Participating in other types of use which would cause congestion of the
network or interfere with the work of others.
f. Using the network in a manner that would violate any U.S. or state law. This
includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening material and
spreading of computer viruses.
g. Accessing or transmitting materials that are obscene, sexually explicit, or
without redeeming educational value.
h. Accessing any prohibited sites on the Internet.
i. Revealing the personal address or telephone number or oneself or another
person.
j. Revealing one’s password to anyone else, using anyone else’s password, or
pretending to be someone else when sending information over the computer
network.
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k. Attempting to gain unauthorized access to system programs or computer
equipment, including attempts to override, or to encourage others to override,
any firewalls established on the network.
l. Attempting to harm, modify or destroy data of another user.
m. Exhibiting any other action, whatsoever which would in any way subject the
user or the Reading Public Schools to any civil or criminal action.
n. Discussing highly sensitive or confidential school department information in e-
mail communications.
o. Using the Reading Public Schools technology network to buy, sell or
advertise anything.
p. Using social networking sites, discussion groups, chat rooms, instant
messaging, or other forms of online conversation unless authorized in
advance by the teacher and directly tied to a school assignment or classroom
project.
q. Using the Reading Public Schools technology network for gambling.
r. Using the Reading Public Schools technology network for political
campaigning purposes, including attempts to influence ballot questions or to
promote or oppose a candidate for public office.
s. Failing to log off the computer network at the conclusion of a work session or
at the request of system administrators.
t. Using the computer network for recreational purposes or activities relating to
personal hobbies.
3. The Reading Public Schools assumes no responsibility for:
a. Any unauthorized charges or fees, including telephone charges, long
distance charges, per minute surcharges and/or equipment or line costs.
b. Any financial obligations arising out of unauthorized use of the system for the
purchase of products or services.
c. Any cost, liability or damages caused by a user’s violation of these
guidelines.
d. Any information or materials that are transferred through the network.
4. The Reading Public Schools makes no guarantee, implied or otherwise, regarding
the reliability of the data connection. The Reading Public Schools shall not be liable
for any loss or corruption of data resulting while using the network.
5. All messages and information created, sent or retrieved on the network are the
property of the Reading Public Schools. Electronic mail messages and other use of
electronic resources by students and staff, including accessing web pages, should
not be considered confidential. Copies of all information created, sent or retrieved,
including but not limited to web sites visited (cache files), are stored on the computer
network’s back-up files. While the Reading Public Schools does not plan to review
cache files or back-up files on a regular basis, it reserves the right to access and
monitor all messages and files on the computer system, including web pages
accessed, as it deems necessary and appropriate in the ordinary course of its
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business for purposes including, but not limited to, ensuring proper use of resources,
investigating allegations of improper use and conducing routine network
maintenance. By participating in the school district’s computer network, users are
indicating their consent to such monitoring and access. Where appropriate,
communications including text and images may be disclosed to law enforcement or
other third parties without prior consent of the sender or receiver.
6. Any users caught illegally obtaining software or transferring such software through
the network, and any whose accounts are found to contain such illegal files, shall
immediately have their accounts permanently revoked. In such event, the user’s
network access will be limited to directly supervised use during classroom
instruction. In addition, all users should be aware that software piracy is a federal
offense and is punishable by fine or imprisonment.
7. Because of size, many kinds of materials eventually find their way to the network. If
a user finds materials that are inappropriate while using the Reading Public Schools
technology network, s/he shall refrain from downloading this material and shall not
identify or share the material. It should be understood that the transfer of certain
kinds of materials is illegal and punishable by fine or imprisonment.
8. Should a user, while using the Reading Public Schools Technology Network,
encounter any material that s/he feels may constitute a threat against the safety of
fellow students, staff members or the property of the Reading Public Schools, that
user is obligated to report his/her discovery of such material to a teacher or to his/her
principal.
9. Cyberbullying that either (a) is committed through the use of technology or devices
that are owned, leased or used by the school district or (b)(i) is committed using
technology or devices not owned leased or used by the school, and (ii) creates a
hostile environment at school for the victim, infringes on the rights of the victim at
school, or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or orderly
operation of the school, should be reported by following the school district’s Bullying
Prevention and Intervention Plan and Procedures. See Massachusetts General
Laws, Chapter 71, Section 37O.
10. The Reading Public Schools administration reserves the right to amend this policy at
any time without prior notice.
11. The Reading Public Schools reserves the right to seek restitution from any user for
costs incurred by the district, including legal fees, due to such user’s inappropriate
use of electronic resources.
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XI. Co-Curricular Activities
A. Activities, Organizations and Clubs
RMHS provides a wide array of clubs/activities as an outlet and opportunity for the diverse
talents and interests of the student body. Participation in clubs and activities is a privilege
predicated on positive participation in accordance with all rules contained in this handbook.
Therefore, each participant is bound by all requirements and regulations as established by this
handbook. By participating in any extra-curricular activity you are accepting the high school
rules governing participation. Members are subject to suspension from the organization or club
for major violations of the school rules. See the school’s web page for specific information about
the range of school sponsored
No high school activities (e.g., Color Guard, drama) shall permit middle school students to
participate. No middle school student will be given a performance role in an activity before all
high school students are included.
RMHS will provide nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities in such a manner as
is necessary to afford students with disabilities an equal opportunity for participation. The school
district is, however, generally permitted to establish and utilize skill-based eligibility criteria for
participation in extracurricular programs and activities (e.g., school-sponsored athletics) so long
as the criteria are rationally related to the purposes and goals of the specific program or activity.
B. User Fees
In order to support the cost of the performing arts activities and teams that provide RMHS
students with rich experiences beyond the classroom, Reading Memorial High School assesses
a user fee for the co-curricular activities listed below. The revenue received from these user fees
allows the school to maintain the present level of programs, advisors, and coaches.
Families for whom fees present a hardship may apply for fee waivers through the Federal Free
and Reduced Meals (FFRM) program. Applications for the FFRM are found on the Reading
Public Schools website under Food Service.
User fees are payable each season at the Athletic/Student Activities Department, Room 220.
Checks are payable to: Town of Reading. The fee is due by the first week of each season.
Athletic/ Band/ Drama user fees cannot be combined to reach individual or family cap.
ACTIVITY FEE TIME COVERED
Athletics $250.00 per athlete per sport $750.00
cap per athlete per year
$950.00 cap per family per year
Three seasons: Fall,
winter and spring
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Band: Fall Marching Band,
Stage Band, Color Guard,
Band: Jazz Band, Winter
Percussion, Winter Guard
$200.00 per activity
$475.00 cap per student per year
$750.00 cap per family per year
Two seasons: Fall &
Winter
Drama $150.00 per student per season
$75.00 per student for crew per
season
$375.00 cap per student per year
$550.00 cap per family per year
Three seasons: Fall,
Winter and Spring
C. Student Leader/Team Captain Responsibilities
● Elected Student Leaders/Team Captains are expected to be leaders and should be
ready to assume designated duties and responsibilities as outlined by their advisor or
coach. Those in leadership positions are expected to be aware of both school rules and
activity/team rules and serve as role models for the groups they represent.
● When a student has been elected for a leadership position or selected to be a team
captain and then subsequently is found in violation of the MIAA and/or Reading
Memorial High School Chemical Health Rule or the Reading Public School’s Policy on
Bullying and Harassment, that student will lose all rights to continue to be an officer of
that organization or serve as captain and forfeits the rights to be selected for any other
leadership position and/or captainship for one calendar year.
D. Athletic Participation Guidelines
TRYOUTS
All students who meet the MIAA eligibility requirements, pass a physical examination, and are
members in good standing at Reading Memorial High School are welcome and encouraged to
try out for a team. In addition, students should understand that participation in athletics is a
privilege; students try out voluntarily and risk being cut after a minimum trial period of five (5)
practice sessions (excluding golf).
● Participation in athletics is a privilege. Each student tries out voluntarily and risks being
cut after a minimum trial period of 5 practice sessions.
● A student who is ineligible by MIAA rules during the THIRD marking period may try out
for a spring sport if s/he is maintaining a "C" average in his/her classes. This option may
be granted only ONCE while attending RMHS.
● During the tryout period coaches will provide an explanation of their expectations. It is
the student’s duty to demonstrate to the coach that he/she can fulfill these expectations.
● If a student is cut, the coach will schedule a time for the athlete and coach to meet for an
explanation, within 24 hours of the cut.
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● Students cut from one team are encouraged to try out for another program with the
consent of both coaches.
● No athlete may voluntarily leave one sport and try out for another after the season has
begun (first day of practice), without the consent of both coaches involved and that of the
Director of Athletics. (This restriction includes cheerleaders.)
PARENT/GUARDIAN PERMISSION (via registration on FamilyID.com)
Permission can be documented via FamilyID.com which can be accessed through the link on
the RMHS Athletics Edline page. Alternately, parents/guardians can see Appendix F in this
Handbook for more information.
No student will be allowed to practice without parental or guardian permission that has been
documented through one of the two methods described above.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
All athletes are required to receive medical clearance by the school or their family physician
before they can compete in a practice session.
EQUIPMENT CARE AND FINANCIAL OBLIGATION
● Students have an obligation and responsibility for all equipment issued and for its proper
care from the date issued to the date of a return.
● Students failing to turn in all issued equipment or turn in equipment damaged through
misuse are responsible to meet the current replacement cost of the equipment.
● Until all financial obligations are taken care of, the student will not be allowed to practice
for or play in the next season's sport.
SCHOOL AND CLASS ATTENDANCE
All students must be in attendance at school in order to participate in practice or play in a game
that day.
● Exceptions may be made if the absence from school is considered legitimate, and the
coach has cleared it through the administration.
● Students who are dismissed or tardy/absent on the day of the game must see their
assistant principal prior to dismissal or upon arrival for his decision on participation.
Failure to do so will result in the student's being unable to participate.
● Students who are on out-of-school suspension cannot practice or participate in
competition on the days they are suspended.
PRACTICE, CONTEST, AND TEAM ATTENDANCE
Athletes who have made a team have also made a commitment to be at all practice sessions,
contests, and team meetings.
● If the player must be late or miss a practice, game, or meeting for any reason, the player
has the responsibility to confer with the coach prior to that session. Absence from
practices, games, or meetings jeopardizes one’s position on the team.
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designee"
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designee"
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● Attendance at all practices and games is mandatory. Special requests to be excused
may be accepted before, (if possible) or immediately after the fact.
BONAFIDE TEAM MEMBER - MIAA RULE
A bonafide member of the school team is a student who is regularly present for, and actively
participates in, all team practices and competitions. Bonafide members of a school team are
precluded from missing a high school practice or competition in order to practice or compete
with an out-of-school team.
LOCKERS Most team members are issued lockers for their particular sport. The lockers are
RMHS property and students have no expectation of privacy in those lockers. RMHS reserves
the discretion to search student lockers at any time.
● If a player terminates his/her place on the team, the student must clean out his/her
locker immediately. If there is a delay, the coach will clean out the assigned locker and
place its contents in the Physical Education Equipment Room after verbally reminding
the player of a specified time limit to give up the locker for use by others.
TEAM RULES
● A physical exam, permission slip, and the carrying of the equivalent of four (4) full year
courses (including English) are necessary.
● Athletes are required to return or pay for all equipment at the end of each season in
order to participate in the next athletic season.
● Keep equipment locked at all times. Use school locks only ($5.00 if lost).
● Stealing means immediate dismissal.
● Wear equipment at practice or games only.
● Switching sports is not allowed once games begin.
● Travel with the team only unless you have prior approval by the coach and
parent/guardian to travel separately.
● Practice begins when the coach is present.
● Report all injuries to your coach and the school nurse. Follow the procedure noted on
Page 16 of the handbook (under “Accident Reports.”)
MASSACHUSETTS INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (MIAA)
INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY RULES
● Physical exam required
● Limit is 12 consecutive semesters beyond grade 8.
● A player must be under 19 before September 1.
● A player disqualified from a game shall miss at least the next game.
● A player disqualified from a game twice in the same season is disqualified for one year.
● Striking an official results in the loss of playing privileges for one year.
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● If hazing occurs and is verified by the building Principal, following regular due process
procedures, those involved in the hazing shall be suspended for up to ten (10) days or
more, at the discretion of the school principal.
Academic Eligibility- MIAA Rule 658
58.1 A student must secure during the last marking period preceding the contest (e.g. second
quarter marks and not semester grades determine third quarter eligibility) passing grade,
and full credit, in the equivalent of four traditional yearlong major English courses. A
transfer student may not gain academic eligibility if he/she was not, or would not be,
eligible at the sending school, unless transfer was necessitated by a move of
parents/guardians and then eligibility would be determined by receiving schools eligibility
standards. (see Rule 57.7.1)
58.2 A student cannot at any time represent a school unless that student is taking courses
which would provide Carnegie Units equivalent to four 1-year major English courses.
58.3 To be eligible for the fall marking period, students are required to have passed for the
previous academic year the equivalent of four 1-year major English courses.
58.4 Academic eligibility of all students shall be considered as official and determining only
on the date when the report cards for that ranking period have been issued to the
parents/guardians of all students within a particular class.
NOTE: The MIAA academic eligibility standards are designed to ensure that a student is fully
enrolled in school and actively engaged in his/her academic life on a consistent basis
throughout the school year. When utilizing a 4 x 4 block schedule (is this what RMHS has?), a
student must pass at least two of the four required ‘major’ courses (or equivalent) in each
academic marking period.
The questions you must ask in determining equivalency are the following:
1. How many minutes per day/week/semester does this course meet?
2. How many credits toward graduation as approved in advance by school committee
policy will be offered for this course?
3. Is this equivalent to past academic requirements?
a. (If further clarification is necessary, the MIAA executive staff will be happy to
assist.)
58.5 Incomplete grades may not be counted toward eligibility.
58.6 A student who repeats work upon which s/he has once received credit cannot
count that subject a second time for eligibility.
58.7 A student cannot count for eligibility any subject taken during the summer
vacation, unless that subject has been previously pursued and failed. All
cooperative team athletes must meet the eligibility standards of their own school
as well as the host school.
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The violation of any eligibility rule may result in the forfeiture of a game won or the elimination of
player from participation for one year. If, in your opinion, there is any doubt concerning your
eligibility, consult your principal or the director of athletics. The rules apply to all teams - varsity,
junior varsity, sophomore, and freshman - all grades, and to both girls' and boys' sports. The
Board of Control of MIAA will resolve all questions on eligibility.
The following topics reprinted here are key items found on the RMHS Athletic Permission Form
(which can be accessed on our website in more detail)
INSURANCE COVERAGE
All participants in athletics must have health insurance. Parents/guardians are responsible for
proper insurance coverage. No athlete may participate in RMHS sports without proper medical
coverage.
TRANSPORTATION LIABILITY RELEASE
Because it is not always feasible to hire transportation for small groups such as golf,
gymnastics, and tennis, it becomes necessary to ask parents/guardians to give their consent
and to help with transportation. When signing the RMHS Athletic Permission Form, the
parent/guardian understands and agrees that no member of the Athletic Department, or the
School Department, or the Town of Reading will be liable in case of injury, claim, or loss of any
kind in connection with the transportation of pupils.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Our school rules require that all students pass a medical examination to participate on any
athletic team. Our school or team doctor will examine those students trying out for the activity.
The student’s own doctor, at the family’s expense, may do the examining. In either case, this
form must be stamped by the examining physician and dated with last physical or the student
may attach a copy of a valid physical, certifying that the student is physically able to compete in
the sport indicated on the form.
All students must pass a physical examination within 13 months of the start of the season.
VACATIONS
All student athletes who plan to take any type of vacation during the scheduled season must
apply to the Athletic Director one (1) week before the first game of the season. Student athletes
who take school-sponsored or family vacations during the scheduled season will not be
penalized unless, in the opinion of the coach, the student athlete is not physically prepared to
participate because of health or safety reasons.
USER FEES
User fees are payable each season at the Athletic Department, Room 220. Checks are payable
to: Town of Reading. The fee is due by the first week of each season.
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CONDUCT
● Proper conduct is expected both on and off the field by all participants in our athletic
program.
● Respect for facilities (locker rooms, fields, etc.) used by Reading athletes, both home
and away, is expected and falls under the category of proper conduct.
STUDENT LEADER/TEAM CAPTAIN RULE
● Student Leaders/Team Captains are expected to be leaders and should be ready to
assume certain duties outlined by their advisor or coach. They are expected to be more
aware of school rules and team rules as well as student/athlete responsibilities.
● When a student leader has been elected for a leadership position—and then
subsequently is found in violation of the MIAA Chemical Health Rule, that student will
lose all rights to continue to be an officer of that organization and forfeits the rights to be
selected for any other leadership position.
● When an athlete has been designated as a team captain—and then subsequently is
found in violation of the MIAA Chemical Health Rule, that athlete will lose all rights to
continue to be a captain of that sport and forfeit the rights to be selected a captain in any
other sport.
XII. School and District Policies per Federal and State Laws and
Regulations
A. Restraint
The Reading Public Schools (“the District”) seeks to ensure that every student is free from the
use of physical restraint that is inconsistent with the requirements of 603 C.M.R. 46.00 effective
January 1, 2016 and DESE Technical Assistance Advisory SPED 2016-1, July 31, 2015).
Physical restraint is an emergency measure of last resort. It may be administered only when
necessary to protect a student and/or school community member from assault or imminent,
serious physical harm. When, based on this standard, physical restraint is necessary, staff will
strive to prevent or minimize any harm to the student as a result of the use of physical restraint.
Refer to Reading Public School Policy JKAA for more information.
B. Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment
PPRA affords parents/guardians certain rights regarding our conducting of surveys, collection
and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the
right to:
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1. Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of
the following protected areas ("protected information survey") if the survey is funded in
whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE): political
affiliations or beliefs of the student or student's parent/guardian; Mental or psychological
problems of the student or student's family; sex behavior or attitudes; illegal, anti-social,
self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; critical appraisals of others with whom
respondents have close family relationships; legally recognized privileged relationships,
such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of
the student or parent/guardian(s); or income, other than as required by law to determine
program eligibility.
2. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of the following: any other
protected information survey, regardless of funding; any non-emergency, invasive
physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the
school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a
student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or
screening permitted or required under State law; and activities involving collection,
disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell
or otherwise distribute the information to others.
3. Inspect, upon request and before administration or use: protected information surveys of
students; instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the
above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and instructional material used as
part of the educational curriculum.
4. These rights transfer from the parent/guardian(s) to a student who is 18 years old or an
emancipated minor under State law.
The Reading Public Schools will develop and adopt policies, in consultation with
parents/guardians, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in
the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of
personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The District will directly
notify parents/guardians of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and
after any substantive changes. The District will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or
email, parent/guardian(s) of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities
or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent/guardian to opt his or her
child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. The District will make this notification to
parents/guardians at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or
approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled
after the school year starts, parents/guardians will be provided reasonable notification of the
planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out
of such activities and surveys. Parents/guardians will also be provided an opportunity to review
any pertinent surveys.
Specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement include: the collection,
disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution; the
administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by DOE, and
any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.
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Parents / Guardians who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901
C. Harassment and Discrimination Policies
The Reading Public Schools strives to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive learning
environment in which all students can thrive and succeed in its schools. The Reading Public
Schools prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion,
national origin, age, or sexual orientation and ensures that all students have equal rights of
access and equal enjoyment of the opportunities, advantages, privileges, and courses of study.
Additionally, the Reading Public Schools does not discriminate against individuals on the basis
of homelessness in a manner consistent with the McKinney-Vento Act. The Reading Public
Schools complies with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations, including but not
limited to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and
Massachusetts General Laws, c.151B, c.151C, c.76, §5, and c.71B. Refer to Reading Public
School Policies AC, ACA and ACE for more information.
At the District level, the ADA (employees), Title VI, Age Act, Coordinator is:
Dr.. Sarah Hardy, Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching
Reading Public Schools
62 Oakland Road
Reading, Massachusetts 01867
781-944-5800
At the District level, the Section 504 (disability pertaining to students) and ADA (students)
Coordinator is:
Dr. Jennifer Stys, Director of Student Services
Reading Public Schools
62 Oakland Road
Reading, Massachusetts 01867
781-942-9129
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
The Reading Public Schools does not tolerate discrimination against students,
parents/guardians, employees or the general public on the basis of sex. The Reading Public
Schools is also committed to maintaining a school environment free of harassment based on
sex, including harassment based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or
pregnancy status. The Reading Public Schools’ policy of nondiscrimination extends to students,
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staff, the general public, and individuals with whom it does business; no person shall be
excluded from or discriminated against in employment, admission to a public school of Reading
or in obtaining the advantages, privileges, and courses of study of such public school on
account of sex.
How to Report Sexual Harassment: Individuals are encouraged to report allegations of sexual
harassment to the Title IX Coordinator(s) identified below or the Principal. Any report of sexual
harassment, as defined under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, will be responded
to promptly in accordance with the District’s Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures,
available at: https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/district-information/title-ix-information/
Reports of discriminatory harassment not constituting sexual harassment as defined under Title
IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, will be initially addressed through the District’s Title IX
Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure and may, if dismissed under that procedure, be
investigated in accordance with the District’s Civil Rights Grievance Procedures, available at:
https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/files/2615/9818/2022/Reading_Draft_Civil_Rights_Procedures_f
or_all_non-Title_IX_Claims_7.31.20.pdf
Upon receipt of a report of sexual harassment, the Title IX Coordinator will: (1) promptly and
confidentially contact the complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures; (2)
inform the complainant of the availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a
Title IX Formal Complaint; (3) consider the complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive
measures; (4) if the school district does not provide the complainant with supportive measures,
document the reasons why such response was reasonable; and (5) explain to the complainant
the process for filing a Title IX Formal Complaint.
Inquiries about the application of Title IX may be directed to the District’s Title IX Coordinator
and/or the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights.
The District’s Title IX Coordinator(s) are:
Dr. Jennifer Stys, Director of Student Services (Jennifer.stys@reading.k12.ma.us)
Students and employees are encouraged to utilize the District’s Complaint Procedure.
However, students and employees are hereby notified that they also have the right to report
complaints to:
The United States Department of Education
Office for Civil Rights
5 Post Office Square, 8th Floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02110-1491
Telephone: (617) 289-0111
Fax: 617-289-0150
TDD: 877-521-2172
or
Program Quality Assurance Services
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
90
75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906
Telephone: 781-338-3700
TTY: N.E.T. Relay: 1-800-439-2370
FAX: 781-338-3710
D. Bullying Prevention
Reading Memorial High School is committed to providing a safe, positive, and productive
learning environment for all—and to discourage any behavior that interferes with that goal.
Accordingly, Reading Memorial High School complies with the Reading School Committee
Policy regarding Bullying Prevention and Intervention summarized below. A complete copy of
the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan is available on the Reading Public Schools’
website as is a Bullying Reporting Form which may be submitted online on the Reading Public
Schools website. Refer to Reading Public School Policy JICFB for more information.
https://www.reading.k12.ma.us/district-information/antibullying-resources/
Definition-Bullying Prohibited - Bullying may take a variety of forms. It is unacceptable in a
school or work environment. As a result, no student or employee shall be subjected to
harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying in a public educational institute: “Bullying”
means the repeated use by one or more students or by a member of school staff including, but
not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver,
athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional of an unwelcome written,
verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed
at a target that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the target or damage the target’s
property; student or employee, (ii) places the target in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of
damage to his property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the target; (iv) infringes
on the rights of the target at school; or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the education
process or the orderly operation of a school. For the purposes of this section, bullying shall
include cyber-bullying.
The behavior must interfere with a student’s academic performance or ability to learn, or
interfere with a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from services, activities, or privileges:
(a) that are being offered through the school district; or during any education program or activity;
or while in school, on school equipment or property, in school vehicles, on school buses, at
designated school bus stops, at school-sponsored activities, at school-sanctioned events; or
“Cyber-bullying” means, bullying through the use of technology or any electronic
communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals,
writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a
wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including but not limited
to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communication.
Cyber-bullying shall also include (i) knowing impersonation of another person as the author of
posted content or messages, if the creator or impersonation creates any of the conditions
enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying shall also
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include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the
posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or persons.
Cyber-bullying may occur through the use of data, telephone or computer software that is
accessed through a computer, computer system, or computer network or any public education
institute. As used in this Section, “electronic communication” also means any communication
through an electronic device including, but not limited to a telephone, cellular phone, computer
or pager.
“Aggressor” is a student or member of a school staff including, but not limited to, an educator,
administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an
extracurricular activity or paraprofessional who engages in bullying, cyber-bullying, or retaliation.
“Target” is a student against whom bullying, cyber-bullying, or retaliation has been perpetrated.
Bullying is prohibited:
● On school grounds;
● On property immediately adjacent to school grounds;
● At school-sponsored or school-related activities;
● At functions or programs whether on or off school grounds;
● At school bus stops;
● On school buses or other vehicles owned, leased or used by the school district; or,
● Through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by the
Reading Public Schools.
Bullying and cyber-bullying are prohibited at a location, activity, function or program that is not
school-related or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased
or used by the Reading school district if the act or acts in question:
● create a hostile environment at school for the target;
● infringe on the rights of the target at school; and/or
● materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a
school.
The following procedures are based on the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O. In addition to
the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71, § 370, where the alleged conduct is on the basis of race,
color, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability or
religion, the district should also consider whether the conduct constitutes a hostile environment
based on those protected classes, consistent with its Discrimination and Harassment
Grievance Procedures.
Reporting bullying or retaliation. Reports of bullying or retaliation may be made by staff,
students, parents or guardians, or others, and may be oral or written. Oral reports made by or
to a staff member will be recorded in writing. A school or district staff member is required to
report immediately to the principal or designee any instance of bullying or retaliation the staff
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member becomes aware of or witnesses. Reports made by students, parents or guardians, or
other individuals who are not school or district staff members, may be made anonymously. The
school or district will make a variety of reporting resources available to the school community
including, but not limited to, an Incident Reporting Form, a dedicated mailing address, and an
email address.
Use of an Incident Reporting Form is not required as a condition of making a report. The school
or district will: 1) include a copy of the Incident Reporting Form in the beginning of the year
packets for students and parents or guardians; 2) make it available in the school’s main office,
the counseling office, the school nurse's office, and other locations determined by the principal
or designee; and 3) post it on the school’s website. The Incident Reporting Form will be made
available in the most prevalent language(s) of origin of students and parents or guardians.
At the beginning of each school year, the school or district will provide the school community,
including administrators, staff, students, and parents or guardians, with written notice of its
policies for reporting acts of bullying and retaliation. A description of the reporting procedures
and resources, including the name and contact information of the principal or designee, will be
incorporated in student and staff handbooks, on the school or district website, and in information
about the Plan that is made available to parents or guardians.
Reporting by Staff - A staff member will report immediately to the principal or designee when
he/she witnesses or becomes aware of conduct that may be bullying or retaliation. The
requirement to report to the principal or designee does not limit the authority of the staff member
to respond to behavioral or disciplinary incidents consistent with school or district policies and
procedures for behavior management and discipline.
Reporting by Students, Parents or Guardians, and Others - The school or district expects
students, parents or guardians, and others who witness or become aware of an instance of
bullying or retaliation involving a student to report it to the principal or designee. Reports may
be made anonymously, but no disciplinary action will be taken against an alleged aggressor
solely on the basis of an anonymous report. Students, parents or guardians, and others may
request assistance from a staff member to complete a written report. Students will be provided
practical, safe, private and age-appropriate ways to report and discuss an incident of bullying
with a staff member, or with the principal or designee.
Responding to a report of bullying or retaliation.
Safety - Before fully investigating the allegations of bullying or retaliation, the principal or
designee will take steps to assess the need to restore a sense of safety to the alleged target
and/or to protect the alleged target from possible further incidents. Responses to promote
safety may include, but not be limited to, creating a personal safety plan; pre-determining
seating arrangements for the target and/or the aggressor in the classroom, at lunch, or on the
bus; identifying a staff member who will act as a “safe person” for the target; and altering the
aggressor’s schedule and access to the target. The principal or designee will take additional
steps to promote safety during the course of and after the investigation, as necessary.
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In determining the steps necessary to restore a sense of safety to the alleged target and/or to
protect the alleged target from possible further incidents, the principal or designee shall consider
that certain students may be more vulnerable to becoming a target of bullying or harassment
based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race, color, religion,
ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status, gender
identity or expression, physical appearance, pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation,
mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or
is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics.
The principal or designee will implement appropriate strategies for protecting from bullying or
retaliation a student who has reported bullying or retaliation, a student who has witnessed
bullying or retaliation, a student who provides information during an investigation, or a student
who has reliable information about a reported act of bullying or retaliation
Investigation - Upon receipt of a report or complaint that would, if true, constitute bullying, cyber
bullying, or retaliation, the principal will promptly commence an investigation. In investigating
any such complaint, the principal or designee will interview students, staff, and any witnesses to
the alleged conduct. To the extent practicable and consistent with the principal’s obligation to act
promptly and to thoroughly investigate and address the matter, the principal or designee will
maintain confidentiality during the investigative process and shall not disclose unnecessary or
confidential information to interview subjects. During any such interviews, the principal will
inform the target, aggressor, and all witnesses that retaliatory treatment of any individual for
reporting or lack of cooperation with an investigation of bullying will result in disciplinary action
may include suspension or expulsion from school.
Interviews may be conducted by the principal or designee, other staff members as determined
by the principal or designee, and in consultation with the school counselor, as appropriate. To
the extent practicable, and given his/her obligation to investigate and address the matter, the
principal or designee will maintain confidentiality during the investigative process.
Procedures for investigating reports of bullying and retaliation will be consistent with school or
district policies and procedures for bullying investigations. If necessary, the principal or
designee will consult with legal counsel about the investigation.
At any point after receipt of a report of bullying or retaliation, including after an investigation, the
principal shall notify the Reading Police Department and School Resource Officer if the principal
has a reasonable basis to believe that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor.
Notice shall be consistent with the requirements of 603 CMR 49.00 and established agreements
with the local law enforcement agency. The principal shall document the reasons for his or her
decision to notify law enforcement. Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to require
reporting to a law enforcement agency in situations in which bullying and retaliation can be
handled appropriately within the school district or school.
Determinations - within fifteen (15) school days of the principal’s receipt of the complaint of
bullying, cyber bullying, or retaliation, the principal will make a determination based upon all the
facts and circumstances. If, after the investigation, bullying or retaliation is substantiated, the
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principal will determine what remedial action may be required, if any, and determine what
responsive actions and/or disciplinary action is necessary. The principal’s findings and
determinations shall be documented in writing on the Incident Reporting Form.
If the principal or designee determines that a student knowingly made a false allegation of
bullying or retaliation, that student may be subject to disciplinary action.
Depending upon the circumstances, the principal or designee may choose to consult with the
students’ teacher(s) and/or school counselor, and the target’s or aggressor’s parents or
guardians, to identify any underlying social or emotional issue(s) that may have contributed to
the bullying behavior and to assess the level of need for additional social skills development.
Notice of Investigative Findings - Upon determining that bullying or retaliation has occurred, the
principal or designee will promptly notify parents or guardians of the target and aggressor of
this, and of the procedures for responding to it. While prior notice of an investigation shall not be
required, the principal shall not be precluded from notifying the parent/guardian(s) of a target or
aggressor prior to completion of the principal’s investigation. This communication will be done in
the primary language of the home.
In notifying the parent/guardian(s) of a target or aggressor of an investigation or the principal’s
findings thereon, the principal shall maintain the privacy and confidentiality of any individual or
child who is not the child of the parent/guardian(s) to whom the notice is provided. The principal
shall ensure that any notice to the parent/guardian(s) complies with applicable state regulations
including, but not limited to, 603 CMR 49.00, and shall not report specific information to the
target’s parent(s)/guardian(s) about the disciplinary action taken against an aggressor unless it
involves a “stay away” order or other directive that the target must be aware of in order to report
violations.
The notice to the parents or guardians of the victim shall include information about the
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (“DESE”) problem
resolution system and the process for seeking assistance or filing a claim through the problem
resolution system. The parent/guardian(s) of the victim should be provided the following contact
information: Program Quality Assurance Services, Massachusetts Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education, 75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906, Telephone: 781-338-
3700; TTY: N.E.T. Relay: 1-800-439-2370.
Taking Disciplinary Action - If the principal or designee decides that disciplinary action is
appropriate, the disciplinary action will be determined on the basis of facts found by the principal
or designee, including the nature of the conduct, the age of the student(s) involved, and the
need to balance accountability with the teaching of appropriate behavior. Discipline will be
consistent with the Plan and with the school’s or district’s code of conduct. Possible
consequences to serious incidents of bullying include suspension and expulsion from school.
Discipline procedures for students with disabilities are governed by the federal Individuals with
Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), which should be read in cooperation with state
laws regarding student discipline. If the principal or designee determines that a student
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knowingly made a false allegation of bullying or retaliation, that student may be subject to
disciplinary action.
E. Pregnant Students
In accordance with state and federal law, the district does not discriminate against nor exclude
students from its educational programs, or activities, including classes and extracurricular
activities, on the basis of the student’s pregnancy, childbirth, or recovery there from. Exceptions
will be made only when a physician expressly prohibits the student’s participation. The district
requires a pregnant student to obtain the certification of a physician that the student is physically
and emotionally able to continue in school only to the extent that such certification is required for
all students for other physical or emotional conditions requiring the attention of a physician. The
district will provide reasonable accommodations for students with medical conditions relating to
pregnancy to the extent such accommodations are provided to students with other temporary
medical conditions. A student may take a leave of absence relating to pregnancy and childbirth
for any period of time deemed medically necessary by the student’s physician. Following any
such leave, the student will be reinstated to the status she held when the leave began.
F. McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act
The federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act requires that schools
immediately enroll homeless students in school, even if they do not have the documents usually
required for enrollment, such as school records, medical records or proof of residency, as long
as the student has been properly immunized. Information on lead screenings as well as
immunization records may be transferred over the phone. Parents or Guardians intending to
register students who are homeless should be aware of the following guidelines:
● Homeless students have a right to either remain in their school of origin or to attend
school where they are temporarily residing;
● Children who move from a homeless situation into a permanent residence during the
course of a school year have the right to stay in the school they were attending while
they were temporarily homeless. Transportation may not be provided once permanent
housing is found;
● Students who chose to enroll in school where they are temporarily residing must be
enrolled immediately, even if they do not bring the records usually required for
enrollment with them;
● If a homeless student arrives without records, the school district's designated Homeless
Education Liaison will assist the family and contact the previously attended school
system to obtain the required records;
● A child who is homeless and attending any school served by the local educational
agency is eligible for Title I services;
● A child who is homeless and attending any school served by the local educational
agency is eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Program.
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For further information, please contact Dr. Jennifer Stys, Coordinator for the Homeless, at 781-
942-9129 or The Office for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth on the following
website: http://www.doe.mass.edu/mv/#office.
F. Hazing
The Reading Public Schools prohibit hazing. If hazing occurs and is verified by the building
principal following regular due process procedures, those deemed to be leaders of the hazing
shall be suspended for up to 10 days, and a recommendation for one full semester of
suspension shall be made to the superintendent. Students deemed as participants in hazing
shall be suspended from school for up to 10 days and may be subject to expulsion. Refer to
Reading Public School Policies JICFA and JICFA-E for more information.
THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS - HAZING - CHAPTER 269
M.G.L. c.269 Section 17 – The Crime of Hazing
Section 17: Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined
herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment
in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.
The term "hazing" as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any
conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private
property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or
other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics,
exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other
substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely
affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such
student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest
or extended isolation.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent
shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action. Added by St.1985,
C.536; amended by St.1987, c665.
Section 18 Duty to Report Hazing
Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and
is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or
peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon
as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not
more than one thousand dollars. Added by St.1985, c.536; Amended by St.1987, c.665.
Section 19 Hazing Statutes to be Provided; Statement of Compliance and Discipline
Policy Required
Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post-
secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization
which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution
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to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group,
student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and
eighteen are provided, however, that an institution's compliance with this section's requirements
that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to
unaffiliated student groups, teams, or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the
institution's recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams or
organizations.
Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections
seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for
membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting
through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an attested
acknowledgment stating that such group, team or organization have received a copy of
this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes,
pledges, or applicants have received a copy of section seventeen and eighteen, and that
such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions
of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary
education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who
enrolls as a full time student in such institution, a copy of this section and sections seventeen
and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary
education shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the
case of secondary schools, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied
with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full
time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen
and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the
organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate
emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communicating the institution's policies to
its students. The board of regents and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of
education, shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports,
and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such
report. Added by S.985, c.536; amended by St.1987, c.665.
H. Student Due Process Rights under M.G.L. c 71 §37H & 37H1/2
DUE PROCESS HEARING
Definitions
● Expulsion: the removal of a student from the school premises, regular classroom
activities, and school activities for more than ninety (90) consecutive school days.
● In-School Suspension: the removal of a student from regular classroom activities, but not
from the school premises, for no more than (10) consecutive school days, or no more
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than ten (10) school days cumulatively for multiple infractions during the school year. *
Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities or school-sponsored
events, or both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days.
● Long-Term Suspension: the removal of a student from the school premises and regular
classroom activities for more than ten (10) consecutive school days, or for more than ten
(10) school days cumulatively for multiple disciplinary offenses in any school year.
Removal solely from participation in extracurricular activities or school-sponsored
events, or both, shall not count as removal in calculating school days.
● Written Notice: Written correspondence sent by hand-delivery, certified mail, first-class
mail, email to an address provided by the parent/guardian for school communications, or
any other method of delivery agreed to by the principal and the parent/guardian.
● Principal: The primary administrator of the school or the Principal’s designee for
disciplinary purposes.
Due Process
In-School Suspension: Prior to the imposition of an In-School Suspension, the student will be
informed of the disciplinary offense and provided with an opportunity to respond. If the principal
determines that the student committed the disciplinary offense, the principal will provide oral
notice to the student and parent/guardian of the length of the In-School Suspension and will
make reasonable efforts to meet with the parent/guardian. On or before the day of the In-
School Suspension, the principal will deliver written notice to the parent/guardian of the basis for
and length of the in-school suspension and invite the parent/guardian to meet to discuss the
student’s behavior if such a meeting has not already occurred.
Out-of School Suspension: In the case of disciplinary offenses not involving: a) possession of a
dangerous weapon; b) possession of a controlled substance; c) assault on a member of the
educational staff; or d) a felony charge or felony delinquency complaint or conviction, the
student and parent/guardian(s) will be given oral and written notice of the disciplinary offense
with which the student is charged and the opportunity to participate in a hearing prior to the
imposition of an out-of-school suspension. Written notice of the date and time for the hearing will
be provided in English and in the primary language of the Student’s home and will identify the
disciplinary offense with which the student has been charged, the basis for the charge, the
potential length of the student’s suspension, and shall inform the parent/guardian and student of
the right to interpreter services if necessary to participate in the hearing. Where a student may
be subject to a Long-Term Suspension, the Principal will also notify the student and
parent/guardian of the student’s right to legal representation (at private expense), the right to
present and examine witnesses, the right to review the student record and documents that may
be relied upon by the Principal, and the right to request that the hearing be audiotaped.
For disciplinary offenses involving a) possession of a dangerous weapon; b) possession of a
controlled substance; c) assault on a member of the educational staff; or d) a felony charge or
felony delinquency complaint or conviction, the student will be given oral notice of the violation
with which the student is charged and an opportunity to respond thereto prior to the Principal’s
imposition of a short-term/interim suspension ten (10) consecutive school days or less pending
formal disciplinary proceedings. Upon imposition of a short term or interim suspension or an
interim suspension of ten (10) consecutive days or less pending further disciplinary
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proceedings, the student and parent/guardian(s) will be provided with written notice of the
suspension and the date and time of any formal disciplinary proceedings.
Principal’s Hearing:
Short-Term Suspension:
At the Principal’s hearing, the student and parent/guardian(s) (if participating) may dispute the
charge(s) against the student and present information, including mitigating facts, for the
principal’s consideration in determining consequences for the student. Long-Term Suspension:
In addition to the rights afforded a student in a short-term suspension hearing, the student will
have the following rights:
● the right of the student and the student's parent/guardian to interpreter services at the hearing if
needed to participate;
● the right to be represented by counsel or a lay person of the student’s choice, at the
student’s/parent/guardian’s expense;
● the right to review the student's record and the documents upon which the Principal may rely in
making a determination to suspend the student or not
● the right to produce witnesses on his or her behalf and to present the student’s explanation of the
alleged incident;
● the right to cross-examine witnesses presented by the school district; and
● the right to request that the hearing be recorded by the Principal, and to receive a copy of the
audio recording upon request.
Principal’s Decision:
Based on the evidence presented at the hearing, the Principal will determine whether the
student committed the disciplinary offense and the remedy or consequences to be imposed. The
Principal shall exercise discretion in deciding the consequence for the offense and, in cases not
involving possession of a controlled substance, a weapon, an assault on staff or felony charges,
shall avoid using long-term suspension from school as a consequence until alternatives have
been tried. If the Principal decides to suspend or expel the student, written notice of the
Principal’s decision will be sent to the student and parent/guardian(s) in English and the primary
language of the home identifying the disciplinary offense, the factual basis for the Principal’s
decision, the beginning and end dates of the suspension or expulsion, and the process for
appeal. The Principal will also notify the student and parent/guardian of the student's opportunity
to make academic progress during the period of removal from school in accordance with M.G.L.
c. 76, §21.
Appeals:
Where the student is excluded in accordance with M.G.L. c.71 §37H, the student shall have ten
(10) calendar days from the effective date of the exclusion to file a written appeal with the
superintendent of schools. For exclusions imposed pursuant to M.G.L. c.71 §37H1/2, the
student shall have five (5) school days from the effective date of the exclusion to file a written
appeal with the superintendent. And for exclusions imposed pursuant to M.G.L c.71, §37H3/4,
the Student shall have five (5) calendar days from the effective date of the suspension imposed
by the Principal but shall be granted an extension of seven (7) calendar days upon request.
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Academic Progress:
Any student who is serving a short-term suspension, long-term suspension, or expulsion shall
have the opportunity to earn credits, as applicable, make up assignments, tests, papers, and
other school work as needed to make academic progress during the period of his or her removal
from the classroom or school. Any student who is expelled or suspended from school for more
than ten (10) consecutive days, whether in school or out of school, shall have an opportunity to
receive education services and to make academic progress toward meeting state and local
requirements, in accordance with the school’s education service plan. M.G.L. c.76, §21.
I. M.G.L. c.71, §37H3/4
(a) This section shall govern the suspension and expulsion of students enrolled in a public
school in the commonwealth who are not charged with a violation of subsections (a) or (b) of
section 37H or with a felony under section 37H1/2.
(b) Any principal, headmaster, superintendent or other person acting as a decision-maker at
a student meeting or hearing, when deciding the consequences for the student, shall exercise
discretion; consider ways to re-engage the student in the learning process; and avoid using
expulsion as a consequence until other remedies and consequences have been employed.
(c) For any suspension or expulsion under this section, the principal or headmaster of a
school in which the student is enrolled, or a designee, shall provide, to the student and to the
parent/guardian or guardian of the student, notice of the charges and the reason for the
suspension or expulsion in English and in the primary language spoken in the home of the
student. The student shall receive the written notification and shall have the opportunity to meet
with the principal or headmaster, or a designee, to discuss the charges and reasons for the
suspension or expulsion prior to the suspension or expulsion taking effect. The principal or
headmaster, or a designee, shall ensure that the parent/guardian or guardian of the student is
included in the meeting, provided that such meeting may take place without the parent or
guardian only if the principal or headmaster, or a designee, can document reasonable efforts to
include the parent or guardian in that meeting. The department shall promulgate rules and
regulations that address a principal’s duties under this subsection and procedures for including
parent/guardian(s) in student exclusion meetings, hearings or interviews under this subsection.
(d) If a decision is made to suspend or expel the student after the meeting, the principal or
headmaster, or a designee, shall update the notification for the suspension or expulsion to
reflect the meeting with the student. If a student has been suspended or expelled for more than
10 school days for a single infraction or for more than 10 school days cumulatively for multiple
infractions in any school year, the student and the parent or guardian of the student shall also
receive, at the time of the suspension or expulsion decision, written notification of a right to
appeal and the process for appealing the suspension or expulsion in English and in the primary
language spoken in the home of the student; provided, however, that the suspension or
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expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing. The principal or headmaster or a
designee shall notify the superintendent in writing, including, but not limited to, by electronic
means, of any out-of-school suspension imposed on a student enrolled in kindergarten through
grade 3 prior to such suspension taking effect. That notification shall describe the student’s
alleged misconduct and the reasons for suspending the student out-of-school. For the purposes
of this section, the term “out-of-school suspension” shall mean a disciplinary action imposed by
school officials to remove a student from participation in school activities for 1 day or more.
(e) A student who has been suspended or expelled from school for more than 10 school
days for a single infraction or for more than 10 school days cumulatively for multiple infractions
in any school year shall have the right to appeal the suspension or expulsion to the
superintendent. The student or a parent or guardian of the student shall notify the
superintendent in writing of a request for an appeal not later than 5 calendar days following the
effective date of the suspension or expulsion; provided, that a student and a parent or guardian
of the student may request, and if so requested, shall be granted an extension of up to 7
calendar days. The superintendent or a designee shall hold a hearing with the student and the
parent or guardian of the student within 3 school days of the student’s request for an appeal;
provided that a student or a parent or guardian of the student may request and, if so requested,
shall be granted an extension of up to 7 calendar days; provided further, that the
superintendent, or a designee, may proceed with a hearing without a parent or guardian of the
student if the superintendent, or a designee, makes a good faith effort to include the parent or
guardian. At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony,
cross-examine witnesses and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall render a
decision on the appeal in writing within 5 calendar days of the hearing. That decision shall be
the final decision of the school district with regard to the suspension or expulsion.
(f) No student shall be suspended or expelled from a school or school district for a time
period that exceeds 90 school days, beginning the first day the student is removed from an
assigned school building.
J. Discipline of Students with Disabilities
The following procedures apply to suspension of students with disabilities when suspensions
exceed 10 consecutive school days or when a pattern has developed for suspensions
exceeding 10 cumulative days. These procedures include the responsibilities of the team and
the responsibilities of the district.
● A suspension of longer than 10 consecutive school days or a series of short term
suspensions that exceed 10 school days and constitute a pattern of removal and are
considered to constitute a disciplinary change in placement.
● Prior to a suspension that would result in a disciplinary change in placement of a student
with a disability, the building administrators, the parent/guardian(s) and relevant
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members of the student’s IEP/504 Team will convene to determine whether the violation
for which the student is subject to a disciplinary change in placement was caused by or
directly and substantially related to the student’s disability or was the direct result of a
failure to implement the student’s IEP or Section 504 Plan.
● If the Team determines that the behavior is NOT a manifestation of the disability, the
student may be disciplined in accordance with the policies and procedures applicable to
all students except that students eligible for special education services shall be entitled
to a free appropriate public education as of the eleventh (11th) day of disciplinary
exclusion in the school year.
● If the team determines that the behavior IS a manifestation of the disability, then the
district will conduct a functional behavior assessment or review any existing behavior
intervention plan and takes steps (with the consent of the parent/guardian) to correct the
IEP, the placement, or the behavior intervention plan and the student will not be
suspended for the violation found to be a manifestation of his/her disability.
● Regardless of the manifestation determination, the district may place the student in an
interim alternative setting (as determined by the Team) up to 45 school days if:
○ The student is in possession of a dangerous weapon on school grounds or at
school-sponsored events;
○ The student is in possession of or using of illegal drugs on school grounds or at
school-sponsored events;
○ The student engaged in solicitation of a controlled substance on school grounds or
at school-sponsored events; or
○ The student inflicted serious bodily injury to another at school or at school-
sponsored events.
The interim alternative setting must enable the student to participate in the general curriculum,
progress toward the goals in the IEP, and receive the special education and related services
contained in the student’s IEP. The interim alternative setting must also provide services and
modifications designed to address the behavior giving rise to the removal and to prevent the
behavior from reoccurring. At the conclusion of the forty-five (45) school day period, the student
shall be returned to his/her previous placement unless the parent/guardian (or student if 18+)
consents to an extension of the interim alternative setting or an Order is obtained from the
Bureau of Special Education Appeal authorizing the student’s continued removal.
If the conduct does not involve a dangerous weapon, controlled substance, or serious bodily
injury. In such a case, the school may remove the student to an interim alternative setting for 45
days only: 1) with parental/guardian consent or 2) by obtaining authorization from a court or
BSEA Hearing Officer. In order to obtain an order from a court or BSEA Hearing Officer, the
school must prove that maintaining the student’s placement is substantially likely to result in
injury to the student or others.
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● The parent/guardian shall have the right to appeal the manifestation Team’s
determination, the imposition of a disciplinary change in placement, and the student’s
placement in an interim alternative educational setting. The student will remain in the
disciplinary placement imposed by school authorities pending a decision on the appeal
or until the expiration of the disciplinary sanction, whichever comes first.
K. M.G.L. c.76, §21
Principals and headmasters shall ensure that students who are suspended from school for 10 or
fewer consecutive days, whether in or out of school, shall have an opportunity to make
academic progress during the period of suspension, to make up assignments and earn credits
missed including, but not limited to, homework, quizzes, exams, papers and projects missed.
Principals shall develop a school-wide education service plan for all students who are expelled
or suspended from school for more than 10 consecutive school days, whether in or out of
school. Principals shall ensure these students have an opportunity to make academic progress
during the period of suspension or expulsion, to make up assignments and earn credits missed,
including, but not limited to, homework, quizzes, exams, papers and projects missed. Education
service plans may include, but are not limited to, tutoring, alternative placement, Saturday
school, and online or distance learning. In developing the education service plan, principals may
seek the cooperation or input of relevant health and human service, housing and nonprofit
agencies, education collaboratives, and other service providers. Any school or school district
that expels a student or suspends a student for more than 10 consecutive school days shall
provide the student and the parent or guardian of the student with a list of alternative
educational services. Upon selection of an alternative educational service by the student and
the student’s parent or guardian, the school or school district shall facilitate and verify
enrollment in the service. Students exempt from attending school under section 1 of chapter 76
shall not be subject to this section.
L. M.G.L. c.71, §37L
Section 37L. The school committee of each city, town or regional school district shall inform
teachers, administrators, and other professional staff of reporting requirements for child abuse
and neglect under section 51A of chapter 119 and the reporting requirements for fires under
section 2A of chapter 148.
In addition, any school department personnel shall report in writing to their immediate supervisor
an incident involving a student’s possession or use of a dangerous weapon on school premises
at any time.
Supervisors who receive such a weapon report shall file it with the superintendent of said
school, who shall file copies of said weapon report with the local chief of police, the department
of children and families, the office of student services or its equivalent in any school district, and
the local school committee. Said superintendent, police chief, and representative from the
department of children and families, together with a representative from the office of student
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services or its equivalent, shall arrange an assessment of the student involved in said weapon
report. Said student shall be referred to a counseling program; provided, however, that said
counseling shall be in accordance with acceptable standards as set forth by the board of
education. Upon completion of a counseling session, a follow-up assessment shall be made of
said student by those involved in the initial assessment.
A student transferring into a local system must provide the new school system with a complete
school record of the entering student. Said record shall include, but not be limited to, any
incidents involving suspension or violation of criminal acts or any incident reports in which such
student was charged with any suspended act.
M. Parent/Guardian Notification Regarding Sexual Education And Human
Sexuality Issues and Sex Education
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 71, Section 32 A notes that parent/guardian(s) be
provided an “opt-out” provision for courses (typically sex education or sciences) school
assemblies, or other instructional activities and programs that focus on human sexual
education, the biological mechanics of human reproduction and sexual development, or human
sexuality issues. Parents/guardians wishing to review curricula and/or exempt their
child/children from instruction of the aforementioned topics must contact the building Principal in
writing. Refer to Reading Public School Committee Policies IHAM, IHAM-1, and IHAM-R for
more information.
SEX EDUCATION: In accordance with General Laws Chapter 71, Section 32A, all
parents/guardians of students in our school are notified by means of this handbook of the high
school courses and curriculum we offer that primarily involves human sexual education or human
sexuality issues. Parents/guardians of students who enroll in school after the start of the school
year will be provided with a handbook at the time of enrollment. If the planned curriculum changes
during the school year, parents/guardians will be notified of this fact in a timely manner before
implementation.
Within the scope of the existing curriculum, the following courses have components that include
issues of human sexual education or human sexuality issues for high school level courses and
curriculum: Diverse Voices, Anatomy & Physiology, Health, Biology, Psychology, Environmental
Science and Child Development.
Under Massachusetts Law, parents/guardians may:
1. Exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involves human sexual
education or human sexuality issues, without penalty to the student, by sending a letter to
the principal requesting an exemption. Any student who is exempted by request of the
parent/guardian under this policy may be given an alternative assignment.
2. Inspect and review program instruction materials for these curricula, which will be made
accessible to parents/guardians and others to the extent practicable. Parents/guardians may
arrange with the principal to review the materials at the school and may also review them at
other locations that may be determined by the principal.
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N. Search and Seizure Policy
The School Committee's policy on Search and Seizure (File: JIH) addresses the following:
● Search of lockers and desks
● Search of a student's personal belongings
● Search of a vehicle on school property
● Use of breathalyzers
● Use of drug or bomb sniffing dogs
The Reading School Committee recognizes that School Administrators are under an obligation
to ensure that reasonable safety, discipline and good order are maintained by and for all
students at all times. It also recognizes, however, that students have certain constitutional
rights. It is to balance the sometimes conflicting need of school officials to ensure order and
safety on the one hand, and the need to insure applicable constitutional rights of students on the
other hand that this policy is written.
Search of Student Lockers and Desks
● Lockers and desks are the property of the Reading Public Schools. The Reading Public
Schools maintain control of all locks affixed to lockers. No other locks are permitted and
such locks will be removed by the school administration.
● Students shall not have any expectation of privacy in school lockers and desks and
should be aware that school lockers and desks may be searched at any time by school
officials.
● It is prohibited to store any illegal items/substances or items/substances in violation of
any school rule or Federal, State or Local law in a locker or desk.
● Items/substances prohibited from being in lockers include but are not limited to:
guns/knives/weapons (real or fake), drugs or alcohol, fireworks/explosives,
fire/smoke/odor producing products, and any other evidence of a school rule or legal
violation.
● Students should be aware that, at the discretion of a school administrator, a student's
locker or desk may be searched at any time and prohibited items/substances will be
seized.
Search of Students and Their Belongings
● Search of a student will only be performed, and seizure of a student's belongings will
only take place, if there exists reasonable suspicion that the student has violated or is
violating either the law or the rules of the school. The search will be conducted in a
manner reasonably related to its objectives and will not be excessively intrusive in light of
the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction. Whenever a personal
search is deemed necessary, the student shall be advised of the reason for the
impending search prior to its implementation. Search of a student may extend to articles
Commented [JC185]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
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of clothing such as pockets; and to the removal and search of outer garments such as
hats/caps/headgear, jackets, coats, sweaters, sweatshirts, or shoes; and to items such
as pocketbooks, lunch bags, book bags, athletic bags, or backpacks.
● Search of a student or his/her belongings shall be conducted with at least two adult
school personnel present, one of whom shall be the Principal or his/her designee. A
female staff member shall be present when a female student is searched, and a male
staff member shall be present when a male student is searched.
● Search of a student's belongings or of a student's automobile parked on school property
will only be performed, and seizure of a student's belongings will only take place, if there
exists reasonable suspicion that the student has violated or is violating either the law or
the rules of the school. The search will be conducted in a manner reasonably related to
its objectives and will not be excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the
student and the nature of the infraction. When reasonably possible, search of a student's
belongings not in the immediate possession of the student or of a student's automobile
parked on school property will be in the presence of the student{s) whose conduct is
under scrutiny and in the presence of a second school official.
● “Strip searches” of students come with a heightened degree of expectation of privacy
and require a heightened degree of concern for school and student safety, therefore, no
school administrator or teacher shall ever conduct a “strip search” of a student without
the prior authorization of the superintendent of schools.
● Should a student refuse to voluntarily comply with a request for a search, the student
must be detained until parent/guardian(s), and, if necessary, police, can arrive at school
to assist, as appropriate, in the investigation.
● Should a search uncover any substances or contraband, such shall be turned over to the
appropriate authorities or rightful owner, as appropriate, and suitable disciplinary action
shall be taken.
● Search of a student or his/her belongings in accordance with the above policy may take
place at school or at any school sponsored event on or off school property or during the
transportation to such event.
M. Use of Breathalyzers at School or School Sponsored Events
Breathalyzers to detect the use of alcohol by individual students may be used at school or at
school sponsored events whether on or off school property under the follow conditions:
● Upon admission to school dances, proms and other school sponsored events on or off
the school property every student shall be subject to the following:
○ The rules and consequences in the school handbook
○ Upon entrance a search of the student pocketbooks, book bags, athletic bags, or
backpacks.
○ Upon entrance a breathalyzer test to detect the use of alcohol
○ Upon entrance confiscation of water bottles or other beverage containers
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○ A requirement that coats and jackets be left at a table by the entrance door which
will be monitored by event chaperones.
● In addition a student shall be subject to a breathalyzer test in the event that a member of
the school personnel has reasonable suspicion to believe that a student is under the
influence of alcohol at school or at school sponsored events whether on or off school
property.
● Breathalyzers shall be administered by school administrators.
● Results of a breathalyzer test will be used as one component for determination of school
based disciplinary consequences.
● The results of the school administrator administered breathalyzer test are for school use
only.
● Breathalyzer instruments shall be maintained in the same manner as those maintained
by the Reading Police Department.
● The above sections of Reading School Committee Policy JIH shall be printed on tickets
to school events if tickets are issued, be part of any applicable notice or contract for a
school event(s) if such notice or contract is issued, and shall be printed in the school
handbooks.
N. Use of Drug and Bomb Sniffing Dogs
● Use of a drug sniffing dog may be conducted under the following conditions:
○ The drug sniffing dog employed for such purposes shall be a law enforcement dog
trained for such purposes and the search shall be conducted by law enforcement
personnel.
○ In the absence of a warrant granted by the appropriate authorities to the law
enforcement agency(s) or the existence of exigent circumstances by the law
enforcement agency(s), the determination to conduct the search shall be made
solely by the school administration and not members of law enforcement.
○ The scope of the administration determined search shall be all school owned
properties (including desks and lockers) and all public areas of the buildings.
Additionally, students have no expectation of privacy in the exterior of vehicles
parked on District property and a law enforcement canine may be employed for
the detection of narcotics or other material at any time.
○ While belongings in the legitimate areas searched shall be subject to evaluation in
this manner, no person shall be subject to evaluation in this manner.
○ If the evaluation by the drug sniffing dog determines the possibility of the existence
of drugs, that shall constitute the level of reasonable suspicion to allow the
school administration to continue the search of the specific item(s). Such
continuation shall be consistent with this policy.
● Use of a bomb sniffing dog may be conducted when it is so determined by law
enforcement and the school administration that such a search is warranted for the safety
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of individuals and school property. The scope of the search shall be determined by the
law enforcement agency and the school administration.
XII. Appendices
APPENDIX A File: ACAB-P/ACAC-P
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STAGE 1
HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINT FORM
Name:________________________________ Date:____________________
School:_______________________________ Grade: __________________
Who was responsible for the alleged harassment or discrimination?
Describe the alleged harassment or discrimination:
Date, time and place the alleged harassment or discrimination occurred:
Were there others involved with the alleged harassment or discrimination? If so, who
were they? Describe their involvement:
List any witnesses and describe what they may have seen or heard
What was your reaction to the alleged harassment/discrimination?
Describe any subsequent incidents.
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Signature of Complainant
APPENDIX B File: ACAB-P/ACAC-P
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION REPORTER FORM
Name:________________________________ Date:____________________
School:_______________________________ Grade: __________________
Name of individual harassed / discriminated against:
Who was responsible for the alleged harassment/discrimination?
Describe the alleged harassment/discrimination:
Date, time and place the alleged harassment/discrimination occurred:
Were there others involved with the alleged harassment/discrimination? If so, who were
they? Describe their involvement:
List any other witnesses and describe what they may have seen or heard.
Describe any subsequent incident Signature of Reporter
APPENDIX C File:
ACAB-P/ACAC-P
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS
STAGE 1 HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINT - INITIAL INVESTIGATION
ADMINISTRATIVE FOLLOW-UP FORM
110
Date of Complaint:______________ Name of Complainant:______________________
Name of person(s) allegedly harassing or discriminating
Description of Complaint: Date of Conference:__________
Description of Investigation:
Action Taken:
Date of follow-up conference with complainant:________________
Describe action taken:
( ) Resolved.
( ) Referred to Assistant Superintendent
( ) Not Resolved. Further action to be taken is:
Signature of Administrator Signature of Guidance Counselor
(if form is completed by counselor)
Appendix D
READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL DANCE CONTRACT
This contract hereby states the rules and consequences that must be followed at all school-sponsored dances/semi-formals/
proms/banquets (referred to as dances) which are held on and off campus. All school rules governing behavior and as detailed in
the Student Handbook applies to dances and school-sponsored events. By signing your name to this contract, you agree to abide by
the following rules, and it is understood that if you break a rule, you will be subject to the consequences listed below.
Students must adhere to any specific rules for a particular dance. Refusal to comply with request of administrators will be considered
insubordination and result in suspension in accordance with the Student Handbook.
Commented [JC186]: Change to "School"
Commented [JC187]: Change to "disciplinary
consequences"
111
RULES CONSEQUENCES
Students must attend school the day of the dance or they will
not be admitted. For a weekend event, students must attend
school on the most recent school day. (The RMHS
Administration must previously approve any exceptions to the
rule.)
Denied admission
Students are expected to wear the appropriate attire for the
occasion.
Denied admission
Once a student leaves the dance, he/she may not return. No re-admittance for any reason
Students must remain within the physical boundaries of the
dance area.
Removal from the dance
If I dance, then I will dance in a
others.
style that will not offend Removal from dance & exclusion from next 3 dances
Entrance to dance will be closed
stated beginning time.
one half-hour after the Denied admission
Dances are for Reading Memorial High School students. In
unusual circumstances, special requests may be granted
through the Assistant Principal for non-students to attend.
Removal of both non-RMHS student and RMHS host from dance.
Consumption of alcohol or any controlled substance is
prohibited before or during the dance. Upon admission to
school dances, proms and other school sponsored events on
or off the school property, every student shall be subject to
the following:
· Upon entrance a search of the student
pocketbooks, book bags, athletic bags, or
backpacks
· Upon entrance a breathalyzer test is
administered to detect the use of alcohol
(Breathalyzers shall be administered by
school administrators.) · Upon entrance confiscation of water
bottles or other beverage containers
· A requirement that coats and jackets be left
at a table by the entrance door which will be
monitored by event chaperones.
· In addition, a student shall be subject to a
breathalyzer test in the event that a member
of the school personnel has reasonable
suspicion to believe that a student is under
-Parent notification & removal from dance
-Exclusion from next 3 dances with carryover to next year -
Suspension from sports and extra-curricular activities in
accordance with MIAA guidelines articulated in Student Handbook
-Suspension will apply to current or next season of
participation
-Loss of leadership roles in school activities and teams.
**Police may be notified
the influence of alcohol at school or at school sponsored events
whether on or off school property.
· Results of a breathalyzer test will be used as one component
for determination of school based disciplinary consequences.
Furthermore, I understand that:
Commented [JC188]: Change to "Principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC189]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
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If I am found in violation of any school rules, no refunds will be authorized for any tickets or other expenses that I may have
incurred for said or future events. Signatures below acknowledge the conditions of this student’s participation in RMHS events and
the consequences for violating school rules.
RMHS Student Signature:__________________________________ Date: ________/________/________
Parent/Guardian Signature:_________________________________ Date: _______/________/_________
Parent/Guardian (Print): ___________________________________ Contact Phone:__________________
NO STUDENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO BUY A TICKET WITHOUT A SIGNED DANCE CONTRACT.
Please return to Main Office or Class Advisor
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Appendix E
Reading Memorial High School Function
GUEST PERMISSION TO ATTEND FORM
Due at least 72 hours before deadline for tickets for event
This form must be accompanied by a clear photocopy of a picture ID and returned to the Class
Advisor before the purchase of any event ticket. The same ID must be presented at the door upon
entering the event. Tickets will not be sold until this form and all accompanying documents and
information meet the approval of the RMHS administration.
Please print the following information.
The person whose signature appears below recommends the above named guest as someone who
demonstrates good citizenship and character. [For students with guests who are no longer in high school, see
RMHS A.P. first.]
Assistant Principal’s
Printed Name: _________________________________________School/Employer Title: ____________________
Assistant Principal’s
Signature: ____________________________________________Phone: _______________ Date: ____________
Guest Agreement
As a guest, I realize that I am required to follow ALL policies and procedures of RMHS and that any failure to comply will
result in dismissal from the event and contact with legal guardians as well as possible legal actions. I have read and
understand the Dance Contract, which has been printed on the back of this form.
Guest’s Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ____________________
RMHS Student’s Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ____________________
Reading Memorial High School Parent/Guardian Agreement
As a parent of an RMHS student, I understand that all school rules apply to my son/daughter and to his/her guest. I
also understand that non-compliance will result in dismissal from the event and that additional disciplinary measures
may be taken.
RMHS Parent/Guardian Signature: ________________________________ Date: ____________________
Landline/Cellphone where a parent/guardian can be reached during the event: _________________________
The RMHS Administration reserves the right to approve all guest applicants.
RMHS Administrator: ____________________________ Date: _________ Approved Not Approved
Appendix F
READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC PERMISSION FORM
Commented [JC190]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC191]: Change to "Principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC192]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
Commented [JC193]: Change to "Principal or his/her
designee"
114
Address
Insurance
Company
In order that your son, daughter, or ward may participate in the above activity it is necessary for you to give your consent. This
consent should be given recognizing that neither the School Department nor the Town of Reading is liable for injuries incurred by the
pupil, nor for medical care.
INSURANCE - All participants in athletics must have health insurance. Parents are responsible for proper insurance coverage. No
athlete may participate in R.M.H.S. sports without proper medical coverage. Optional coverage may be purchased by
parents/guardians through ISI New England.
TRANSPORTATION LIABILITY RELEASE - Because it is not always feasible to hire transportation for small groups such as golf,
gymnastics and tennis, it becomes necessary to ask parents to give their consent and to help with transportation. When signing this
document the parent understands and agrees that no member of the Athletic Department, or the School Department, or the Town of
Reading will be liable in case of injury, claim or loss of any kind in connection with the transportation of pupils.
MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS - Our school rules require that all students pass a medical examination to participate on any athletic
team. Our school or team doctor will examine those students trying out for the activity. Your own doctor, at your expense, may do the
examining. In either case this form must be stamped by the examining physician and dated with last physical or you may attach a
copy of a valid physical, certifying the above named to be physically able to compete in the sport indicated.
All students must pass a physical examination within 13 months of the start of each season. Students who meet these criteria
at the start of the season will remain eligible for that season.
TRYOUTS - All students who meet the MIAA eligibility requirements, pass a physical examination, and are members in good
standing at Reading Memorial High School are welcome and encouraged to try out for a team. In addition, students should
understand that participation in athletics is a privilege; students try out voluntarily and risk being cut after a minimum trial period of
five (5) practice sessions (excluding golf).
VACATIONS - All student athletes who plan to take any type of vacation during the scheduled season must apply to the Athletic
Director one (1) week before the first game of the season. Student athletes who take school sponsored or family vacations during
the scheduled season will not be penalized unless, in the opinion of the coach, the student athlete is not physically prepared to
participate because of health or safety reasons.
USER FEES- User fees are payable each season at the Athletic Department. Checks are payable to the Town of Reading. The fee is
due by the first week of each season. User fees are non- refundable nor transferable. Failure to pay user fees by due date will result
in your child being prevented from participating until the user fees are remitted.
RELEASE FROM LIABILITY AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
I/ We, __________________________________, parent/guardian of _________________________________, a minor, do hereby
consent to his/her participation in the __________________________________ program, and do forever release, discharge,
indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Reading, Reading Public Schools, and its employees and volunteers from any and all
actions, causes of action, and claims for personal injury (ies) or damages on account of, or in any way arising out of my minor child’s
participation in the program, which I, as the parent or guardian of the minor child may have now or in the future. I further release,
discharge, indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Reading from any claims or rights of action for person injury (ies) or damages
which said minor has or hereafter may acquire, either before or after he/she has reached his/her majority resulting from or in any
way arising out of his/her participation in the above-referenced athletic program or activity. Furthermore I/we hereby agree to
indemnify, reimburse or make good to the Town of Reading or its successors, employees, agents, servants and officers any loss or
damages or costs, including attorney’s fees, that the Town or its representatives may incur if any litigation arises from said minor’s
intentional, grossly negligent, or reckless acts or omissions while participating in said sports programs.
Please list any medical conditions your son/daughter may have:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please list any life threatening allergies to food/drugs/other your son/daughter may have:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Physical within the last 13 months on file in athletic office Yes____ No ____
Athlete's Name Grade Sport _ _________
Home Tel. # ____ _ Work Tel. # _______
Parent/Guardian Name Cell # ___________________
Family Doctor _____________
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Doctor Stamp ___ Date of Examination____________________
Parent/Guardian has completed the REQUIRED Massachusetts state annual concussion training using WWW.NFHSLearn.com
Yes____ No____
Student Signature: ___ Date _________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ________
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APPENDIX G
READING MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL BAND & COLOR GUARD PERMISSION
FORM
Student's Name Grade Sport/Activity: ___________
Address Home Tel.
#_______________________
Work Tel. # __________________ Cell Tel. # ______________________
Parent/Guardian Name: ________________________________________________________
Insurance Company Family Doctor:__________________
In order that your son, daughter, or ward may participate in the above activity it is necessary for you to
give your consent. This consent should be given recognizing that neither the School Department nor the
Town of Reading is liable for injuries incurred by the pupil, nor for medical care.
INSURANCE - All participants in Marching Band and Color Guard must have health insurance. Parents
are responsible for proper insurance coverage. No athlete may participate in RMHS Marching Band or
Color Guard program without proper medical coverage. Optional coverage may be purchased by
parents/guardians through ISI New England.
TRANSPORTATION LIABILITY RELEASE - Because it is not always feasible to hire transportation for
small groups such as golf, gymnastics and tennis, it becomes necessary to ask parents to give their
consent and to help with transportation. When signing this document the parent understands and agrees
that no member of the Music Department, Band Staff,, or the School Department, or the Town of Reading
will be liable in case of injury, claim or loss of any kind in connection with the transportation of pupils.
USER FEES- User fees are payable each season at the Athletic/Extra-Curricular Activity Office. Checks
are payable to the Town of Reading. The fee is due by the first week of each season. User fees are
nonrefundable nor transferable. Failure to pay user fees by due date will result in your child being
prevented from participating until the user fees are remitted.
RELEASE FROM LIABILTY AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT
I/ We, __________________________________, parent/guardian of _________________________________, a minor, do hereby
consent to his/her participation in the __________________________________ program, and do forever release, discharge,
indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Reading, Reading Public Schools, and its employees and volunteers from any and all
actions, causes of action, and claims for personal injury (ies) or damages on account of, or in any way arising out of my minor child’s
participation in the program, which I, as the parent or guardian of the minor child may have now or in the future. I further release,
discharge, indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Reading from any claims or rights of action for person injury (ies) or damages
which said minor has or hereafter may acquire, either before or after he/she has reached his/her majority resulting from or in any
way arising out of his/her participation in the above-referenced program or activity. Furthermore I/we hereby agree to indemnify,
reimburse or make good to the Town of Reading or its successors, employees, agents, servants and officers any loss or damages or
117
costs, including attorney’s fees, that the Town or its representatives may incur if any litigation arises from said minor’s intentional,
grossly negligent, or reckless acts or omissions while participating in said sports programs.
Please list any medical conditions your son/daughter may
have:__________________________________________________________________
Please list any life threatening allergies to food/drugs/other your son/daughter may
have: _______________________________________
Physical within the last 13 months on file in athletic office Yes____ No ____
Doctor Stamp ___ Date of Examination____________________
Parent/Guardian and Student must complete the REQUIRED Massachusetts state annual concussion training using
WWW.NFHSLearn.com before they may participate in any RMHS Marching Band or Color Guard program. If completed please
initial. Parent initial Student initial____
Student Signature Date
Parent/Guardian Signature ____________________________________________ Date ________
___
118
APPENDIX H
PRE-PARTICIPATION HEAD INJURY/CONCUSSION
REPORTING FORM FOR EXTRACURRICULAR
ACTIVITIES
This form should be completed by the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s). It must
be submitted to the Assistant Principal for Athletic/Extra-Curricular Activities, or
official designated by the school, prior to the start of each season a student’ plans to
participate in an extracurricular athletic activity.
Student’s Name Sex Date of Birth Grade
School Sport(s)/Activity
Home Address Telephone
Has student ever experienced a traumatic head injury (a blow to the head)?
Yes No____
If yes, when? Dates (month/year):
Has student ever received medical attention for a head injury? Yes No
If yes, when? Dates (month/year):
If yes, please describe the circumstances:
Parent/Guardian:
Name: Signature/Date
(Please print)
Student Athlete:
Signature/Date
Commented [JC194]: Change to "Athletic Director,
Principal or his/her designee"
119
APPENDIX I
Acceptable Use Policy – Student Agreement (Grades 6 – 12)
To all students: Please read this agreement carefully and sign the Contract for Use of Technology.
● I will respect and protect the personal information (which includes but is not limited to login IDs,
passwords, social networking account information, email account information, grades, phone
numbers, addresses) belonging to myself or others.
● I will not access accounts belonging to other students, faculty, staff or others related to Reading
Public Schools.
● I understand that school resources and equipment include, but are not limited to, computers,
audiovisual recording and distribution devices, all peripherals, and wireless and local networks.
● I will not use school resources to participate in criminal acts.
● I will respect the integrity, availability and security of all electronic school equipment.
● I will not try to access unauthorized data or networks.
● I will report security risks or violations to my teacher or administrator.
● I will comply with all copyright and intellectual property laws.
● I will follow the school policy regarding plagiarism as described in the student handbook.
● I will not harass anyone. Harassment is repeated unwelcomed interaction despite being asked to
stop.
● I will not cyberbully anyone. Cyberbullying is repeated bullying through the use of technology or
any electronic communication technology that causes someone to feel unsafe or negatively
affects his/her ability to participate in the school community.
● I will not access, transmit, copy, or create material that violates the Reading School Committee’s
Policy on Harassment and Discrimination (such as messages that are pornographic, harassing,
threatening, or discriminatory).
● I will not send spam, chain letters, or other unrequested messages.
● I will not buy, sell, advertise, or conduct business without explicit permission from the school
administration.
● I understand that I must follow all established Internet Safety Guidelines as outlined in the RPS
AUP and Internet Safety Agreement for Students.
I understand that I may be subject to disciplinary action if I fail to follow the Acceptable Use Policy. I
understand that my Parent/Guardian and or local authorities may be notified to support the school in
enforcing these guidelines.
Contract for Use of Technology -
I have reviewed the student agreement and agree to follow it.
Student Name: ___________________________________________ Date:__________
Signature:_______________________________________________________________
Commented [JC195]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
120
Please sign and return to your homeroom teacher. Failure to return this form indicates that you do
not have permission to use technology at school.
APPENDIX J
File: JICH
*ALCOHOL, TOBACCO/NICOTINE, AND DRUG USE BY STUDENTS PROHIBITED
The Reading Public Schools seeks a drug free environment for its students and staff. To
that end, RPS offers specialized training for school personnel so they may better
address student needs for support and referral. Reading Public Schools was a founding
member of the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse and actively participates in
prevention efforts impacting the school system and the broader community. The
purpose of the policy and the ensuing regulations that follow is:
o to ensure student safety, o maintain compliance with MIAA
rules/regulations so students can compete in the Middlesex
League, o maintain the intent of the federal drug free workplace
policy, and to provide guidance for school personnel and
administrators.
A student shall not, regardless of the quantity, use or consume, possess, buy or sell, or
give away any beverage containing alcohol; any tobacco/nicotine product, including
vapor/E-cigarettes; marijuana; steroids; or any controlled substance. The School
Committee prohibits the use or consumption by students of alcohol, tobacco/nicotine
products, or drugs on school property or at any school function, regardless of the
function’s physical location. For the purposes of this policy and the ensuing regulations,
possession is defined by M.G.L. c.138, §34C and any related case law.
Additionally, any student who is under the influence of drugs or alcoholic beverages
prior to, or during attendance at or participation in a school-sponsored activity, will be
barred from that activity and may be subject to disciplinary action as defined in the
regulations herein and in the student handbook.
Moreover, a student will not be penalized for pro-actively seeking assistance for a
substance use problem for themselves or if attempting to get assistance for a friend per
MGL94C, Section34A, Good Samaritan Law: MGL 94C: Section 34A Immunity from
prosecution under Secs. 34 or 35 for persons seeking medical assistance for self or
other experiencing drug-related overdose
121
This policy shall be posted on the district’s website and notice shall be provided to all
students and parents of this policy in accordance with state law. Additionally, the district
shall file a copy of this policy with DESE in accordance with law in a manner requested
by DESE.
Adopted by the Reading School Committee on March 26, 2007
Revised and Accepted by the Reading School Committee on April 9, 2012
Revised and Adopted by the Reading School Committee on July 27, 2016
LEGAL REF.: M.G.L. c. 272, §40A, M.G.L. c. 71, §37H; M.G.L. c. 76, sec. 17
M.G.L. c.138, §34C; M.G.L. c 94C.; Town of Reading Article
5.5.6Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages; Town of Reading Article
17:
Section 5.5.10- Public Consumption of Marijuana or
Tatrahydrocannabinol
CROSS REF.:
IHAMB, Teaching About Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
GBEC, Drug Free Workplace Policy
LEGAL REF.: M.G.L. 272:40A
M.G.L. c.138, §34C
M.G.L. c 94C.;
Town of Reading Article 5.5.6- Consumption of Alcoholic
Beverages; Town of Reading Article 17: Section 5.5.10- Public
Consumption of Marijuana or Tatrahydrocannabinol
Town of Reading, Board of Health Regulations, Section 16 as of
6/30/16
CROSS REF.: IHAMB, Teaching About Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
GBEC, Drug Free Workplace Policy
MIAA Chemical Health Guidelines
File: JICH-R
APPENDIX K
Reading Public Schools
Chemical Health Regulations for High School Students
122
The regulations below are in furtherance of the Reading School Committee’s Policies on
Drug Free Workplace (File: GBEC) and Teaching About Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
(File: IHAMB). If there is a conflict with these regulations and these policies or the
RMHS Student Handbook, these regulations shall govern.
BANNED SUBSTANCES- NICOTINE, VAPE & TOBACCO PRODUCTS
· Any tobacco/nicotine product including delivery devices/nicotine (nicotine found in
cigarettes, cigars, bidis, e-cigarettes, vape pens and smokeless tobacco)
In collaboration with the Board of Health, the high school may implement the following
town ordinance regarding the use of tobacco and nicotine in public schools:
USE OF TOBACCO/NICOTINE IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS-Definitions
· School: Public primary, secondary, and vocational schools located in Reading ·
School – Sponsored Activity: An activity at least partially funded or controlled by a
school or a parent-teacher organization to which students are invited and which
occurs off school grounds such as a field trip, class picnic or prom.
· School Grounds: Property owned or controlled by a school within 100 feet,
including but not limited to school buildings, structures, open space, sports or
recreational facilities whether enclosed or not, vehicles owned or leased for the
purpose of transporting students, school driveways, and parking lots. School
grounds shall not mean any university property, college property, or adult
education facility except during the time that these areas house public primary,
secondary or vocational school programs.
· School Personnel: A person who performs services for a public school in
Reading, including but not limited to principals, assistant principals, teachers,
PARAP, school counselors, coaches, assistant coaches, school nurses and
therapists, cafeteria workers, administrative staff, custodial staff, volunteers and
interns.
· Student: A person enrolled at any primary or secondary school in Reading.
· Tobacco/Nicotine Product: Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, pipe tobacco,
bidis, snuff, nicotine juice, or tobacco in any of its forms, or any product containing
tobacco or nicotine.
· Tobacco/Nicotine Use: The inhaling, exhaling, chewing or burning of any form of
tobacco and/or nicotine. Additionally, if a staff member witnesses tobacco smoke or
vaping coming from a lavatory stall, he will anticipate tobacco/nicotine use.
· Visitor: A person on school grounds who is not a student or school personnel.
123
TOBACCO/NICOTINE PRODUCT USE PROHIBITED
No student, school personnel, or visitor shall use a tobacco or nicotine product at any
time while on school grounds or at school-sponsored activity as defined above.
PENALTIES FOR TOBACCO/NICOTINE USE DURING HIGH SCHOOL
Possible 1-3 day(s) suspension
Referral to Approved Program
Additional provisions may apply if student is in extracurricular activities (refer to
Chemical Health violations)
Non-Criminal Method of Disposition
Whoever violates any provision of this regulation of which is subjected to a specific
penalty shall be penalized by the non-criminal method of disposition as provided in
Mass. Gen. Laws Ch 40 § 21D, which might result in eventual filing of a criminal
complaint in the appropriate jurisdiction and venue.
Enforcement
The Board of Health of the Town of Reading and or the school officials specially
designated by the Board of Health shall be responsible for enforcing this regulation.
Possession of tobacco/nicotine products
· Students found in possession of tobacco/nicotine products will have the item(s)
confiscated. No option to be returned.
· Failure to obey the request by faculty or staff to be given the items will be treated
as insubordination and will be subject to detention and/or suspension after the
student is afforded his/her due process rights.
BANNED SUBSTANCES- ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS OTHER THAN NICOTINE
Use or possession of alcohol/drugs is strictly prohibited both during school and at ANY
school-sponsored event. Possession is defined in accordance with M.G.L. Drugs shall
include without limitation:
1. Alcohol (ethyl alcohol found in liquor, beer, wine)
2. Cannabinoids including Butane Hash Oil (marijuana, hashish)
3. Synthetic marijuana products
124
4. Opioids (heroin, opium) fentanyl and all derivatives
5. Stimulants (cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine)
6. Club Drugs (Ecstasy, GHB, Rohypnol®
7. Dissociative Drugs (Ketamine, PCPC and analogs, Salvia divinorum, and
DXM (Dextromethorphan, robotripping)
8. Hallucinogens (LSD, mescaline, psilocybin/mushrooms,
DMT/Dimethyltryptamine)
9. Other compounds (anabolic steroids, bath salts)
10. Inhalants (defined as any substance that produces a mind-altering effect
when inhaled OR smelling or inhaling the fumes of any substance having
the property of releasing toxic vapors)
11. Non-prescribed prescription drugs (depressants, stimulants (Adderall,
Ritalin), opioid pain relievers)
12.Other performance enhancing stimulants
13.Other performance enhancing supplements
14.Any controlled substance as defined in M.G.L. 94C.
15.Non-alcohol/near beer
16. Any such substance, mentioned above, that is disguised in food products
such as candy, baked goods, or dissolved in drinks
It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a legally defined drug
specifically prescribed for the student’s own use by his/her doctor. In those
instances, students shall follow proper procedures to notify the health and athletic
departments.
Students in possession or deemed to be under the influence of alcohol/drugs other
than nicotine while in school or at a school-sponsored event may be subject to
suspension of 5 to 10 days and/or other disciplinary action (including expulsion)
deemed appropriate by the school administration. In addition, students in
possession or deemed to be under the influence of alcohol/drugs while in school or
at a school-sponsored event will need to participate in and complete an approved
Commented [JC196]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
125
program that focuses on one of the following areas: health education, chemical
dependency, substance abuse counseling, or treatment. The content, nature, and
length of the program will be determined by the building principal and based upon
the nature of the violation. Please see Approved Programs explanation.
POSSESSION AND/OR USE OF ALCOHOL AND/OR DRUGS REGULATIONS
· Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-
related events, including athletic games, in possession of a drug, alcohol or
paraphernalia will be suspended and may be subject to expulsion from the
school or school district.
· In addition, students in possession or deemed to be under the influence of
alcohol/drugs while in school or at a school-sponsored event will need to
participate in and complete an approved program that focuses on one of the
following areas: health education, chemical dependency, substance abuse
counseling, or treatment. The content, nature, and length of the program will be
determined by the building principal and based upon the nature of the violation.
· Any student who is charged with a violation of the above paragraph shall be
notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing prior to the imposition of any
suspension or expulsion in excess of ten (10) consecutive school days; provided,
however that the student may have representation (at private expense), along
with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the
Principal.
· After said hearing, the Principal or reviewing officer may, in his/her discretion,
decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined to have
violated the above stated rule.
· Any student who has been expelled from the school district pursuant to these
provisions shall have the right to appeal to the Superintendent.
· The expelled student shall have ten (10) calendar days from the date of the
expulsion in which to submit written notice to the Superintendent of his appeal. In
any such appeal hearing, the student shall have the right to be represented by an
attorney (at private expense), to examine the evidence against him, and to
present evidence and witnesses in support of his appeal. The subject matter of
the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the
student has violated any provisions of the above stated rule.
· When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or
school district within the Commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or
126
to provide educational services to said student. If said student does apply for
admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school
district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the
superintendent of the schools expelling said student, a written statement of the
reasons for said expulsion. (M.G.L. c.71, §37H)
· Nothing in this regulation or in applicable Reading Public Schools’ policies shall be
construed as limiting the authority of a building principal or the Reading Public
Schools to impose disciplinary sanctions or deny other privileges in accordance
with district rules or polices or the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
including, but not limited to, M.G.L. c.71, §37H, M.G.L. c.71, §37H1/2, and M.G.L.
c. 76, sec. 17. In the event of any suspension or expulsion of a student from school,
he/she will not be allowed to participate in any school related athletics or
extracurricular activities during the time he/she is suspended or expelled from
school.
Chemical Health Regulations for High School Athletics and Extra-curricular
Activities
In addition to the regulations above, the regulations below represent an expansion upon
the current Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) guidelines on
Chemical Health. These revised regulations are meant to support and educate our
students who participate in athletics and/or school-sponsored extra-curricular activities
while providing for a safe environment for our students. The consequences and
penalties below are cumulative to the regulations above.
From the point that an enrolled student concludes their 8th grade year until they
graduate at Reading Memorial High School or the final athletic event of their senior year
(whichever is latest), a student shall not, regardless of the quantity, use, consume,
possess, attempt to buy/sell, buy/sell, or distribute any beverage containing---
17.Alcohol (ethyl alcohol found in liquor, beer, wine)
18.Cannabinoids including Butane Hash Oil (marijuana, hashish)
19.Synthetic marijuana products
20.Opioids (heroin, opium) fentanyl and all derivatives
21.Stimulants (cocaine, amphetamine, methamphetamine)
22.Club Drugs (Ecstasy, GHB, Rohypnol®
127
23. Dissociative Drugs (Ketamine, PCPC and analogs, Salvia divinorum, and
DXM (Dextromethorphan, robotripping)
24. Hallucinogens (LSD, mescaline, psilocybin/mushrooms,
DMT/Dimethyltryptamine)
25.Other compounds (anabolic steroids, bath salts)
26. Inhalants (defined as any substance that produces a mind-altering effect when
inhaled OR smelling or inhaling the fumes of any substance having the property of
releasing toxic vapors)
27. Non-prescribed prescription drugs (depressants, stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin),
opioid pain relievers)
28.Other performance enhancing stimulants
29.Other performance enhancing supplements
30.Any controlled substance as defined in M.G.L. 94C.
31.Non-alcohol/near beer
32. Any such substance, mentioned above, that is disguised in food products such
as candy, baked goods, or dissolved in drinks
For the purposes of this policy and the ensuing regulations, possession is defined by
M.G.L. c.138, §34C (Possession or Transport of Alcohol) and any related case law.
It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a legally defined drug specifically
prescribed for the student’s own use by his/her doctor. In those instances, students shall
follow proper procedures to notify the health and athletic departments.
If a student is in violation of these regulations during the summer following his or
her eighth grade year and prior to his or her entrance into high school, the
consequences may be reduced by the high school principal after consultation
with the middle school administration.
It is the duty and obligation of any coach or advisor employed by the Reading Public
Schools to report any known violations of these regulations or other applicable policies
pertaining to the possession and/or use of alcohol or drugs to the athletic director and
Commented [JC197]: Change to "principal or his/her
designee"
128
the building Principal. Failure to report a known incident will result in disciplinary action
and possible termination.
If a student in violation of this rule is unable to participate in interscholastic sports or
school-sponsored extra-curricular activities due to injury/illness or academics, the
penalty will not take effect until that student is able to participate again.
Notwithstanding the violations listed below, there may be other factors relating to the
offense including without limitation, quantity of the chemical substance, the behavior of
the student or egregious nature of the violation which the Principal may consider at
his/her discretion and elevate the violation below (e.g., from a first violation to a third
violation) as well as impose additional penalties or sanctions.
Coaches and advisors may not impose additional penalties or sanctions without the
approval of the Principal.
The following are the additional consequences for students who violate the above
Chemical Health regulations.
First violation:
[i]
When the School Administrator confirms , following an opportunity for the student to be
heard, that a violation of this policy occurred, the student shall lose eligibility without
delay for the next consecutive interscholastic contests and meetings/events of the
school-sponsored extra-curricular activity totaling 25% of all interscholastic contests and
meetings/events including scrimmages in that sport or of school sponsored extra-
curricular activities in which the student participates.
In addition, the student will need to participate in and complete an approved program
that focuses on one of the following areas: health education, chemical dependency,
substance abuse counseling, or treatment. The content, nature, and length of the
program will be determined by the building principal and based upon the nature of the
violation. The program will be paid for by the parent/guardian of the student.
In regard to interscholastic sports and other competitive extra-curricular activities, it is
recommended that the student be allowed to remain at practice or meetings for the
purpose of rehabilitation. During the suspension, the disqualified student may not be in
uniform and his/her attendance at the competition site is determined by the high school
principal. The high school principal, in collaboration with a chemical dependency
treatment or counseling program, must certify that student is attending or has received a
129
certificate of completion from such a program. When calculating the number of events
for which the student has lost eligibility, all fractional parts of an event will be dropped.
If the penalty period is not completed during the season of violation, the penalty
shall carry over to the student’s next season of actual participation, which may
affect the eligibility status of the student during the next academic year. (e.g., a
student plays only football: he violates the rule in winter and/or the spring of
same academic year: he would serve the penalty [ies] during the fall season of the
next academic year).
A student may not participate in interscholastic competition including scrimmages or
participate in school-sponsored extra-curricular activities until they have submitted a
certificate of completion from the chemical dependence, treatment, or counseling
program and have served the suspension from the sport or activity. The program will be
funded by the parent/guardian.
Second violation:
When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a
second violation has occurred, the student shall lose eligibility without delay for the next
consecutive interscholastic contests and meetings/events including scrimmages of the
school-sponsored extra-curricular activity totaling 60% of all interscholastic contests in
that sport and/or of school-sponsored extra-curricular activities in which the student
participates. When calculating the number of events for which the student has lost
eligibility, all fractional parts of an event will be dropped.
If, after a second violation, the student, of his/her own volition, becomes a participant in
an approved chemical dependency, treatment, or counseling program, the student may
be certified for reinstatement in Reading Public School interscholastic sports and extra-
curricular activities after a minimum of 40% of events provided the student was fully
engaged in the program throughout that penalty period. In regard to interscholastic
sports and other competitive extra-curricular activities, it is recommended that the
student be allowed to remain at practice or meetings for the purpose of rehabilitation.
During the suspension, the disqualified student may not be in uniform and his/her
attendance at the competition site is determined by the high school principal. The high
school principal, in collaboration with a chemical dependency treatment or counseling
program, must certify that student is attending or has received a certificate of completion
from such a program. If student does not complete program, the penalty reverts back to
60% of the interscholastic contests or meetings/events of the school-sponsored extra-
curricular activity in which the student is participating. When calculating the number of
events for which the student has lost eligibility, all fractional parts of an event will be
dropped.
130
If the penalty period is not completed during the season of violation, the penalty shall
carry over to the student’s next season of actual participation, which may affect the
eligibility status of the student during the next academic year. (e.g., a student plays only
football: he violates the rule in winter and/or the spring of same academic year: he
would serve the penalty [ies] during the fall season of the next academic year)
A student may not participate in interscholastic competition or participate in school-
sponsored extra-curricular activities until they have submitted a certificate of completion
from the chemical dependence, treatment, or counseling program and have served the
suspension from the sport or activity. The program will be funded by the
parent/guardian.
Third and subsequent violations:
When the Principal confirms, following an opportunity for the student to be heard, that a
third or subsequent violation has occurred, the student shall lose eligibility without delay
for one calendar year in all athletic and extra-curricular activities.
If, after the third violation, the student, of his/her own volition, becomes a participant in
an approved chemical dependency program or treatment program, the student may be
certified for reinstatement in Reading Public School athletic or extra-curricular activities
after six (6) months provided the student was fully engaged in the program throughout
that penalty period. The high school principal in collaboration with a chemical
dependency, treatment, or counseling program, must certify that student is attending or
has received a certificate of completion. If student does not complete a program, the
penalty reverts back to one calendar year. The program is funded by the
parent/guardian. This exception shall not apply to fourth or subsequent violations of this
policy.
After a finding of a third or subsequent violation, a student will not be allowed to attend
any practices or extra-curricular activities in any capacity during the period of his/her
loss of eligibility.
Penalties shall be cumulative across an academic career, but serving a single penalty
may carry over from one year to the next. If the penalty period is not completed during
the season of violation, the penalty shall carry over to the student’s next season of
actual participation, which may affect the eligibility status of the student during the next
academic year. (e.g., a student plays only football: he violates the rule in winter and/or
the spring of same academic year: he would serve the penalty [ies] during the fall
season of the next academic year).
A student may not return to interscholastic competition or participate in school
sponsored extra-curricular activities until they have submitted a certificate of completion
131
from the chemical dependence or treatment program and have served the suspension
from the sport or activity. The program will be funded by the parent/guardian.
Other
1. A student entering their Junior or Senior year that has violated the
chemical health policy may participate in an interscholastic sport and extra-
curricular activity in which they have not previously participated in during high
school in order to serve the loss of eligibility. The student’s loss of eligibility,
however, will apply to both the new interscholastic sport or school-sponsored
extra-curricular activity and the interscholastic sport or school-sponsored extra-
curricular activities in which the student had participated in during previous years
in the manner outlined below. Students found in violation of this policy may
participate in interscholastic sports and extra-curricular activities in which they
have not previously participated, but will serve the suspension in both the new
sport/activity and 10% of the events from next sport/activity that he or she has
participated in during previous years. For example, a student who has only
played ice hockey during his/her Freshman and Sophomore years, and then
violates the policy for the first time during the spring of his/her junior year, but
then decides to run Cross Country in their Senior year for the first time, will serve
the normal 25% penalty during the Cross Country season and then a 10%
penalty during the Ice Hockey season. The high school principal will have the
final decision on each situation.
2. If a student is serving a penalty during a season where he/she participates
in both athletics and extra-curricular activities, the student will serve the penalty
for both or all of the activities and contests. For example, if a student participates
in a fall sport and the fall drama production, he/she will serve the penalty for both
the fall sport and the fall drama production.
3. When a student leader has been elected for a leadership position and
subsequently is found in violation of these regulations, that student will lose all
rights to continue to be an officer of that organization and forfeits the right to be
selected for any other leadership position for one calendar year from the date of
the violation.
4. When an athlete has been designated as a team captain—and then
subsequently is found in violation of these regulations, that athlete will lose all
rights to continue to be a captain of that sport and forfeit the rights to be selected
a captain in any other sport for one calendar year from the date of the violation.
132
5. If a student loses multiple leadership positions and/or team captain
positions as a result of a chemical health violation, they may appeal to the high
school principal for restoration of other leadership/captain positions beyond the
first position. An exception to this is National Honor Society which has its own
bylaws regarding an appeal process.
6. If a family cannot afford to pay for a program as outlined above, the
Reading Public Schools will work with the family to identify ways to fund the
program (i.e. health insurance, financial assistance, etc.)
7. If a student or family wishes to appeal a Chemical Health violation, it must
be filed with the building principal within 7 days of the confirmed violation. If the
family wishes to appeal the Principal’s decision to the Superintendent, it must be
filed within 7 days of the appeals decision.
8. These regulations will be reviewed by the athletic department, health-
wellness department, administration (principal or his/her designee), police, and
the Reading Coalition Against Substance Abuse (RCASA) on an annual basis to
address changes that may be occurring in the use of illegal substances by
students.
1st Offense - 25%
# of Events / Season # of Events / Penalty
1-7 1
8-11 2
12-15 3
Commented [JC198]: add
133
16-19 4
20 or over 5
2nd Offense - 60%
# of Events / Season # of Events / Penalty
1-3 1
4 2
5-6 3
7-8 4
9 5
10-11 6
12-13 7
14 8
134
15-16 9
17-18 10
19 11
20 or over 12
2nd Offense w/Dependency Program - 40% if in the program throughout the penalty
period.
# of Events / Season # of Events / Penalty
1-4 1
5-7 2
8-9 3
10-12 4
13-14 5
15-17 6
135
18-19 7
20 or over 8
Adopted by the Reading School Committee on March 26, 2007
Revised and Accepted by the Reading School Committee on April 9, 2012 Revised and
Adopted by the Reading School Committee on July 27, 2016
LEGAL REF.: M.G.L. 272:40A
M.G.L. c.138, §34C
M.G.L. c 94C.;
Town of Reading Article 5.5.6- Consumption of Alcoholic
Beverages; Town of Reading Article 17: Section 5.5.10- Public
Consumption of Marijuana or Tatrahydrocannabinol
Town of Reading, Board of Health Regulations, Section 16 as of
6/30/16
CROSS REF.: IHAMB, Teaching About Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
GBEC, Drug Free Workplace Policy
MIAA Chemical Health Guidelines
[i]
Per MIAA policy
S C H O O L C O M M I T T E E - 9 /7 /2 3SCHOOL C O M M I T T E E - 9 /7 /2 3
WHAT IS THE LAW?
T h e M B T A C o m m u n i t i e s l a w (3 A ), w a s p a s s e d i n
2 0 2 1 a t t h e s t a t e l e v e l .
I t r e q u i r e s a l l t h e m u n i c i p a l i t i e s i n t h e B o s t o n
m e t r o t o c o n f i r m t h a t t h e y h a v e a d i s t r i c t o f
r e a s o n a b l e s i z e w h e r e m u l t i f a m i l y h o u s i n g (3 +
u n i t s ) i s z o n e d f o r b y -r i g h t a t a s p e c i f i e d d e n s i t y ,
d e t e r m i n e d b y e a c h m u n i c i p a l i t i e s '
c h a r a c t e r i s t i c s .
R e a d i n g i s c l a s s i f i e d a s a c o m m u t e r r a i l c o m m u n i t y ,
w h i c h m e a n s a t l e a s t h a l f o f o u r z o n i n g d i s t r i c t m u s t b e
w i t h i n a 1 /2 -m i l e o f t h e R e a d i n g t r a i n d e p o t d o w n t o w n .
B y D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 4 , R e a d i n g m u s t c o n f i r m t o t h e S t a t e
t h a t w e h a v e a d i s t r i c t w i t h b y -r i g h t z o n e d c a p a c i t y f o r
a s e t n u m b e r o f u n i t s o f m u l t i -f a m i l y h o u s i n g a t a
d e n s i t y o f 1 5 u n i t s p e r a c r e a c r o s s a t o t a l d i s t r i c t o f a t
l e a s t 4 3 t o t a l a c r e s .*
W e d o n o t c u r r e n t l y h a v e a z o n i n g d i s t r i c t t h a t m e e t s t h e
r e q u i r e m e n t s .
*For the specific details on how these numbers were calculated by the State please see our project webpage.
WHAT IS ZONING?
Zoning is a rulebook for future development.
By-right zoning means that a proposed project can
move through the normal approvals process of site
plan review without requiring any discretionary
approvals such as special permits or waivers.
The result of our process this fall will be proposed
changes to our zoning.
Multi-family housing is any housing with at least 3 units on one lot
The intention of the law is for all the
communities in the Boston metro area to
share in the creation of more diverse
housing options.
Fair market rents in the Boston metro area
have increased 51%+ in the last 5 years.
Home prices have increased far above the
median salary in Reading, indicating that
future home ownership in Reading will be
out of reach for the average person or family
who lives here now.
Communities that fail to comply with the
law will not be eligible for funds from
multiple grant programs. (For more
details please see our project webpage)
If we do not comply we would open the
Town up to lawsuits from the state and
also from residents and advocacy groups.
Why we intend to comply
W e e k 1May W e e k 3 J a n
2 0 2 4
R e s e a r c h P h a s e 1
E n g a g e m e n t P h a s e 1
R e s e a r c h P h a s e 2
E n g a g e m e n t P h a s e 2
E n g a g e m e n t P h a s e 3
F i n a l i z i n g P r o p o s a l (s )
R e a d i n g 's M B T A C o m m u n i t i e s
2 0 2 3 E n g a g e m e n t & R e s e a r c h T i m e l i n e
J u n J u l A u g S e p O c t N o v D e c
A top write-in concern is school enrollment.
We have school enrollment and
population projection information,
but we want to be on the same
page about future enrollment.
The eventual ask is for a written
statement from School Committee
or Superintendent.
W h a t p r o j e c t i o n d a t a d o e s t h e s c h o o l s y s t e m u s e ?
C e n s u s , M A P C , o t h e r ?
H i s t o r i c E n r o l l m e n t T r e n d s - t o t a l /p e r g r a d e /b y s c h o o l
W h a t a r e p e a k e n r o l l m e n t n u m b e r s ?
P e r m i t t i n g D a t a c o m p a r e d t o E n r o l l m e n t
H o u s i n g b u i l t b y d e c a d e c o m p a r e d t o e n r o l l m e n t o v e r t h e f o l l o w i n g d e c a d e ?
R P S P o p u l a t i o n a n d E n r o l l m e n t F o r e c a s t s 2 0 2 2 -2 0 3 2
M A P C 's I n f l u e n c e o f H o u s i n g P r o d u c t i o n o n P u b l i c S c h o o l
E n r o l l m e n t , 2 0 1 7
O t h e r p o t e n t i a l l o c a l m e t r i c s
U t i l i z i n g :
Example information that may be helpful to understand:
J o i n t h e
d i s c u s s i o n
www.readingma.gov/mbtac
Contact Reading's Planning Staff
Andrew MacNichol
Community Development Director
amacnichol@ci.reading.ma.us
781-942-6670
Mary Benedetto
Senior Planner
mbenedetto@ci.reading.ma.us
781-942-6648
Personnel
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
September 7, 2023
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Dr. Thomas Milaschewski, Superintendent
DATE: September 7, 2023
RE: Superintendent Goals 2023-2025
Please find a draft of the Superintendent Goals for 2023-2025 included in the packet for your review. I
look forward to discussing these goals during the September 7th School Committee meeting,
incorporating your feedback on the draft goals, and presenting a finalized version of the goals at the
September 21st School Committee meeting for your approval.
Thank you.
Reading Public Schools
Instilling a joy of learning and inspiring the innovative leaders of tomorrow 82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
Phone: 781-944-5800
Fax: 781-942-9149
READING PUBLIC SCHOOLS -SUPERINTENDENT GOALS JULY 2023 -JUNE 2025
Goal 1 (Student Learning Goal):Over the next two years,improve evidence of student
learning,engagement,and achievement as follows:
●By the end of the 2023-2024 school year,with data provided to the district in
September of 2024,meet all DESE determined MCAS achievement and growth
targets at school and district levels.
●By the end of 2024-2025,using registration data for 2025-2026,increase the
planned participation rate in advanced coursework (AP and Dual-Enrollment)at
RMHS by 10%for all students and 15%for each DESE identified subgroup.
●By the end of 2024-2025,using registration data for 2025-2026,increase
enrollment in Innovation Pathways to 150 students with 80%continued
engagement from students initially enrolled.
Aligned to Initiatives 1.5,1.6,2.2,2.3,2.4,2.5,and 4.1 in RPS District Strategic Plan,Aligned to
MA Superintendent Rubric 1A,1B,1C,1F,3A,3D,and 4A
Key Actions
1.Key actions/activities towards this goal are outlined within district strategic plan.
Benchmarks
2.Analysis of progress towards MCAS (2023-2024)and advanced coursework
(2024-2025)targets
Goal 2 (District Improvement Goal):Secondary Math Pathways:Design and publish new
secondary math pathways by January 1,2024.Aligned to Initiative 2.3 in RPS District
Strategic Plan,Aligned to MA Superintendent Rubric 1E,3A,4A,4E
Key Actions
1.Launch Community Math Pathways Committee by September 15,2023 through an initial
kickoff meeting.
2.Create Committee of 15-20 members with representation from staff and community by
September 20,2023
3.Coordinate/facilitate series of Math Pathways Committee meetings during
September-November
4.Identify and provide opportunities for community input/feedback throughout the process
5.Finalize and publish plan for future math pathways,based on recommendations from the
Math Pathways Committee,by November 30,2023
6.Ensure budget and staffing implications are addressed to enable implementation of
pathway recommendations
Benchmarks
1.Present Math Pathways Committee recommendations and district pathways
implementation plan to School Committee during November 30,2023 meeting
2.Publish formal pathways updates to district website,RPS budget book,RMHS Program
of Studies,and all secondary handbooks by January 15,2023
Goal 3 (District Improvement Goal):Data:Develop data systems and practices to assess
progress towards targets in district strategic plan and drive district/school interventions
and supports.Aligned to Initiatives 1.1,1.2,2.2,2.5 in RPS District Strategic Plan,Aligned to
MA Superintendent Rubric 1E,2C
Key Actions
1.Develop central location for storing key student-level data (academic,social-emotional,
discipline,attendance,student demographics)that enables flow in from various sources
and organizes data for easy access and analysis by district and school leaders
2.Facilitate bi-weekly district data team (comprised of central office leadership,directors,
and coordinators)that analyzes district and school data (academic,social-emotional,
discipline,attendance)and develops district and school level interventions/supports
3.Facilitate bi-weekly District Leadership Team (comprised of central office leadership,
directors,coordinator,principals,team chairs)meetings that center around data analysis
and action planning
3.Calibrate central office leaders on process for collaborating and progress monitoring of
activities and goals outlined in action plans (data cycles)
4.Create structure for school leader/central office collaboration and progress monitoring of
school-level activities and goals outlined in action plans (data cycles)
5.Begin process of developing a system to capture research and promising practice with
the goal of institutionalizing district,school,and classroom level action plans,
interventions,and supports
Benchmarks
1.Development of a first iteration of a central location for storing key student-level data by
June 1,2024 and refined version (based on feedback from school/district leaders)by
June 1,2025 (outcome)
2.Analysis of agendas,protocols,and resources with a focus on the connection to student
learning (process)
3.Analysis of statewide student growth measures,common assessment data,student work
samples,and teacher instructional practice (outcome)
4.Development first iteration of system to capture research and best practice by June 1,
2024 and an expanded version by June 1,2025
Goal 4 (District Improvement Goal):Coaching,Developing,and Supporting Principals.
Continue implementation of a district strategy for coaching,supporting,and developing
principal talent,including a clear focus on data driven improvement.Aligned to Initiative
2.5 in RPS District Strategic Plan,Aligned to MA Superintendent Rubric 1B,1E,2B,and 4D
Key Actions
1.Implement structures that reflect best practices for coaching,supporting,and developing
principals that align to Reading context.
2.Onboard school leaders with goals,rationale,and structures for district approach in
coaching,supporting,and developing principal talent
3.Select focus area(s)for principal leadership (data driven improvement)and align
professional development,resources,and support to that focus area.
4.Develop and facilitate bi-weekly district data team meetings to support school leader
improvements,interventions,and action plans
5.Consistently monitor progress and effectiveness to drive adjustments in strategy or
approach
Benchmarks
1.Analysis of agendas,protocols,and resources with a focus on the connection to student
learning (process)
2.Formative feedback through ongoing principal surveys addressing impact of strategy on
student learning (process)
5.Interviews with principals addressing impact of strategy on student learning (process)
6.Analysis of statewide student growth measures,common assessment data,student work
samples,and teacher instructional practice (outcome)
Goal 5 (Professional Practice Goal):New Superintendent Induction Program.Develop
skills in strategy development,data analysis,equity and instructional leadership by
actively engaging in the third year of the New Superintendent Induction Program.Aligned
to MA Superintendent Rubric 4D
Key Actions
1.Attend all required sessions.
2.Complete all NSIP assignments.
3.Meet with assigned coach as assigned.
Benchmarks
1.Calendar documents attendance and contact with coach (process).
2.Verification from NSIP that superintendent actively engaged in third year of the program
(process and outcome).
New Business
Reading Public Schools
School Committee Meeting Packet
September 7, 2023
Administrative Offices
82 Oakland Road
Reading, MA 01867
781 944-5800
READING SCHOOL COMMITTEE
Thomas Wise Chair
Erin Gaffen Vice-Chair
Shawn Brandt
Sarah McLaughlin
Carla Nazzaro
Charles Robinson
Thomas Milaschewski, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
TO: Reading School Committee
FROM: Thomas Wise, Reading School Committee Chair
DATE: September 5, 2023
TOPIC: Meeting Management and Presentation Protocol Discussion
At the end of the last school year, Shawn Brandt and Sarah McLaughlin asked for a meeting agenda item to discuss
meeting management and presentation protocols. When we get to this section of the meeting, I will turn over the
meeting to them to outline their ideas and proposals for further discussion with the entire Committee. Some of the
items I have heard from them include:
- Packet materials being ready and available for the committee and the public at least 48 hours prior to the
meeting.
- Presenters are given a time limit for presentations to allow sufficient time for questions and engagement by the
committee.
- Presenters are advised to summarize the key points rather than read every point in a presentation.
- Liaison and Subcommittee reports to be written up and submitted as part of the packet.
We can discuss these and other ideas to continuously improve our meetings while also ensuring sufficient participation
and dissemination of information for ourselves and the community during the meeting.
Thank you.