Download PDF of the 2023-24 Student Handbook

GENERAL NOTICES ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES (Board Policy 7410)

At the Chester Academy extra-curricular activities provide our students with the opportunity to develop physically, mentally and socially in activities beyond the traditional school day. It is the goal of extra-curricular activities to supplement and enhance a student’s educational experience at Chester.

For academic eligibility purposes, extra-curricular activities are defined as those activities that are not part of the regular course offerings and do not receive academic credit. They include but are not limited to: athletics, clubs, dances, shows that charge admission, the school play, day trips that are not a part of course work, overnight trips, student government, Mock Trial, Odyssey of the Mind, Youth in Government, Yearbook, and non-performing music groups.

All extra-curricular advisors are required to hand out a contract that explains Academic Eligibility. The contract requires a parent signature for participation in the activity. Each advisor will keep an attendance roster of every meeting and only allow participation as permitted under the rules of Academic Eligibility. Advisors will publish a roster of their members and distribute it to all faculty members.

In order to be academically eligible to participate in extracurricular activities, a student must comply with the following academic standards:

A student failing one or more subject(s) will be placed on academic probation for two weeks. Any student failing two or more subjects will immediately be placed on academic restriction and will be academically ineligible to participate in after school activities for a period of at least five weeks.

Academic probation is a two-week period, following the end of each five-week progress report period or the end of each 10-week marking period. During academic probation, a student may remain active in all extra-curricular activities by participating in all after school study sessions. Students who choose not to attend the daily study sessions will automatically become ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities until the next reporting period. Students who are absent from one or more daily study sessions for unapproved reasons will lose eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities. All missed study sessions must be made up prior to being removed from academic probation. Note: the starting and ending periods may vary due to the time required to process report card grades.

At the end of the two-week academic probationary period, the student must be passing all subjects in order to be removed from academic probation. If a student is not passing all of his/her subjects, the student will then be placed on academic restriction. During academic restriction, a student remains active for practices, club meetings, rehearsals etc. by participating in all after school study sessions. However, the student is ineligible for actual events such as: athletic contests, school plays or club events etc. All missed study sessions must be made up prior to being removed from academic restriction.

To be removed from academic probation following any two-week period, the student must have each teacher complete the extracurricular progress report. Students that do not have each teacher sign the progress report will be moved to academic restriction. All missed study sessions must be made up prior to being removed from academic probation.

A student failing one or more subject(s) at the end of the 4th marking period will begin the following school year on academic probation. Any student failing two or more subjects will begin the following school year on academic restriction. A student may attend summer school and pass the subjects previously failed in order to lift the academic probation/restriction for the following fall.

It is the responsibility of the student who is on academic probation to obtain an extra-curricular progress report from guidance and submit a completed progress report to the guidance office by the dates established at the beginning of each school year.

Academic Intervention Services:

• Academic Watch List for Students with Average below 70
• AIS for Students on the Fail List (Schedule Permitting)
• Study Skills Training
• Weekly Progress Reports

The District shall provide academic intervention services to students who have been identified as being at risk of falling below the state learning standards in English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and/or Science. Such services may include additional instruction services and/or student support services such as guidance, counseling, and study skills. A student’s eligibility for academic intervention services will be determined based on his or her performance on State assessment examinations and/or local assessment tests.

When it has been determined that a student needs academic intervention services, the parents will be notified, in writing, by the Building Principal. The notice will outline the reason the student needs such services, the type of services to be provided, and the consequences of not achieving the performance standards. In addition, the District will provide the parents with opportunities to consult with teachers and other professional staff, regular reports on the student’s progress, and information on ways to monitor and work with teachers to improve the student’s performance.

ANTI-HARASSMENT (Board Policies 7550 and 7551)

The District is committed to safeguarding the right of all students within the District to learn in an environment that is free from harassment on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, or disability.

Conduct is deemed to be sexual harassment when the student perceives such behavior as unwelcome, such as inappropriate touching or verbal comments.

Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to harassment should report the alleged misconduct immediately to the adult in charge so that corrective action may be taken at once.

In the absence of a victim’s complaint, the school, upon learning of or having reason to suspect the occurrence of any harassment, will take appropriate action.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN (Board Policy 5630)

In 1988, the Chester School District, under Federal Guidelines, developed an “Asbestos Management Plan”. It is available through the District offices. There are no instances where asbestos is an imminent hazard to the health or well-being of our students or employees. For further information, contact the Director of Facilities who is the Asbestos Designee for the Chester Union Free School District.

ATTENDANCE (Board Policy 7110)

In accordance with state law and regulations, it is the policy of the Chester School District to ensure the maintenance of adequate attendance records verifying the attendance of all children at instruction and the creation of the means to examine attendance patterns so as to develop effective intervention strategies to improve student attendance. It is the objective of this policy to encourage each student to attend school on time, for the maximum number of days and instructional periods possible. In furtherance of this objective, the District shall utilize strategies such as positive attendance incentives and appropriate disciplinary and other consequences.

Record Keeping

Attendance record keeping shall conform to the following:

• Chester Elementary School shall ensure that attendance is taken once at the beginning of each day and once at the beginning of each special.
• Chester Academy attendance shall be taken in each period of scheduled instruction.
• In Grades K-12, any absence for a school day or part of a school day shall be recorded as excused or unexcused as provided for in this policy.
• In Grades 6-12, events of tardiness to each class shall be recorded as excused or unexcused as provided for in this policy.
• In Grades K-12, events of late arrival or early departure shall be recorded as excused or unexcused as provided for in this policy.
• A record shall be maintained of each scheduled day of instruction during which school is closed for all or part of the day because of extraordinary circumstances including adverse weather, failure of the heating system or water supply, fuel supply shortage or structural damage to the building, etc.
• A record shall be made of the date when a student withdraws from enrollment or is dropped from enrollment in accordance with Section 3202 (3-a) of the Education Law.

All entries in the register of attendance shall be made by a teacher or another employee designated by the Board of Education. Any individual authorized to make entries in the register of attendance shall, by oath or affirmation, verify the contents of the entries.

Student attendance records shall be reviewed by the Principal of each school building in the District for the purpose of initiating appropriate actions to address unexcused student absences, tardiness, and early departure.

The register of attendance shall consist of any written or electronic record to record attendance, absence, tardiness, or early departure of a student. The register shall be maintained for every period that a student is scheduled to attend actual instruction or supervised study during the course of the school day during the school year, from July 1st through June 30th. The register at every school building shall include separate notations regarding student presence, absence, tardiness, and early departure. The contents of the register for each student shall contain the information prescribed in regulations of the Commissioner of Education (Part 104).

The record keeping system shall keep information according to the following categories: (a) for absence, (t) for tardy, or (l) late.

Excused Absences

The Board recognizes the following as legal excuses for student absence, each of which must be verified by the student's parent/guardian or school personnel, where applicable:

• Personal illness
• Death in the family / Funeral
• Religious observance
• Required attendance in court or at government agency (e.g., Court, Social Services, Probation)
• Approved school-sponsored activities, including field trips, interscholastic athletics, musical, and other competitions
• Directed or authorized presence at the Administrative Offices or Nurse's Office
• Quarantine
• Dental and medical appointments that cannot be scheduled outside of school hours
• Military obligations
• Approved cooperative/work study program
• College visitations (only for juniors and seniors), with the prior knowledge and approval of parents and counselors, so long as it does not exceed 4 days in a school year
• Family emergency
• Road Test
• Homebound Instruction (if the child is present for the instruction)
• Out of School Suspension (but not if alternative instruction is offered and not accepted)
• Students whose parent/legal guardian has been called for military deployment, is on leave from, or is returning from a combat zone or combat support may be excused for an additional 3 days, but work must be made up in accordance with this policy. Parents must notify the Building Principal at least 3 days before the intended absences and each case will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Building Principal.

The written excuse must be presented by the student on the day when returning to school following such absence if the parent/guardian did not make contact with the school during the period of absence.

Unexcused Absences

Any absence not provided for on the excused list shall be deemed an unexcused absence. The Board considers the following absences as unexcused (this list is not all-inclusive):

• Cut Class
• Car Trouble
• Missed Bus
• Overslept
• Personal Business
• Vacation
• Child/Elder Care
• Any absence not excused with appropriate documentation within three school days.

Attendance/Course Credit Standard

Student absences are disruptive to the educational process. It is the student’s responsibility to attend classes on a regular basis and to minimize class absences. Students are required to make-up missed assignments whenever they are absent and should monitor their absences to avoid loss of credit due to absence.

For the purposes of this policy’s Course Credit Standard, a class absence is defined as

non-attendance in class for twenty (20) or more minutes from any individual class period. In order to encourage regular class attendance students in grades 6 - 12 will be permitted only nine (9) absences per quarter without academic penalty. Students who have ten (10) or more absences in any quarter will receive a grade of 60 in that course upon the first instance of failure for absence, 50 in that course upon the second instance, 40 in that course for the third and fourth instances of failure for excessive absences. Absences due to suspensions, school administration intervention, or school approved religious observance or instruction is not counted in the student’s absences. Students who are on home instruction are exempt from this requirement unless the home instruction was offered and they failed to receive such instruction. In such case students on home instruction will be marked as an unexcused absence.

For grades 6 – 12 students will be permitted only seven (7) absences per quarter in physical education which meets on alternate days without academic penalty. Physical education students who have eight (8) or more absences in any quarter will receive a grade of 60, 50, or 40, depending on whether it is the first, second, third, or fourth incidence of failure for absence as outlined above.

For the purposes of calculating the final course average students with ten (10) or more absences in a course in a quarter will receive a numerical grade of no higher than 60 in that course upon the first instance of failure for absence, 50 in that course upon the second instance, and a 40 in that course for a third or fourth instance of failure for excessive absences. However if the student’s average for any quarter is lower than the designated failure for absence grade, the lower average will be entered as the quarter average.

Students with ten (10) or more absences due to extraordinary circumstances may request permission from an Attendance Review Committee comprised of a school administrator, a school counselor, and a teacher, to make-up class work missed due to excused absences. Any make-up work for credit must be completed before the end of the following marking period. Make-up work for the fourth quarter must be made up by the end of the school year (June 30).

1. Make-up assignments shall generally be required for all excused absences within a period of days proximate to the student’s absence from school as determined by the teacher. With the approval of the Building Principal, make-up assignments may be waived or an extension of time granted in exceptional circumstances or where a Section 504 accommodation is warranted.

2. The parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified, by telephone and/or in writing, whenever a student has absences in excess of six (6) per semester, regardless of whether the course is a semester or full year course.

3. The administration of each school shall be responsible for ensuring personal contact with a student who is in danger of failing for the purpose of determining what reason or reasons are contributing to the student's poor attendance. Reasonable efforts shall be made to assist the student in addressing the causes of the attendance problem. Such efforts may include:

• • Discussions with the student's teacher or teachers.
  • Discussions and/or meeting with the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s).
  • Discussions with the student's health professional or counselor.
  • Recommendation to the appropriate authorities for the suspension of extra and co-curricular activity privileges.
  • Referral to resources and agencies outside of the school.
  • Referral to the child/student study team.

Encouraging Student Attendance

At the secondary level, eligibility for extra- and co-curricular activities, interscholastic sports, and attendance at school-sponsored activities shall be restricted to those students who are in attendance for a minimum of three and a half hours on the day of the activity and are in good academic standing with regard to the district’s Academic Eligibility Policy.

At the secondary level, class cutting shall be deemed an infraction of the Code of Conduct. The Code shall prescribe a range of disciplinary interventions to address class cutting.

Whenever a student exhibits a pattern of unexcused absence, tardiness, or early departure, notice will be given to the parent(s)/guardian(s) by telephone and/or in written communication (including by email), and the student shall be conferred with by the classroom teacher and/or a counselor regarding the pattern in an effort to remediate the underlying problem. Notice shall also be given to the Building Principal who may address the matter with the student and/or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s). All verbal, electronic and written contacts with the parent(s)/guardian will be documented by the District.

In the event that the school level interventions have not improved the student's attendance, the Principal may recommend interventions such as a Person In Need of Supervision (PINS) petition to the Family Court and/or contact with the appropriate social services agency to initiate a neglect petition.

Oversight Responsibilities

The Building Principal and/or his/her administrative designee shall be responsible for reviewing student attendance records and initiating appropriate action consistent with this policy.

The Board of Education shall semi-annually review building level student attendance records to determine if the Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy is effective. If a decline in attendance is evident, the Board shall review the policy as deemed necessary to improve student attendance.

Distribution of Policy

The Superintendent of Schools, at the direction of the Board of Education, shall publish to the community information about the District's Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy. The policy shall be available and explained at student assemblies, at assemblies on open school nights (if any), and a plain language summary of the policy shall be prepared for distribution to parents/guardians. Each teacher and new teacher(s), promptly upon hire, shall be provided with a copy of the policy and any amendments thereto. Copies of the policy shall also be maintained by the District's Records Access Officer for issuance upon request by any interested party.

CLOSED CAMPUS (Board Policy 7314)

It is the policy of the Board of Education that students in Grades K-12 are not permitted to leave school grounds from the time they arrive until the time they walk home or are transported home after the final dismissal. An exception to the policy will be made for seniors in accordance with written regulations.

COMMITTEE ON SPECIAL EDUCATION (Board Policies 7610 – 7690)

The Committee on Special Education meets regularly to make recommendations to the Board of Education and parents regarding the program and placement of children who require special education. The Committee is responsible for finding out what services these children require, preparing an Individual Education Program, assuring that it is acted upon, and conducting annual reviews of student progress. By law, each district must have a Committee on Special Education (C.S.E.) which includes the following people: a school psychologist, a teacher or administrator of special education, a physician, a parent of a handicapped child who lives in the district, and others who may be appointed by the Board of Education. A student may be referred in writing to the C.S.E. by a parent, doctor, teacher, judicial officer, or if over 18 years of age, oneself. A referral should be made to the Chairperson of the C.S.E. or the school administrator. Parents/students who desire further information on these programs and services should contact the Director of Special Education and Pupil Personnel Services.

COMPUTER NETWORK/INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (Board Policy 7315)

Purpose

The Chester School District provides access to various computerized information resources through the District's Computer Systems ("DCS" hereafter) of software, hardware, computer networks and electronic mail, so called "on-line services" and the Internet. All use of the DCS shall be subject to this policy. Further, all such use must be in support of education and/or research and consistent with the goals and purposes of the School District.

Internet access is available to students in the Chester School District. Our goal in providing this service to students is to promote educational excellence in the district by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. Our connections provide direct access to the Internet. Use of the Internet for other purposes, such as for profit activity or any illegal purpose, is not acceptable.

An Acceptable Use Contract is a written agreement, signed by students and their parents or guardians, outlining the terms and conditions of Network and Internet use. It specifically sets out acceptable uses, rules of on line behavior, and access privileges.

Rights and Responsibilities

The use of the Network is a privilege, not a right, which may be revoked at any time for inappropriate conduct. This conduct would include but not be limited to the placing of unlawful information on a system, the use of abusive or objectionable language, acts of sabotage, attempts to cause congestion on the network, or to interfere with the work of others.

The computers, file servers, and cabling that make up the DCS are school property. Therefore, any material stored on the computers or file servers may be viewed at any time by teachers, network administrators, or school administrators. Students should not save materials on the Network that they do not want others to view.

Users in the Chester Academy will select a password to insure the security their workplace on the network. Users will have the ability to change their password as often as they like, and should do so as soon as they suspect someone else has learned it. Users should never divulge their password to anyone else.

Internet access is also a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use may result in cancellation of those privileges. The DCS will allow students access to external computer networks not controlled by the School District. Students will be supervised when accessing the Internet. However, with access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting. Although it is impossible to control all materials, the Chester School District firmly believes that the valuable information and interaction available on the worldwide network far outweighs the possibility that users may procure material that is not consistent with the educational goals of the District. However, users should never give out their full name, home address, telephone numbers, social security number or any other personal information. Ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources.

Any inappropriate use of the Network/Internet will not be permitted, including, but not limited to:

• Sending or displaying offensive materials or pictures;
• Using obscene, offensive, inflammatory or defamatory speech;
• Harassing, insulting, threatening or attacking others;
• Degrading or disrupting computers, computer network systems;
• Destruction of computer hardware or software;
• Gaining unauthorized access to areas on the network where privileges have not been granted;
• Using another's password or trespassing in another's files;
• Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of the rules of copyright and plagiarism;
• Intentionally wasting limited resources.

Penalties

Student use of the DCS is conditioned upon written agreement by all students and their parents or legal guardians that the student use of the DCS will conform to the requirements of this policy and any regulations adopted to insure acceptable use of the DCS. All such agreements shall be kept on file in the District Office.

Generally, the same standards of acceptable student conduct which apply to any school activity shall apply to use of the DCS. This policy does not attempt to articulate all required and/or acceptable uses of the DCS; nor is it the intention of this policy to define all inappropriate usage. Administrative regulations will further define general guidelines of appropriate student conduct and behavior.

Students who engage in unacceptable use may lose access to the DCS and will be subject to further discipline under the District's school conduct and discipline policy. The District reserves the right to pursue legal action against a student who willfully, maliciously, or unlawfully damages or destroys property of the District or engages in copyright violations. Further, the District may bring suit in civil court against the parents/legal guardians of any student who willfully, maliciously, or unlawfully damages or destroys property of the District or engages in copyright violations.

Student data files and other electronic storage areas will be treated like school lockers. This means that such areas shall be considered to be School District property and subject to control and inspection. The computer coordinator or network administrator may access all such files and communications to insure system integrity and that users are complying with the requirements of this policy and accompanying regulations. Students should NOT expect that information stored on the DCS will be private.

CUSTODY ISSUES (Board Policy 7240)

Please notify the office immediately if there are any changes in custody or if there is a restraining order for anyone. Custody papers need to be kept on file in the office.

DELAYED OPENINGS, SNOW, AND EMERGENCY CLOSINGS (Board Policy 3510)

On days school is delayed or closed because of any emergency or bad weather conditions, the district will continue to use a notification system to notify the school community of the status of the situation and decisions made about the school day. The notification system is a voice and text messaging alert service that enhances our communication in the event of an emergency or weather related school closing. The service allows the school to send important school messages to cell phone text messaging numbers, two email addresses, and up to four telephone numbers per family in the database. In the event of an actual emergency, please do not telephone the schools so that telephone lines remain open for emergency communication.

EMERGENCY PLANS (Board Policy 5681)

In accordance with regulations of the Commissioner of Education, the District has developed an emergency management plan to safeguard the safety and health of students and staff, as well as district property, in the event of a true emergency. Each year, the school will stage a “test” or drill of the emergency management plan, including an early dismissal at a time not more than 15 minutes earlier than the normal dismissal time. Parents will be informed of any such “test” at least one week prior to the drill. The District emergency management plan includes the following:

• definitions of “emergency” and procedures to be followed to activate the plan;
• designation of a control center in anticipation of, or in response to, an emergency;
• identification of sites of potential emergencies;
• identification of appropriate responses to emergencies;
• procedures for coordinating the use of district resources and personnel during emergencies;
• identification of district resources which may be available for use during an emergency;
• a system of informing all schools within the district of the emergency;
• plans for taking the following actions, if appropriate: school cancellation; early dismissal; evacuation; and sheltering;
• pertinent information about each school (including school population, number of staff, transportation needs, and the telephone number of key employees of the district, as appropriate); and
• procedures for obtaining advice and assistance from local government officials.

Copies of the emergency management plan are available in the District Office.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY (Board Policy 6120)

The Chester Union Free School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, or disability in the educational programs and/or activities which are operated by the District. The District is required by Title IX of the Civil Rights Law and §504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to operate its facilities in a non-discriminatory manner. This policy of non-discrimination includes the following areas: recruitment and appointment of employees, payment of employees, benefits for employees, student counseling services, student access to educational programs, and course offerings and student activities.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (Board Policy 7240)

Part B regulation’s §§121a.560 – 121a.567 of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides parents and eligible students with the right to inspect and review a student’s educational record. Parents or eligible students desiring to inspect records must send a written request, identifying the record or records he/she wishes to inspect to the school principal. The principal will make the necessary arrangements and notify the parent of a time and place where the records may be inspected. The Chester student record policy covering family access and rights of privacy is available upon request through the elementary office, the middle school/senior high school office, or the district’s office.

HEALTH EDUCATION TOPICS (Board Policy 8211)

In compliance with the commissioner’s regulations, the District will provide instruction about preventing AIDS, drugs, alcohol, mental health and tobacco as part of a sequential and comprehensive health program for all students, K-12.

PARENTS WITH DISABILITIES (Board Policies 7610 – 7690)

District parents with disabilities will be afforded an equal opportunity to participate in the services, programs, and activities of the District, particularly those which are designed for parental involvement and are directly related to their child’s academic and/or disciplinary progress (e.g., parent/teacher conferences and/or meetings with other school personnel).

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS (Board Policy 7512)

In accordance with New York State Education Law, student physical examinations are required for all students in grades K, 1,3,5,7, 9 and 11 and also for all students new to the Chester School District.

Annual examinations by your family physician and dentist are recommended to ensure optimal health for students. We provide parents of seventh and tenth grade students with examination forms.

Examinations should be completed and reports returned to the Health Office between July 1st and October 1st. After this date, the school physician will conduct a physical appraisal of students for whom we have no report.

SCHOOL DISTRICT RECORDS (Board Policy 5670)

The Freedom of Information Law requires the Board of Education to adopt a policy and regulations governing public access to school records. Please contact the District Office if more information is needed.

TITLE IX/SECTION (§)504—COMPLIANCE & GRIEVANCES (Board Policies 6122/7550)

The Chester Union Free School District conducts all of its programs and business in compliance with Title IX/§504. Any individual who believes he/she has been discriminated against because of a disability or believes that they have a sexual harassment complaint should follow the following procedures to resolve the matter:

1. Meet with the building principal in an attempt to resolve the matter.
2. Appeal the matter to the Title IX/§504 Coordinator:
   Ms. Rachel Loftus
   Assistant Superintendent/Pupil Personnel Services
   64 Hambletonian Avenue, Chester, New York 10918

USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES (Board Policy 7316)

While students are permitted to bring certain electronic devices such as cell phones to school, they must, however, be kept out of sight and turned off during the hours of the student instructional day. A student who uses a cell phone in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline in accordance with the District Code of Conduct. In addition, any electronic device that is seen, heard or used during the school day, other than specified below, will be confiscated and a meeting with the student and his/her parent may be required prior to return of the device.

The Board of Education prohibits the use of electronic devices that may distract from or cause disruption to the educational process and/or that may be used as weapons (including, but not limited to, laser pointers, light pointers, Apple watches or other similar recording devices). The Board of Education also prohibits the use of electronic devices with recording capabilities by students on school property, except for the purpose of photographing or videotaping public events (e.g., athletic events, plays, concerts, and award ceremonies).

When Electronic Devices May Be Used

• Middle School students would be allowed to use cell phones and/or iPods in the cafeteria and recess.
• High School students would be allowed to use cell phones and/or iPods in the

cafeteria/study halls.

• With teacher permission, Smart Phones and/or iPods could be used in the classroom as hand held computers and or planners for instructional purposes only.

Emergencies

During health and safety emergencies, such as fire drills, lock downs and evacuations, no electronic devices may be used by students for the safety of students and staff.

Privacy

The Board of Education prohibits any form of photography, tape recording or video recording of any individual on school property or in school facilities without that individual’s knowledge, as well as the dissemination of any photograph or recording without the individual’s permission. In no event shall any student photograph or record in a zone where an individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy, including but not limited to locker rooms, lavatories, and Nurse’s office. A student who violates this policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with law and the District Code of Conduct.

Responsibility

The decision to bring electronic devices to school or school sponsored events rests with the individual student and his/her parents/guardians and therefore the responsibility for such devices rests solely with the individual student. The School District assumes no responsibility or liability whatsoever in the event that an electronic device is damaged, misplaced or stolen during the school day, when on school property or when in attendance at a school sponsored event, whether on or off school property.

WEAPONS IN SCHOOLS (Board Policies 7360 and 7361)

The possession of a weapon on school district property, in school buildings, or at school sponsored events and activities, is strictly prohibited, except by law enforcement personnel. Any person possessing a weapon for educational purposes in any school building, on any school district premises, or at any school sponsored event must have written authorization of the Superintendent or his/her designee.

Any individual in possession of a weapon without written authorization will be asked to leave the premises, and the proper police authorities will be immediately notified. If such individual is an employee of the School District, he/she will also be subject to discipline pursuant to the provisions of law and any collectively negotiated agreements.

Any student violating this policy shall be subject to suspension, pursuant to the Student Disciplinary Code and referral to the proper police authorities. Further, any student in possession of a weapon as defined in the federal law [any firearm, including a starter gun, which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of any explosive; the frame or receiver of such firearm; any firearm muffler or silencer, or any destructive device] shall be subject to suspension from school for a period of not less than one year, subject only to the right of the Superintendent of Schools to modify such penalty for a student on a case-by-case basis.

For general purposes of this policy, a weapon is defined pursuant to the provisions of §265.01 of the Penal Law and includes, but is not limited to: any firearm, electronic dart gun, knife, sword, blackjack, bludgeon, metal knuckles, razor, imitation pistol, or any other dangerous or deadly instrument or object which is not necessary for school purposes and which could be used as a weapon (e.g., explosive, dangerous chemicals, ice pick, pellet guns).

CHESTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DIRECTORY 2023-2024

PRINCIPAL     Mary Kate Boesch

AIS READING Jana Circosta

ENL     Alana Carnright, Regina DeFazio

PSYCHOLOGIST        Emma McKay

READING SPECIALIST          Melvin Wesenberg

SCHOOL CULTURE & STUDENT BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST   Doreen Carter Baptiste

SCHOOL NURSE        Denise Rydell

SOCIAL WORKER      Lisa Ringel

SPEECH          Sheila Conlon

STEM SPECIALIST     Jennifer Rende

PRE-KINDERGARTEN           ART

Angela Tandy  Emily Daunicht

KINDERGARTEN       MATHEMATICS

Amanda Almodovar     Jennifer Hoblin

Tricia Maggi     Vincent Mullhaupt

Marie Rivera

MUSIC

FIRST GRADE Rachel Scali

Stephanie Contreras      Brandon Sparkman Dianna Cornman

Ashlie MacLean           PHYSICAL EDUCATION Kevin MacEntee

Kaitlin Moran

SECOND GRADE       SPECIAL EDUCATION

Marissa Cameron         Justin Bourne

Tara Frambach Audra Cutler

Cheryl Coffey  Victoria Garloch

Elaine Lynch

THIRD GRADE           Darlene Santacroce

Lori Bonito Amy Carola Katey Frambach

FOURTH GRADE

Elise Boyle Pamela Cinque Jeffrey Knight

FIFTH GRADE

Angela Daly Toni Keglovitz

Rebecca Quackenbush

NON-INSTRUCTIONAL STAFF

Secretary to the Principal          Jessica Alvarez

Typist/District Clerk     Emily Prior

Cook/Senior Food Service Manager       Gina Klein

Health Office Assistant Cindy O’Connor

Library Clerk/Typist     Patricia Hallman

Food Service Helpers    Kimberly Graff Jeanine Kreischer Kalynn Walker

Special Education Aides           Alexandra Alcindor Patricia Dillon April Fitzgerald Jean Gastman Irene Giannakakis Pamela Jones Bridget Kaseta Nicole Keegan Carmine LaMatina Barbara Largar Maura Mandel

Caitlin Noonan Bridget Scrobe Kelly Shelley

Monitors          Joanna Cooper

Carmen Dominguez Oliva Guarascio Michael Heffernan Diane Murphy Kathi Nywening Jennifer O’Leary Jeanne Pungello

Computer Aide Ryan DeJong

ATTENDANCE—GRADES PRE-KINDERGARTEN THROUGH GRADE 5

Regular attendance in school is essential in supporting our students’ academic and social emotional growth. Participation daily, in a full school day, provides the best learning opportunities for your child. As such, please schedule appointments outside of school hours. Family vacations should be scheduled to coincide with school vacations. Please ensure your child attends school daily, on time, except in emergencies or illness.

Student arrival begins at 8:30am. Attendance is taken in the classroom at 8:45am.

• A note from home is necessary when a student is late or absent. This note (excuse) is to be brought in immediately upon returning to school.
• Students are expected to be in school and on time everyday unless there is a legitimate reason for absence or lateness. Parents should address the absence notes to the teacher and need to state the date, the duration, and the reason for the absence. Notes must be submitted the day the student returns to school.
• In cases of chronic absenteeism, and excessive tardiness, administration will require further documentation (i.e., doctor’s note, etc.) and a parental conference.
• Children cannot participate in any after school activities or extracurricular activities on any day that they are absent.

EVERY ABSENCE, BY LAW, REQUIRES AN EXCUSE. IF A STUDENT IS GOING TO BE ABSENT MORE THAN TWO DAYS, PLEASE NOTIFY THE HEALTH OFFICE.

Please monitor your children’s attendance and see that they are out only for legitimate reasons.

Unexcused Absence

If a legitimate excuse is not brought in, the absence is considered unexcused. Therefore, it is imperative that an absence note (excuse) is brought in for every absence the day the student returns to school.

Late Arrival

If for some reason your child arrives late, he or she must be signed in at the front desk and receive a pass to go to class

School Work When Absent

If you anticipate your child will be absent from school for more than one day, please email the classroom teacher and contact the main office at 845-469-2178 ext 2202, to arrange for work to be picked up. Advanced notice is required to allow time for teachers to prepare materials for your child. If a child is absent for an extended period of time, it is expected that assigned work is handed in upon the day of return.

Absence from class due to other programs (band, field trips, ESL, etc.)

It is the child’s responsibility to make up assignments and class work. This includes the specialist classes.

CAFETERIA BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES

• Whether lunch takes place in the classroom or cafeteria, students are expected to be respectful and kind to one another.
• Directions and procedures communicated by the assigned monitors are to be adhered to and respected.
• Students are not to trade or give away food and are expected to eat in a respectful manner as well as clean up after themselves.
• It is expected that students will talk during lunch, however, shouting is not permitted at any time,
• Any student who does not follow safety or behavior expectations will receive a written referral to the Principal.

CELL PHONES

See “Use of Electronic Devices” policy on page 15.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Chester Union Free School District Code of Conduct applies to all students in the District. Please refer to that section of the handbook beginning on page 75 in regard to behavior and discipline in school.

Unacceptable behaviors include, but are not limited to, the following:

Vandalism
Damaging school property is unacceptable. Acts of vandalism include destroying or defacing school property or the property of others. Halls, classrooms, and school grounds should be kept as clean as possible. Do not mark walls or desks. Have pride in your school!

There will be a monetary reimbursement for any school materials lost or damaged.

Stealing (theft)
Respect for school and student property is very important. Everyone has the right to have his/her possessions kept in a safe place, free from the fear that they will be taken.

Cheating
Honesty is very important in school as well as in life. Students who do not act in an honest manner will not receive credit for the work done. This could mean a grade of zero for the test, project, or homework assignment.

Fighting/Verbal Abuse
Fighting, intimidation and/or verbal abuse is not tolerated at Chester Elementary School. Students are expected to be respectful and kind to one another, regardless of whether or not they are friends. Students should notify their classroom teacher of any unresolved issues with a peer or peers. This includes concerns or issues that take place at recess or on the bus.

Lying
Every child is expected to tell the truth to any adult in the building.

Disruptive Behavior
See Code of Conduct.

Offensive Language/Obscene Gestures
See Code of Conduct.

Disrespectful Behavior Towards Authority and Peers
See Code of Conduct.

Bullying
Students who fail to adhere to the District Code of Conduct may be reported to the Building Principal through the use of the Disciplinary Referral Form. Depending upon the severity, the disciplinary measures in the Code of Conduct will be implemented by the principal.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

Most disciplinary problems will be able to be handled by the classroom teacher and will follow the classroom discipline plan sent home at the beginning of the year.

More serious problems will be referred to the Building Principal. The teacher will fill out the disciplinary referral form within 24 hours of the incident. Contact between the teacher and the principal is advised.

The principal will follow the Code of Conduct when administering discipline.

Discipline—Suspension
Suspension from school is a serious disciplinary measure. Parents will be notified in advance, whenever possible, when a student is to be suspended. Due process procedures will be followed in all cases of suspension. Students are responsible for work assignments given during suspension. Any student on out-of-school suspension must report to assigned alternative instruction, or he/she will receive zeros for class work and tests for days missed. Students on in-school or out-of-school suspension are not eligible to participate in or to attend school activities during the period of suspension. Students whose presence constitutes a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the academic process are subject to immediate suspension.

DRESS & DEPORTMENT

Proper acceptable clothing is essential to the creation and maintenance of a good school atmosphere. Good taste must be evident in the dress and grooming of all students during the school day. Neatness and cleanliness are standards to which all should adhere. If a student’s attire or grooming violates the dress code, he/she will be required to change to acceptable attire. The school will provide laundered loaner clothing.

Our objective is to have the student address the problem and return to their formal classes as soon as possible. Students who refuse to conform to the dress code are subject to action outlined in the school discipline code and will have their parents notified to take them home.

The following are considered to be inappropriate dress, grooming, and appearance and are prohibited in school or at school functions.

Midriffs (exposing the stomach), short shorts, short skirts (when the student’s hand is at the side, the tips of the fingers should not be longer than the skirt), skorts or shorts worn under a skirt, athletic tops exposing the chest, excessively tight or baggy clothing, strapless tops, one strap tops, tube tops, halter tops, sheer or open knit clothing where undergarments or cleavage are visible, attire or accessories that, in writing or pictorial depiction, are lewd, vulgar, indecent, or promote matters otherwise prohibited at school (e.g. indecent sexual matters, promoting use of or advertising tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substances).

Hats or any other headgear (such as do-rags, sun visors, etc.) should not be worn in the building and will be confiscated. Winter coats, jackets, or outer wear are not to be worn in the classrooms. Pants must be worn so that they remain above the hips without undergarments exposed.

Students may not wear their pajamas to school (unless part of a special program day approved by the principal). Flip flops and sneakers with roller skates in the heel are not to be worn. Students will be required to change into appropriate footwear if either of these items is worn to school. Students may not wear attire that is likely to cause damage to school or students’ property or persons (e.g., cleated shoes, spike bracelets, long hanging chains).

When a dress code violation occurs, the following procedures will take place:

1. school staff will notify the Nurse that a student is in violation of the dress code;
2. the Nurse will call the student down*;
3. the Nurse will make the final determination if the student is in violation;
4. if a violation has occurred, the Nurse will provide laundered clothing to amend the violation;
5. if a student is reported to the Nurse a second time in one day, student will be referred to the Building Principal for disciplinary action.
6. phone call will be made to parent.

*The Nurse will document dress code violations.

Students are to be courteous and behave appropriately at all times. Physical assault, threats, intimidation, and extortion are all forbidden and are subject to punishment.

Serious incidents of harassment of any kind by another student should be reported to the principal, counselor, or a teacher.

EMERGENCIES

PLEASE BE CERTAIN TO GIVE US THE NAME AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF SOMEONE WHO CAN COME TO TAKE YOUR CHILD HOME IF THE CHILD BECOMES ILL AT SCHOOL. This should not be someone far away. Please make sure your “emergency person” designee is aware and knows the responsibilities of being an emergency contact person.

In case of early dismissal due to an emergency, you need to give us the name and number of a neighbor/friend or relative nearby with whom you have made arrangements. The district will continue to use School Messenger to notify the school community of the status of the situation and decisions made about the school day. School Messenger is a voice and text messaging alert service that enhances our communication in the event of an emergency or weather related school closing. The service, School Messenger, allows the school to send important school messages to cell phone text messaging numbers, two email addresses, and up to four telephone numbers per family in the database.

Please be sure we have a way to reach you or a representative at all times. There is not enough time at the last minute to make arrangements in the case of school emergency closings. It is the parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to update emergency information when necessary.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are considered a natural extension of classroom instruction. Students are encouraged to participate whenever possible to broaden their educational experiences. No student will be allowed to go on a field trip without written parental permission.

FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills will be conducted approximately 8 times during the school year. At the ringing of the fire bell, students should be quiet and take instructions from the teacher. Students are expected to move in a quick, quiet, and orderly fashion. Running is prohibited. Students are to remain quietly with their classes so attendance can be taken.

GUM CHEWING

Gum chewing is not permitted in the school building unless used in designated therapies.

HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION

Students who are injured or ill and will not be able to attend school for more than two weeks should call the principal to arrange for a home tutor.

HOMEWORK

CES homework guidelines have been developed to better support students and families' understanding of the intention and expectations of homework assigned at CES.

Homework is intended to be completed independently. It is simply an instrument to determine student understanding and reinforce content taught in class. Homework is not intended to be a source of frustration at home, and if your child is struggling with their homework, please reach out to the classroom teacher.

There is an expectation that students are also reading every night. In an effort to establish reading habits that promote the love of literature, students should read or be read to regularly. Growing readers often select books based on interest and/or intent. Daily practice of the skills they have learned will support more fluent and proficient readers.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER

Books/materials to be taken from the library must be properly charged at the circulation desk. They should be returned on or before the due date, or they will be considered overdue. Students with  overdue  books/materials  will  not  be  allowed  another  checkout  until  overdue books/materials have been returned. Students who misplace or lose library books/materials will be required to pay for them. The cost for the lost books/materials will be the replacement price.

LOCK DOWN/LOCK OUT DRILLS

Students and staff at Chester Elementary School will participate in unannounced “Lockdown and Lockout” drills. Lock Down and Lock Out are intended to minimize any potential threat to the safety of our students from outside our building or hallway corridors.

The intent of these drills that children experience during the year will be handled by students in the same manner as fire drills: routine practice so that everyone knows proper procedures during an emergency.

MEDICATIONS

In accordance with NYS requirements, ANY medications, over the counter medications, or topical ointments or solutions (examples: peroxide, alcohol, Caladryl, cough drops, etc.) need a written order by a medical doctor so that the School Nurse can administer it during school hours.

If the medication has to be given during school hours, the medicine (in its original container), the order from the physician, and parental permission to administer the medication to their child must be presented. All medications must be personally delivered to the School Nurse by the parent or guardian.

ODYSSEY OF THE MIND

There is an active program for interested and eligible students called Odyssey of the Mind. Members plan and develop creative solutions to given problems and then compete regionally and nationally. The group meets together regularly to work as a team on their agreed upon task commitment.

Final acceptance into the program is determined by a selection committee which considers:

• academic potential
• academic achievement
• teacher recommendations
• peer, self, or parent nominations

For further information, contact:

Ms. Mary Kate Boesch, Elementary School Principal 2 Herbert Drive

Chester, NY 10918

(845) 469-2178

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Report cards will be sent home at the end of every 10-week period. Progress reports will be sent home as teachers deem necessary. Report cards and progress reports are a means of informing parents or guardians of the student’s progress or lack of progress in each subject.

We have two scheduled parent/teacher conference days each year. A third parent conference is optional and may be scheduled by the teacher.

Please remember that your child’s teacher schedules every parent for a conference, and it is imperative that you arrive to your conference on time. To assist you in conducting a productive conference, the following guide is available for your use.

Before the Conference

Planning a discussion with your child’s teacher is critical to a successful parent/teacher conference. Making a list of questions or concerns will help with the focus of the conference. Ideally, both parents/guardians should attend the conference.

Please share important information about your child with his/her teacher. Your child’s school life is only one side of your child, and there may be things you know that could help the teacher better understand certain behaviors or problems.

After the Conference

Discuss the conference with your child. Be positive. Point out his/her strengths before discussing areas that may have been identified for improvement.

Please also remember that we welcome your request for conferences at any time throughout the school year. It is very important that you know what is going on with your child at school.

What you can do to help your child learn:

• Start each day right: a calm beginning at home makes the school day much better.
• Encourage your child to have a good breakfast and lunch. Make certain your child sleeps at least eight hours each night.
• Praise your child each day for something he/she has done. Have a special place to put your child’s schoolwork or whatever else is brought home.
• Laugh and talk with your child about school experiences, and listen attentively to what is said about your child’s school day.
• Emphasize attendance. If the child is ill, home is the best place; otherwise, your child needs to take advantage of every school day.
• Keep the lines of communication open between yourself and your child’s teacher. Inform the teacher of any family situation, which could influence your child’s behavior. Also, if he/she is reluctant to go to school, let the teacher or Principal know so that together you can find the reason.
• Take your child to the library and encourage reading for pleasure. Remember that you are a great role model for your child – have him or her catch you reading!

• Encourage organization of school notebooks, materials, etc. Have a specific place for your child to do his or her homework and a method each night for getting it done.
• Provide pencils, glue, scissors, paper, etc. for your child to use.
• Work at home with skills taught in school.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES

Students must wear the following clothing in order to participate in physical education classes: sneakers and socks, shorts or sweats, and appropriate t-shirts. Sneakers must be athletic footwear and fasten to the students’ feet. No slip-ons and no high-soled sneakers. No jewelry may be worn in class (rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, etc.). The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. Any student not participating in physical education classes will be required to complete a written lesson assignment.

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCEDURE

When a parent believes there is a problem, we want to do our very best to provide accurate information about the situation and help put in place safeguards to avoid a future occurrence. To allow those closest to the problem to be involved in the solution, it is, therefore, imperative that the following chain of command procedure is followed in the order listed.

1. Contact the teacher
2. Contact the superintendent
3. Contact the principal.
4. Contact the Board of Education

PROMOTION/RETENTION

Promotion from grade to grade is not an automatic process but is determined by a consideration of many factors. Since children mature at different rates and since the learning of each child is dependent upon the mental, physical, social, and psychological factors peculiar to the child, each of these must be considered when determining promotion. In general, children should be promoted; however, there are those who can benefit from repeating a grade. There are times when a particular child should have a second chance to gain more, to grow more, to strengthen himself/herself academically or emotionally before facing the next level or grade. What is best for the child must be the controlling factor. The final decision regarding promotion/retention will be made by the school authorities following consultation with the child’s parent(s).

Ability

-An estimation of a student’s capacity to learn in terms of teacher observations and other appropriate evaluative information such as standardized test grades. Should consider thinking skills, reasoning skills, retention skills, etc.

Emotional Maturity

-Is the child happy and well-adjusted to school work?

-Can the student accept/handle school responsibilities in a manner comparable to his/her peers?

-Does the child get upset by new experiences – is s/he able to get along or handle problems in an appropriate manner?

Physical Maturity

-Is the student physically smaller or larger than average?

-Is the child well-coordinated for his/her age and size?

-How are his/her vision, hearing, speech, eye-hand coordination, and general health?

Social Adjustment

-How does the child relate to peers, teachers, and other adults with whom s/he comes in contact?

-Can the youngster function comfortably within the rules of the school?

-Can s/he resolve minor conflicts with others in an acceptable manner?

Age

-What is the youngster’s chronological age?

-Does the student’s overall development appear to be consistent with his/her chronological age?

-Has the student repeated a grade?

Achievement

-What have been the child’s achievements in the various school subjects? (List report card averages to date).

-What has been the child’s achievement in former years?

-What gains or lack of gains has the child made in areas other than academic?

Effort

-Does the child put forth an honest effort?

-Is effort consistent or spotty?

Attendance

-How many days has the youngster missed?

-What are the reasons for absence from school?

Teacher Evaluation

-How is the student viewed by the teacher in terms of academic achievement and personal characteristics?

-What are the student’s strengths and weaknesses?

-What are the pros and cons of retaining this youngster?

-What is the teacher’s recommendation based on careful consideration of factors 1-8?

PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

A New York State certified school psychologist on staff conducts psycho-educational evaluations to determine the cause and nature of learning problems and to identify exceptional children. Recommendations for program and placement for these students are made to parents and/or the Committee on Special Education. The psychologist consults with teachers and parents on classroom and home behavior management for students who have adjustment problems. Referrals can be made to appropriate community service agencies and private practitioners who can provide help for problems that affect school performance. The psychologist conducts group counseling sessions to help students adjust to their school experience and may do individual short term counseling for students who need help in resolving specific school related problems.

RECESS/PLAYGROUND GUIDELINES

Outside recess is a privilege. It is designed to provide recreational and physical activities for the children. In order for the children to have a safe and enjoyable recreational period, the following behavioral guidelines are suggested:

• Children will be taught by parents and encouraged by school personnel the importance of model behavior. Children are not to leave the playground without the permission of a teacher or designee.
• Students’ behavior will be monitored and rules enforced by school personnel.
• No pushing or tag on the playground.
• All safety rules will be followed when using the equipment.
• All playground materials used at recess must be supplied and approved by the principal.

SIGNING OUT STUDENTS

Parents/guardians requesting early pick up for their child must provide written notice at the beginning of the school day. This should accompany the child to school and be given to his/her homeroom teacher during attendance at 8:45 a.m.

PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON TIME WHEN PICKING UP YOUR CHILD AS ANY LATE ARRIVALS AFTER 3:45 P.M. WILL BE REQUIRED TO PICK UP THEIR CHILD FROM THE MAIN OFFICE.

DISMISSAL ROUTINE CHANGE

In order to change a student’s regular daily dismissal routine, (i.e. riding the bus, a different person picking student up), parents/guardians must contact (845)

469-2178 ext 2264 before 2:00 p.m. Office staff will verify student information, and communicate the routine change to the homeroom teacher. Children will only be released to those adults authorized to pick up. Picture identification is required.

Unless there is an emergency, children will follow their normally scheduled dismissal routine after 2:00 pm. This ensures that all children are accounted for at dismissal.

STUDENT ACCIDENT REPORT

IMPORTANT: Each student is responsible for informing proper personnel about an accident/injury, etc. An accident report must be filled out to document the incident. The student will be sent to the School Nurse for medical attention. The School Nurse will notify the parent(s) and fill out an accident report.

TEXTBOOKS

Students are entrusted with the care and use of textbooks and school materials each year. Students will be held responsible for damage to books or materials entrusted to them. Issues relating to damaged or lost textbooks will be handled by the principal.

TRAFFIC SAFETY

Please help us to prevent the risk of serious injury by carefully adhering to all rules of traffic safety:

All parents who are dropping students off should use the designated lower school parking lot. Students may be dropped off at 8:30am. There is no supervision prior to 8:30 a.m. unless your child is enrolled in the before/after school program. Do not leave your vehicle unattended, unless you are parked in a designated parking space. Parents may drop off students in front of the school once the buses have left, however, late arrivals need to sign in at the front desk.

When picking up a child, always check to make sure your child is right with you and does not dart out into the car and bus area.

Do not park in the bus loading area as noted by the “No Parking” signs. Do not park in the fire lanes as noted by the bold yellow lines on the pavement. Do not park in a handicapped parking space unless you have a valid permit.

Children are not permitted to cross the driveway unless accompanied by an adult.

Parents are required to follow the directives of the school personnel assigned to bus duty.

TRANSPORTATION

Changes made in transportation along with other inquiries about busing should be made to the Business Office (845-469-9184).

Bus—Regulations

Please remember that supervision to the bus stop, at the bus stop, and home from the bus stop is a parental responsibility. See Code of Conduct for detailed bus rules.

• Students who regularly ride the bus must have written parent approval to walk home or go home with another adult.
• Changing of buses is not permissible.
• Walking between buses is prohibited.

Please also be mindful that State regulations prohibit students from bringing large items on a bus that do not comfortably fit on the child’s lap.

Remember: stay seated until bus comes to a full stop; follow 10-foot crossing rule when walking in front of the bus, and look out for own safety. Drivers need to stop at least 15 feet in front of or behind a bus when a bus stops.

Bus—Disciplinary Procedures

1st Report

The principal will speak to the student and send home the report to the parent(s). The principal may make a phone call to the parent(s).

2nd Report

The principal will speak to the student with the bus driver present. The parent(s) will be contacted by phone (where possible). The report will be sent home to the parent(s), and the child may be requested to serve a detention during lunch or after school. The parent(s) will have to arrange for transportation to pick up the child after detention. The parent(s), if they wish, may have the opportunity to meet with the principal and the bus driver. At this point, the parent(s) will receive a letter notifying them that, if a third report is received, the child could lose his/her privilege for two consecutive days

3rd Report

The parent(s) will be contacted by phone (where possible) and notified that a two-day loss of bus privileges will occur after 24 hours. A meeting with the administrator, bus driver, and parent(s) may be requested either by the principal, the parent(s), or the bus driver.

4th Report

This will mean a three-day loss of bus privileges, and parent conference with the building administrator, bus company representative, and the bus driver.

AUTOMATIC LOSS OF BUS PRIVILEGES WILL OCCUR BECAUSE OF:

• FIGHTING
• USE OF EMERGENCY DOORS IF THERE IS NO EMERGENCY
• SMOKING

VISITORS
Prior to entering the school, all visitors are required to present identification and then sign in at the security/greeter desk. Visitors arriving at Chester Academy and Chester Elementary School will need to be let into the building as all doors are locked and secured at all times. The security/ greeter desk is located in the main lobby. Once a visitor has signed in and presented their identification, they will be given a visitors pass if they have been deemed as authorized to enter the building. Visitors must wear the visitor pass, and it must be visible for the duration of their visit to the school. Upon leaving the school, the visitor's pass must be returned to the security/greeter's desk, and the visitor must sign out at the conclusion of the visit. .

WALKER SAFETY

For your child's safety, your child needs written, signed permission to walk home. You may give a one-time general permission for the year if they are walking every day.

CHESTER ELEMENTARY WALKERS WALK ONTO HERBERT DRIVE. PLEASE GO SLOWLY!!! IF YOU ARE DRIVING, PLEASE GO 7 MILES PER HOUR ALONG HERBERT DRIVE

CHESTER ACADEMY SCHOOL DIRECTORY 2023-2024

PRINCIPAL     John Flanagan

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL        Rolando Aguilar

SCHOOL COUNSELORS        High School Counselor - Yvonne Sternemann

Middle School Counselor - Jennifer Cuomo Guidance Counselor - Jennifer Burretto Guidance Counselor - Jennine McKenzie

LIBRARIAN    Carolyn DiIorio

SCHOOL NURSE        Gina Straub

PSYCHOLOGIST        Rebecca Davis, Monica Gonzalez

SOCIAL WORKER      Tyra Busigo

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST          Caitlin Reynar

ENL     Jennifer Randacciu

ART     HEALTH

Amanda Lamitie           Jennifer Daly

Marie Kriner

ENGLISH        HOME & CAREERS

Christopher De Lao      Crisseda Besson Lisa Edwards

Patricia Rivas   MATHEMATICS

Stephanie Steiler          Danielle Burton-Sagui

Leiny Valet      Antonina Curaba

Michael Doucette

FOREIGH LANGUAGE          Patrick Higgins

Christine Aliventi         Alexis Mack

Rita Reza         Catherine Nelting

PHYSICAL EDUCATION       MUSIC

James Ehlers    Deborah Hyseni

Patricia Fassetta-Ganz  Rachel Scali Jon Marsilio

SPECIAL EDUCATION

SCIENCE         LeeAnn Brophy

John Ollive      Michelle Doody

Daniele Pellicano         Karen Flynn

Felicia Quinn   Danielle Jemison

Dante Radeljic Rebecca Krauss

Michele Thompson       Cassandra Langlitz Kerry Lembo

SIXTH GRADE           Mary Miller

Theresa Benedict          Joseph Morrill

Danise Gass     Amy Reid

Jennifer Geller Ryan Stover

Benjamin Troup

SOCIAL STUDIES       TECHNOLOGY

Sean Cunningham        Benjamin Heyer

John Maggi      Jeffrey Rodman

Barbara McInerney Christine Sisco William Strack

NON-INSTRUCTIONAL STAFF

Secretary to the Principals         Catherine Battiato

Secretary to the Athletic Director          Kimberly Fusco

Library Clerk/Typist     Eve Pawelski

Cook/Senior Food Service Manager       Danielle MacFarlane

Bus Driver/Courier       Kevin Hannon

Health Office Assistant/Attendance       Amy Zatlukal

Food Service Helpers    Cathanne Bell Elizabeth Johannes Lucy Motz

Building Maintenance Mechanic           Brett Sutton Assistant Building Maintenance Mechanic  Tyler Kreischer Assistant Building Maintenance Mechanic         Brian Rogers

Groundskeepers Mark Reid

Lance Rogan

Special Education Aides           Evelyn Contreras Joan Coyle Alissa Cuccuru

Roseann Frantzen Maria Herasme Kristina Noonan Lisa Terrace

Monitors          Lisa Schaefer

Jill Yannella

Computer Aide Maggie Bieger

VIOLATION OF ANY OF THE RULES LISTED BELOW WILL BE SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ADHERING TO THESE RULES IGNORANCE OF THE RULES IS NOT AN EXCUSE

ACCIDENTS AND ILLNESSES

If a student receives an injury or becomes ill during a school activity or class, he/she must report immediately to the teacher in charge and the school nurse. Students who become ill during the school day may not leave the school without reporting to the school nurse or to a school principal. A call will be made to parents to notify them that a student is ill and is to be taken home. If the parents cannot be reached for permission, the student will remain in school under supervision.

Any violation of this rule will be considered cutting and will not be excused by a note from the parents on the day after the incident. This applies to students who become ill during their lunch period. If the student is not at school, a call must be made to the nurse by the end of the lunch period.

A limited accident insurance policy which covers students during school activities is provided. This policy is secondary to the health insurance carried by the family. Insurance forms may be obtained from the health office and should be filed promptly.

Students who know they will be absent for several days should telephone the Guidance Office to arrange for schoolwork to be sent home.

ALCOHOL & DRUGS

Use, possession, sale, or distribution of drugs or alcohol on school grounds or in school buses is strictly forbidden. Anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be subject to the action described in the Code of Conduct (beginning on page 76), which includes a minimum three-day suspension.  A student found to be selling illegal drugs shall be suspended for five days and a §3214 Education Law proceeding shall be initiated. The police will also be contacted.

ALLIED ACTIVITIES FUND

All student organization funds must be deposited and dispersed through the Allied Activities Account. Deposit slips and withdrawal forms are available through the treasurer.

ASSEMBLIES

Small and large group assemblies are held periodically during the school year. Students are to treat guest presenters with the utmost respect. Any display of poor behavior will result in exclusion from future events and other disciplinary action as outlined in the Code of Conduct.

ATTENDANCE - SCHOOL

The district attendance policy begins on page 7. Additional information for Chester Academy students is noted below. Students must be in school on time in order for teachers to teach them effectively, to learn and achieve success.

When a student is absent, the parent or guardian must telephone the school office (469-2231) between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to state the reason for the absence. If the parent call is not received, the school will then contact the parent. If the condition is serious and/or must be kept confidential, please ask for the Health Office, especially if the student’s return to school requires any special attention.

If parent contact is not made, parents should address absence notes stating the date, the duration, and the reason for the absence to the Main Office. Notes must be submitted the day the student returns to school. Detention will be assigned to any student who fails to return with a note.

In case of chronic absenteeism, administration will require further documentation (i.e., doctor’s note, etc.) and a parent conference.

BOCES C-Tech students must resolve late or absence problems prior to attending their first class.

Students must be in attendance more than four periods of the school day to be eligible to participate in or attend any school function or activity. Only written legal excuses brought to the Attendance Office prior to Homeroom will be considered.

After the 3rd request to leave early, verification of any appointment is required.

ATTENDANCE - CLASS

Regular class attendance is a prerequisite for the successful completion of any course.

Cutting class is a serious offense and is regarded as an unexcused absence from class. Cuts will be recorded on the computerized discipline log. Parents will be notified and disciplinary action will be taken. *Any student who is truant, cuts class(es), or leaves school without permission will receive a zero for class(es) missed and face disciplinary action.

Suspensions or unexcused absences may jeopardize eligibility for participation in extra-curricular activities, such as dances, the prom, concerts, sports, or the senior trip.

ATTENDANCE - LATE ARRIVAL

It is very important for students to be on time to school. Any student who is not in homeroom before the 7:38 a.m. bell must report to the Main Office to obtain a blue slip.

The first unexcused late (no parent note presented at the time of arrival in the Attendance Office) of one hour or less will result in a one-hour detention after school. If a student is more than one hour late to school, he/she will be assigned two, one hour after school detentions.

Written parent excuses for student lateness will only be honored if presented at the time of arrival in the Main Office. Such excuses (examples: “The car wouldn’t start”, “He overslept”, “She didn’t feel well”, etc.) will be honored three times during each semester. The first semester is from September to January, and the second semester is from February to June. After such time, only a confirmed, written doctor or dentist appointment will be honored.

Three unexcused lates in any four-week period will result in the detentions indicated above and a suspension conference with the principal and the student’s parents.

ATTENDANCE - EARLY LEAVES

Requests for leaving school early must be in writing, signed by the parent, and must be presented to the Main Office at the beginning of the school day. If the note is not presented at the beginning of the school day, a parent must come to the office to sign a student out. Requests must include:

• reason for request
• telephone number where parents can be reached
• the time of departure and return

A phone call from a parent must be received by the Main Office before the student leaves, if not accompanied by a parent. Students must sign out in the Main Office when they leave and sign in when they return. Failure to follow this procedure will result in disciplinary action.

After the third request, verification of any appointment is required.

AUTOMOBILES

STUDENTS MAY NOT GO TO THEIR CARS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY. Students living outside the one-mile limit are provided with bus transportation and are encouraged to use this service. Under Board Policy, students are permitted to drive to school and to drive away from school at the end of their school day. With prior administrative approval and for legitimate reasons, with parental approval, students will be permitted to drive away from school on a given day. Driving to school on a daily basis is a senior privilege. Parking permits must be obtained by students driving to school. These parking permits are issued after the student and the parents complete an application. Parking permits may be obtained at the Principal’s office.

These permits are to be displayed in the car windshield. Students must park in the designated school student parking area only. Students are not permitted to park on Hambletonian Avenue. Students parking illegally will be subject to disciplinary procedures, which will include towing the car for any second offense and loss of parking privileges. The school is not responsible for damage to automobiles parked on school property.

BACKPACKS AND BOOK BAGS

Backpacks and large book bags will not be permitted for the Middle School Students in the hallways except prior to homeroom, after school, and for 6th graders during period 9. These items must be stored in student lockers at all other times.

BELL SCHEDULE

Students are expected to be in their homerooms by 7:40 a.m.

BICYCLES  

The school is not responsible for damage to or theft of any bicycles parked on school grounds. Bicycles may not be ridden during the school day.

CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

See “Use of Electronic Devices” policy on page 15.

COLLEGE CREDIT COURSES

We currently offer Advanced Placement courses that could include; Advanced Placement Biology, Environmental Science, Advanced Placement Physics, and SUNY Orange classes which include; Foreign Languages, US History, English and Mathematics in our building during the regular day. Students must meet academic requirements of an 85 GPA for Seniors and a 90 GPA for Juniors in order to take a SUNY Orange class. Students taking SUNY Oswego Engineering Graphics and Technical Illustration should maintain an 85 GPA for Seniors and a 90 GPA for Juniors in technology courses, or receive instructor approval. AP Courses do not have a GPA minimum requirement, but students should consider the challenging nature of the courses when enrolling.

COMPUTER LAB

The Computer Lab is available for students’ use with a pass from Study Hall during morning hours and after school on a walk in basis. Students are encouraged to sign up for computer electives. Computers are also integrated into many subject areas throughout the building including technology, remedial services, special education, and music. Any student who violates the Computer Network/Internet Acceptable Use Policy will lose computer privileges and will be subject to further discipline.

DETENTION

Detention is conducted after school on Mondays through Thursdays. Teacher detentions are generally at the discretion of the teacher. Bus passes will be issued to students assigned to detention so that they may take the “late bus” home. A teacher may assign classroom detention to any student for disruptive or unacceptable behavior. Repeated classroom disturbances will be reported to the principal and office detention procedures will prevail. Any student unable to work quietly during office detention is subject to in-school or out-of-school suspension plus additional detention. The only reasons accepted for missing detention are absence from school, a previously assigned detention, or a verifiable doctor’s appointment.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION – STUDENTS

A school district is permitted to disclose certain general information to the public concerning students. This type of information is considered “Directory Information” and includes: student name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institute attended.

A parent or student 18 years of age or older has a right to refuse to let a school district disclose any or all of the information considered in the category “Directory Information”. Such written notification must be received by the school district thirty days prior to the intended disclosure of the “Directory Information”.

The District may disclose “Directory Information” about former students at any time.

DISMISSAL

Students may not be in school buildings after dismissal time except for a specific and legitimate reason, such as detention, sports, extra-curricular activity, or extra help from teachers. Students are not to loiter anywhere around school property before, during, or after school except in those designated and supervised areas. Students breaking this rule will be subject to action in the Code of Conduct.

DRESS & DEPORTMENT

Proper acceptable clothing is essential to the creation and maintenance of a good school atmosphere. Good taste must be evident in the dress and grooming of all students during the school day. Neatness and cleanliness are standards to which all should adhere. If a student’s attire or grooming violates the dress code, he/she will be required to change to acceptable attire. The school will provide laundered loaner clothing. Our objective is to have the student address the problem and return to their formal classes as soon as possible. Students who refuse to conform to the dress code are subject to action outlined in the school discipline code and will have their parents notified to take them home.

Specifically, leggings (worn without a long top), midriffs (exposing the stomach), short shorts (including athletic shorts), short skirts (when the student’s hand is at the side, the tips of the fingers should not be longer than the short or skirt), athletic tops exposing the chest, excessively tight or baggy clothing, strapless tops, one strap tops, tube tops, halter tops, sheer or open knit clothing where undergarments or cleavage are visible, attire or accessories that, in writing or pictorial depiction, are lewd, vulgar, indecent, or promote matters otherwise prohibited at school (e.g., indecent sexual matters, promoting use of or advertising tobacco, alcohol, or illegal substances) Pants must be worn so that they remain above the hips without undergarments exposed. Winter coats, jackets, hoods of any kind, and outerwear are not to be worn in the classroom. Students may not wear sunglasses in the school building. Students may not wear attire that is likely to cause damage to school or students’ property or persons (e.g., cleated shoes, spike bracelets, long hanging chains).

When a dress code violation occurs, the following procedures will take place:

1. school staff will notify the Nurse that a student is in violation of the dress code;
2. the Nurse will call the student down*;
3. the Nurse will make the final determination if the student is in violation;
4. if a violation has occurred, the Nurse will provide laundered clothing to amend the violation;
5. if a student is reported to the Nurse a second time in one day, the student will be referred to the Building Principal for disciplinary action.

*The Nurse will document dress code violations.

Students are to be courteous and behave appropriately at all times. No physical display of affection on school grounds, at school functions, or on school buses is permitted. Physical assault, threats, intimidation, and extortion are all forbidden and are subject to discipline. Serious incidents of harassment of any kind by another student should be reported to the principal, counselor, or a teacher.

EXTRA HELP

Students who would like extra help in any subject area should make such a request to the teacher, and every effort will be made to provide a time of mutual convenience. Teachers will provide this service if the student demonstrates such a need and responds to the opportunity for assistance in a purposeful manner.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are considered a natural extension of classroom instruction. Students are encouraged to participate whenever possible to broaden their educational experiences. Students who have received disciplinary suspension for inappropriate behavior will be excluded from field trips. Students who are failing more than three subjects will also be excluded from participation.

FIRE DRILLS

Fire drills will be conducted approximately 12 times during the school year. At the ringing of the fire bell, students should be quiet and take instructions from the teacher. Students not in a classroom during a fire drill must leave the building directly by the nearest exit. Should any exit be blocked, teachers will direct students to another exit.

Students are expected to move in a quick, quiet, and orderly fashion. Running is prohibited. Students are to remain quietly with their classes so attendance can be taken. Lines must move far enough away from the building to assure ample room for fire trucks and their apparatus.

FORBIDDEN ITEMS

Students are not permitted to bring to school knives, guns, firecrackers, laser pointers, or any other instruments which could harm the health and safety of others. Violators will be suspended and appropriate law enforcement agencies may be notified. Items that are a distraction to the teaching/learning process – all electronic devices should be left at home.

Cell phones may be used during lunch; otherwise they must be turned off and put out of sight upon entering the building. First offense - the item will be confiscated and returned at the end of the school day according to the Code of Conduct.

FUNDRAISING

All fundraising must be completed through a recognized school club or organization. Each club or organization must receive pre-approval from the Student Council and the Building Principal. The Board of Education will receive reports on fundraising occurring in each building.

GUM CHEWING

Gum chewing is permitted at the discretion of the teacher or principal.

HARASSMENT – STUDENTS

Harassment of any type must be reported to the adult in charge. A detailed account of the incident will be made to the building administrator. Disciplinary action will be taken against the offender as outlined in the Code of Conduct. Harassment may constitute a violation of the Dignity for All Students Act. To report any violation of the Dignity for All Students Act, please contact the Dignity Act Coordinator, John Flanagan.

HEALTH AND MEDICAL ASSISTANCE

If a student becomes ill, the school nurse will administer necessary first aid and will phone parents. Illness or accidents must be reported promptly to a teacher or nurse. Students will not be permitted to attend school unless they show proof of all New York State medical requirements relating to physical examinations and inoculations. Students within the district must meet annual New York State medical requirements.

An Emergency Information Form containing current emergency phone numbers must be on file in the Health Office.

Medication Dispensing

Under certain circumstances, it is necessary for a student to take medication during school hours. The school nurse will cooperate with dispensing this medication provided that the medication is brought to the health office in its original container accompanied by the physician’s written request on his letterhead, indicating the name, frequency, dosage, and duration of a prescribed medication, as well as the name of the student. The parents must also sign a written request. This procedure must also be followed for the dispensing of over-the-counter medications including Tylenol®. The form must be signed by an M.D. and parent has been distributed with the handbook.

HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION

Students who are injured or ill and will not be able to attend school for more than two weeks should call the Pupil Personnel Office to arrange for a home tutor.

HOMEWORK

Students are responsible to bring fully completed homework assignments to class on the date due. Any student absent from classes for legal reasons is required to make up all work missed. It is the responsibility of the student to see his/her teachers to obtain the work and any extra help needed. Homework grade = up to 10% of the student’s average.

IDENTIFICATION

Students receive a picture I.D. yearly from the school. This I.D. must be carried by students and presented to adults upon request. It is especially important to use I.D. when borrowing library books and brought to all dances, basketball games, etc. Admission may be denied if an I.D. is not presented.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

Materials are chosen by the subject area teacher with approval from the Principal. All new textbook series are approved by the Board of Education. Parents who have concerns regarding instructional material should follow the Problem Solving Procedure listed in this handbook.

LATE BUS

A “late bus” run which accommodates students who have detention or received extra help will run Mondays through Thursdays after school at 3:50 p.m. A late bus pass signed by the student’s teacher is required to board the bus.

LAVATORIES

Students may use the lavatories between classes, before or after school, or during the lunch period. When necessary, a student may be excused from class by a teacher to use a lavatory. Students are not to congregate in the lavatory for social purposes. More than one student in a lavatory stall is strictly prohibited. Smoking and vaping is expressly prohibited in lavatories. Lavatories are not places for sick students. Any student who is ill must report to the Nurse’s Office.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER

The Library Media Center will be open each day from 7:40 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Students may come to the Library/Media Center with an individual teacher pass, a study hall pass, or when accompanied by a teacher during a scheduled class. The Library/Media Center is a place for students to conduct research, study, read, search for and checkout material, and other similar types of activities. Inappropriate student behavior in the Library/Media Center will result in the suspension of library privileges.

The following items will not be permitted in the Library/Media Center: backpacks, food or drink, or electronic devices (e.g., cell phones or audio/video players).

Book Loans

Library/Media Center materials to be taken from the library must be properly charged at the circulation desk. Students must present their Chester Academy identification card for checkout. Books are loaned for a two-week period, due every 10 school days. Books should be returned on or before the due date or they will be considered overdue. Students with overdue books will not be allowed another checkout until overdue books have been returned or lost books paid for. The cost for lost books will be the replacement price.

Reference books must be used in the Library/Media Center; they may not be checked out. The Library/Media Center also subscribes to on-line reference databases, which can be accessed by computer.

Periodicals

The Library/Media Center subscribes to a number of magazines and newspapers. EBSCO online magazines and newspapers can be accessed by computer.

Computers

Students may not play games or send/receive e-mail on Library/Media Center computers. Users are not allowed to load any programs onto library computers. Non-compliance of computer regulations will result in the suspension of student computer privileges.

Individual student use of computers will be subject to availability; scheduled classes have priority. The library utilizes a software program to monitor all student use of computers. The Library/Media Center adheres to School Board Policy regarding student computer use.

Library Web Page
Students can access the library web page for information about the library, for links to the on-line catalog, and for links to reference databases subscribed to by the library: www.chesterufsd.org.

Theft of Library Materials

Any student in possession of library material that has not been properly checked out will be subject to disciplinary action.

LOCK DOWN/LOCK OUT DRILLS

Students and staff at Chester Academy will participate in an unannounced “Lockdown and Lockout” drills. Lock Down and Lock Out are intended to minimize any potential threat to the safety of our students from outside our building or hallway corridors.

LOCKERS & LOCKS

Each student is assigned a locker and a school approved lock at the start of the school year. The school is not responsible for items taken from lockers. Students may not share their locker combinations. Do not leave valuables or money in your locker. Lockers must always be locked when not in use. Students may not write on or in their lockers. A cleaning fee will be assessed at the end of the school year for any violations. Failure to comply will result in loss of locker privileges.

The administration has the right to access all lockers. Students are responsible for the items within his/her locker. Students should not expect to go to their locker between each class period. Books for several classes should be carried until such time that a student has time to stop at his/her locker.

LUNCH PROGRAM

The school provides a hot lunch program and supervision for students during the lunch periods. Students, other than Seniors, are not allowed to leave campus during the school day. Students in grades 6-12 who leave school grounds are subject to disciplinary action as written in the Code of Conduct.

A student may bring a bag lunch to school or purchase hot lunch in the cafeteria. Hot lunch is prepared daily at a cost established by the Board of Education. Milk, juice, ice cream, and “a la carte” selections are available to students. Reduced price or free lunch is available for those students who qualify. Applications (with income tables) are distributed at the beginning of the school year and must be returned to the Business Office. These are kept confidential.

Aides assigned to lunch duty are in charge. Students are expected to cooperate with and show respect to the lunch aides. Inappropriate behavior and lack of cooperation will not be tolerated in the cafeteria area. Students are to remain in the supervised areas and are permitted outside only on the blacktopped recreation area. Those students who do not demonstrate proper behavior will have their freedom restricted and may be assigned to Study Hall during lunch periods.

No student is permitted to eat or drink in any area of the building other than the lunchroom without prior administrative approval. Students are not to order food for delivery to the school without prior administrative approval.

Students are not to be on the second or third floors during lunchtime. Students who congregate in the halls at this time disturb the classes that are in session. Repeat violators will be subject to disciplinary action.

Students will be permitted to go to the Computer Lab. They need to sign out from the lunchroom and arrive at the lab within the first fifteen minutes of the period. Once there, they are to remain in the lab for the entire period. This procedure is also in place for the Library.

ODYSSEY OF THE MIND

There is an active program for interested and eligible students called Odyssey of the Mind. Members plan and develop creative solutions to given problems and then compete regionally and nationally. The group meets together regularly to work as a team on their agreed upon task commitment.

Final acceptance into the program is determined by a selection committee which considers:

• academic potential
• academic achievement
• teacher recommendations
• peer, self, or parent nominations

For further information, contact:

Ms. Mary Kate Boesch, Elementary School Principal

2 Herbert Drive

Chester, NY 10918

(845) 469-2178

OPEN HOUSE

Each year the Chester Academy conducts an Open House. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent conferences are encouraged at any time of the year. Parents may contact individual teachers or your child’s Guidance Counselor to arrange for a meeting time with more than one teacher. School wide parent conferences are held after the first marking period. Sign-up for these afternoon and evening conferences is done at Open House.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

We need each parent to be actively involved in the life of his/her child/ren. Checking on homework assignments and regularly contacting your child’s teachers to check on progress is highly recommended. Active parent groups who meet regularly include the PTSA, the All Night Party, Board of Education meetings, and Budget meetings.

PASSES

Students shall report to their assigned classes daily. Whenever it becomes necessary for a student to move from an assigned class, a pass is required and will be issued by the teacher in charge. Students may not be in the halls without a pass, except at designated class change times. A pass must be held visible and presented to any adult upon request. Students must have a presigned pass in advance from the teachers they wish to go to for consideration to be given. Students who misuse pass privileges by going to a place(s) not listed on the pass, frequently leaving their classes, or taking extended time to arrive at a destination will lose pass privileges.

PASS PRIVILEGE REVOCATION

Students who use passes for purposes other than for which they were intended will have all pass privileges canceled for a given period of time.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education has many physical aspects to the course. The curriculum is designed to consider the unique level of student development at specified ages. Weight training, in particular, is designed almost individually. Care is taken for correct warm-ups and the level of fitness of youngsters. Questions on this aspect or others in the Physical Education curriculum can be answered by a student’s teacher. If a parent has information about a physical problem that may be aggravated by a particular event or physical activity, the physical education teachers, and school nurse should be notified immediately. Copies of documentation should be provided.

Physical Education Excuses

The State Education Department requires that all children take part in the Physical Education program unless a health problem makes this inadvisable. A note from a physician is necessary for a child to be excused from this requirement. A doctor’s note must be brought to the Health Office at the start of the school day. The school nurse will communicate with the doctor and physical education teachers. Written parental requests will be honored for one or two class sessions, but periodic or repeated excuses require medical validation in the interest of the pupil’s health. An adaptive physical education form is available in the Health Office for anyone with medical restrictions. Students excused from physical activity will be given an alternative written assignment

PLAGIARISM

Plagiarism is the presentation of someone else’s work as your own. This includes but is not limited to words, ideas, data, graphics and presentation style. Plagiarism is a serious offense and is unacceptable in the world community. Assisting another person in plagiarizing is equally inappropriate and will be punished along the same guidelines.

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCEDURE

When a parent believes there is a problem, the school wants to provide accurate information about the situation and help put in place safeguards to avoid a future occurrence. To allow those closest to the problem to be involved in the solution it is, therefore, imperative that the following chain of command procedure is followed in the order listed:

1. Contact the teacher
2. Contact any school assistance personnel if applicable (guidance, psychologist, nurse, etc.)
3. Contact the principal
4. Contact the superintendent
5. Contact the Board of Education

PROM (Board Policy 7419)

Only juniors or seniors of the Chester Academy may purchase a ticket for him/herself and one guest. All students who attend must be of high school age. Eligibility to attend is based on the following:

• The student must not have a major disciplinary problem (this includes, but is not limited to, out of school suspensions or Superintendent’s Hearing during the entire school year). Any student who receives an out of school suspension or Superintendent’s Hearing during the school year is subject to a review of that disciplinary action by the principal and the Superintendent to determine if the disciplinary problem and the ensuing disciplinary action taken are severe enough to revoke the student’s eligibility to attend.
• As with any decision, the student has the right to appeal the Superintendent’s decision to the Board of Education.
• The student must have regular attendance which means attending school at least 90% of the time by the end of the third marking period (excluding legal absences).
• The student must not be failing more than one subject at the end of the third marking period. However, the student may raise his/her average in the failing subject by attending eight study sessions and getting a passing grade for the five week report.

All rules and regulations of the school district will be enforced on the night of the prom.The use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco products is prohibited. Anyone suspected of being under the influence will not be permitted to remain at the prom, and a parent will be called to take the student home. Any student breaking any rules will be sent home immediately after a chaperone has called the parents to inform them of the decision. Students may not go to the parking lot on the night of the prom unless they are leaving the event.

PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

A New York State certified school psychologist on staff conducts psycho-educational evaluations to determine the cause and nature of learning problems and to identify exceptional children. Recommendations for program and placement for these students are made to parents and/or the Committee on Special Education. The psychologist consults with teachers and parents on classroom and home behavior management for students who have adjustment problems. Referrals can be made to appropriate community service agencies and private practitioners who can provide help for problems that affect school performance. The psychologist conducts group counseling sessions to help students adjust to their school experience and may do individual short term counseling for students who need help in resolving specific school related problems.

PUBLICATIONS

Any non-school sponsored publication must be presented to the Building Principal for screening and approval prior to distribution in school.

PUBLIC CONDUCT ON SCHOOL GROUNDS

All visitors to the school grounds are to conduct themselves in accordance with all school rules, state laws and Board policies. Visitors are to be courteous and respect the teaching/learning environment established for the benefit of all of our students. The Code of Conduct will be followed.

SAFETY

Students are not to use ladders, work on any scaffolding, lift heavy articles or furniture, handle corrosive chemicals, operate moving equipment, handle “live” electric wires, or otherwise engage in any activity where bodily injury can result. Custodians should be asked to do these things if they must be done.

In the shops, labs, gymnasiums, shower rooms, and in any other areas where accidents are likely to occur, pupils are to adhere strictly to the safety-first rules prescribed by the instructor in charge.

SCHOOL COLORS & TEAM NAME

The official colors of the Chester Academy are Blue and Orange. The team name is “Hambletonian” which was selected in remembrance of the famous trotter who was reared and buried in Chester.

SCHOOL DISTRICT RECORDS

Student records may be reviewed by scheduling an appointment with your child’s Guidance Counselor.

SCHOOL RINGS

In order to purchase a Chester Academy ring, a student must be a full-fledged Junior and must have met minimum requirements, which include required courses throughout the 10th grade (English 9 and 10, Social Studies 9 and 10, 2 units of Math, 2 units of Science, ½ unit of Physical Education, and other electives).

SENIOR TRIP (Board Policy 7418)

The senior trip is a privilege, not a right, for members of the senior class. All rules and regulations of the school district will be enforced for the duration of the trip. Any student breaking any rules will be sent home immediately at their own expense. The senior trip is to be completely self-funded by the students attending the trip. The class advisor and the principal must chaperone the trip. The district will cover the costs for the class advisor and the principal not included in the trip package organized by the advisor. Trip destination will be determined by the building principal and class advisor by October 31st.

Any student failing more than one subject at the time payment is due to reserve their spot will not be permitted to attend. If there is no time frame for payment, any senior, failing more than one subject at the end of the 2nd marking period may not be able to attend. The student must not have a major disciplinary problem (this includes, but is not limited to, out of school suspensions or Superintendent’s Hearing during the entire school year). Any student who receives an out of school suspension or Superintendent’s Hearing during the school year is subject to a review of that disciplinary action by the principal and the Superintendent to determine if the disciplinary problem and the ensuing disciplinary action taken are severe enough to revoke the student’s eligibility to attend. As with any decision, the student has the right to appeal the Superintendent’s decision to the Board of Education.If payment has already been made, that student will not receive a refund unless allowable under the trip package.

Board approval is needed for all senior trips, therefore; the building principal and class advisor will provide all information on their trip by the first meeting in November including a complete itinerary and the total cost. A list of chaperones will be presented to the Board for their approval as soon as it becomes confirmed.

SMOKING

Smoking, vaping, or other tobacco, nicotine, or e cigarette use is not allowed at any time on school grounds, in school buildings, or in areas surrounding the school. Cigarettes, vape devices, pipes, cigars, tobacco, or the packages containing them may not be exposed on school grounds. Students breaking this rule will be subject to immediate action as outlined in the Code of Conduct. Students who are found to be smoking on school grounds will be referred to the County Health Department. A third offense during a student’s school career will result in a formal hearing and a fine.

SOCIAL PROBATION

Students who repeatedly disregard school rules will not be permitted to attend school dances, sporting events, and after school functions. Any second offense requiring out-of-school suspension will result in a 5-week social probation.

SPEECH

A speech therapist is on staff to evaluate students’ articulation and language therapy where academic performance is affected. The frequency of the therapy is indicated by the severity of the problem.

STUDENT PLACEMENT

Students in grades 6, 7, and 8 are assigned to sections on the basis of: previous classroom performance, standardized tests, and teacher recommendations. In the Middle School, it is possible for students to move from one level to another based on their demonstrated academic performance and careful consideration of all factors.

As students enter the 9th grade, initial determinations are made regarding the program that the student will follow during his/her high school career. The nature of the courses selected often determines whether the student is on a college preparatory course or one designed to lead to a vocational sequence.

STUDY HALLS

Students will be assigned to study halls. Study halls are a part of the regular student schedule and attendance is mandatory. Study halls are designed to provide students with an opportunity to complete assigned class work and prepare for examinations. Students must bring work to be completed quietly in study halls. Disruptive behavior is subject to disciplinary action. Those students who are failing one or more subjects as noted on 5-week notices will not be permitted to leave study hall unless they have a pre-signed pass from a teacher to do work or intend to use the library.

SUMMER SCHOOL

Students who do not pass a course or courses during the regular school year are strongly encouraged to attend summer school. A 50% average during the school year is required for attendance at summer school. Registration information must be obtained in the Guidance Office immediately following the conclusion of classes in June.

SUSPENSION

Suspension from school is a serious disciplinary measure. Parents will be notified in advance, whenever possible, when a student is to be suspended. Due process procedures will be followed in all cases of suspension. Students are responsible for work assignments given during suspension. Any student on out-of-school suspension must report to assigned alternative instruction or he/she will receive zeros for class work and tests for days missed. Students on in-school or out-of-school suspension are not eligible to participate in or to attend school activities during the period of suspension. Students who are insubordinate or disorderly are subject to immediate suspension.

TELEPHONE

All office telephones are reserved for business purposes. Phone messages will not be taken for students other than extreme emergencies. Students are not permitted to place phone calls during the school day without permission of the Building Principal.

TEXTBOOKS & EQUIPMENT

Students are entrusted with the care and use of textbooks and school materials (e.g., calculator) each year. The condition of the book is rated by the teacher and student at the beginning and the conclusion of the year. The students must sign a book condition sheet and sign the inside cover of the textbook upon receiving the textbook. They will be responsible for damage to books or materials entrusted to them. Damaged or lost books must be paid for by the student. To willfully destroy school district property or to tamper with any safety device is forbidden. Unauthorized use of school equipment, including duplicating equipment, is forbidden. Students are not to be in unauthorized areas at any time. Willful destruction or theft of school district property or personal property is forbidden and subject to punishment and/or legal action or restitution.

TRANSPORTATION

Inquiries should be made to the Business Office (469-9184). Riding the bus is a privilege and may be withdrawn if a student does not comply with rules and regulations. Students may not leave school grounds once transported to school in the morning. Students attending CTEC must ride the bus unless permission is received from the parent in advance and granted by the Building Principal. Students may only ride the bus to which they are assigned. Late buses are provided Monday - Thursday at 3:50 p.m. A pass from the activity supervisor is required to ride the late bus.

VENDING MACHINES

Students may purchase drinks and snacks before 7:40 a.m. and after 2:24 p.m.

VISITORS (Board Policy 3210)

Parents and other citizens are encouraged to visit the school periodically during the course of the school year. Student visitors from other schools, unless they have a specific reason and prior approval of the Building Principals, are not permitted to enter school buildings.

All visitors to the school must report to the Main Office, sign the visitor’s register, and obtain a visitor’s pass which must be displayed at all times. The visitor must return to the Main Office, and sign out at the conclusion of the visit.

VOLUNTEER SERVICES

Students may volunteer to assist in various capacities.

WORKING PAPERS

Everyone between the ages of 12 and 17 must obtain working papers to be legally employed. For complete details concerning how you may obtain working papers, please inquire at the Main Office. Regular school attendance and maintenance of passing grades are required.

CHESTER ACADEMY GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT SERVICES

Guidance services are available to all students and their parents. Among the services provided are the following:

1. Educational guidance and counseling
2.  Vocational guidance and counseling
3. Counseling with students involving social or emotional problems which affect school work

In addition to counselors, the pupil personnel department is staffed with a school psychologist who works with students requiring individual testing and counseling. A social worker, A.I.S. English and math teachers, and a speech therapist provide support services. Referrals may be made by teachers or by personal request of students and/or their parents.

Students’ records will be reviewed during the spring of their 8th grade year to determine what course of study an individual student will begin in 9th grade. Students and parents should consult with the School Counselor to make this important determination.

Teachers are responsible for contacting parents when a student is failing a class, not being recommended for an Honors class or moving to the next level of foreign language.

ALTERNATE WAYS OF EARNING CREDITS

Eligible students have the option of earning up to 6½ credits without completing specific courses of study. However, the school must determine that this alternative will benefit the student academically. This may be done as follows:

• The student achieves 85% or better on state-developed exams (e.g. Regents exams, proficiency exam, or State approved exams) and passes an oral examination or completes a special project.
• In the areas of Science and Occupational Education, where credit is through examination, laboratory requirements will be met through special projects demonstrating appropriate skills.
• In the area of physical education, for pupils in grades 10 through 12 only, a comparable time each semester in out-of-school activities may be used to satisfy requirements upon the approval of the physical education staff and principal. The activity must be equivalent and must be applied for one semester in advance; only exceptional situations will be considered.
• A student may obtain the unit of credit in Art and/or Music required for graduation in an advanced out-of-school art or music activity. Only exceptional situations will be considered. Credit for such participation shall be upon recommendation by the student’s Art or Music teacher, and shall be approved by the school principal. Application must be made to the principal at the start of the school year.

In each of the above situations and possibly other curriculum areas, the professional staff and principal will determine the criteria and application process.

OUBOCES CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER (CTEC)

To apply for admission to BOCES, a student must be entering the eleventh grade and follow the procedure below:

Fill out a visitation pass and have parental approval

Arrange through the Guidance Department to visit CTEC for a half-day orientation and investigation

CTEC is only offered in the AM at Chester Academy

Students must be aware that, in order to be accepted in a CTEC program, they must have good attendance and good academic records.

The following courses are offered:

Appearance Careers Academy   Security Careers Academy

Cosmetology    Fire Science

Esthetics          Law Enforcement

Business Computers Career Academy    STEM Careers Academy

Basic Office Applications         Engineering Design & Architecture

E-Business and Microsoft Applications  Computer Networking Medical Administrative Executive Assistant        Computer Programming

Mechatronics & Robotic Engineering

Construction Careers Academy Transitional Careers Academy

Carpentry         Hospitality/ProStart

Electrical Construction Technology       Vehicle Maintenance

HVAC/Plumbing          Work Place Learning Welding

Culinary Careers Academy       Transportation Careers Academy

Culinary Food Trades   Auto Body/Restoration Automotive Technology

Education Careers Academy     Aviation

Early Childhood Development & Care   General Service Technician Education and Management

Environmental Careers Academy          Visual Arts Careers Academy Animal Science (Veterinary Assistant)                  Digital Design and Advertising Heavy Equipment                                  Digital Filmmaking & Post

Fashion & Interior Design

Health Careers Academy

Dental Assistant

Emergency Medical Services Exercise Science and Sports Medicine Principles of Health Occupations Allied Health Assistant

Nurse Assistant Pharmacy Technician

OUBOCES CAREER &TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER CERTIFICATE

This certificate is granted to students who successfully complete a two-year program in CTEC. This is not a diploma in itself, but is awarded in conjunction with the Regents diploma.

CLASS RANK COMPUTATION

Grades for all classes taken will be computed to determine class rank. Class rank will be computed after the sixth semester for college applications. Final class rank will be computed after the seventh semester. A weighting system of 1.05 for Honors classes and 1.10 for AP and college level classes will be used when computing class rank.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

To be considered for first and second honors, i.e. valedictorian and salutatorian, a transfer student must have been in attendance two consecutive years prior to graduation.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

High School students are required to take a minimum of six units each year in their program in addition to P.E. requirements and any remediation mandates such as A.I.S. Math, Reading, Writing Skills, Science, Social Studies, and Resource Room. One period of lunch must be in each student’s schedule. Many students will take seven units of credit. Academic history of students is considered for heavy loads. If seniors are taking Physics, A.P., or College Courses, they may take a minimum of 5.5 credits.

*Students may not drop a class after October 1st.

DOUBLING UP

Students in grades 6-12 may not “double up” in courses such as English, Social Studies, Science, or Math except where High School graduation is possible during the last year of attendance. Only one area of doubling up is possible: e.g. English 11 and 12 or Social Studies 11 and 12. Doubling up is used only as a last resort. Administrative approval is required for doubling up of courses.

Summer school is recommended for many students to clear up deficiencies, and some students may need up to five years to earn a diploma.

GRADUATION

The full graduation ceremony at the end of school in June is reserved for only those students who have fulfilled all academic requirements to graduate. Those students who have not paid fines owed to the school will not be permitted to participate. Semi-formal attire along with the school graduation cap and gown must be worn to participate. Students who do not demonstrate proper behavior will not be permitted to participate. Students who demonstrate inappropriate behavior or dress during the ceremony will forfeit the privilege of continued participation in the ceremony.

HONOR ROLL

The High Honor Roll will require a minimum overall average of 93.0 or above. The Honor Roll will require a minimum overall average of 85.0.

MARKING POLICY

Grades are recorded as numerical grades on permanent records and report cards. Regents exams are also recorded as numerical grades. The minimum passing grade is 65.

MIDDLE SCHOOL FINALS

All Middle School students will take a midterm and final in their core courses. Each exam will count as 10% of the students’ average in that course.

MIDDLE SCHOOL RETENTION

Any 6th, 7th or 8th grade student who has failed one core academic subject is highly recommended to attend summer school. If this is not an option a parent or guardian must contact the Guidance Counselor. Students who fail two core subjects must retake both and pass them in summer school or the student will be retained in their current grade. Failing three or more academic subjects will result in immediate retention in the student’s current grade.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY AND NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY

The selection procedure begins with Scholarship. The GPA will be calculated at the end of the sophomore year and must be 90% or above. During the fall semester of the junior year, qualified juniors will be invited to submit applications by a deadline determined by the advisor. Unless there is an extenuating circumstance and approval by the advisor, failure to meet the deadline immediately invalidates the application thus ending the process for that individual.

A minimum of 10 hours of volunteer service not associated with any school service organization is required for the Service component. The high school faculty will then be asked to complete a survey asking for input on the Character, Service and Leadership of all candidates.

The Faculty Council will meet to review both individual applications as well as the faculty survey. The advisor will act as a non-voting facilitator as the Faculty Council makes its deliberations. Once the deliberations are complete, the advisor will notify individuals of the results. The advisor will then meet with the unsuccessful candidates as to the reasons for denial as well as the appeal process. If a student is not selected or eligible, the process will begin again at the end of the junior year.

The evaluation process is comprehensive, and membership is only bestowed as an honor to those selected.

The selection process for the National Junior Honor Society will commence following the third marking period of the 7th grade year or after the first marking period of the 8th grade year.

NCAA CLEARINGHOUSE

In order for students to participate in college athletics on the Division I or II level, they must receive clearance from the NCAA. Part of this clearance mandates students take courses beyond the basic minimum New York State graduation requirements.

Students who are interested in playing college athletics on the Division I or II level must inform the Guidance Office in writing by the beginning of the Junior year. This will allow the Guidance Counselor to schedule the student in courses that will meet not only NY State standards, but the standards of the NCAA as well.

It should also be noted that NCAA approval also requires minimum grade levels in the classes mentioned above, as well as on the SAT.

REPORT CARDS - INTERIM REPORTS

All 5-week notices and report cards will be available on-line. They will be mailed only upon parent request.

Five-Week Period Ends:           Marking Period Ends:

October 6, 2023 November 9, 2023

December 15, 2023       January 26, 2024

March 8, 2024  April 19, 2024

May 17, 2024   June 26, 2024

STANDARDIZED TESTS

Grade 6 – NYS English Language Arts and Math Grade
7 – NYS English Language and Math

Grade 8 - NYS English Language Arts, Math, and Science
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (P.S.A.T.)

National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test - Fall (Math and Verbal)
Scholastic Aptitude Test (S.A.T.) – Fall and Spring

NYS Regents – English, Math, Science and Social Studies

STUDENT AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Information on post-secondary awards and scholarships may be obtained through the Guidance Office.

An Academic Awards Evening Assembly is held each June to recognize student’s achievements.

INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT TEAM

This group, composed of the administrators, counselors, school psychologist, school nurse and special education/remediation teachers, discusses problems met by students in general and also specific problems faced by individual students. The experience of this group is used in an attempt to modify or solve problems of our students. General, simple, complex, or very specific remedies are used in order to aid our students in adapting to the problems that arise within the secondary age group. When necessary, students and/or parents are invited into these meetings. Students may be referred to support services. Referrals to this group may be made by the staff, students themselves, or parents.

NOTE: School District may establish requirements in addition to those outlined. RE = Regents Examination

RCT = Regents Competency Test

FOOTNOTES FOR DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS CHART

(Section 100.5 of NYCRR)

Four credits required, including 1 unit in American History and 1/2 unit each in Participation in Government and Economics.

Students may meet the learning standards in technology either in a course in technology education or through an integrated course combining technology with mathematics and/or science. A commencement-level course in technology education may be used as the third unit of credit in science or mathematics, but not both.

The Arts are defined as dance, music, theater, and visual arts.

Students with a disability may be excused from the requirement for one unit of credit in LOTE if so indicated in the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Students must receive LOTE instruction no later than the beginning of Grade 8 and complete 2 units of study by the end of grade 9.

To earn the advanced designation, the student must complete one of the following: two additional units in a language other than English (3 LOTE credits total); career and technical education (5 credit CTE sequence); or the Arts (5 credit sequence). Students with disabilities who are exempt from the LOTE requirements as indicated on the IEP may earn the advanced designation as long as the required number of credits to graduate are met.

Sequence courses and/or electives may include LOTE, CTE and the Arts.

Students must pass two commencement level Regents Examinations in mathematics through one of the following combinations: Mathematics A and Mathematics B; or, Mathematics A and Algebra 2/Trigonometry.

Students must pass one of four combinations of commencement level Regents Examinations in mathematics: For the two examination combination, Mathematics A and Mathematics B, or

Mathematics A and Algebra 2/Trigonometry; For the three examination combination, Mathematics A, Geometry, and Algebra 2/Trigonometry, or Integrated Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra 2/ Trigonometry.

Students must pass three commencement level Regents Examinations in mathematics through one of the following combinations: Mathematics A, Geometry, and Algebra 2/Trigonometry or Integrated Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra 2/Trigonometry.

A total of two Regents Examinations in science, with at least one in life science and at least one in physical science.

Students who complete Checkpoint A of the syllabus and two units of study in a single language other than English no later than the end of Grade 8 must pass the second language proficiency examination in order to earn one unit of credit toward the high school diploma.

If so indicated in the IEP, students with a disability may be excused from completing the additional LOTE units and corresponding LOTE Checkpoint B examination. Students completing a sequence of not less than 5 units of credit in CTE or the Arts are not required to complete the additional two units of LOTE or to pass the LOTE Checkpoint B examination in that language to earn a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation.

Students who successfully appeal two Regents Examination scores within three points of the 65 passing score and who meet the other requirements of the appeals process specified in CR 100.5(d)(7) will earn a local diploma.

For students with disabilities who first enter grade 9 in September 2005 and thereafter, a score by the student of 55-64 may be considered as a passing score on any Regents Examination required for graduation with a local diploma.

Students with disabilities who fail one or more Regents Examinations and who pass the corresponding Regents Competency Test (RCT) will receive a local diploma.

Please note: Graduation requirements may be subject to change in accordance with new State regulations. Please check with your school counselor about the most current requirements.

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