National Inventors Hall of Fame®

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) High School

Learner Handbook

2022-2023

123. S. Forge St.

Akron, Ohio 44308

330.761.7965

Fax 330.761.3223

Breakfast 6:50 am – 7:10 am

Morning Meeting 7:15 am - 7:20 am

School Day 7:20 am – 2:06 pm

Dear Parent/Guardian,

The Akron STEM High School for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, learning coaches, administrators and faculty extend a warm welcome to the learners as they become part of the STEM community. The Akron STEM High School is housed on the University of Akron campus and as such is subject to University of Akron policies and procedures. It is our goal that families, learners in our educational community will be provided with ample opportunities to learn, grow and take risks in a safe and nurturing environment.

The information in this book has been compiled to help learners and their families acclimate and become an integral part of this high school community. Also, this guide was prepared to assist learners and their families in understanding the school and its policies. This handbook includes information regarding the scope of the school programs and activities offered. In addition, it has been designed to provide learners with information necessary to have a successful school year.

All learners are expected to uphold the core values and to follow the rules that are established for the welfare of the entire school body. In addition, we urge learners to participate in extracurricular activities, be it at the STEM High School or their homeschool, whichever best suits individual interests. It is our intent to provide activities and increase their opportunities for learning to enrich the whole student and provide them with a well-rounded educational experience.

The NIHF STEM High School desires to build and sustain a reputation for a rigorous educational experience, academic excellence, outstanding citizenship and leadership. We look forward to learners joining us in building this rich tradition. Please refer to this handbook when questions or problems arise. If you cannot find the answer here, please contact the school.  We look forward to this school year and the opportunity to stretch your learners’ capacity.

Respectfully,

Dina M. Popa, Instructional Leader

NIHF STEM High School

VISION

In everything we do, we believe in challenging the status quo, we believe in thinking, teaching, and responding differently. The way we challenge the status quo is to provide authentic, innovative, and rigorous learning experiences that inspire creativity, foster inventive/critical thinking, and cultivate leadership and problem-solving skills, in such a way as to promote wellness and citizenship through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

MISSION

BUILDING A CULTURE OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE THROUGH INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY

LEARNING PHILOSOPHY

Scientific inquiry and technological design are the cornerstones of instruction for our school.  Our learning environments focus on personalized learning and teamwork skills while incorporating engineering, personal finance, music, art, humanities, and other content areas.   Learning Coaches act as advisors where they work with small groups of learners to set goals and identify rigorous coursework to meet those goals.  State-of-the-art technology is used to achieve academic excellence, creative instruction, and 21st Century Skills.

To promote critical thinking from the beginning of key courses, STEM High School requires learners to complete analytical reading and writing activities over the summer. These activities will encourage learners to engage with fundamental concepts of the course to prepare learners for the type of work that they will encounter. These activities can be completed on any electronic device.  Courses requiring summer work are ELA 9, ELA 10, Algebra I, and Geometry.

PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING

Problem Based Learning is an instructional approach built upon authentic learning activities that engage learners’ interest and motivation. These activities are designed to answer a question or solve a problem and generally reflect the types of learning and work people do in the everyday world outside the classroom.  Learners will participate in several Problem Based Learning activities during the school year.  Please contact our Program Specialist if you have questions about Problem Based Learning experiences throughout the school year.

OPERATING PRINCIPLES

• Empirically Creative
• Obsessively Productive
• Enthusiastically Disciplined
• Devoted to 21st Century Skill Mastery

We BELIEVE…

• All learners can learn
• Effective schools have systems in place to sustain the vision mission, beliefs and values.
• Ongoing sustained professional development for all members of the school community is critical to the success of this school.
• Success of this school requires visionary people who are devoted to the mission of providing the highest quality educational experiences for learners, which ensures creativity and inventive thinking.
• Coaches who teach in this school should be suited to the philosophy and belief structure of the school and should be selected on this basis.
• Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics drive the curriculum in this school and will lead the learners toward success in the 21st century.
• This curriculum is taught in an enriched learning environment through authentic collaborative experiences.
• The health, safety and trust are articulated and valued by all members of the school community.
• Learner-centered approaches to learning are fundamental to effective education.
• Lifelong learning, family, community and school partners together contribute to the learning experiences of the learner.

CORE VALUES

• Innovation – Creation rising from thought, study, and experimentation
• Inquiry – Seeking information by asking questions, exploring, and investigating
• Inspiration –  Igniting ambition and creativity in ourselves and others
• Integrity – Truth, honor and trust: Doing the right thing even when nobody's watching
• Imagination – The ability to use the creative power of the mind

SCHOOL NORMS

Mutual Respect – eliminating distractions (including technology), and talking when someone else is talking.

Focus on Productivity – Remain on task.

High Expectations – Not stopping at good enough…

GLOSSARY

Learners – Traditionally called “Students”.  Focus at all times is to learn more than the prior day.

Learning Coaches – Traditionally called “Teachers” or other adults working at school.

Instructional Leader – Traditionally called “Principal”.

Advisory – Support group of approximately 15 learners led by a Learning Coach.  In Advisory, learners are called “Advisees” while Learning Coaches are called “Advisors”.

Morning Meeting – Traditionally called “Morning Announcements” where entire school meets every morning to get ready for the day by sharing announcements. This is the first period of the day, learners that arrive after 715 am will be marked tardy and subject to potential ineligibility status.   

Learning Team – Learners assigned to a specific set of learning coaches per grade level.

STEM – Acronym for academic content areas: Science, Technology, Engineering & Math.

PBL – Acronym for “Problem-Based Learning” activity that learners complete each semester

PLC – Acronym for “Professional Learning Community” where learning coaches partake in professional development and planning time.  

Service Learning – Learner projects, usually completed in Advisory, which integrates teaching and learning into a meaningful service experience for Learners.

Learning Commons – Traditionally called “Library” or “LRC”.

Independent Practice – Traditionally called “Homework” which includes assignments given to learners by learning coaches to be completed independently.

Mastery Learning – The core concept is that learners master content at individual paces.

Eagles Nest – common area outside the cafeteria, utilized for lunch and open high school collaboration time.

Common Area – area in the high school that is shared with the University of Akron

Probation – a time period to be determined by school personnel where learners will be required to meet certain academic or behavioral expectations

Refocus – blended learning opportunity designed to support competency needs of individual learners.

IMPACT - learning experience embedded throughout the year and tailored to learners' needs and interests.

STEM Partners

We have a total of six school partners who have brought a wealth of expertise and resources to create a learning center with innovative and high-quality opportunities for Learners.  Through these partnerships, our school has access to a variety of community experts and resources.   As a result, learners will be able to learn in a classroom without walls.

 The University of Akron

A public research university for Northern Ohio and the only public university in Ohio with a science and engineering program ranked in the top five nationally by U.S. News & World Report.  

UA’s College of Education has one of Ohio’s oldest and largest educator preparation programs.

 Akron Public Schools

As a pioneer in education for more than 160 years, with an enrollment of 25,000 students, the district is a leader among Ohio’s large urban districts and, for the past five years, has successfully aligned all its teaching and learning efforts with the single focus of increasing student achievement.  

 City of Akron

Former Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic, was an enthusiastic and creative supporter of Akron Public Schools. He has championed levy campaigns, led efforts to fund innovative, new Community Learning Centers and worked to engage partners in creating a new math, science and technology school at the National Inventors Hall of Fame Foundation.

Invent Now®

Previously called The National Inventors Hall of Fame Foundation, Invent Now© is a not-for-profit organization, headquartered in Akron, Ohio, dedicated to recognizing, honoring and encouraging invention and creativity. 

Greater Akron Chamber

An economic development organization which serves Medina, Portage and Summit counties in Northeast Ohio.   

Akron Tomorrow

A membership organization comprised of CEOs and community leaders whose mission is to provide leadership on issues of public policy, economic development, and quality of life in the Greater Akron community.

SCHOOL DIRECTORY

Dina M. Popa, Instructional Leader                                   dpopa@apslearns.org

Jennifer Blankenship, Academy Principal                        jblanken@apslearns.org

Marvin Grandison, School Counselor                                 mrg47219@apslearns.org

Laurie Derrig, School Secretary                                   lderrig@apslearns.org

Selena Myers, Academy Coach                                smyers4@apslearns.org                                

Learning Coaches

Joy Farrance, Intervention Specialist                                        jfarranc2@apslearns.org 

Brianna Remenaric, Intervention Specialist                                  bremenar@apslearns.org

Jun (Henry) Chen, Chinese World Language                                   jxc45206@apslearns.org 

Sara Leffler, World History & AP Human Geography                        sleffler@apslearns.org 

Nate Cohen, Honors English                                                  ncohen@apslearns.org 

Benjamin Graber, Freshman Seminar & Entrepreneurship                btg46628@apslearns.org 

Zachary Griffith, Engineering                                zsg45878@apslearns.org 

Monique Binkley, Honors Biology                                         mbinkley@apslearns.org

Tanner Hughes, Math                                                        thughes2@apslearns.org

SuHsein Hsu, Chinese                                                        shsu@apslearns.org

Michelle Johnson, Biotechnology                                        mjohnso2@apslearns.org

Kathleen Metcalf, English                                                kmetcal3@apslearns.org 

William Metcalf, Math & Physics                                                          wem45186@apslearns.org 

Angela Hammelman, Algebra 1, Geometry                                          amh46700@apslearns.org

Mike Palumbo, Honors Mathematics                                                       mpalumbo@apslearns.org 

Ralph Appleby, Media Specialist & Digital Media                                           rappleby@apslearns.org 

Brody Rauschenberger, Honors History                                         brausche@apslearns.org        

Matthew York, Environmental Sciences                                    mwy46572@apslearns.org 

Jeff Caranna, Cyber Security                                                jcaranna@apslearn.org

Matthew Brooks, English                                                mab45049@apslearns.org        

Kailey Kellehan, Chemistry                                                kkyser@apslearns.org

Shane Dantz, PE/Health                                                      sdantz@apslearns.org

Sam Al-Doory, Band/Orchestra                                                saldoory@apslearns.org

Brian Bennett, Fine Arts                                                        bbennett@apslearns.org

Bell Schedule

Bell Schedule

Early Release

Please note that on Early Release dates, students may not remain in the building after 1:00 pm.  There will not be staff or security available to supervise.  All staff is in professional development after 1 pm.

Academic Calendar

The calendar can be found on the school website 

Or follow this link:  2022-2023 Calendar

Please note for Early Release Dates:  Learners are not permitted to visit other schools or hang out at the University of Akron Student Union.  They will receive consequences for trespassing if they violated this expectation. Learners must exit the building and premises by 1 pm.  No supervision is provided and the University of Akron does not allow learners to remain in the building.

National Inventors Hall of Fame®

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) High School

LEARNER CONTRACT

The aim of the STEM community is the academic, emotional, social and character development of the learner. Specific characteristics will identify the STEM learner. There will be openness to growth, as the learner becomes intellectually competent.

STEM learners will accept responsibilities and be sensitive to the needs and concerns of others. Each learner will contribute to the school’s educational environment and will understand and support policies, procedures and philosophies that will enhance development toward becoming a mature, responsible and self-disciplined person.

These guidelines are essential to the total developmental process for learners. Rules are necessary to help members of a community grow. By maintaining a personal attitude in which the learner realizes the significance and importance of these guidelines, the learner will truly become a self-disciplined individual.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Learners are expected to present their own work for any assignment, presentation, project, or assessment.  Presenting another’s work as one’s own is considered plagiarism. Learners who violate this policy may earn zero credit for the offense and could lead to consequences including but not limited to failing the course, not earning credit and may include administrative discipline.  

This includes the unauthorized use of technology to gain an academic advantage.  

STEM ACADEMIC  STATUS 

Please review this link for the STEM Academic and Attendance Review Committee Policy

Learners who fail to meet NIHF STEM High School standards will have their academic, attendance, and behavioral profiles reviewed by the Academic Status team. The team will meet/conference with a learner and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) when the learner has not met the NIHF-STEM Mastery and/or Attendance Policy requirements (see individual policies).  This could result in a school reassignment. 

This Academic Status team consists of a learning coach, school counselor and is chaired by an Administrator.  The purpose of the STEM Academic Status team is to uphold STEM’s standard of academic excellence.

Academic Policy (beginning with class of 2026)

• Per the student handbook, learners are expected to meet mastery in all content areas.
• Learners are expected to take a sequence of courses that lead to graduating with an Ohio honors diploma.
• Learners are expected to maintain a 3.0 or higher
• Learners off track at the end of a semester will be under review by the academic advancement team and if needed, placed on academic probation.  Families will be notified and brought in for a conference with the academic advancement team to design a plan to get back on track.
• Learners on academic probation will be monitored for 1 year and required to attend after-school tutoring, office hours, and/or summer school to fill the identified gap in mastery or credits. They may also be placed in a credit recovery course for a semester with the expectation of completing any missing credits by the end of the semester. Families will be provided updates.
• Learners remaining on probation after 1 year or who have failed to get back on track will be counseled on a possible transition back to their home school.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, MASTERY and COMPETENCY

NIHF STEM High School adheres to the principles and philosophies congruent with Mastery Learning; “all children can learn when provided with the appropriate learning conditions in the classroom”.  Through our innovative competency approach, Learning Coaches use formative (i.e. small quizzes, homework, in-class work), and summative, performance-related events (i.e. tests, projects, presentations, papers), assessments to evaluate mastery.  Coaches differentiate their instruction to ensure that all learners (be provided ample opportunities to) demonstrate mastery of those concepts at his or her learning level.   Mastery of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) is measured over the duration of the course and recorded in the learning coaches’ electronic grade book mastery checklist to ensure the learner meets the district and state academic requirements.

All learners are expected to demonstrate competency on all standards in each content area to earn high school credit. Failure to meet that expectation will result in a learner earning an Incomplete in the course, and either retaking the entire course or completing the necessary Refocus sessions In order to earn a Competency credit.

Refocus is:

• An option for learners who have not demonstrated at least the limited depth of competency required to earn credit during the semester
• An option for learners consistently demonstrating effort throughout a course.
• Available for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors.
• NOT limited to redoing assignments.
• Not a quick fix: even with Refocus, if a learner has not demonstrated a reasonable grasp of the content presented throughout the course, they will have to retake the course.

Mastery Assignments

Learning coaches assess levels of competency in multiple ways. Mastery Assignments (MA) are designated by the learning coaches and require learners to demonstrate their understanding of the standards and targets at 80%.  If a learner does not master a MA the first time, they will be provided one additional opportunity to demonstrate mastery (totaling 2 times). It is the learner’s responsibility to schedule a time with the learning coach to complete his/her second (and final) mastery attempt.

Mastery Assignments are assessments designed to evaluate the level of learning. Learners will have a total of two attempts to master a Mastery Assignment provided, the initial assignment;

1. Meets the appropriate rigor and is deemed a legitimate mastery attempt by the learning coach. Learners will earn a zero if it is deemed they did not put forth an adequate effort or did not attempt the assignment, they will earn a zero for the assignment.  
2. Is submitted within the timeframe allotted by the learning coach. Assignments that are re-submitted for mastery must be submitted in a timely manner or as determined by the learning coach. If a mastery assignment is submitted late, the learner will NOT have the opportunity to resubmit the assignment and will earn the grade earned on the first attempt.  

 Mastery Policy for Semester Grade/Credit Assignment

Learners who earn a grade lower than mastery (80%) at the semester can earn a grade of an “I” in a course. Grading period grades will be earned “as-is.” Learners who earn a grade of ‘I’ at the semester have 1 academic year in which to work with the learning coach who granted the grade to improve that grade to one that reflects mastery (80%).  If that is not completed within an academic year, then the grade and credit will be changed to reflect what was actually earned in the class. Other interventions, such as summer school, if available, may be used to address shortages in graduation credits.  The responsibility to improve grades and complete credits prior to graduation remains with the learner.  

For example,  a learner who earns an ‘I’ because their grade in Semester 2 of Government (typically during 11th grade)  is 70% (C-), has one academic year (during 12th grade) to complete work with their coach to improve that grade to higher than 72%.  If that work is not completed, or not at grade expectation to be higher than 72%, the original grade of C- will be assigned with credit.

Those Learners who earn a grade of ‘I’ in a course, but pass a corresponding Ohio State Test with a score that earns 3 or more points at the end of the course, will have 1 academic year to retake the course through Plato to earn a grade of 72% (C).  If Plato is not completed, the grade and credit will return to what was earned.  If the resulting grade is 59% or lower, then according to APS policy, credit will be granted with a grade of ‘Fc’, which means the grade was an ‘F’, but credit is being granted due to the demonstration of mastery on the OST.

Learners who finish each academic year ‘off-track’ (failing to meet credit accumulation benchmarks for both total and core credits and graduate within 4 years) will be required to have an Academic Status meeting with administrators/counselor.  At that meeting, a plan for graduation will be set in place, with the possibility of being referred back to their home schools in order to access an environment that is better suited to meet their current academic needs and graduation plan.  Grades and credits will be determined by reviewing the transcript and mastery policy.

In accordance with District Policy 5410, the STEM expectation for Credit Accumulation to be on-track for graduation is as follows: 

ASSESSMENT POLICY

This document summarizes assessment policies at NIHF STEM High School. This document is intended to guide the development, implementation and evaluation of all high school and subsequent college assessments which play a dynamic role in the successful efforts of all learners.

• All assessments, whether formative or summative, embedded in the curriculum or independent of it, focus on learners’ academic, social or comprehensive capacity in various settings.

• All learners entering this program will be required to complete tests including but not limited to placement tests, diagnostic tests, progress monitoring assessments, End of Course Exams, course quizzes, and college entrance exams.  Placement test instruments and decision-making procedures are explicitly based on the unique content derived from these assessments. Every learner is expected to take each assessment seriously.

• These assessments are explicitly linked to curricular goals and instructional practices.  In particular, in line with the content-focus of the curriculum, both content and language will be assessed throughout the entire high school course. Furthermore, assessment, content emphases, and pedagogical approaches should mirror the performance and task orientation of the entire curriculum.

• The complexity of learning and applying appropriate educational measures requires multiple assessment sources (e.g., quizzes, midterms, final examinations, individual and group projects) and various conditions (planned vs. unplanned, individual vs. group, interactive vs. non-interactive, scaffolded vs. non-scaffolded, formally assessed vs. informally assessed). Because of the curricular focus, both holistic assessments that gauge learners' ability to attain broad communicative goals and local, highly targeted assessments that focus on specific aspects of content need to be incorporated.

• Ongoing course-based assessment as well as final assessment and grades for a course always combine three aspects:

• One of the goals of the curriculum is that learners become active and independent learners. The NIHF STEM utilizes a balanced assessment tree that plays an important role in goal attainment and monitoring and increasing awareness of criteria for evaluation of different types of performance in various assessment contexts and the uses of assessment outcomes can encourage and enable learners to take responsibility for their learning.

• The outcomes of assessment are conveyed to learners in a reasonable timetable, and substantive feedback that goes beyond grades or scores. Such feedback is indispensable since it provides diagnostic information about learners' language performance, guides future action by both learning coaches and learners, and contributes to enhancing learners' motivation to improve their language abilities.

• Assessment is a vital foundation for the assignment of grades and for evidence about language development and levels of language abilities. This need to respond to both institutional and extra-institutional expectations and requirements grows out of and supplements the emphasis on learning as a process.

Exam Exemption Policy (Updated 5/22)

A possible exam exemption may occur for the following grade levels.  Note the exceptions for WebXam, AP, and presentation courses.

GRADES

EXAMS/REFOCUS

Each class will have an exam, project, etc., to be completed during the exam period and will count as 20% of the semester grade.   Each teacher proctors his/her own class and study hall group during the periods on this daily schedule. Learners will take exams during an exam schedule. In order to maintain a quiet testing environment, when a learner completes his or her exam/refocus sessions for the day, they are expected to exit the building, and will not be allowed to return to campus.  During exam week, students may only be with staff if they are taking an exam or completing refocus sessions.  No learner is permitted to hang out in the building unsupervised. Please see early release policy regarding disrupting other learning institutions.  If a learner needs to reschedule an exam due to absence(s)  please follow APS board policy below.

APS absence policy can be found here: Board Absence Policy 

Credits

High school credits at STEM are earned two ways: Mastery at 80% and Competency at 73%. Credits are awarded at semester and are subject to our master policy.  See Mastery Policy.

MANDATORY GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Honors Diploma qualification also includes meeting criteria related to Grade Point Average and College Entrance Exam scores.  Please request to meet with your counselor to determine your eligibility.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (class of 2018 and beyond)

• Beginning with the Class of 2018 – or those who are 9th graders on or after July 1, 2014 – all students will now take seven end-of-course exams in algebra, geometry (or integrated math I and math II), physical science, American history, American government, English I and English II.

• Students studying Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or taking dual enrollment courses in physical science, American history or American government may take assessments aligned to those courses in place of end-of-course exams to avoid double testing.

• Additionally, all students will take a nationally recognized college admission exam (such as ACT) in 11th grade. The State of Ohio will now pick up the cost of the examination, enabling many more students to know if they are ready for college and to see it as option.

• Students have three ways to qualify for graduation and earn their high school diploma:

1. Earn a cumulative passing score on seven end-of-course exams [in algebra, geometry (or integrated math I and math II), physical science, American history, American government, English I, and English II (or in approved aligned assessments like AP, IB and dual enrollment)];
2. Earn a “remediation free” score on a nationally recognized college admission exam (such as ACT); or
3. Earn an industry-recognized credential or state license for practice in a vocation and achieve a score that demonstrates workforce readiness and employability on a job skills assessment (such as WorkKeys).

• As is current practice, high-achieving students who have exceeded Ohio’s graduation requirements have an opportunity to earn an Honors Diploma.

• These options work to ensure that all Ohio high school students have access to high-quality education opportunities and will be prepared for success in college and career.

STATE ASSESSMENTS

Graduation Point Requirements

Independent Practice (IP)

Homework is a formative measure for assessing a learner's understanding and mastery of a given standard concept or strand. It is the learner's responsibility to see that homework is completed. When absent, it is the responsibility of the learner to find out what work has been missed and make it up with the teacher.  The number of days a learner is given to make up work is equal to the number of days absent from school.

If a learner is to be absent for five days or more, the parent may contact the counselor to request assignments, which should be available 24 hours after the request is made.  Once the work is issued, it is considered the same as if the learner were in school. All work is expected to be completed upon the day he/she returns. Failure to do so will result in zeros being issued for the work not completed with no further chance of makeup. *NOTE: This does not apply to learners who are suspended from school.

INTERIM REPORT PICK-UP/PROGRESS CONFERENCE NIGHT

Interim Report Pick-Up:  Dates for interim report pick-up can be found on our school calendar and will be held at the high school. During a pre-scheduled time, parent/guardian(s) discuss their learner’s current progress and discuss a plan for continued growth.  Parents may schedule appointments with learning coaches in advance. Interim reports and attendance reports not picked up that evening will be mailed home.

CONFERENCES

*Ongoing communication is encouraged by families in scheduled conferences, via e-mail, and telephone calls.

COUNSELING SERVICES AND SCHEDULING

The counseling services are designed to facilitate the personal, interpersonal, educational, and career development of each learner. Counselors are provided for each grade level.  Learners wishing to see a counselor should email the counselor and wait to be called to the counselor’s office. Learner request for schedule changes is a collaborative effort between the Learning Coaches, Counselors, Instructional Leader, Parent and Learner. Parents wishing to meet with the counselor should contact the school or email the counselor to set up an appointment. Schedule changes will be done at the discretion of school personnel up to the second week of the semester.

Schedule Changes

The Administration assumes that each learner and his or her parents have given careful consideration to course selection. Course scheduling is designed to ensure maximum support of the learner’s ability to learn in the totality school’s academic program. Requests to change a learner’s course selection will be discouraged. However, in view of the fact that such requests will be made of administration, the following policy regarding changes in original course selection choices will be followed:

1. In general, a selection should be changed only if it is determined that the learner has been misplaced in a class, based on ability or previous preparation.

2. Learner requests to ADD or REPLACE a class with another MUST be made within the first week the class is in session. Additions or changes in schedules must meet the Instructional Leaders requirements for the change to be approved.

3. Learner requests to DROP a class after the first four (4) weeks will automatically incur an “F” for the semester.

4. Learner initiated requests to DROP an elective course will be considered only:

a. Within the first week the class is in session, and

b. After a personal conference with class coach, parent, counselor, and administration. A withdrawal form MUST accompany the request. Withdrawal forms can be picked up by the counselor.

c. Under no circumstances may a learner drop a class if that action means the learner is taking fewer than 4 classes. (Eligibility Requirements)

5. A learner who has failed a required course prior to the end of the semester year should contact his/her counselor immediately to determine what course of action should be taken.

6. If a learner is removed from a class for disciplinary reasons the learner will automatically incur an “F” for the semester.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

STEM provides a specific service delivery model unique to our specialty school environment.  Our STEM service model allows for co-teaching and/or integration of intervention, support, or enrichment period.  Intervention specialists are scheduled to provide instructions and IEP services to a caseload of students.  (Ex.:  IS may follow the student caseload and provide support in general ed and may so provide SDI in an enrichment period based on student needs and IEP).  All students will receive progress monitoring at the midpoint of the grading period and at the end of the grading period.

COLLEGE OPPORTUNITIES

Learners may participate in College Credit Plus is a program that allows learners to enroll in college courses for both high school and college credit. CCP is designed to complement rather than replace the high school curriculum. Learners, who are interested, must meet credit qualifications through the University of Akron and other participating Universities or Colleges as well as STEM High school requirements.

Learners participating in CCP that are in academic watch are required to attend a daily support class and at any time provide class documentation to a STEM-designated representative upon request.  CCP interims are mandatory and are due to the school counselor on predetermined dates and are on the school calendar.  Failure to submit the interim on the due date will result in an “F” on the interim or grade card and will not be adjusted at the end of the semester.

INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The purpose of these intern opportunities is to introduce high school learners to career opportunities in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic fields, while allowing them to gain valuable work experience with many reputable companies in Akron and surrounding areas.  Internships are managed through Coach York.

ACTIVITIES AND ELIGIBILITY

Learners are urged to participate in and to attend the many after-school events and organizational activities across the district.  “Misconduct by a pupil which occurs off property owned or controlled by the district is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on property owned or controlled by the district” and “misconduct by a pupil that regardless of where it occurs, is directed at a district official or employee or the property of such official or employee” is under the jurisdiction of the school.  (Ohio Revised Code Section 3313.66).  

Per district guidelines, if a learner misses more than ½ of an instructional day, they may not participate in extracurricular activities.

To participate in interscholastic athletics or extracurricular activities, a learner must meet district-defined eligibility requirements.  Contact the district Athletic Office for further questions.

DANCE GUEST FORMS

When STEM High School sponsors a dance it is primarily for STEM learners. A STEM learner may attend the dance with a date or without a date. If a STEM learner wants to invite a non-STEM date, the STEM learner s must obtain a dance guest pass application. The non-STEM learner must be at least in Grade 9 and no older than 19 years. Since a number of signatures must be obtained, the STEM learner should allow enough time for the completed pass to be returned to the central office at least 3 days prior to the dance.

TEXTBOOKS

Books that are issued to learners and become their responsibility for proper care. Excessive wear and tear is not normal, learners will be charged for such at the end of the year. Two-year-old books, which are lost, will be charged 75% of the full price; 50% of the full price is charged thereafter.  Many of the textbooks may be accessed online and no hard copy is issued to the learner.

HOME ACCESS CENTER

The Home Access Center site provides parents/guardians “Users” with the privilege of accessing certain school information as it relates to their children through a secure Internet connection. You may access your child’s grades and attendance through eSchool PLUS Home Access Center. It is being provided to you as another form of communication with teachers and administrators with the goal of ensuring the highest quality education for your learner.

ALEKS

ALEKS™ Math Program which can be accessed 24/7 with an internet connection at http://www.aleks.com/  

• Learners can retrieve their username and password from their Mathematics Learning Coach.
• By grade level, ALEKS determines what a learner knows about math and does not know.
• ALEKS is a critical aspect of the part of the learning process. Learners are expected to meet the expectation of their learning coach as it relates to the usage and reinforcement of this software.
• ALEKS instructs learners on math topics he or she is most ready to learn.

ATTENDANCE/TARDY POLICY

The Akron Board of Education has adopted a policy in accordance with HB 410  which regulates all absences and tardies.  

Regular school attendance is an important ingredient in students’ academic success. Excessive absences interfere with students’ progress in mastering the knowledge and skills necessary to graduate from high school prepared for higher education and the workforce. To support academic success for all learners, the NIHF-STEM High School administration will partner with learners and their families to identify and reduce barriers to regular school attendance. We, along with district supports, will utilize a continuum of strategies to reduce student absence including, but not limited to:

• Notification of student absence to the parent or guardian;
• Development and implementation of an absence intervention plan, which may include supportive services for students and families;
• Counseling;
• Parent education and parenting programs;
• Mediation;
• Intervention programs available through juvenile authorities; and
• Referral for truancy, if applicable.

When a learner is absent for an “excused” reason, he/she is permitted to make up all classroom work within a reasonable period of time.  That is, one day for each day absent.  A parent/guardian must report a learner’s absence and the reason by calling the school at 330-761-7965 between 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on the day of absence, or send a written excuse on the day of the learner’s return.  A phone call is mandatory each day a learner is absent unless the parent/guardian indicates the absence may be for several days.  Failure to call off or bring a note will result in an unexcused absence and the learner will be considered truant.  Learners are only permitted to leave STEM during scheduled college classes that are on the college campus. Learners taking online CCP classes are not permitted to leave the building without the permission of their parent/guardian.

Excused and Unexcused Absences

 Reasons for excused (or authorized) absence include but not limited to:

• Personal illnesses, or injury
• Serious illness in the family
• Funerals (of immediate family or relative).
• Quarantine
• Religious holidays
• Medical and dental appointments.  Written verification will be required from the doctor, dentist, or place of appointment for the time away from school. This note must be brought back from the appointment or returned the next school day.  When this note is received, the learner's tardiness to school or absence will be excused.  Again, please be aware that this is for medical and dental appointments only.
• Appointments at the Board of Education, counseling services, court appointments, or State driving test.
• College Visits- (limit 3 per year, for Juniors and Seniors only). The learner must provide documentation from the university/college visited to be excused.  The learner is responsible for any work missed work (contact learning coaches prior to visiting for work).
• Emergencies excused by the principal

Learners absent for the following reasons will be marked “unexcused”.  Learners are not permitted to make up class work for “unexcused” absences including but not limited to:  

• Oversleeping
• Shopping trips
• Hunting, fishing, or any other recreational activity
• Inclement weather
• Truancy/Flicking

Please see The Akron Board of Education Policy on attendance for additional information.  The Policy can be found on the Akron Public Schools website.  

Learners are considered present and permitted to make up all work for the class time he/she missed as a result of the following situations:

1. Field trips (authorized by the principal).
2. School activities, such as athletic team events, musical performances, etc., which are authorized by the principal.

*Administration reserves the right to make the final determination for any/all excused or unexcused absence discrepancies.

Tardy to School Policy Updated (5/22)

• Students are expected to be in school daily at 7:15 in the auditorium for morning meeting.  This is part of our STEM designation assurances with the State of Ohio.
• Per the student handbook and aligned to House Bill 410, attendance is mandatory daily with no tardies.  This means in the auditorium at 7:15 (not walking in the doors at 7:15)
• In order for tardies to be excused, they must be within the scope of the Akron Board of Education attendance policy.
• Aligned to our STEM designation assurances and district goals, learners must maintain a minimum of 93% attendance.
• Learners with excessive tardies will be under review by the academic advancement team and if needed, placed on an attendance plan and/or have consequences assigned.  Families will also be notified and brought in for a conference with the academic advancement team to design a plan to attend school daily and be on time.
• Learners on an attendance plan will be monitored and families will be notified of their progress.
• Learners remaining on attendance plans at the end of the school year and not making progress will meet with the Administration team and be counseled on a transition back to their home school.

Thresholds for Tardies

Absence As It Affects Grades

Learners who fail to meet NIHF STEM High School standards will have their academic, attendance, and behavioral profile reviewed by the Academic Status team. The team will meet/conference with a learner and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) when the learner has not met the NIHF-STEM Mastery and/or Attendance Policy requirements (see individual policies) for potential school reassignment.

APPOINTMENTS

If a learner needs to be excused for a medical or dental appointment (or any other excused reason), the parent/guardian should call in advance of the appointment, and then the learner should bring a note written by their parent/guardian to assure a timely release for the appointment.  The note should include:

1. Reason for appointment
2. Time the Learner will leave and return
3. Date of the appointment
4. Parent/Guardian(s) signature and phone number

Parent/Guardian(s) should call and bring/send the note either the day prior to or on the day of the appointment.  Learners need to give the note to the main office secretary.  Written verification of the appointment from the doctor, dentist or place of the appointment for the time away from school will be required.  This note must be brought back from the appointment or returned the next school day and given to the attendance secretary.

INCLEMENT WEATHER – SCHOOL CLOSING

During inclement weather (usually extreme cold or snow), or other emergencies, parents will be notified via the new district-wide, all-call system and the University of Akron closing hotline 330-972-SNOW.  Please listen to the local radio and television stations for updated information regarding school closings.  Please be advised that the STEM High School follows inclement weather closings of the University of Akron, NOT Akron Public Schools.  Out of school suspensions and any other disciplinary actions for that date must be made up upon the reopening of our school.

DISCIPLINE/CONSEQUENCES (not classroom-based Coach Consequences) - Failure to uphold core values and/or school norms in the classroom or activity will result in consequences.  The consequence will be based on the severity of learner action and/or the number of violations.  

Level 1 — Includes minor violations in common areas and classroom-level discipline.  Includes but is not limited to: classroom level warning issued by coach, learner parent/guardian notified to share behavior concern, detention or other coach consequences.  

Level 2— Failure to fulfill coach consequences in Level 1.  Level 2 includes referral to the office from the learning coach/staff for severe/continued classroom disruption(s) or violation of the Akron Public Schools Code of Student Behavior.  This includes common area violations (auditorium, hallway, cafeteria, gymnasium, assemblies, events, etc).  Learners sent to the office will be required to meet with either administrator and/or learning coach during the lunch period for a conference.  Additional consequences may result.

Level 3- Includes 3 or more level 2 infractions in a 9-week period.  Level 3 Includes infractions in level 2 and 3 in the Code of Student Behavior for the Akron Public Schools.  Includes but is not limited to severe disruption to the learning environment, and actions that pose an immediate risk of harm to self or others.  Level 3 includes any referral to the administrative team for a disciplinary hearing reflecting the Akron Public School’s Code of Student Behavior, which may result in loss of school privileges and/or activities, and could rise to the level of out-of-school suspension or expulsion.  Repeated Code violations may result in learners being asked to return to their home school.

-Serious infractions will be automatically referred to the Instructional Leader.

BULLYING

Bullying is defined as a single significant act or pattern of physical and/or verbal intimidation perpetrated against another person that interferes with the person’s rights in the school environment.  Bullying includes but is not limited to

• Physical intimidation or assault
• Extortion
• Oral or written
• “Put-Downs”
• Social Isolation
• Name-calling
• Threatening Looks
• Gestures or Actions
• Cruel rumors or false accusations

Incidents of bullying must be reported to the administrator(s), guidance counselor, learning coaches or other school personnel.  To establish a culture of respect and intolerance of bullying, learners are encouraged to not be bystanders when bullying occurs.  Learners are encouraged to:

• Tell an adult
• Do not participate in rumors
• Ask someone new to join them at lunch
• Include someone new in activity

Any learner who believes s/he has been or is the victim of aggressive behavior should immediately report the situation to the Instructional Leader, Learning Coaches or School Counselor.

Every learner is encouraged, and, to report any situation that they believe to be aggressive behavior directed toward a learner. All complaints about aggressive behavior that may violate this policy shall be investigated. If the investigation finds an instance of aggressive behavior has occurred, it will result in prompt and appropriate disciplinary action.

The complainant shall be notified of the findings of the investigation, and as appropriate, that remedial action has been taken.

Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, posting slurs or rumors or other disparaging remarks about a learner on a website or blog, sending e-mail or instant messages that are mean or threatening, or numerous to cause a reasonable disruption, using a camera phone to take and send embarrassing photographs of learners, posting misleading or fake photographs of learners on web sites.

"Harassment" includes, but is not limited to, any act which subjects an individual or group to unwanted, abusive behavior of a nonverbal, verbal, written or physical nature on the basis of age, race, religion, color, national origin, marital status or disability (sexual orientation, physical characteristic, cultural background, socioeconomic status, or geographic location).

"Intimidation" includes, but is not limited to, any threat or act intended to tamper, substantially damage or interfere with another's property, cause substantial inconvenience, subject another to offensive physical contact or inflict serious physical injury on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.

"Menacing" includes, but is not limited to, any act intended to place a school employee, learner, or third party in fear of imminent serious physical injury.

Refer to Policy 5516.

POLICY OF RESPONSE

Allegations of sexual harassment (as defined above) are to be reported to the teacher, Dean of Students and/or instructional leader.  Parents of both the offender and the victim will be informed of the allegations. The matter is to be kept confidential by all parties involved, and every effort will be made to protect the alleged victim from retaliation. The parents of both the offender and the victim are obligated to cooperate in remedying the situation.

A charge of harassment shall not, in and of itself, create the presumption of wrongdoing. However, substantiated acts of harassment will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Learners found to have filed false and frivolous charges will also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.

If the allegations are substantiated, disciplinary actions will be taken. These will depend on the nature, frequency and severity of the action, the ages of the offender and victim, the history of similar actions by this individual, and the circumstances in which the harassment occurred. Possible disciplinary actions may include, but are not limited to:

1. Verbal warning/reprimand and apology to the victim

2. A parent/learner Associate Principal conference

3. Written warning/reprimand and parent notification, entered in the learner’s file

4. Detention or removal from selected school activities and/or extracurricular activities

5. Behavior/probation contracts, possibly requiring professional intervention

6. Appearance before the Disciplinary Council

7. Suspension

8. Expulsion

ONLINE POSTING

Learners may not post audio, video, photographs or other representations of STEM activities or school personnel without the written consent of STEM High School. Learners in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

DRESS CODE

STEM learners are expected to attend school dressed neatly, cleanly, appropriately, and in accordance with the district and schools adopted dress code. A copy of the district dress code can be found here.

• As a general rule: all garments must be neat, clean, properly sized, and in acceptable repair.  Learners may not wear anything that promotes gangs, tobacco, drug and alcohol use, sexual activity or anything illegal or immoral.
• Head: Hats, caps and head coverings are not permitted. Hair and hair accessories must be unobtrusive and should not create a distraction to education.
• Face:  Earrings and makeup must not be extreme, distracting, and unsafe or interfere with the education process.  Learners shall not have visible body piercings other than earrings.
• Tops:  Upper garments must be properly sized.  Underwear, shoulders, chest, back and midsection may not be visible.  Tops must have a sleeve and may include a hood so long as the hood is not worn over the head while indoors.
• Bottoms: All lower garments must be anchored at the natural waist and cannot contain excessive rips or holes, drag on the ground or have writing across the seat.  Tight-fitting, oversized, drooping and garments exposing more than mid-thigh are not permitted.
• Shoes:  All footwear must be secure on the foot and not present a safety hazard.  Slippers, flip-flops, stilettos and shower shoes are not permitted.
• Other:  All clothing designed for outerwear, worn to and from school, cannot be worn indoors during the regular school day. Clothing designed for sleepwear is prohibited.
• Accessories:  Sunglasses cannot be worn in the building.  All jewelry and accessories must not be distracting or create a safety hazard.

School administrators reserve the right to exercise their professional discretion to allow or not allow certain clothing or fashions that may be in question.  If it is determined that a learner is inappropriately dressed for school the parent/guardian will be notified and arrangements made.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

If there is reasonable cause to believe that a learner is carrying or concealing a weapon, alcohol or other drugs, or unauthorized or stolen property, the administration team has the right to search a learner’s outer clothing and pockets, purses, and bags as well as lockers and vehicles. This includes items brought to campus, STEM, or APS events. The search is to protect other learners and staff, as well as the integrity of the STEM learning community. 

ORDERING OF FOOD FROM OUTSIDE VENDORS/LUNCH

Students and parents are not permitted to order food and have it delivered to the school unless prior permission is given from the Instructional Leader.  Special permission is at the discretion of the Instructional Leader and consideration will only be given for special circumstances or events.  Learners attending classes off campus may eat food ordered off campus only in the Cafeteria/Eagle’s Nest.  Learners will not be permitted to return to STEM campus with food and take it into the next class.  Learners choosing to bring food back to STEM campus and eat in the Eagle’s nest will not be given an excused tardy if they are late to class. Learners are not permitted to leave STEM campus for lunch and return without being signed out by a parent or guardian.

PRIVACY/CONFIDENTIALITY

The School District will respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the Board’s legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform to any discovery or disclosure obligations. All records generated under the terms of this policy and its related administrative guidelines shall be maintained as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

FLICKING 

Flicking is intentional truancy from class or failure to be present in class without permission from the teacher of that class or a school official.  Learners who are not in class for 5 minutes or more during any class period will be considered flicking. Flicking is a purposeful act and may result in Out-of–School Suspensions.  

CAFETERIA RULES- Learners receive free breakfast and lunch.

1.         All food and drink should be consumed in the cafeteria and on school campus. No food or drinks are permitted in the gymnasium or Learning Commons.

2.         Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

3.         Stay seated and keep the conversations to your table.

4.         You are responsible for your own trash – CLEAN UP YOUR AREA.

5.         You are NOT allowed to order food or have food delivered to you.

SNOWBALL SAFETY

While playing in the snow can be a fun and healthy activity, it can also become dangerous to anyone in the area. For these reasons throwing snowballs on school property, or en route to or from school, are not permitted.  Consequences will be issued for behavior involving snowball throwing (up to and including out of school suspension).

VIDEO SURVEILLANCE AND CAMERAS

To ensure the safety and security of the learners and staff, STEM will be equipped with video cameras throughout the inside and outside of the building.  The cameras are on and recording 24 hours a day and will be constantly monitored by the administration, Akron Police, and STEM administration. Parents/Guardians`` are not permitted to view video surveillance per district policy.

DETENTIONS

Detentions are assigned during the lunch period or after school.  It is the learner’s obligation to serve the detention on the designated day at the designated time.  An excused absence is the only acceptable reason for missing detention.  In this case, the detention is to be served on the following day.  Learners are to report directly to the assigned detention room.  

• LUNCH/PM DETENTIONS

Lunch/PM detentions may be issued by any staff member for but not limited to being tardy to class, classroom disruptions, and other minor infractions.  Un-served detentions will be referred to the administrative team

• ADMINISTRATIVE DETENTIONS

Administrative detentions are issued at the discretion of the administration and are served in the pm from 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM.  Transportation should be arranged prior to detention and is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. *Administration reserves the right to adjust detention days and times.

Code of Student Behavior Akron Public Schools

The consequences listed in this handbook are only a guide and subject to the discretion of the administrative team to ensure the safety, security, and appropriate educational environment for all students and staff.

 MESSAGES/TELEPHONE USE

Parents are requested to limit phone messages to learners. Should the urgent need arise to contact a learner during the school day a parent or guardian may call the main office.  Each classroom and office contains a phone for faculty and staff use only.  Use of the office phone may be prohibited except in case of emergency.  PLEASE NOTE THAT CELL PHONE USE IS PROHIBITED DURING THE SCHOOL DAY.  Learners who use a cell phone (including the use of a camera phone) or have a cell phone visible but may not be using will have the phone confiscated.  Parents will be notified by the learning coach via phone or email.  Parents may come to the school 24 hours later to pick up the phone.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

In order to avoid disruption of the educational environment and protect STEM learners' rights of privacy, learner possession of personal communication devices (PCD) telephones and camera phones, satellite or electronic communication devices of any kind, laser pointers and attachments, paging devices/beepers, and personal digital assistants ("Prohibited Devices") may be used before and after school, during lunch period, or in other common spaces in the building.

 Technology including but not limited to PCDs and intended for instructional purposes (e.g. taking notes, recording classroom lectures with instructor permission, and writing papers) will be permitted, as approved by individual learning coaches. Cell phones will be placed in a school-sponsored basket during testing procedures. Learners are not to use PCDs on school property or at school-sponsored events to access and/or view Internet websites that are otherwise blocked to learners at school. Distracting behavior that creates an unsafe environment will not be tolerated. All PCDs will be powered down and stored out of sight when directed by school personnel. The use of PCDs that contain built-in cameras (i.e. devices that take still or motion pictures) are prohibited in gymnasiums, locker rooms, shower facilities, rest/bathrooms and/or swimming pools.

Learners may not use a PCD in any way that might reasonably create in the mind of another person an impression of being threatened, humiliated, harassed, embarrassed or intimidated. See Bullying and Harassment expectations and policy.

Learners are prohibited from using a PCD to capture record and/or transmit testing information or other information in a manner consisting of fraud, theft, cheating, or academic dishonesty. Likewise, learners are prohibited from using PCDs to receive such information.

School officials will not search or otherwise tamper with PCDs in district custody unless they reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of the law or other school rules.

Limited Permitted Exceptions for Possession of Cellular Phones, Prohibited Devices, and Absolutely Prohibited Devices:

EMERGENCIES /EMERGENCY CARDS  

All learners are required by state law to have an Emergency Card on file at their school. Learners will only be released to the parent/guardian or those individuals listed on their Emergency Card provided authorization is given each time.  Please notify the school office with any contact information changes, such as phone numbers, addresses, guardianship, etc.  If a learner becomes ill during the school day and cannot attend classes, the parent will be notified by school personnel for authorization to release the learner.  A learner may not leave the building or go home without authorization from the unit office (barring OSS consequences).

HEALTH AND MEDICATION

If a learner becomes ill at school, learners should receive permission to go to the office. The office will only distribute bandages for cuts and ice for bumps and bruises.  Learners must have a written pass if they are reporting to the health aide’s office. School personnel will contact parents/guardians.

If a learner suffers from a chronic physical problem for which school adjustment may need to be made, parents or guardians must provide the school with a verified medical excuse. Learners who must take prescribed medication during the school day must do so through the supervision of the Health Aide.  A request form to dispense medication at school must be completed by the learner’s physician and parent/guardian and be on file at the school.   School personnel may refuse to permit any child to take any medication during school hours or supervised school activities unless such a signed statement is furnished.

Learners who require crutches and are in need of an elevator pass must have a release from the physician to return to school.Elevator passes are only approved by the Instructional Leader or Assistant Principal.  If a learner has a cast and is unable to write in class a note will be provided to the classroom teacher requesting assistance in the classroom and timeframe to complete assignments.

Learners are not permitted to carry any prescription or over-the-counter medicine with them during the school day.

ACCIDENTS

Any accident in the school building, on school grounds, or at a school sponsored event must be reported immediately to school personnel and the school office.

SAFETY DRILLS

Fire Drills

All drills are to be done under the direction of the classroom teacher and in a quiet, orderly manner.  (Absolutely no talking so that learners can hear the direction of supervising personnel).

Law requires monthly drills. Each room will have the fire exits/routes posted. The building will be evacuated whenever the fire alarm sounds. When the fire alarm sounds, under the direction of the teacher, learners are to immediately leave the building by the correct exit. If a learner is in the hall, office, or restroom when the fire alarm sounds, leave by the nearest exit. All teachers who are unassigned should assist in moving learners to the exits as quickly and quietly as possible.

Disaster/Tornado

Law requires monthly drills during the months from March to June (tornado season for this area of the United States).  If the alarm is sounded for a tornado/disaster drill, follow the directions of the classroom teacher, as each room has an assigned location in the building to report to.  Learners are to remain at that location until the "all clear" bell is sounded.  If a learner is in the hall, office, or restroom when the alarm sounds, he/she is to assume the disaster drill position with the closest teacher and group of learners.

       ALICE Safety Drills

The ALICE Training changes we respond to armed intruders. ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate) is a set of proactive strategies that increase chances of survival during an armed intruder event. These safety exercises are designed to provide learners and coaches the opportunity to practice and prepare for extreme circumstances. For more information on the ALICE philosophy or training visit http://www.alicetraining.com/alice-101/faq/.

Lockdown and ALICE procedure information

LOCKS AND LOCKERS

Each learner is assigned a locker at the beginning of the school year.  A lock/Locker fee of $5.00 will be assessed to each learner. In the event that a learner loses his or her lock, they will then be assessed another $5.00 fee.  Locks and lockers MUST be rented from the school to ensure the safety and security of laptops when unattended. Learners are encouraged not to give their combination to anyone or permit anyone to use their locker.

Always lock your locker and check to see if it is secured. Shut locker doors quietly. Lockers are not to be entered between classes. Learners may enter lockers prior to the beginning of homeroom, prior to and after lunch, and at the end of the school day. The Board of Education or its designee reserves the right to search the lockers, desks, person, and personal belongings of a learner.  STEM High School is not responsible for items including but not limited to lost or stolen items from lockers.

1. All learners will be assigned lockers, which are the property of STEM High School.

2. Learners must use school locks on their assigned lockers and on gym lockers. The administration reserves the right to remove other locks.

3. Learners who do not lock their lockers do so at their own risk.

4. Learners may not exchange lockers or share lockers.

5. Learners may not keep materials in their locker that are illegal or harmful to themselves or others. Leaving food in a locker is a health hazard.

6. If there is reasonable cause to suspect learners have illegal or harmful materials, lockers will be searched to protect other learners and staff personnel.

7. Problems with locks or lockers should be reported to NIHF-STEM administration.

8. Locker doors must be closed and locked at all times.

9. All lockers are the property of the University of Akron.

10. All locks are the property of Akron Public Schools.

FEES

Learners acquiring fees will get notification of fee amounts twice a year.  Seniors will get notification quarterly.  Seniors must pay in full the fees prior to graduation at a date set by the building leader.  Seniors not meeting the payment by the assigned date will not be permitted to cross the stage for the graduation ceremony and diplomas and/or transcripts will be held until paid in full.

LOST/STOLEN & FOUND

STEM high school is not responsible for property lost or stolen on school premises. For our records, please report a stolen item to the main office. Lost and found items of high value are kept in the Main Office, all other lost and found are located in the cafeteria. We encourage learners to be particularly careful with expensive electronic or digital devices that they choose to bring to school. These devices should not be left in places that are not secure. If a learner finds an item not belonging to them, it should be turned over to school personnel as soon as possible.  

FIELD TRIPS

When learners are on a school-sponsored field trip they are subject to all school regulations and to the discipline of the learning coaches in attendance. A learner must be in good standing to attend a field trip. Parents will be informed in writing or by phone of any planned field trips, the date of such activity and of any special instructions.  Learners may need a signed permission slip by a parent or guardian to attend scheduled field trips.

HALLS/CLASS CHANGE

During period class changes, learners are to:

• ALWAYS walk on the right side of the hall.
• Use the 3 minutes allowed for class change to pass to class.
• Move quickly and quietly from class to class without stopping and talking to others, as this holds up the movement to classes. There should be no congregating in groups in the halls or doorways since this makes it difficult for other learners to get to class on time.
• Walk in the halls.
• Keep their hands and feet to themselves.
• If a learner is tardy to class, he/she does not report to the office, but is to go directly to his/her scheduled class.

USE OF VENDING MACHINES

Vending machines are operated by the University of Akron.  Students are permitted to use the machines before school, during lunch and after school.  Students may not leave class and miss instructional time to walk to the vending machines and purchase food to be eaten in the classroom.  If learners choose to use the vending machines, they do so at their own risk.  STEM will not be responsible for monies taken by the machine.  You must contact the phone number on the machine directly.

INTERNET

Email addresses and internet usage is needed for learners to access the learning management system, Google Classroom, where learning can continue beyond the classroom. All learners are expected to check their email daily to stay informed and keep in contact with learning coaches and administrators regarding their educational opportunities.  Learning email and internet safety, etiquette and responsibilities are built into the educational program.  All Akron Public School Board policies, all state and federal laws apply.  Learners will abide by the terms and conditions for use of technology and telecommunication resources, E-Mail, and the Internet. Learners and parents should be aware that violation of the guidelines and regulations outlined is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should a learner commit any violation, access privileges may be revoked, and disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.

LEARNING COMMONS COMMUNITY

• The Learning Commons is a busy place of collaboration, research, and reading.
• During a collaboration period you may request a quiet space.
• If you arrive during instruction, please be courteous to your community.
• Materials may be checked out for 2 weeks and renewed for another 2 weeks.
• Materials that are lost will be the responsibility of the learner.
• Classroom and school rules are observed in the Learning Commons.
• When you leave, please show integrity by cleaning your area, returning materials to the circulation desk, and pushing in your chair.

MEDIA RELEASE

Media Release forms are required for all learners.  Media Release forms give consent to the publication and other use of the learner’s name, writing, photographs, video, art or quotes without limit, reservation or remuneration by the media and/or Akron Public Schools.  Please contact the school if there are further questions.

NUTRITION PROGRAM

The breakfast program is open to learners at 6:50AM.  Learners are to proceed directly to the cafeteria.  Learners will enter the building through the College St. entrance. Breakfast and lunch are available to all learners at no cost.

DROP OFF/PICK UP & PARKING

Arrival and Dismissal Procedures

Families are able to drop learners off at either Door #1 or Door #16 (on Union Street) in the morning.  Students are able to enter the building at 6:40 am at either door.  Please note that drop-off at Door #16 ends at 7:10 am. After 7:10 am, students must use door #1 for late/tardy sign-in.

STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE IN THE AUDITORIUM FOR MORNING MEETING AT 7:15 AM (unless you have a college class during this time).

Note:  Breakfast is served daily from 6:50-7:10 am

Dismissal & Pick-Up: In an effort to spread out dismissal and keep learners safe, all 9th and 10th-grade learners are to exit through Door #16 only.  If your child rides with a sibling that is 11th or 12th grade, they may dismiss out door #1 with those grades when they are called.

Any learner being signed out early must use door #1 only.  A parent is required to come in to sign out the learner with a photo ID per district policy.

University of Akron parking passes are required to park in our lot.  Parking in the parking lot without a pass will result in a ticket issued by the University of Akron.

PARKING & LEARNER VEHICLES

1. Learners may park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The University of Akron monitors the parking lot. Please note that any APS learner who drives to school, (his person and vehicle) fall under APS policy and Code of Conduct.  

2. The administrative team or its agent has the authority to conduct routine patrols of learner parking lots and inspections of the exteriors of learner vehicles on school property. The administration may inspect the interiors of learner vehicles if there is reasonable cause to believe that illegal or unauthorized materials are contained in these vehicles. Such patrols and inspections will be conducted without notice, consent or search warrant. If a learner fails to provide access to the interior of his or her vehicle upon request, the learner will be subject to school disciplinary action.

3. Learners are prohibited from parking in areas designated as Reserved, Handicapped and Faculty. Learners who park illegally or in restricted areas may be issued school detentions, Saturday Detentions, or receive a parking citation from the University of Akron.

4. Any learner who drives to school must obtain a parking permit from the Main Office; these parking permits are University permits and are subject to university cost, restrictions, and policy. Learners must display the parking permit by hanging it from the rearview mirror. Learners who park without a permit may be issued detentions and lose parking privileges.

• 1st parking permit - $10
• Additional (including lost) parking permits - $20

5. Learners must follow established traffic patterns and obey all posted signs.  Failure to do so will result in a University ticket.  This includes parking in spaces designated for staff.

6. Drivers who are careless or reckless will be barred from parking in the school lot.

7. Any student driver who leaves the premises WITHOUT PERMISSION during the day will have the following consequences:

        1st offense: warning

        2nd offense: 2 weeks loss of driving privileges

        3rd offense:  loss of driving privileges for the remainder of the school year.  NO REFUND.

Consequences are subject to school discipline.  

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Learners are required to dress and participate in their physical education class.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The Akron Board of Education adopted a policy providing all learners and staff the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of The United States; it is our goal that this activity will help foster and perpetuate the ideals, principles, and spirit of our Republic.

TRANSFERRING OUT OF STEM

Any learner seeking or requested to transfer out of STEM (due to lack of academic effort, attendance, or disciplinary reasons) must schedule an appointment with an administrator who will confer with the learner and parents or guardian to determine the reason for transfer. Learners that are recommended or request a transfer out of the STEM High School will not be permitted to return.

SECURITY

In an effort to provide the safest learning environment possible, learners will be required to complete random security screenings. Each learner is expected to cooperate with school officials during these screenings. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary actions in accordance with the Akron BOE Student Code of Conduct.

No STEM learners are permitted to be in an area that is designated University of Akron space.  Our building is owned by the University of Akron and therefore governed by its policies and regulations.  Students not abiding by this are subject to school consequences and possible University consequences.

VISITORS

Parents/guardians are always welcome to visit the school. All visitors are required to sign in at the Main Office.  If you wish to see a Learning Coach, a 24-hour notice is required, unless other arrangements have been made.

NIHF STEM High School administrative team retains the right to make amendments to this handbook during the course of the school year for just cause. In the event that changes are made, the parents will be given prompt notification of such changes in writing through regular mailings to the home, or electronic postings.

21st Century Skills

“Education is what people to do to you, Learning is what you do to yourself.” Learning is increasingly being recognized as a skill that separates learners who are prepared for the challenges of life, and those who are not. 21st-century skills foster creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration are essential attributes that prepare our learners for the future.

Creativity, Innovation & Entrepreneurial Skills

• Originality and Inventiveness

• Curiosity

•        Develop and implement new ideas and open to new perspectives

• Willingness to “Fail Forward”

Critical Thinking, Systems Thinking and Problem Solving Skills

•         Exercise sound reasoning and make complex decisions

•         Make connections and associations between disciplines and systems

•         Ask significant questions, clarify points of view and identify problems

•         Frame analyze, evaluate and synthesize information to solve problems and answer questions

Interpersonal, Collaboration & Communication Skills

•         Articulating thoughts and ideas through appropriate mediums and formats

•         Demonstrate flexibility and work effectively with others

• Be willing to take responsibility

Informational Skills

•        Analyze access, manage, integrate, evaluate and create information in a variety of forms and media. 

Self-Direction Skills

•        Monitors one’s skills, understanding and learning needs

•        Locates resources, sets goals, and improves one's skills

Life Skills

• Flexible and adaptable

•         Productive with others, leverages the skills of the group, bridges cultural interests

•         Maintains high standards of production and quality of work

•         leverages strengths for a common goal, demonstrates integrity and influences others

Class Elections and Officers

Revised Officer Duties and Requirements (2022)

Senior Class Officers

Student Council

National Honor Society

Patchwork (Diversity Club)

Positions, Descriptions and Responsibilities are subject to change based on organization and advisor’s discretion.

ELECTED POSITIONS:                                        Cabinet members are not elected

President                                                         All students may participate in any organization

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer

Social Manager/ Marketing

TERM: All Officers shall serve a term of one year, from time of election until the end of the school year. (Assuming fall elections take place.)

Order of Elections

Senior elections

Student council

Patchwork elections

NHS

Students may participate in one or all organizations; however, they may only hold office in ONE organization.  This allows more students to participate in leadership roles and prevents conflicts between the organizations.

If a student wishes to hold office in more than one organization both advisors and student must discuss and agree on an understanding.

Officers and participants must attend at least 75% of all meetings to be considered active.  (number of attended meetings may change) This allows the organization to be listed on a student’s transcript and have their picture taken in the yearbook.

All officers must work closely with the other officers and participate in organizing and attending all events.

ELIGIBILITY:

• All elected Officers shall be members of the class in which they serve. (only Senior class officers)
• All elected Officers shall have received a GPA of 2.5 or higher on their most recent  
• semester report card.
• All elected Officers must attend all meetings during their elected year of service.
• All candidates/officers must not have received a 4 or 5 in citizenship on their last semester report card or have any disciplinary records.
• All elected officers during their term shall not receive a 4 or 5 in citizenship on their current report card or serve any disciplinary action.
• Coach Popa and/or the organization's advisor reserve the right to suspend any officer of their duties as needed.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

President: Senior Chief Executive Officer:  Class President

• The President shall serve as an advocate for all students and ensure that all class projects and activities are aligned with the class officers’ overall goals.
• Will help with all fundraising planning and events. Including Senior Picnic, Lock In, and end of the year events
• May speak at Graduation

Senior Chief Operating Officer: Vice President

• The  Vice President shall work closely with the other officers in implementing  senior activities.
• Assumes responsibilities for absent Presidents at meetings

Senior Chief Financial Officer: Treasurer

• The  Treasurer shall serve to ensure that class finances are sound and wisely used for class activities.
• Attends class fundraisers and is present to aid in collecting and counting funds.

Senior Chief Information Officer: Class Secretary/ Information Officer

• The Secretary shall serve to improve the communication between Class officers and the students of their class.
• All Class Secretaries shall work together to keep all marquees current.
• Class Secretaries to help with advertising fundraisers through announcements, flyers, …
• Organizes poster making parties.

Senior Chief Marketing Officer:  Marketing / Social Manager

• The Class Marketing/ Social Manager shall serve to create an inclusive social atmosphere and ensure that class activities reach a wide range of students.
• Collects pictures for slideshows and decorates bulletin board reflecting activities.

Elections Results

• An announcement at MM will be made once the election results are final
• A class email will be sent to all members with the final results
• Individual votes or results will not be shared with any learners

Final Decision

• Final election results are reviewed by the Instructional Leader and the Instructional Leader reserves the right to override based on leadership skills displayed by any student.

Removal

• Inappropriate behavior or misconduct that is in violation of school or district policy may lead to an officers removal from their leadership role.  Pending an investigation, the instructional leader reserves the right to remove a student from the office held.

Service Learning 

Service Learning is a learning opportunity that integrates service in the community.

This helps learners see communities as places of learning. Reflection is a critical component of any service experience. Learners expose themselves to opportunities that go beyond the classroom and grow through active participation in thoughtfully organized activities and experiences that:

• meet real community needs, including the needs of the school;

• develop leadership and 21st Century Skills for learners;

• are integrated/infused into the total learning experience;

• provide structured time for a person to reflect upon the actual service activity

• foster the development of lifelong commitment to service for the community and the ability to work effectively as a team member; and

• are based on the Service Learning model.

 This Turquoise Service Project is a project that must be approved by your advisor and completed during early release afternoons.

Briefly describe of the Service Goal:

Individual or Collaborative

Approved:          yes Advisor's Signature ____________________________________________

        No Feedback

Service/Volunteering Expectations:

• dress appropriately according to guidelines set at the place of business or organization

Service Learning

Learner Name______________________________ Graduating Class ________________

Advisor ____________________ Agency/Project Name _____________________________

Agency/Project Address__________________________ City_________ Zip Code________

The Supervisor’s Printed Name (Person who observed you volunteer) ________________________________________________________________________

In order to validate/__________ (30) these service hours/project, you must:

• Submit all required information (see chart below) total the hours, and complete the questions below to receive credit.  This document is available online.  Any hours that cannot be verified will not be recorded.  Any logs submitted with misrepresented information could mean non-acceptance of hours for the Learner and other disciplinary measures.

(Round all minutes to the nearest ½ hour and report as .5 only)

TOTAL HOURS ___________

Reflection:

1. How did your service learning experience prepare you for the future as it relates to a career or college?

2. Briefly describe your service learning experience and how it was beneficial?

3. In what ways did the experience assist other individuals

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   TECHNOLOGY RESPONSIBILITIES

Learner Responsibilities

Your tablet computer is an important learning tool and is to be used for educational purposes only. In order to take your tablet home each day, you must be willing to accept the following responsibilities.

• When using my tablet computer at home, at school, and anywhere else, I will follow the policies of the Akron Public Schools and abide by all local, state, and federal laws.
• I will treat my tablet with care by not dropping it, getting it wet, leaving it outdoors, or using it with food or drink nearby. I will always carry it in the tablet carrying case in the proper manner.
• I will recharge the tablet battery each night.
• I will bring my tablet to school each day.
• I agree not to place decorations (stickers, markers, etc) on my tablet.
• I understand that my tablet is the property of the District. All accounts, programs, and files are subject to inspection at any time without notice.
• I will not lend my tablet to anyone; it will stay in my possession at all times.
• I will keep all accounts and passwords assigned to me secure and will not share these with any other learners.
• I will be responsible for all damage or loss caused by neglect or abuse.
• I will not load any software onto the tablet without first receiving permission.
• I agree that email (or any other computer communication) should be used only for appropriate, legitimate, and responsible communication. I will not use my tablet to access online chat rooms and social networking sites such as myspace.com or facebook.com.
• I agree not to share personal information about myself (e.g. full name, address, or other personal information) and about my family, friends, or anyone else.
• I agree not to search for, display, download, or distribute vulgar, offensive material or images as described in applicable District policies.
• I will talk with my parent or guardian about their expectations and ground rules for going online when not at school.
• I agree to abide by school rules that will identify tablet procedures when I am not in an academic class (e.g. cafeteria, assemblies, after school activities/events).
• I will return the tablet computer when requested and upon my withdrawal from school.

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities The learner named above is being issued a tablet computer to improve and personalize his/her education this year. It is essential that the following guidelines be followed to ensure the safe, efficient, and ethical operation of this computer. In order for the learner named above to take the tablet home each day, the parent/guardian must be willing to accept the following responsibilities.

• I will review materials provided by the school to ensure that I understand the school’s responsibility, the learner’s responsibility, and my responsibility. We will discuss, at home, acceptable and non-acceptable uses of the tablet according to District policies.
• I understand that the School District has made all reasonable attempts to provide a safe computing environment for learners within the District’s network. I also understand that the District cannot control learner access to internet content when learners are not within the District’s network. Learners using their District assigned tablet are responsible and accountable for appropriate use of the internet regardless of where they are, or when internet access occurs.
• I will supervise the use of the tablet at home, making sure that it is used and stored appropriately.
• I will not load, delete programs, or attempt to repair the tablet.
• I will monitor that the tablet battery is being recharged each night.
• I understand that we are responsible for all damage or loss that is caused by neglect or abuse.
• I agree to make sure that the tablet computer is returned to the school when requested and upon withdrawal from school.