SECONDARY STUDENT

HANDBOOK

NORTHGATE SCHOOL DISTRICT
2022-23 ACADEMIC YEAR

ADMINISTRATION/OFFICE PERSONNEL
A FULL STAFF DIRECTORY CAN BE FOUND AT NORTHGATESD.NET

Northgate Middle/Senior High School  |  589 Union Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15202
412-732-3300 – Ext. 3000  |  Fax: 412-734-8086

Office Hours: 7:30 am - 3:30 pm  |  School Hours: MS: 8:05 am - 3:12 pm;  HS: 8:15 am - 3:08 pm

Dr. Caroline Johns
Superintendent
412-732-3300 Ext. 2110
caroline.johns@northgatesd.net

Dr. Nicole Smith
High School Principal
412-732-3300 Ext. 1001
nicole.smith@northgatesd.net

Mr. RJ Long
Middle School Principal

Federal Programs/Assessment Coordinator

412-732-3300 Ext. 1000
rj.long@northgatesd.net

Dr. Christopher Caton
Director of Curriculum
412-732-3300 Ext. 1101
chris.caton@northgatesd.net

Mrs. Amy Pizzica
Administrative Assistant
412-732-3300 Ext. 1001
amy.pizzica@northgatesd.net

Mrs. Eileen Shamonsky
Athletic Administrative Assistant
Attendance Officer
412-732-3300 Ext. 1000
eileen.shamonsky@northgatesd.net

Mrs. Stacy Gallagher
Guidance Counselor, Grades 7-9
        412-732-3300 Ext. 1014
stacy.gallagher@northgatesd.net

Mr. Zach Burns
Guidance Counselor, Grades 10-12
412-732-3300 Ext. 1013
zachary.burns@northgatesd.net

Mrs. Diane Burns
Guidance Administrative Assistant
412-732-3300 – ext. 1012
diane.burns@northgatesd.net

Mrs. Malla Mizikowski
Secondary School Nurse
412-732-3300 – ext. 1020
malla.mizkowski@northgatesd.net

COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
The Northgate School District will not discriminate in its educational programs, activities, or employment
practices, based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, ancestry or any other legally protected classification. Announcement of this policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. For information regarding grievance procedures, services, activities, programs and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons or, for inquiries regarding compliance with the above nondiscriminatory policies, please contact the Coordinator of Special Services, 591 Union Ave., Pgh., PA 15202. Phone – 412-732-3300, ext. 2000. Northgate S. D. will make reasonable accommodations to its programs & services to assure access to all persons. If, because of a disability, you require an accommodation, please contact the Coordinator of Special Services, Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator – 412-732-3300, ext. 2000.

VISION STATEMENT
We believe that every child can learn and must learn. Each student will demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, mathematics and computer literacy, while nurtured in a safe, caring and stimulating environment. We believe that a high performing student is the product of vital interacting forces within the school community, including a dedicated staff, a challenging curriculum, a productive school culture, parents who are partners in education and a community that offers learning opportunities, human resources and support. Finally, we cherish each child in both mind and heart. The core values of honesty, integrity, responsibility and respect for others will permeate the school community, encouraging each student to grow in knowledge and virtue.

HIGH SCHOOL ALMA MATER
We sincerely our voices blend, as through life we turn each bend.

Songs of cheer and worthy praise, to Alma Mater raise.

Guide us through pathways that we tread, as through our lives we go,

and help us choose the worthy steps that lead us as we grow.

Through the years we will ever bear thoughts of thee as our lives we share.

Treasure always with deepest pride, our dear old Northgate High.

SCHOOL WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR
INTERVENTION AND SUPPORTS (PBIS)
Northgate MS/HS is a PBIS school. PBIS is an application of a behaviorally based system approach to enhancing the capacity of schools, families, and communities to design effective environments that improve the fit between research-validated practices and the environments in which teaching and learning occur. The focus is on creating and sustaining school environments that improve lifestyle results (personal, health, social, academic, work, etc.) for all students by making problem behavior less effective, efficient, and relevant, while making desired behavior more functional. The Northgate PBIS team focuses on creating and sustaining an environment for achieving important social and learning outcomes while preventing problem behaviors through a collaborative team approach. The team

analyzes discipline-related behavioral patterns and responds to them by teaching the positive behaviors expected of our students.

The mission of the Northgate PBIS Program is to create and maintain an effective learning environment by establishing behavioral supports and the social culture needed for all students in our school to achieve social, emotional and academic success.

Who is involved in the PBIS Process?

School-wide PBIS requires a collaborative team consisting of:

• All school personnel to include: Administration, Teachers, Counselors, Nurses
• Paraprofessionals, Custodial and Cafeteria Staff, Front Office Personnel
• Support personnel such as School Improvement Facilitators, etc.
• Special Education personnel such as Behavior Specialist, Lead Teachers, etc.
• Parents and School Visitors

What is a School-wide PBIS Plan?

The school-wide PBIS Plan includes the following steps:

• Expectations are clearly and positively defined.
• Behavioral expectations are taught to all students and staff.
• Appropriate behaviors are acknowledged.
• Behavioral errors are proactively corrected.
• A database for keeping records and making decisions is established.
• Data-based monitoring and adaptations to the plan are regularly conducted.

“Northgate School District Expectations” state we are:

• Focused - Students remain focused on their social and academic goals.
• Leaders - Students showcase strong skills used to motivate others in positive ways.
• Accountable - Students are accountable for their choices.
• Motivated - Students set goals and make decisions in order to achieve success.
• Extraordinary - Students go above and beyond to create a positive school culture.
• Safe - Students promote a safe and healthy environment at all times.

NORTHGATE MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS

NORTHGATE SECONDARY BUILDING BELL SCHEDULE

Normal Bell Schedule

2 Hour Delay Bell Schedule

Please check our website at www.northgatesd.net,

KDKA-TV, KDKA Radio or www.kdka.com for all school delays/closures.

STUDENTS RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES

(BOARD POLICY NO. 235)

The Board has the authority and responsibility to establish reasonable rules and regulations for the conduct and deportment of district students. At the same time, no student shall be deprived of equal treatment and equal access to the educational program, due process, a presumption of innocence, and free expression and association, in accordance with Board policy and school rules.

Attendant upon the rights established for each student are certain responsibilities, which include regular attendance; conscientious effort in classroom work and homework; conformance to Board policies and school rules and regulations; respect for the rights of teachers, students, administrators and all others who are involved in the educational process; and expression of ideas and opinions in a respectful manner.

It shall be the responsibility of the student to:

1. Be aware of all policies, rules and regulations for student behavior and conduct him/herself accordingly. Each student shall assume that, until a rule is waived, altered or repealed in writing, it is in effect.
2. Volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property.
3. Dress and groom to meet standards of safety and health, and not to cause substantial

disruption to the educational processes.

4. Assist the school staff in operating a safe school.
5. Comply with federal, state and local laws.
6. Exercise proper care when using district facilities, school supplies and equipment.
7. Attend school daily and be on time to all classes and other school functions.
8. Make up work when absent from school.
9. Pursue and attempt to satisfactorily complete the courses of study prescribed by local school authorities.
10. Report accurately in student media.
11. Not use obscene language in student media or on school property.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, consistent with the Code of Student Conduct and
Board policy.

SCHOOL/CLASS ATTENDANCE (BOARD POLICY NO. 204)

EXCUSED ABSENCE
Students are required by law to be in full attendance each school day unless absent for an approved reason. State Law requires that a student’s parent or guardian send to school a written excuse for each absence within three (3) school days of the student’s return. This excuse must be submitted on the approved Northgate School District Attendance Excuse form indicating the reason for the absence and be signed by the legal parent or guardian of record with the School District. If applicable, documentation from licensed medical practitioners or hospitals should be attached to the Attendance Excuse form. Excuses written by non-custodial parents or emergency contacts will not be accepted. If such an excuse is not submitted to the Main Office on or before the third day, the absence(s) shall be marked as unexcused and considered illegal. (A printable copy of the Northgate School District Attendance Excuse form is available on the District’s website and copies are also available in the main office.)

Approved reasons for absence are listed below:

• Illness
• Physical injury
• Bereavement
• Observance of a bona fide religious holiday in accordance with the student’s religious beliefs
• Healthcare from a licensed practitioner when it is not practical or possible to receive care outside of school hours
• Approved school activity or field trip
• Out-of-school suspension
• College visits (Juniors and Seniors only)

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE
Examples of unexcused absences are listed below:

• Oversleeping
• Automobile failure
• Failure to produce written excuse(s) within the outlined time period for day(s) absent

Upon the third absence without a completed/submitted Attendance Excuse form, the following procedures will be followed by the Attendance Office:

The parent/guardian receives a notice of third unlawful absence by mail providing “official notice of the child's third illegal absence.” Attached to this notice will be penalties for violation of compulsory attendance requirements as they pertain to both the student and the parent/guardian,including information that three days after giving such notice, the student or parent/guardian who again violates the compulsory attendance requirements shall be liable without further notice. The School District shall coordinate a school/family conference to discuss the cause of the child’s truancy and develop and mutually agreed upon Student Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP) to resolve truant compulsory attendance requirements as they pertain to both the student and the parent/guardian, including information that three days after giving such notice, the student or parent/guardian who again violates the compulsory attendance requirements shall be liable without further notice. The School District shall coordinate a school/family conference to discuss the cause of the child’s truancy and develop a mutually agreed upon SAIP to resolve truant behavior. Issues to be reviewed at the school/family conference include the appropriateness of the child’s education environment, current academic difficulties, physical or behavioral health issues and family/environment concerns.

At the end of the conference all parties should sign a comprehensive SAIP that is agreed to by the school representative, the child, and the parents and/or family. The plan could include assessing academic and social/health support from the school and community organizations, an outline of family/parent and student responsibilities, and levels of performance monitoring that include rewards and consequences.

Subsequent Unlawful/Unexcused Absence(s)

After agreeing to a SAIP, or if there is not agreement on a Student Attendance Improvement Plan and three (3) days have passed since the parent/guardian received the official notice of the child’s third illegal absence, if a child is unlawfully absent, at any point within the school year, an official notice of unlawful absence will be sent home. The purpose of this correspondence is to inform the child’s parent/guardian that the child has violated the SAIP or, if there is not a SAIP, to inform the child’s parent/guardian that the child has again violated the compulsory attendance requirements and advise the parent/guardian that a citation will immediately be sent to the magisterial district judge. To ensure the parent/guardian receives the notice, the notice will be sent through certified mail. After this step, the school is obligated to inform parents in writing of absences and all future incidents of truancy will be referred directly to the magisterial district judge.

Habitually Truant (PA School Code)

The School Code defines habitually truant as absence for more than three (3) school days or their equivalent following the first notice of truancy given after a child’s third unlawful absence.

Cumulative Lawful/Excused Absence(s)

A maximum of ten (10) days of cumulative lawful absences verified by parental notification may be permitted during a school year. All absences beyond ten (10) cumulative days require a doctor’s excuse.

TARDY/LATE TO SCHOOL
Any middle school student arriving after 8:05 a.m. and any high school student arriving after 8:15 must report to the Attendance Office for an admit slip. Tardy time for students who attend A.W. Beattie Career and do not utilize the District provided transportation Center is 10:28 a.m. No one is permitted to enter late and go directly to class. This regulation will be strictly enforced. Failure to report to the Attendance Office upon arrival at school will result in disciplinary action. There is no degree of tardiness – a student is either on time or tardy. Excessive tardiness to school will result in disciplinary action.

It is the sole responsibility of the student to secure all missed class work/assignments. Failure to secure missed class work/assignments will result in a zero for all missed assignments.

Excused Tardy/Late

Students must present a valid, written excuse to the Main Office when entering the school after 8:05 a.m or 10:28 am for students who attend Beattie. Approved reasons for being tardy/late to school are listed below:

• Observance of a bona fide religious holiday in accordance with the student’s
  religious beliefs
• Healthcare from licensed practitioner
• Approved school activity
  

TARDY/LATE TO CLASS
Excessive unexcused tardies/lates to class during a nine-week term may result in a letter to the parent/guardian, then disciplinary action (office detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, etc).

CUTTING/SKIPPING CLASS
Illness and/or a written administrative excuse are the only valid reasons for not reporting to class. All students must report to their assigned teacher to request an e-hall pass if they need to use the restroom, see the nurse, or visit with a different teacher.

• The teacher will notify the parent/guardian when a student cuts class.
• All class cuts will be referred to the appropriate school administrator who will determine disciplinary action.
• A class cut/skip will result in a zero score for all work collected, done, and/or assigned

during the cut/skipped class(es).

• Leaving the building without or before an approved early dismissal will result in

in-school and/or out-of-school suspension.

• Parent meetings will be requested if a student exhibits excessive class cutting/skipping.

EARLY DISMISSAL
All early dismissals must be pre-approved by the Attendance Office. Each request must be on the approved Northgate School District Attendance Excuse form and indicate the student’s name, grade, reason for the early dismissal, and be signed by the legal parent/guardian of record with the school district and must be submitted to the Attendance Office between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. Students enrolled in and attending A.W. Beattie Career Center must submit early dismissal requests upon arrival. Early dismissal requests will not be accepted by anyone other than the legal parent/guardian of record. Once an early dismissal has been granted, it is the sole responsibility of the student to secure all missed class work/assignments prior to leaving the building. Failure to secure missed class work/assignments will result in a zero for all missed assignments.

An early dismissal request may be questioned by school authorities and may be denied if it fails to meet the legal requirements. When questionable, a parent/guardian will be required to sign the student out of the building in the Attendance Office. Identification in the form of a valid driver’s license (or another form of picture identification) may be required.

All students leaving the building due to an early dismissal must pass through the main office and use the doors in the main lobby to exit the building. Students must carry the written Early Dismissal form with them when leaving.

If it is felt that a student is abusing this procedure, verification will be required that the early dismissal was legitimate. If the time taken was not legitimate, this will be recorded as an unexcused absence.

(A printable copy of the Northgate School District Attendance Excuse form is available on the District’s website and copies are also available in the main office.)

ILLNESS
Students who become ill during a school session must report, with a hall pass, to the Nurse’s Office or the Main Office when the Nurse is not available. Transportation for students who must be excused from school due to illness or accident is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Students are not permitted to leave the building without the approval of the Nurse or the Principal. Students may not report to the Nurse’s Office during change of class time unless they have a pass from the teacher of their next class.

MAKE-UP WORK
When an absence is due to an illness or other excusable cause, the student shall be permitted to make-up the work missed. It is the responsibility of the student to see each of his/her teachers and arrange for all make-up work. The policy for make-up work will be one more day of make-up than the number of days of absence. That is, if the student is absent 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days then he/she has 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days, respectively, in which to complete make-up work.

In cases of prolonged absence (more than one week) the teacher and the student should agree upon a reasonable time limit for make-up work when the pupil arranges for the make-up work; however, in all cases, the maximum time shall be nine (9) weeks. Also, for prolonged absences, it is the parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to arrange for make-up work and tutoring through the guidance counselors. Students who are present in school but do not attend class because of a scheduled event are required to collect all assignments missed before the scheduled event. Otherwise, the student will lose his/her make-up privileges. Make-up privileges will be denied when a student’s absence is deemed illegal.

A.W. BEATTIE CAREER CENTER ATTENDANCE POLICY

• Eight Absences – A Guidance Counselor will meet with the student and discuss the lack of attendance at A.W. Beattie Career Center.
• Fifteen Absences – The student will be required to meet with his/her Guidance Counselor and the Principal regarding his/her lack of attendance at A.W. Beattie
  Career Center. Additionally, a communication, via telephone and U.S. Mail will be sent to the student’s parent/guardian outlining the student’s absences at A.W. Beattie Career Center.
• Twenty Absences – The student will be required to meet with his/her Guidance Counselor and the Principal regarding his/her lack of attendance at A.W. Beattie Career Center and the student will be made aware that he/she will be withdrawn from A.W. Beattie Career Center if he/she accumulates twenty-five absences (the parent/guardian will be informed via telephone and U.S. Mail).
• Twenty-Five Absences – The student will be immediately withdrawn from A.W. Beattie Career Center upon Administrative review.

HOMELESS STUDENTS

Homeless Students

Under McKinney Vento all school districts are responsible for identifying students experiencing homelessness and connecting them with the resources need to ensure academic success.

Who is considered homeless—Children or youth living in a shelter, transitional housing, hotel/motel, vehicle, campground, on the street or doubled up with friends or family due to a lack of alternate resources are considered homeless.  An unaccompanied homeless youth is a child or youth that is not in the care of their parent or legal guardian and meets the definition of homeless under McKinney Vento.

Where can students experiencing homelessness attend school?—The law indicates that homeless students have the right to remain in their school origin (the school they attended at the time of the homeless episode or last school attended) through the end of the school year in which they find permanent housing, provided it is in the child/youth’s best interest.

If through consultation between the school and the family and/or unaccompanied youth it is determined that remaining in the school of origin is not in the student’s best interest, then the student has the right to immediately enroll in the school that non-homeless students living in the attendance area in which the child/youth is actually living are eligible to attend, even if they do not have all of the required documentation. Additionally, unaccompanied homeless youth have the right to immediately enroll in school, even if they do not have a legal guardian present.

What supports can school districts provide to homeless students?—Homeless students are eligible for supports and services to remove barriers to educational success. This may include transportation to the school of origin, free meals, referrals to physical/mental health providers, clothing to meet school requirements, access to school supplies and resources, assistance with credit recovery, tutoring supports, expedited evaluations and assistance to participate in school activities including parent engagement opportunities, sports, club, etc.

Homeless Dispute Process—If at any time there is a disagreement about homeless status or best interest for school placement, the district will notify the family in writing of their determination that the family/unaccompanied youth is ineligible for McKinney Vento services.  At this time, the district will provide the family/unaccompanied youth with the ability to dispute their determination.  Throughout the dispute process, the child/youth, including unaccompanied youth, will continue to be educated in the school of origin or immediately enrolled in the school they are seeking enrollment until the dispute process is finalized.  Transportation will continue throughout the dispute process.  All disputes will be sent to the ECYEH Regional Coordinator who will issue a determination. If any party is unhappy with the determination, they can elevate the dispute to the state coordinator.

What if I think that I am eligible for services under McKinney Vento?­­— Please contact one of the following individuals:

1) Northgate School District Homeless Liaison: Christina Garczewski, Director of Student Services, 412-732-3300 ext. 2000.

2) If you require further assistance, please contact: Storm Carmara, State Coordinator Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program Pennsylvania Department of Education 333 Market Street, 5th Floor Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333 (717) 772-2066

PERSONALLY OWNED DEVICE POLICY (BOARD POLICY NO. 237)
It is the responsibility of the student to secure his or her personally owned device (POD) when choosing to bring it to school. DO NOT LEAVE THESE DEVICES UNATTENDED AT ANY TIME.

Purpose

The School Board adopts this policy in order to maintain a safe and secure environment for students and employees.

Definitions

A personally owned device (POD) shall include all existing and emerging technology devices that can take photographs, record audio or video; input text, upload and download media; and transmit or receive messages or images. Examples of a personally owned device shall include, but is not limited to: MP3 players and iPods; iPads, Nooks, Kindle, and other tablet PCs; laptop and netbook computers; personal digital assistants (PDAs), cell phones and smartphones such as BlackBerry, iPhone, or Droid, as well as any device with similar capabilities.

Students are not permitted to use personally owned devices POD during the school day unless directed by a teacher for educational purposes.

If a student refuses to surrender his/her POD they must contact his/her parent/guardian in order to leave school.

Educational purposes include classroom activities, career development, and communication with experts, homework, and limited high-quality self-discovery activities. Students are expected to act responsibly and thoughtfully when using technology resources. Students bear the burden of responsibility to inquire with school administrators and/or teachers when they are unsure of the permissibility of a particular use of technology prior to engaging in the use.

Inappropriate communication includes, but is not limited to, the following: obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, or disrespectful language or images typed, posted, or spoken by students; information that could cause damage to an individual or the school community or create the danger of disruption of the academic environment; personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks; harassment (persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person) or stalking of others; knowingly or recklessly posting false or defamatory information about a person or organization; and communication that promotes the destruction of property, including the acquisition or creation of weapons or other destructive devices. If a student is told to stop sending communications, that student must cease the activity immediately.

Examples of an unacceptable device in this policy shall include, but is not limited to gaming devices or consoles, laser pointers, modems or routers, and televisions.

Authority

Personally owned devices are permitted for use during the school day for educational purposes and/or in approved locations only.

Students in Grades 7 & 8 are not permitted to have their phones or personal devices in classrooms or while in the hallways.  Phones & personal devices should be locked in students’ lockers.  Students may use their phones & personal devices during lunch - but taking photos and/or videos are not permitted.

The district shall not be liable for the loss, damage, misuse, theft of any personally owned device brought to school.

The district reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, and review a personally owned device or file when administration has a reasonable suspicion that a violation has occurred.

Guidelines

Students may not utilize any technology to harass, threaten, demean, humiliate, intimidate, embarrass, or annoy their classmates or others in their community. This is unacceptable student behavior known as cyberbullying and will not be tolerated. Any cyberbullying that is determined to disrupt the safety and/or well-being of the school is subject to disciplinary action.

All District students shall review this policy and associated technology guidelines before students utilize any school and/or personally owned devices. The district reserves the right to restrict student use of district-owned technologies and personally owned devices on school property or at school-sponsored events.

Students must be aware of the appropriateness of communications when using district or personally owned devices. Inappropriate communication is prohibited in any public messages, private messages, and material posted online by students.

The Board expressly prohibits the use of personally owned devices in locker rooms, restrooms, and the nurse’s office.

Students are not permitted to use any electronic device to record audio or video media or take pictures of any student or staff member without their permission. The distribution of any unauthorized media may result in discipline including, but not limited to, suspension, criminal charges, and expulsion.

Personally owned devices used in school are not permitted to connect to the Internet through a 3G, 4G, or other content service providers. Personally owned devices must access the Internet via the district’s content filtered wireless network.

DISCIPLINARY STRUCTURE

Minor Misconduct

Minor misconduct involves minor misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom procedure, or interferes with the orderly operation of the school and/or school sponsored activities.

These behaviors are to be handled by the individual staff member; however, such misbehavior may be indicative of a problem that should be referred to appropriate support staff. An accurate record of the offense, intervention and disciplinary action must be submitted by the staff member in the discipline system. Recurrence of misbehavior may require a referral to the administration for further intervention and disciplinary action.

Examples of Minor Behaviors:

• Student walks around the room.
• Student is not prepared for class.
• Student does not comply with teacher directive.
• Student yells, argues, talks back or swears at a teacher.
• Student is talking with other classmates.
• Student talks out of turn.
• Student engages in verbal altercation with or about  another student.
• Student has undergarments sticking out, hats, hoods, blankets, etc. or clothing
  has inappropriate content on it.
• Student swears or makes derogatory remarks to classmates.
• Student plagiarizes, copies or lies.
• Student exhibits other forms of dishonesty.
• Student pokes, trips, elbows, pushes another student.
• Student touches another student’s belongings without permission.
• Student leaves garbage around.
• Student has food or drink out in class.
• Student writes on the desk.
• Student is tardy <10 times to class per semester.
• Student uses phone during class time for communication or entertainment.
• Student has earbuds in ears.
• Student’s personal technology is visible.

Options available to staff members for discipline after minor misconduct:

• Verbal reprimand
• Student conference
• Special assignment
• Behavioral contract
• Conference with student/teacher/counselor
• Conference with parent/student/teacher
• Teacher assigned and monitored detention

After the above disciplinary options have been exhausted, the discipline may proceed to Level II.

Major Misconduct

Major misconduct involves behavior whose frequency or seriousness disrupts the learning climate of the school or school sponsored activities. Those acts that are criminal in nature may automatically be referred to the appropriate law enforcement office. Disciplinary actions will be taken in all cases and parents or guardians will

be informed by letter of the infraction. Out-of-school suspensions are imposed on students whose

behavior threatens the safety and well-being of the students and staff. No person has the right to threaten or harm anyone in our school.

These infractions may result from the continuation of minor misconduct behaviors and require the intervention of personnel on the administrative level or other specified persons. Teachers are required to: 1) Discuss all disciplinary referrals with students, 2) Communicate appropriately with parent(s) or guardian(s) in a timely manner, and 3) Submit a referral to the discipline record system.

A proper and accurate record of the offense is documented by the staff member and the student is referred to the administration for appropriate disciplinary action. The teacher/parent/student is informed of the action. A proper and accurate record of the offense and the disciplinary action is maintained with a copy forwarded to the teacher.

Examples of Major Misconduct Behaviors:

• Student uses aggressive or foul language.
• Student makes a verbal threat toward faculty.
• Student starts or plans an intentional fire.
• Student makes a threat or causes a false alarm.
• Student sexually harrasses another student or staff member.
• Student continually harrasses or threatens another student either on
  school property or via social media.
• Student is refusing directives at a level that is very disruptive to the classroom.
• Student is refusing to clean up or put away food or drink.
• Student is yelling, arguing, talking back, etc.
• Student is intentionally talking with other classmates over the teacher.
• Student intentionally talks out of turn.
• Student intentionally engages in verbal altercation with or about another student.
• Student is wearing non-school appropriate dress, refusing to change clothes, or
  is wearing apparel that contains inappropriate content such as sexual images or violence.
• Student is in a physical fight.
• Student is engaging in habitual plagiarism, forgery, and intellectual theft.
• Overt support of gang affiliation.
• Student engages in aggressive pressure or intimidation of another based on gender,
  sexuality, race, religion, ethnicity, or disability.
• Student participates in excessive public displays of affection.
• Student leaves school without permission.
• Student is habitually deceitful with malicious intent.
• Any behavior that is extremely disruptive to the educational process
  and is not defined in the other areas of this chart.
• Student is involved in a physical fight.
• Student plans or executes major destruction or vandalism.
• Student habitually leaves or avoids class without permission.
• Student is tardy to class >10 times per semester.
• Student uses school technology to access illegal websites.
• Student consistently uses phone / earbuds in school.
• Student accumulates enough truancy to be referred to the magistrate.
• Student has alcohol in school or on school property.
• Student is intoxicated in school or on school property.
• Student is in possession of matches, lighters, firecrackers, gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.
• Student has illegal drugs in school or on school property.
• Student is intoxicated in school or on school property.
• Student has possession of or is using an e-cigarette on school property.
• Student has cigarettes or chewing tobacco in school or on school property.
• Student has possession of or is using an e-cigarette on school property.
• Student has a weapon in school or on school property.

*Initial minor dress code violations will be attempted to be resolved by conference with student and guidance counselor, school nurse or administrator. Subsequent violations will result in further disciplinary consequences.

Possible disciplinary consequences available to administrators for discipline after major misconduct:

• Office detention
• Conference with parent/guardian/student/administrator/counselor
• 1-3 days out-of-school suspension – parental contact by letter/telephone
• Loss of driving privileges for two weeks
• 1-3 days in-school suspension
• Required conference with parent/guardian/student/administrator for reinstatement
• Other referrals as deemed appropriate by the administration
• Referral to the appropriate law enforcement office
• Confiscation of device by staff member and submission to office
• Device is only returned to parent/guardian
• Mandatory enrollment in the Northgate Online Learning Academy
• 10 days out-of-school suspension – parental contact by letter/telephone
• Superintendent review
• All violations of the Criminal Code will be referred to appropriate authorities

Although the consequences above are available for discipline, the specific discipline will be

determined by an investigation of the incident and consistent with policies and procedures. Any behavior on the part of the student that includes acts of violence directed towards persons/property that pose a threat to the health, safety, welfare and/or morals of others in the school and/or materially disrupts the educational environment may result in the immediate removal of the student from the school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities and action by the Board of School Directors.

Parents or guardians will be contacted as soon as possible. A letter will also be forwarded with the infraction and disciplinary action taken.

TEACHER ASSIGNED DETENTION

Teacher assigned detention is held before and after school for thirty (30) minutes. Arrival for morning detention is anytime between 7:15 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., and runs for thirty (30) minutes after The student checks in at detention. The thirty (30) minute morning detention must be served by 8 a.m. After school detention is from the end of the day until 3:45 p.m. Be prompt and bring schoolwork to do. Teacher Detention is the least stringent form of disciplinary action. Assigned detention must be honored first before any other activity. All students must bring textbooks or other learning materials to assigned detention locations.

OFFICE DETENTION

Any student missing a teacher assigned detention will be assigned a one hour detention after school from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. Office detention may also be assigned as deemed appropriate by an administrator. Students are not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities until detention is served.

IN-SCHOOL DETENTION

Students who are assigned in-school detention will remain in the designated room for a determined period assigned by an administrator. Administrators may assign activities related to restorative practices for students to complete during their detention. Students will need to comply with all faculty instructions in order to successfully complete their in-school detention assignment. Missed assignments will be provided to the student while he or she is assigned in-school detention.

REFERRAL TO THE NORTHGATE ONLINE LEARNING ACADEMY

A student may be required to participate in the Northgate Online Learning Academy for a period of time as designated by an administrator.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION

Students who are assigned a full day of in-school suspension will report to the designated room at the start of the school day and remain there until the school day ends. The student’s teachers will provide assignments. The student will be able to order a bagged sandwich lunch from the cafeteria service. No student may engage as a spectator or participate in any extracurricular activity during the calendar day(s) that he/she is to service the in-school suspension.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS

A student serving out-of-school suspension is not permitted to be on school property during the assigned suspension. Special exceptions to this protocol may be made by an administrator, for example, in the case of state testing. No student may engage as a spectator or participate in any extracurricular activity during the calendar day(s), as well as weekend days/school holidays if applicable, that he/she is to serve the out-of-school suspension. For example, if a student is to serve an out-of-school suspension on Friday and the suspension carries over to Monday of the following week, the student is not permitted to engage as a spectator or participate in any extracurricular activity on Saturday or Sunday.

POSSESSION OF WEAPONS OR FACSIMILE

Weapons and replicas of weapons, including toys, are forbidden on school property, while traveling to and from school or at school-sanctioned events.

Weapons shall include, but are not limited to, the following: firearms, knives, metal knuckles, straight razors, explosives or other items fashioned with the intent to use, sell, harm, threaten or harass students, staff members, parents and patrons.

“Dangerous weapon” means any weapon, device, instrument, material or substance, animate or inanimate, which under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to be used or threatened to be used, is readily capable of causing death or serious physical injury.

Any loaded or unloaded firearm or dangerous weapon possessed on or about a person while on District property is subject to seizure or forfeiture and will automatically be turned over to the police.

Consequences:

• Incidents of anyone possessing weapons shall be documented and reported to the appropriate authorities, including parents or legal guardians when appropriate, and to the police chief.
• Immediate suspension will be in force and due process hearings arranged. Expulsion may be recommended.
• Proper disciplinary and/or legal action will be taken against individuals who possess weapons and with anyone who assists possession in any way.

For purposes of this policy, school property means the school, school grounds, school buses or any premises, grounds or vehicles used for official school purposes.

The Superintendent has the right to oversee and judge the discipline process and weapons violations.

USE OF TOBACCO AND TOBACCO VAPING PRODUCTS

The Northgate School District is committed to the protection of the public health and comfort of all parties by requiring and controlling tobacco use in its school buildings, buses and on school property owned or leased by the District. To this end, and to be in compliance with Act 168 of 1988 and Act 145 of 1996, the District has enacted this Tobacco Use Policy.

All students enrolled in a course of study in the District, including pupils age 18 or over, are strictly prohibited from engaging in tobacco use or possession of tobacco products in school buildings and buses and on school property owned or controlled by the District. School property includes all of the grounds and parking facilities adjacent to the District’s school buildings.

For purposes of this policy, tobacco includes a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other smoking product or material and smokeless tobacco in any form, and e-cigarettes and/or vapor cigarettes.

Penalties for tobacco use by pupils:

• Legal Penalty

• Possession : In 1996, the Pennsylvania Legislature approved, and Governor Thomas Ridge signed into law, Act 145 of 1996, subjecting students to potential criminal prosecution for possession of tobacco. Under this amendment to the State’s Criminal Code, a pupil – any student between the ages of 6 and 21 enrolled in school – who possesses or uses tobacco in a school building, school bus or on school property owned, leased or under the control of a school district, commits a summary offense.
• Student violators are subject to prosecution initiated by the local school district and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay court costs plus a fine of not more than $50.00 for the benefit of the school district in which the offending pupil resides. In lieu of imposing a fine, courts may admit offenders to an Adjudication Alternative Program (such as a community service or counseling). Act 145, though, expressly states that a summary offense under this legislation will neither be a criminal offense of record, be as a criminal act, nor be placed on the criminal record of the offender.

• School Discipline

• A first offense violating the Smoking Policy in school buildings will result in progressive discipline as determined by the principal.  In lieu of discipline, the student may opt to participate in an anti-smoking program approved by the school district.  Any fees associated with the program are the responsibility of the student/parent.  This option is only available after the first offense.  Any subsequent offenses will result in disciplinary action.
• Students found using tobacco outside the school buildings on school property or at school activities may be suspended from future after school activities.

Any faculty member who witnesses cigarette smoke coming from a restroom stall has the authority to report the student(s) to the office for further disciplinary action. In short, if there is smoke coming from a stall, the student(s) will be referred to the office for smoking violations.

ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG ABUSE

Possession , use or abuse of any alcohol, drug, narcotic, look alike substance or other health-endangering compound on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities for the first time shall be subject to the
following action(s):

1. Parents or guardians shall be immediately contacted by building administration and the student shall be sent home or removed from the school for medical attention if necessary. If parents or guardians cannot be reached, the decision to get medical attention for the student or to isolate the student from other students shall be made by the administration.

2. The police department having jurisdiction over the area in which the school is located shall be notified by the Building Principal or his/her designee and that student shall be referred for appropriate action.

3. The student initially will be given a suspension if necessary for a minimum of three (3) days. Within the three (3) day suspension period, an informal hearing will be scheduled and  held with the student and his/her parents or guardians.

DISTRIBUTION

If a student is caught distributing an illicit substance there will be a temporary suspension, followed by an informal hearing. The minimum will be a ten (10) day out-of-school suspension with automatic referral to the School Board, which could result in expulsion.

VIOLATION OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE GUIDELINES AT SCHOOL SPONSORED FUNCTION 

If a student violates any portion of the Northgate Board Policy and Administrative Guidelines as they relate to substance abuse at a school sponsored function the student will be appropriately disciplined, which may include referral to local authorities.

POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent to use, sell or transfer will subject the student to the appropriate disciplinary actions of Northgate’s Board Policy and Administrative Guidelines.

Note: In all of the above, parent or guardian notification will occur as soon as possible.

DRESS CODE

An important objective of the School District is to promote a school environment that is conducive to learning and one that fosters responsible attitudes and habits, reflecting community values while also respecting a student’s right to express themselves in the way that they dress. Students are expected to respect the school community by dressing appropriately for the K-12 educational environment. Clothing may not state, imply, or depict hate speech/imagery targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any other protected classification. Clothing or jewelry displaying indecent writing, profanity, depictions or allusions to drugs, alcohol and sex, including slogans, are inappropriate and may not be worn.  Apparel of or relating to designation of gang membership, affiliation or promotion is prohibited. The following dress code requirements will be enforced:

Students must wear clothing including both a shirt with pants or skirt, or the equivalent (for example dresses, leggings, or shorts) and shoes.

Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to the thighs and tops must have shoulder straps.

If a person’s shirt does not cover the navel area, then a jacket, hoodie, or some type of coverup must be worn.

Clothing must cover undergarments.

Fulfillment of the dress code must accommodate clothing worn by students as an expression of religious beliefs (head scarves, for example) and worn by students with disabilities (protective helmets, for example).

Clothing must be suitable for all scheduled classroom activities including physical education, science labs, wood shop, and other activities where unique hazards exist.

Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as sports uniforms or safety gear.

Articles deemed unacceptable in the school building under this objective are as follows: winter coats, thick jackets, bulky pullovers, etc. may not be worn throughout the normal school day unless administrative permission is extended for special circumstances.

Dress must not interfere with the educational process or the rights of others and clothing should not, in any manner, affect the safety or welfare of the wearer or other students. Students wearing unacceptable clothing may be presented with school owned replacement garments or may be sent home for a change of clothes. Multiple violations may necessitate appropriate disciplinary measures as deemed necessary by the Principal or Assistant Principal. School-directed changes to a student’s attire or grooming should be the least restrictive and disruptive to the student’s school day. Any school dress code enforcement actions should minimize the potential loss of educational time.

Dress code procedure: When a student is not in compliance with the dress code, the teacher or faculty member will send the student to the nurse without confrontation. Simply say, "the nurse needs to see you." The teacher or faculty member will then send the nurse a message to alert her why the student is being sent to the office.

FIGHTING

Incidents of aggressive behavior compromising the safety and welfare of others, including fighting, will result in a minimum penalty of three (3) days in-school or out-of-school suspension following fact-finding. Should a student be involved in a second episode, a hearing will be scheduled to determine his or her future educational status.

GAMING

No gaming, gambling or wagering is permitted in school, on school property or at school events.

STUDENT HARASSMENT

Harassment is defined as any verbal, written, visual or physical act(s) of a sexual nature or conduct designed to reduce the dignity of that individual with respect to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age or disability. Harassment is further defined as offensive, intimidating, unwelcome actions that could reasonably be taken as objectionable by another individual.

Harassment is strictly forbidden and will not be tolerated. Harassment of any student(s) by any other student(s) or any member of the staff is contrary to the School’s commitment to provide a physically and psychologically safe environment in which to learn. Additionally, such actions are a violation of Federal and State Law.

Harassment violators shall be subject to suspension or expulsion procedures.

Procedures:

1. Any student who feels that he or she has been the subject of alleged harassment must contact the school Principal, Dean of Students, Guidance Counselor or School Resource Officer as soon as the alleged conduct occurs, or otherwise as soon as possible after the incident. This report can be oral or written, but the complaining student must submit a written and signed statement of the complaint within three (3) days of the initial report.
2. Upon receipt of the written complaint, the Principal, Dean of Students, Guidance Counselor or School Resource Officer will contact the person who initiated the alleged harassment, and inform the person on the basis of the complaint, as well as provide the opportunity to respond in writing to the allegations set forth in the complaint.
3. The Principal, Dean of Students, Guidance Counselor or School Resource Officer will conduct an investigation of the factual allegations of the complaint as expeditiously as possible. Witnesses (if any) will be interviewed when appropriate. The complainant and the individual identified as the person charged with alleged harassment will also be interviewed. All of the information obtained by the Principal, Guidance Counselor  or School Resource Officer during the investigation will be kept in confidence.
4.  If it is determined that harassment by a student has occurred, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. Violations by students will be dealt with according to the guidelines of student conduct/behavior/interventions. The severity and frequency of the offense, or other relevant conditions surrounding the incident, will determine the discipline.
5. It must be recognized that an individual’s failure to report an incident of harassment within ten (10) days of its occurrence may impair the School’s ability to investigate and deal with any unlawful harassment. Similarly, an individual’s failure to submit a written complaint within three (3) days of his or her verbal report of harassment addressing the alleged unlawful activity may affect the credibility of the person making the charge. If the individual against whom the complaint of harassment is filed fails to respond to the complaint within seven (7) days of notification by the School, the School may, nevertheless, pursue the investigation of the complaint and impose appropriate discipline.
6. Cases that involve charges against a student will be subject to the student discipline policies and procedures and all applicable State and Federal Laws.

DISCRIMINATION/TITLE IX SEXUAL HARASSMENT AFFECTING STUDENTS (BOARD POLICY NO. 103)

Authority.

The Board declares it to be the policy of this district to provide an equal opportunity for all students to achieve their maximum potential through the programs and activities offered in the schools without discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, marital status, pregnancy or handicap/disability.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14] [15][16][17]

The Board also declares it to be the policy of this district to comply with federal law and regulations under Title IX prohibiting sexual harassment, which is a form of unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex. Such discrimination shall be referred to throughout this policy as Title IX sexual harassment. Inquiries regarding the application of Title IX to the district may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education, or both.

The district is committed to the maintenance of a safe, positive learning environment for all students that is free from discrimination by providing all students course offerings, counseling, assistance, services, employment, athletics and extracurricular activities without any form of discrimination, including Title IX sexual harassment. Discrimination is inconsistent with the rights of students and the educational and programmatic goals of the district and is prohibited at or, in the course of, district sponsored programs or activities, including transportation to or from school or school-sponsored activities.

Violations of this policy, including acts of retaliation as described in this policy, or knowingly providing false information, may result in disciplinary consequences under applicable Board policy and procedures. [18][19][20][21]

DATING VIOLENCE (BOARD POLICY NO. 252)

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe, positive learning environment for all students that is free from dating violence. Dating violence is inconsistent with the educational goals of the district and is prohibited at all times.

Definitions

Dating partner shall mean a person, regardless of gender, involved in an intimate relationship with another person, primarily characterized by the expectation of affectionate involvement, whether casual, serious or long-term.[1]

Dating violence shall mean behavior where one person uses threats of, or actually uses, physical, sexual, verbal or emotional abuse to control the person’s dating partner.[1]

Authority

The Board encourages students who have been subjected to dating violence to promptly report such incidents.

The district shall investigate promptly all complaints of dating violence and shall administer appropriate discipline to any student who violates this policy.[2]

Title IX Sexual Harassment and Other Discrimination

Every report of alleged dating violence that can be interpreted at the outset to fall within the provisions of policies addressing potential violations of laws against discrimination shall be handled as a joint, concurrent investigation into all allegations and coordinated with the full participation of the Compliance Officer and Title IX Coordinator. If, in the course of a dating violence investigation, potential issues of discrimination are identified, the Title IX Coordinator shall be promptly notified, and the investigation shall be conducted jointly and concurrently to address the issues of alleged discrimination as well as the incidents of alleged dating violence.[3][4]

Discipline of Student Convicted or Adjudicated of Sexual Assault

Upon notification of a conviction or adjudication of a student in this district for sexual assault against another student enrolled in this district, the district shall comply with the disciplinary requirements established by state law and Board policy.[5][6]

Guidelines

Complaint Procedure

When a student believes that they have been subject to dating violence, the student is encouraged to promptly report the incident, orally or in writing, to the building principal, guidance counselor, and classroom teacher. The building principal shall conduct a timely, impartial, and comprehensive investigation of the alleged dating violence.

The building principal shall prepare a written report summarizing the investigation and recommending disposition of the complaint. The complainant and the accused shall be informed of the outcome of the investigation.[1] If the investigation results in a substantiated finding of dating violence, the building principal shall recommend appropriate disciplinary action, as circumstances warrant, in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.[1][2]

The district shall document the corrective action taken and, where not prohibited by law, inform the complainant.

This policy on dating violence shall be:[1]

• Published in the Code of Student Conduct.
• Published in the Student Handbook.
• Made available on the district’s website, if available.
• Provided to parents/guardians.

Dating Violence Training

The district may provide dating violence training to guidance counselors, nurses, and mental health staff at the high school as deemed necessary. At the discretion of the Superintendent, parents/guardians and other staff may also receive training on dating violence.[1]

Dating Violence Education

The district may incorporate age-appropriate dating violence education into the annual health curriculum framework for students in grades nine through twelve. The district shall consult with at least one (1) local domestic violence program or rape crisis program when developing the educational program.[1][7]

A parent/guardian of a student under the age of eighteen (18) shall be permitted to examine the instructional materials for the dating violence education program.[1][8]

BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING (BOARD POLICY NO. 249)

The Board is committed to providing a safe, positive learning environment for district students. The Board recognizes that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, the Board prohibits bullying by district students.

Bullying means an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students, which occurs in a school setting that is severe, persistent or pervasive and has the effect of doing any of the following:[1]

1. Substantially interfering with a student’s education.
2. Creating a threatening environment.
3. Substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying.

School setting means in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop or at any activity sponsored, supervised or sanctioned by the school.[1]

HAZING (BOARD POLICY NO. 247)

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe, positive environment for students and staff that is free from hazing. Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the district and are prohibited at all times.

INTERNET

Access to the Internet will enable students to use thousands of libraries and databases. Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. Families should be warned that some material accessible via the Internet might contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive to some people. While our intent is to make Internet access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access other materials as well. Filtering software is in use, but no filtering system is capable of blocking 100% of the inappropriate material available on the Internet. We believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed any disadvantages. 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. To that end, the Northgate Schools support and respect each family's right to decide whether or not to apply for access.

Violations of this policy by students will be handled within the guidelines of the student code of conduct/demerit policy. Violations may result in a loss of access as well as other disciplinary or legal action (as outlined in the Discipline Policy.) Multiple offenses may result in the loss of all district computer privileges.

The following are some examples of inappropriate behavior:

• Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures
• Using obscene language
• Giving personal information, such as complete name, phone number, address or identifiable photo, without permission from teacher and parent or guardian
• Harassing, insulting, or attacking others
• Damaging or modifying computers, computer systems, or computer networks
• Violating copyright laws
• Using others’ passwords
• Trespassing in others’ folders, work, or files
• Intentionally wasting limited resources
• Employing the network for commercial purposes, financial gain, or fraud
• Installation of unapproved software – Chat instant message programs
• Modifying software settings
• Creating public email accounts (Hotmail, Yahoo that would be used for sending data to/from
  home and school

VANDALISM

Tax dollars are expended each year to provide the student body with the most pleasant environment possible. It is the civic responsibility of each of us to keep our school clean and attractive for everyone. Students committing vandalism will be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. Students are also responsible for restitution for any damage they cause.

DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

Excessive displays of affection (kissing, embracing, etc.) are prohibited in school. Violators will be referred to the Administration for appropriate action.

SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS (BOARD POLICY NO. 233)

The Board recognizes that exclusion from the educational program of the schools, whether by suspension or expulsion, is the most severe sanction that can be imposed on a student and one that cannot be imposed without due process. The Board shall define and publish the types of offenses that would lead to exclusion from school. Exclusions affecting students with disabilities shall be governed by applicable state and federal law and regulations.[1][2][3][4][5]

ACADEMIC/EXTRACURRICULAR/ATHLETIC

PLAGIARISM/CHEATING

Plagiarism is defined as taking or imitating the ideas, thoughts or language of another and representing them as one’s original work. It is imperative that all work submitted by a student be representative of his/her own ideas, thoughts and especially language capability. Cheating is deliberately giving or receiving improper assistance on assignments or tests. Therefore, plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited in all work pertaining to school. A grade of “F” or “Zero” will be awarded for any submitted work which is found to be the work of another (student, author, encyclopedia, etc.) and can result in suspension and/or removal from the class at the recommendation of the teacher and at the discretion of the Principal. Teachers will use software to identify plagiarism.

If the ideas, thoughts or language from another source must be used in the work being done, it is the student’s responsibility to footnote or annotate the information appropriately.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION REGULATIONS

Dress Code

The Northgate Board of School Directors passed an official resolution requiring that students wear prescribed clothing in physical education classes. This action was taken in response to concerns the professional staff advanced in curricular meetings concerning health, safety and welfare considerations. Mandatory dress guidelines are as follows: white or gray t-shirt, or top, red shorts or sweatpants, appropriate athletic shoes and socks. 

Note: Failure to comply will result in no credit given to the student on each occasion.

Accountability for Credit

Students who fail to properly dress for physical education classes or fail to participate in them five (5) times in a given semester will be rescheduled for physical education in a future semester if possible. The practice of just standing or sitting around while others take gym class will not be permitted or tolerated on an on-going basis. Exceptions predicated on documented evidence from a physician or administrative excuse may be granted depending on information forwarded. Individuals who secure an excuse from a physician and/or an administrator will not be required to participate in P.E. class. Individuals who procure an excuse will be given a written assignment. Students are permitted to complete the assignment in the Library at the discretion of the Physical Education teacher. Individuals, with excuses, who do not participate in P.E. class and do not complete the required assignments, will not receive credit for the P.E. class. No credit for the course will be earned should a student be withdrawn due to dress or participation guidelines stated.

Reminder: Physical education is a requirement for graduation. 

Other Considerations

Locks are permitted on gym lockers during class time and must be removed at the end of the period. Students should remove all possessions from the lockers at the end of each gym class.

Personal articles, such as watches and money, should not be kept in lockers. Such articles should be given to the teacher for safekeeping during class. Make sure that you carefully comply with this regulation. Remember that it is your responsibility to check valuables in secure areas afforded by your teacher.

Students should make-up any legal absences or suffer the consequences of a lower grade or failure. Failures will repeat gym during an additional period rescheduled during the school day the following year.

It is the student’s responsibility to contact the teacher and arrange for make-ups. When a student is blocked out by an unusual scheduling problem, special arrangements will be made with the teacher through the guidance department. (All students involved in extracurricular activities are required to dress and participate on days of events, unless otherwise notified.) Disciplinary action may be instituted including restrictions placed on participation in extracurricular activities should physical education classes be missed without a sanctioned excuse.

When a student is on an authorized school field trip or activity, no make-up class will be required and no reduction in grade will occur. Make-up gyms can be completed after school Monday through Thursday from 3-3:30 pm, or by appointment in the morning at 7:30 am.

MEDIA CENTER/LIBRARY

The Media Center is open to students for use from 7:30 am-3:30 pm.

Students may use the media resources for research and/or recreational reading. Use of the computers will follow the guidelines stated in the Acceptable Use Policy signed by each student. Books circulate for three (3) weeks and periodicals for one (1) week. Both may be renewed. Reference books do not circulate. A fine of five (5) cents per day will be charged on overdue books. If a book is lost, the student is responsible for the cost of replacing the book.

USE OF THE MEDIA CENTER/SCHOOL LIBRARY

Students in a study hall who have a need to use the library will have two options:

1. BROWSING PASS
   If a student needs to take out a book or look at a magazine, the study hall teacher will issue a pass to the library. This will be considered a “browsing pass.” The student will be allowed to stay for 15 minutes and then they will return to their study hall.

2. RESEARCH PASS

If a student needs to do research for their entire study hall period, they need to obtain a “library research pass” from the library. The student will report to study hall, show this pass to the study hall teacher and then report to the library for the duration of the period. Students remain in the Media Center all period unless they are asked to report back to study hall because of inappropriate behavior.

TEXTBOOKS – HARDCOVER

When a textbook is issued to a student, he/she should write his/her name in ink on the inside cover. Loss or damage of a book should be reported to the teacher immediately. If the book is not found within three (3) days, a new one will be issued. The student will be financially responsible for the reasonable replacement value of the lost book as determined by the teacher, Principal or designee.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES – GRADE ELIGIBILITY

In order to be eligible for interscholastic competition, a Northgate student athlete may fail only one (1) scheduled course. Also, a Northgate student athlete must have passed at least four (4)  full-credit subjects or the equivalent. A student whose work in any grading period does not meet the above standard shall be ineligible to participate. Eligibility shall be cumulative from the beginning of a grading period and shall be reported on a weekly basis. At the end of the school year, the student’s final grades in his/her subjects, rather than his/her grades from the last grading period, shall be used to determine eligibility for the following fall athletic season.

ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY

It is the objective of the School District to provide its students with the opportunity to participate in interscholastic athletics while maintaining the priority that the student meets his/her academic potential. It is to this end that the District wishes to achieve this goal through the cooperative efforts of the students, parents/guardians, coaches, counselors, faculty and administration.

ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT

Every time Northgate participates in a competitive way, we are evaluated in all aspects of the competition – players, students and adults. We would hope that all involved demonstrate sound sportsmanship at all times and do their share to uphold the name of Northgate in a positive, exemplary way. Those people who do not demonstrate acceptable behavior will be removed from the contest and restricted from attending future athletic events.

PIAA (ATHLETICS) ATTENDANCE

A student who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of twenty or more days shall not be eligible to participate in any athletic contest until he/she has been in attendance for a total of sixty school days following the twentieth day of absence, except that where there is an excused absence due to death in the immediate family or of a near relative as defined in Section 1154 of the Public School Code of 1949, as amended, court subpoena, quarantine, or to attend a religious activity/function which the church requires its members to attend, or an excused absence of five or more school days due to the same confining illness or injury, such excused absence may be waived from the application of this rule by the Principal. Attendance at summer school does not count toward the sixty days required. When computing total days absent during a semester, days absent during a period of suspension shall count as part of the twenty-day absence total in a given semester.

TRI-ATHLETE CRITERIA

Student Athletes must participate in three-sports during the school year in order to receive recognition.

Fall Sports

• Girls’ and Boys’ Cross Country (Varsity and Middle School)
• Football (Varsity and Middle School)
• Volleyball
• Golf
• Middle School Girls’ Basketball
• Fall Cheerleading (Varsity and Middle School)
• Girls’ Soccer

Winter Sports

• Girls’ and Boys’ Swimming (Varsity)
• Wrestling (Varsity and Middle School)
• Boys’ Basketball (Varsity and Middle School)
• Girls’ Basketball (Varsity)
• Winter Cheerleading (Varsity and Middle School)

Spring Sports

• Baseball
• Softball (Varsity and Middle School)
• Boys’ and Girls’ Track (Varsity)
• Middle School Girls’ and Boys’ Swimming
• Middle School Girls’ Volleyball

MISCELLANEOUS

PERMISSION FOR USE OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT LOCKERS
For the convenience and security of the students, students are granted permission by the School District to place their personal property within the lockers. However, the School District prohibits the use of such lockers for storage of any article, the possession or control of which by the student, would violate Federal, State or local law or would violate School Board Policy. It is the policy of the School District, that the School District shall not conduct any search of any student’s locker unless the Building Principal, or a person authorized by the Building Principal to act on the Principal’s behalf, has a reasonable belief that a student’s locker contains an article, the possession of which by a student, would be in violation of Federal, State or local law, or would be in violation of School
Board Policy.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE
The Administrative Staff has the right and authority to search a student’s possessions on school property, his/her locker and any boxes and other containers brought by the student on school premises, and to seize such possessions if, in either such case, there is a reasonable suspicion that a student is involved in any criminal activities such as the possession of or use of dangerous weapons, the possession, sale or other transfer or exchange of, or use of unauthorized drugs or controlled substances or alcoholic beverages or any other acts of misconduct which seriously disrupt the health, safety and/or welfare of fellow students, teachers, administrators, other school personnel or members of the public.

Reasonable Suspicion – means that there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that a student’s locker and/or possessions will contain or include evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law of those rules of the School District which affect the health, safety and/or welfare of fellow students and/or any other persons on school property. Reasonable suspicion further is defined as a conclusion arrived at by a reasonable, prudent and conscientious person from the facts at hand; it is not caused by such improper motives as dislike for the student or malice but only from the facts which are known. If the facts as known lead a reasonable, prudent and discreet person to conclude that a student has illegal material on school property or on his/her person, or among his/her possessions, this is a reasonable suspicion.

It is prohibited for any student, while at school or on school property, to possess or have on his/her person or in a locker or container, any illegal material, to use, to sell or in any manner to transfer, exchange or otherwise dispose of any illegal material, or to engage in any conduct which will or may seriously disrupt the health, safety and/or welfare of fellow students and/or any other persons on school property.

If the student uses force to resist, the police shall be called immediately.

The Principal or his designee may search the possessions and/or locker and/or container of a specific student, or groups of students, if reasonable suspicion exists for the search. The Principal or his designee may search vehicles.

The Principal shall have authority to institute appropriate disciplinary action concerning any student violating the Northgate Search and Seizure Policy and/or these Administrative Procedures and to cause the same to be
carried out.

RESTROOM POLICY

The restrooms in the school are provided for the benefit of all students. They are to be used only for the intended purpose.

• Students are not to loiter or linger in the restroom.
• The Administration and teaching staff will monitor the restrooms.
• Keep your restrooms clean and orderly. Be respectful of others who use the
  restrooms. Remember that this is your school.

Please report any restroom damage or maintenance problems immediately to the Main Office. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in disciplinary action and the restriction of lavatory privileges.

USE OF ELEVATOR

The elevator is provided to meet the needs of students whose physical status is limited and/or where special circumstances are unique. No students are to use the elevator except those with permission secured from the
Main Office.

FIRE AND WEATHER EMERGENCY DRILLS
Drills (phased evacuations) are necessary by law and are conducted for the safety of the student body. Strict observance of the teachers’ instructions must be expected of all. Avoid talking and move quickly – when you move slowly, the safety of others behind you is jeopardized.

Anyone who deliberately pulls a fire alarm without cause will be subject to firm disciplinary action including suspension, expulsion and/or legal prosecution in the Commonwealth Courts.

HALL PASSES
All students must obtain a hall pass from the teacher to leave the classroom.

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FOOD SERVICE PRICING AND CHARGE PROCEDURES
The Northgate School District participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program which provides a nutritious FREE breakfast and lunch to all children enrolled in the district regardless of family income. 

All meals meet federal and state guidelines. This program does not apply to extra entrees and ala carte items. Students must take 3 of the 4 items offered at breakfast, and 1 of those items must be a ½ cup fruit. At lunch, students must take 3 of the 5 items offered and 1 of those items must be a ½ cup fruit or vegetable.

Students who wish to purchase an extra entree, one of our snack options, or just a milk must pay for them. Charging the sale of these items will not be permitted.

Payment Options

The Community Eligibility Provision Program does not cover the cost of extra servings, or ala carte items such as snacks and beverages, you will need to use one of these payment options to fund your child’s account.

Pay Online: View your child's purchase history and make payments at www.payschoolscentral.com. Payments can be set up automatically or add money as needed. A convenience fee will be charged at the time of payment. Payments will update to your account within 24-48 hours but as quickly as 30 minutes. You can set up an alert to notify you when your student's meal account has fallen below the amount you have specified. We recommend you set up the low balance reminder at $10 to provide families with enough time to add additional funds.

Many parents/guardians want to monitor their student's eating habits, but continue to send a check or cash in with the student. It is FREE to create an online account with www.payschoolscentral.com, monitor your student's eating habits and create low balance alerts. The only time you are charged a fee is if you choose to pay online. We recommend all families create an account to monitor spending. 

Pay Cash: When sending in cash for elementary students, please place the cash in an envelope with your child’s name and have them give it to their teacher. Secondary students may hand cash to the cashier during breakfast or lunch service.

Pay By Check: Make checks payable to the Northgate Cafeteria Fund and please record your student's name and student ID number on the check. When sending a check for elementary students, please place the check in an envelope with your child’s name and have them give it to their teacher. Secondary students may hand the check to the cashier during breakfast or lunch service.

It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to pay for any previously accrued meal charges. For more information, please review the Northgate Food Services Policy.

NORTHGATE SCHOOL DISTRICT FOOD SERVICE AND MEAL ACCOUNT
BALANCE PROCEDURES

Purpose

• To establish fair and consistent rules regarding meal account charges and expectations of payment for service rendered.
• To establish fair and consistent rules that allow the food service department to collect all monies due to the school district for meal service provided.
• To build positive and clear communication between the district food service, school district staff, and the community regarding these guidelines.

Payments

• It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to monitor and keep students’ meal accounts funded
  at all times.
• An online account can be set up at www.payschoolscentral.com to monitor student balances.

Negative Meal Account Balances

It is expected that student meal accounts be funded for extra servings or ala carte items . We do understand that occasionally negative balances can occur; therefore, the following rules will apply regarding charges to students’ meal accounts:

• No student who requests a meal will be denied a lunch option, unless the student’s parent or guardian has provided a written request to the Food Service Department to withhold a school lunch or to not allow a la carte options. When documentation from the parent or guardian has been provided, items can be removed from the student’s tray at the register.
• A school meal option must include three of the five components; one must be a fruit or vegetable. The five lunch components are: Meat/Meat Alternative, Grain, Fruit, Vegetable, and Milk. Entrees consist of the Meat/Meat Alternative and Grain options(i.e., pizza slice, grill sandwich, salad bar or deli sandwich).
• When all components of a breakfast or lunch are not taken, the cashier must charge a la carte prices for the food items.
• Students will not be reminded at the register of their current balance. Students may request their balance from the cashier. All balance notifications will be sent to the parent/guardian.
• When purchases are made with cash, change should be issued to the students except when the student asks for the balance to be applied to his/her meal account.
• In the event that a student’s meal account is over - $50.00 and two attempts have been made to collect the debt without response, the district will use a third party collection agency to complete the collection process.

End of Year Meal Account Balances

• Students in Grade 12 – All monies owed to the district food service must be paid in full prior to graduation.
• Students in Grades K-11 – If a positive or negative balance is left in a student's account at the end of the school year, that balance will remain and carry over into the next school year.

LUNCH IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS 

We employ a computerized meal service system. The purpose of the system is to allow parents to prepay for extra servings, or ala carte items. All students must have their student ID number daily to obtain a lunch. 

CAFETERIA BEHAVIOR
The cafeteria is a pleasant and clean place to eat. It is a student’s responsibility to observe and practice proper etiquette and good manners. Cutting in line, throwing food, panhandling and leaving trash at the table will not be tolerated. Students are not permitted to leave the building or the cafeteria during lunch periods. Lunch is a class and the same rules apply.

ASSEMBLIES
Be considerate of fellow students by remaining quiet so that all can hear the presentations from the stage. Show appreciation by applauding. Shouting, yelling, whistling, etc., will not be tolerated.

SCHOOL BUS SAFETY

Students are subject to the same disciplinary guidelines while riding on a school bus as they are while attending Northgate Middle/High School. Also, students are to follow all instructions of the bus driver. Any violation of these guidelines may result in the loss of transportation privileges as deemed necessary by the school administrator.

DRIVING/PARKING REGULATIONS AND MOTOR VEHICLE SEARCHES
The primary concern of the Board and Administration with regard to the operation of motor vehicles on District property is the health, safety and welfare of all District students and the fostering of an educational environment. No student of the Northgate School District shall operate a motor vehicle upon school premises without prior written permission from the Building Principal. Applications for parking permits are available in the main office of the Secondary School building and must be completed and returned before a permit is issued.

Student vehicles, while on District property, are subject to plain view inspections by any District employee. The Building Principal may also conduct a physical inspection of any student motor vehicle on District property when, in his/her judgment, there exists reasonable grounds to suspect that illegal or unauthorized materials are contained within the motor vehicle or that the motor vehicle contains items which may be a threat to (1) the health, safety and welfare of any student, employee or visitor of the School District or (2) the School District’s facilities or property. The student will be informed prior to the physical inspection of the student vehicle. For the mutual protection of students, staff and property, the undersigned agree to abide by all the rules and regulations established by Northgate School District, some of which are:

1. Return the completed application to the High School Main Office.
2. Automobile insurance, vehicle registration and valid driver’s license must be presented with the application. (A photocopy will be kept on file)
3. The parking tag will be properly displayed on the vehicle rear view mirror while on school property.
4. Park only in the assigned lot prior to, during or after school.
5. Observe the 15 mile per hour speed limit on all school property.
6. Faculty members are assigned to control conditions in the student lot; you must respond to all faculty requests.
7. Excessive absences or tardiness and/or major violations of the High School Code of Conduct will result in loss of parking permit and driving privileges.
8. Violation of Northgate Driving Rules/Regulations may result in a vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense from the Northgate parking lot.

DRIVING TO/FROM A.W. BEATTIE CAREER CENTER

Students are discouraged from driving to A.W. Beattie Career Center due to the district provided transportation. Individuals who want to drive to A.W. Beattie must secure permission from Northgate and A.W. Beattie Administrations. Students driving to A.W. Beattie must adhere to all A.W. Beattie and Northgate Middle/High School driving regulations. Students are reminded that loitering in the parking lot is not permitted and once students leave the Northgate parking lot, they are not permitted to return until they have attended A.W. Beattie classes on that day. Individuals who drive cannot transport other students without Administrative approval.

BULLETIN BOARDS

There are non-classroom bulletin boards in the school designated for general announcements. No student is to place any announcement or poster on any bulletin board unless pre-approved and initialed by the Principal or his designee. Tape is not to be used on the walls and/or bulletin boards. Magnets, tacks and adhesive tabs are available in the Main Office.

SCHOOL INSURANCE

School accident insurance is made available to students at a group rate, which lowers the premium considerably.

PA announcements will be made to all students at the beginning of the year regarding the availability of student insurance. Students may obtain brochures in the Middle/High School Main Office. Should you have any questions or concerns with respect to the policies offered and their procurement, please contact Mrs. Eileen Shamonsky in the Northgate Middle/High School Main Office at (412) 732-3300 Ext. 1000.

Parents are advised to read the insurance brochure carefully because, like all insurance policies, there are exclusions. Any expenses that occur and are exclusions under the policy are the financial responsibility of
the parent.

Note: The School District will provide insurance for all students participating in middle or high school interscholastic athletics because these activities are excluded from the regular school student insurance.

MEDICATION PROCEDURE

Every effort should be made to administer medication at home. If it becomes necessary for a student to receive prescription medication during the school day, a special medication form must be filled out by the attending physician and signed by the parent. These forms are available in the Nurse’s Office.

Non-prescription medication (including Advil/Tylenol) will be given at the Nurse’s discretion and only with
parental permission.

All medications must be supplied by the parent and kept in the Nurse’s Office. All prescription medication must be in the original labeled pharmacy container. All non-prescription medications must be in original packaging and labeled with the student’s name.

Students may possess and use asthma inhalers and epinephrine auto-injectors when permitted in accordance with state law and Board policy.

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

Visitors are cordially welcomed at Northgate Middle/High School for appropriate and legitimate reasons. All visitors are expected to sign-in at the Main Office and receive a visitor’s pass. You must follow the visitor’s pass policy.  If an intruder is in the building without a visitor’s pass they will be handled as a trespasser. They will be asked to leave the school premises and if they are not cooperative, local authorities will be called. Students are not permitted to request a visitor’s pass for a friend who does not attend Northgate. These requests will be denied.

DELIVERIES

During the school day, students may only receive items that are delivered to the Main Office. This includes books, materials, homework and clothes. Students are not permitted to receive or bring fast food (commercial food of any kind) into the school during the school day.

WALKING TO AND FROM SCHOOL

Students are to use the public thoroughfares only. Walking through private property is a violation of the rights of the property owner and may result in arrest for illegal trespass. The main entrance and exit to school by pedestrian traffic is Glaser Avenue. Students walking to school are not to enter the school grounds via Union Avenue and Century Drive.

WITHDRAWALS

If, for any reason, a student must withdraw from school, his/her parent/guardian of record must report to the Main Office to sign a withdrawal form. Information regarding the student’s new address and school district is required for completion of the withdrawal form. Final clearing of all withdrawals requires the signature of the Principal or his designee.

DELAY IN SCHOOL HOURS DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER

When conditions warrant, students, parents and guardians should listen to KDKA (1020 AM) Radio for any possible delay in starting the school day. Be careful that you listen for “Northgate” and do not confuse Northgate with the city schools or schools with names sounding similar to Northgate. You may also check online at www.KDKA.com. Select School Closings and Delays for an accurate listing of any delay/cancellation.

When school is delayed, make sure you leave home early enough to arrive 2 hours after the regular morning start time because the regular rules of tardiness and absences are applied to delayed openings. When it is necessary to be absent on any delay day, bear in mind you are missing class work that will require make-up work if your absence is an excused one.

A.W. Beattie Career Center determines their own delays/cancellations. Students who attend Beattie should listen to KDKA Radio for any possible delay/cancellation information. This information can also be obtained on their website, www.beattietech.com. If Beattie is delayed or canceled, bus transportation will not be provided and students should report to Northgate at 10:15.

GRADING & GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

PROGRESS REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS

Parents/guardians will be notified when a progress report is available using Parent Portal after the first 4 ½ weeks of every 9 week grading period and a parental conference may be requested at that time. Parents/guardians, should they desire, can access a student’s current progress at any time using Parent Portal.

ADDING AND DROPPING A COURSE

Schedule changes for the academic year will be processed during the first ten (10) days of school if deemed educationally sound. Changes should be initiated with the student’s assigned guidance counselor. No other amendments to a schedule may be made, without consequences, unless appropriately substantiated by written documentation and ultimately approved by the Building Principal.

HONOR ROLL

An Honor Roll will be calculated after each quarter. All courses will be included in calculating grade averages in proportion to the particular amount of credit given each course. The Honor Roll will be as follows:

Distinguished Honors         95% - 100%+

High Honors                 90% - 94.99%

Honors                         85% - 89.99%

Note: Students achieving three consecutive certificates in Distinguished Honors will receive a certificate of distinction at the awards program in May.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

The National Honor Society recognizes students for academic achievement, character, leadership and service. Students in grades 10-12 with an NPA of 87.5% or higher are invited to complete a personal information form. To be considered for acceptance, students must have at least 30 hours of community service in the 12 months prior to application, proof of leadership and have upstanding character determined by teacher evaluations. Candidates are voted on by a faculty committee. The National Honor Society is nationally recognized as the most prestigious honor a student can achieve during their high school career.

GRADES

The best way to avoid failure is to, at all times, work to your ability and contact your teacher immediately for special help when you feel you are having difficulty. Grades will be issued based on performance each nine (9) weeks. The final report card will be mailed.

Incomplete grades may change the final average to “failing.” Regardless of a student’s average, any course may be failed by not meeting course requirements. Our entire grading system is based on the premise that one is held accountable for completing all requirements.

Note: Courses dropped after ten (10) days at the beginning of a semester may result in a withdrawal and an “F” grade, unless approved by the principal.

Numeric Grade                 Evaluation

90 – 100                 Superior Achievement

80 – 89                 Above Average

70 – 79                         Average

60 – 69                 Below Average

50 – 59                 Failing

I                         Incomplete

W/P                         (Withdrawal/Pass) Passing

W/F                         (Withdrawal/Fail) Failing

Core Subjects Only

English, Science, Social Studies and Mathematics – Final examinations may be scheduled and required. The grade weight for each nine-week grading period for core subjects will be 22% of one’s grade. The final exam’s value is 12%.

Each nine-week grading period 22% x 4 = 88%

Final examination grade 12% x 1 = 12%

TOTAL 100%

CLASS RANK

Students are graded on a numeric grading scale.
These percentages are as follows:

90 – 100% = A

80 – 89% = B

70 – 79% = C

60 – 69% = D

0 – 59% = F

Class rank is cumulative and is computed using all grades earned while attending Northgate High School. The official ranking is completed at the end of each academic year. The grade earned in a course taken for make-up is recorded in addition to the grade originally earned in that course; however, credit is granted only once. Summer school grades become part of the record for the following school term and will not affect class rank until the end of the next school year.

Students electing advanced and identified accelerated courses have an opportunity to improve their class rank on the weighted scale. The extra weight is given to courses by increasing the quality point value of the grades earned in the course. All Advanced Placement (AP) courses are weighted by (10) additional percentage points, and College in the High School (CIHS) courses are weighted by (5) additional percentage points.

REVIEW OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS BY PARENTS/GUARDIANS AND STUDENTS Upon request by a parent/guardian or student, the district will make available existing information about the curriculum, including academic standards to be achieved, instructional materials and assessment techniques.

The following conditions shall apply to any request:

1. To assist the school district in providing the correct records to meet the needs of the requesting party, the request must be in writing, setting forth the specific material being sought for review.
2. The written request will be sent to the building principal or designee.
3. The district will respond to the parent/guardian or student within ten (10) school days by designating the time and location for the review.
4. The district may take necessary action to protect its materials from loss, damage or alteration and to ensure the integrity of the files, including the provision of a designated employee to monitor the review of the materials.
5. No parent/guardian or student shall be permitted to remove the material provided for review or photocopy the contents of such file. The taking of notes by parents/guardians and students is permitted.

No more than one (1) request per semester may be made by any parent/guardian or student for each enrolled child.

Under federal law, the rights provided to parents/guardians to inspect any instructional materials used as part of the student’s educational curriculum transfer to the student when the student turns eighteen (18) years old or is an emancipated minor. These rights do not transfer under state law; therefore, parents/guardians retain their rights to access information about the curriculum and to review instructional materials.

GRADUATION ELIGIBILITY AND COMMENCEMENT

Northgate Seniors who have met the following requirements will be eligible for graduation and participation in Commencement. The requirements include the following: successfully meeting all Commonwealth of Pennsylvania educational requirements, completing a Culminating Project, and meeting all Northgate Board of Education requirements which include successfully completing, with a passing mark, the required courses and earning a minimum of 24.5 credits.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

The minimum high school graduation requirements as set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education
and the Northgate School Board are as follows:

*Students may satisfy the Algebra requirement in 8th grade. These students are still required to complete a minimum of 3.0 credits of mathematics coursework during grades 9-12.

Personal Finance may apply to one credit of social studies, mathematics, business education, or family and consumer science.

SCHOOL COUNSELING

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parents and guardians are encouraged to keep in contact with their child’s teachers. If there is a need to meet with your child’s teacher, please adhere to the following:

1. Contact your child’s counselor and let them know you would like to schedule a meeting with your
   child’s teacher(s).
2. The counselor will establish a convenient meeting time for all parties.

COUNSELING

Each student is assigned a counselor. Students are requested to go to the Guidance Office during non-class time unless a counselor has requested otherwise. The time for impromptu visits is during study hall periods. A pass should be obtained from the Guidance Secretary prior to your visit and shown to your study hall teacher prior to going to the Guidance Office. Students are also encouraged to visit the guidance counselors after dismissal.

SUICIDE AWARENESS, PREVENTION AND RESPONSE

The Board of School Directors is committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of its students and school community. This policy supports federal, state and local efforts to provide education on youth suicide awareness and prevention; establish methods of prevention, intervention, and response to suicide or suicide attempt; and to promote access to suicide awareness and prevention resources.

In compliance with state law and regulations, and in support of the district’s suicide prevention measures, information received in confidence from a student may be revealed to the student’s parents/guardians, the building principal or other appropriate authority when the health, welfare or safety of the student or any other person is deemed to be at risk.

The district shall utilize a multifaceted approach to suicide prevention which integrates school and community-based supports. The district shall notify district employees, students and parents/guardians of this policy and shall post the policy on the district’s website.