Marcellus High School Alma Mater

Sing a song for old Marcellus.

Shout aloud the cheer.

Lift glad hearts and voices, in a ring-ing, rousing song of love and praise for

Old Marcellus best of high schools,

school we love most dear. May thy sons and daughters thy name revere.

Table of Contents

• Letter from the Principal
• District Personnel
• Faculty and Staff List
• Daily Bell Schedule
• One and Two Hour Delay Schedule
• Counseling
• The School Counseling Program
• Health Services
• Extracurricular Activities
• Interscholastic Athletics
• Extracurricular/Athletic Participation
• Academic Integrity
• Discipline
• Bullying and Conflict 
• Attendance
• Building Safety and Security
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Cell Phone Policy
• Student Dress Code

Letter from the Principal

Dear Mustang Students,

Welcome to a new academic year at Marcellus Senior High School.  Whether you are returning students or joining us for the first time, I want to extend the warmest of welcomes to you.  

High school is a pivotal time in your lives; filled with limitless possibilities and opportunities for growth.  This is a time to explore your interests, discover your passions, and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the future.  As your principal, my goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and relentlessly supportive environment where you can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.  Through positive connections, it is our goal to have every student feel a sense of belonging to their school - because Marcellus High School is exactly that…your school!  We have a dedicated team of teachers and staff who are committed to providing you with first-class learning experiences that are designed to challenge and engage you.  You will be held to high standards and asked to exercise maturity and responsibility in order to reach your full potential.

In addition to academics, we also value the importance of extracurricular activities and encourage you to get involved in our wide range of clubs, sports teams, and organizations.  These activities will enhance your high school experience as they will provide you with opportunities for personal growth and leadership development, and also help you build supportive friendships and create memories that will last a lifetime!

As we embark on this new school year, I want to remind you that your success is not solely determined by your grades or exam scores.  It is equally important to focus on your personal growth, character development, and overall well-being.  Remember to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally, and to seek support from your teachers, counselors, and other trusted adults whenever needed.  

I am confident that together, we can make this academic year the best one yet!  Let us embrace the challenges that come, celebrate the victories, and support one another along the journey.  Set goals, dream big, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way!

This student handbook presents essential information about the high school, its opportunities, and guidelines. We hope that students and parents will take some time to read it carefully in an effort to gain a clearer understanding of our school.   In addition to this handbook, both students and families should also familiarize themselves with the District Code of Conduct as well as the High School Program of Studies.  

Cheers,

Brian Sevey        

Principal

District Personnel

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Amy Bartolotta

Shawn Edie - Vice President

Joshua Matousek
Erica Poquadeck                

Justin Pritchard

Christine Shea         - President
Jen Tedesco        

ADMINISTRATION

Jean Sharlow - Superintendent of Schools

Bob Montgomery - Assistant Superintendent
Don Weber - School Business Administrator

Brian Sevey - Senior High School Principal

Stephanie Rice - DMS Junior High Principal (7/8)

Kathy Mahoney - DMS Intermediate Principal (4-6)

Lauren Massa - KCH Principal

Kara Lux - Director of Special Education and Grants

Mike Free - Director of Health and Athletics

Tam Ray - Director of Physical Education

Mike Dingman - Director of Education Technology and Innovation

Ryan Riefler - Director of Facilities

Jackie Pearce - Director of Transportation

Aimee Mitchell - Director of Food Services

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PERSONNEL

Principal                                Brian Sevey                                315-673-6300

Director of Health & Athletics        Michael Free                                315-673-6303

School Counselor                          Heather Arcese                        315-673-6331

School Counselor                        Jennifer Baker                                315-673-6333

School Counselor                        Kathleen Battaglia                        315-673-6332

School Social Worker                        Lisa Hitchcock                        315-673-6334

School Psychologist                        Hans Smid                                315-673-6335

Nurse’s Office                                Amy Steigerwald                        315-673-6305

Main Office Secretary                        Raquel Becerra                         315-673-6300

Main Office Secretary                        Mary Pat Tierney                        315-673-6300

Attendance                                Becky Stevenson                        315-673-6304

Counselor Secretary                        Debra Gascon                                315-673-6330

Marcellus Senior High School Faculty and Staff

Bell Schedule

Characteristics:

7:50 Starting Time

40-Minute Classes

30-Minute Lunches

4-Minute Passing

30-Minute Activity Period

Marcellus Senior High School

One and Two-Hour Delay Schedules

One Hour Delay Schedule

*Normal Schedule resumes at 10:55 

Two Hour Delay Schedule 

Counseling

Typical Course Of Study

To graduate, a student must have a minimum of 22 credits for a Regents diploma, and meet credit and sequence requirements as defined by the NY State Board of Regents.

A typical schedule for students in each grade level is provided to use as a general guide for successfully fulfilling the grade placement criteria and meeting graduation requirements.

NEW YORK STATE DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO ALL STUDENTS ENROLLED IN GRADES 9-12

Minimum Course Load
Students at Marcellus Central are required to carry five (5) courses (reflecting 5 units of credit) plus physical education.  Exceptions will be considered by the Senior High School Principal for students with extenuating circumstances (e.g., health condition, personal, or family welfare, etc.).

Credit for courses enrolled outside the district need to be pre-approved by the principal.  Requests for credit approval should be submitted in writing to the school counseling office by March 1 for the following fall semester, May l for the summer period, and November l for the following spring semester.

Course Scheduling
All students are seen by a school counselor in the spring to discuss current and future plans.  A part of this meeting is devoted to subject selection for the next year(s) as is appropriate for the plans.  Schedule changes are made throughout the spring and into the summer as the circumstance necessitates.  

Course/Class Changes

The teacher/department representative, parent, counselor, and student must agree upon all changes from one class or course to another.  Disagreement by any of the above can be appealed to the High School Principal or his/her designee.  Individual departments will determine time limits for changes since courses may vary.  

Drop Policy/Dropping a Course
A student may drop a course with parental approval.  The following conditions apply:

If a student drops a course during the first 10 weeks of a full year course, or during the first 5 weeks of a ½ year course, no record of having taken the course will appear on the student’s transcript.

If a student drops a course beyond the above time limit, but before the last 10 weeks of a full year course, or before the last 5 weeks of a ½ year course, a Withdraw/Pass or Withdraw/Fail will appear on the student’s record.

If a student drops a course during the last 10 weeks of a full year course, or during the last 5 weeks of a ½ year course, the student will receive a final grade which will appear on the final record and will be used for averaging purposes.

Students must remain in the class until the official drop has been processed.  The school counselor will make the student aware when the drop is official.


Changes to any of the above can be mutually agreed upon by teacher, parent, school counselor, and high school principal.

Doubling Policy

It is the policy of the Marcellus Senior High School to encourage students who have completed and failed a course to attend and pass summer school.  If extenuating circumstances prevent a student from attending summer school, then the following doubling policy will apply:

• Only seniors (students entering their fourth year of high school) will be allowed to double up for the purpose of remediation.
• The Senior High School Principal will evaluate each case of doubling on an individual basis.
• The Principal reserves the right to remove a child from the doubled class that he/she has taken if the administrator identifies deficiencies in attendance, work, and/or behavior.

Students who have a passing average and have passed the necessary exams at the end of the first semester for a full year course will receive credit for the failed class and be allowed to drop it provided the student remains a full-time student.  

or

Students who have a passing average and have passed the necessary exams at the end of the first quarter for a half-year course will receive credit for the failed class and be allowed to drop it provided the student remains a full-time student.


Graduation

Each year a commencement program is held for seniors, their families, and friends who gather

to recognize the accomplishment of graduation from high school.  The graduation ceremony is part of the educational program of the Marcellus Central School District. Participation in the ceremony is contingent upon meeting all academic and attendance requirements expectations set forth by the New York State Education Department prior to commencement.

Honor Roll

Honor roll is computed and published each of the four marking periods.  Please know that students taking honors/college level courses will have the “weight” recorded in their quarterly overall average, not quarterly course average.

Honor Roll Eligibility

High Honor Roll: The average for all subjects taken is 92.00% or above
       

Honor Roll:  The average for all subjects taken is at least 88.00%

NOTE: Students with an incomplete will not be eligible for the honor roll or high honor roll that marking period until the incomplete is resolved

Honors Graduates

Honors Graduates are seniors who graduate from Marcellus Senior High School with an overall designated honors average through the third marking period of their senior year.  Determination of Honors Graduate will be made at the end of the third quarter of a student’s senior year.  To be considered an Honors Graduate, students must have an overall, weighted, in-progress, unrounded average of 92.00 or higher.

Auditing a Course

To audit a class means to register for a class without receiving credit.  Auditing of a class is done with the sole permission of the building principal with complete understanding of the following stipulations, rules and procedures:

• A student’s transcript and report cards will show “AUD” to designate that the student is taking the class as an audited course.
• Students must attend regularly and do the work in an audited course.
• Students may be removed from an audited course for lack of attendance and/or effort in the class.
• Workload and expectations will be at the discretion of the teacher.
• Once the decision to audit a course has been determined, it cannot be changed to a credit bearing class.  

Grading and Report Cards

Marcellus Senior High School grades on a four marking period system.  Each marking period is approximately 10 weeks.  Report cards will be available to parents four times a year.   For the first two marking periods, the numerical range of grades is 50* to 100.  A mark of 50* signifies that the marking period average was lower than fifty.  50* is the lowest grade a student can receive during the first semester of a full-year course or the first marking period of a half-year course.  During the second half of all courses, students can earn a grade lower than 50.

A grade of "Inc." (Incomplete) must be made up no later than two weeks after the closing date of the marking period.  This is subject to extension by the teacher and/or building principal for extenuating circumstances.  The date and time of the final examination marks the conclusion of a course.  Any exceptions are at the discretion of the building principal.

Five Week Reports

At the end of the five weeks of each marking period, a Five Week Report is available on School Tool.  This report will indicate the student’s effort and performance in each course in which the student is enrolled.  Comments from each of the student’s teachers will give an indication of the quality of the student's work.  These reports are a useful tool for parents and students to monitor academic progress.

School Tool and Electronic Monitoring of Grade

All students and parents have access to a School Tool account that provides access to past report cards and five week reports, as well as current marking period average.  Additionally, they have access to assignments teachers have assigned during the marking period.  If you have questions about accessing our online gradebook, please call the School Counseling Office secretary.  315-673-6307.

Summer School

Summer school is offered annually to those students who fail a course (but are not in violation of the attendance policy) and/or the Regents exam if applicable.   Summer school is offered through BOCES at a site to be announced (most recently held at West Genesee High School).  Students are approved for attendance by the building principal or his/her designee.

The School Counseling Program

The Counseling Program is designed to help students. Counselors will assist students in designing an academic program that best meets their needs.  The program of study becomes the official course of studies for the following academic year.  All students are welcome to go to the counseling office to talk over any concerns with confidence that their problems will receive prompt and discreet attention. It is best to make an appointment to meet with the School Counselors.

Additional Counseling Services
Our counseling staff help students cope with personal and psychological issues that affect their school performance, behavior and socialization.  They are trained to assist with a variety of mental health and behavioral concerns in the school setting.  The counseling staff focuses on early identification of students in need, assessment and short-term individual and group counseling. Those students who would benefit from more intensive or highly specialized services are referred to appropriate community resources. Students may self-refer or be referred by parents, school personnel and others who indicate the need for assessment and intervention. These services are offered to enhance the social and emotional growth and academic outcomes of all students.

Family Or Home Crisis

If a student is under stress from an illness, death in the family or some other problem, the family is asked to contact the school counselor or school nurse.

Helio Health

Helio Health will operate a Child and Adolescent outpatient satellite office at Marcellus High School which will provide individual counseling to students with mental health and substance use concerns. A clinician is available on-site at the school to work with high school students referred through the school counseling office. Students who are part of the satellite clinic also have access to all of the services affiliated with the downtown campus. This includes group counseling, family counseling, psychiatric evaluations, ongoing medication management, case management, and psychiatric rehabilitation services and health monitoring with a nurse.

Helio Health does bill insurance through the satellite clinic; for students and families without medical insurance, Helio Health will help complete applications for medical assistance. Additionally, there is a sliding scale fee structure available.

Though the clinician is on-site at Marcellus High School, there is still firm confidentiality in place between school staff and the clinician. Helio's clinician is not involved in any school counseling department work or crisis intervention; the clinician is only able to work with students who have been actively enrolled in services and who have consented to receive treatment.

Health Services

The school nurse is available in the health office for students who are sick or injured during the school day.  Records of immunization and emergency phone numbers are maintained in that office.

• Students are required to have a physical in 9th and 11th grade.  This examination may be done by the family physician or by the school physician.  
• All students need to have the meningitis vaccine by the start of his/her senior year (two doses).  
• As of June 13, 2019, there is no longer a religious exemption to the requirement that children be vaccinated against measles and other diseases to attend either: public, private or parochial school (for students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade), or  child day care settings.
• All students participating in interscholastic sports or applying for working papers are also required to have valid, updated (within 1 calendar year) physicals, if given by private physicians, must be approved by the school doctor according to State law.  
• All high school students have screening tests of height, weight, vision, and blood pressure annually.  
• Hearing screening is done only in 10th grade
• The nurses keep a health record for each child from the time the child enters kindergarten until graduation from high school.  The nurse notifies parents whenever a child is found to have a problem in any of the areas tested.
• The student's health is primarily the responsibility of the parent.  If medical care is necessary, every effort should be made to obtain this at times other than during regular school hours.

Illness in School

• Students who feel ill during the school day should request a pass from the classroom teacher to visit the nurse.  The nurse will then determine whether the student should return to class, rest in the health office or be taken home.  Students must not leave the building because of illness without going to the nurse's office.
• The nurse will notify a parent or person designated by the parent on the emergency pickup list to make arrangements for someone to pick the student up.

In-School Medications

• School nurses are only allowed, under the Nurse Practice Act, to give medications that are ordered by a doctor.  A note from the parent requesting that the medicine be administered, a doctor’s order for medication and the prescription bottle with the student's name and other pertinent information on it must be brought in.  All medications, including over the counter medication must be left in the nurse's office for the protection of our students.
• Students may not carry or dispense any over –the-counter medications without a doctor’s order to do so.  These must all be administered by the school nurse.  Students in violation of this may be subject to discipline as per the student code of conduct.

Extracurricular Activities

You are highly encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities at Marcellus Senior High School.  Participation keeps you engaged in school, strengthens your mind, widens your social circle, helps to establish good time management skills, and allows you to explore your interests beyond the classroom.

ALL-SCHOOL SHOW takes place in the spring.  Auditions are held early in the winter.  The All-School show is usually a musical that involves many students with a variety of talents.  All students are welcome to audition.  

BOOK CLUB meets to discuss books they are currently reading, debate literary topics, and even watch movie versions of the books

CHARACTER EDUCATION is open to all students who are interested in being good stewards of character to the SHS by spreading the ideals of integrity, respect, responsibility, and citizenship throughout the school and local community.  Members of this group will demonstrate these standards during the school day, and will participate in club-sponsored events such as coffeehouses, trivia nights, and student-driven community service projects.  Character Education will offer opportunities to bond with like-minded individuals, discover personal strengths and make a difference in the high school.

CLASS OFFICE is open to all students.  Each class is organized with officers elected by the students in the class.  Elections are held in the spring for the following year.

FALL SHOW begins its season with cast auditions in the second week of school to produce a stage play (not a musical) that opens the first weekend of November.  All students interested in being a cast or crew member are encouraged to participate.

FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA is the premier youth organization preparing members for leadership and careers in the science, business, and technology of agriculture.

INTRAMURALS provide a safe environment for students of all abilities to play against or with their classmates in an organized atmosphere.  Activities are fun, competitive, and structured to promote a social, mental, and physically healthy lifestyle.  Intramurals are open to all students in grades 9-12.

JAZZ BAND is a music group that meets outside of the school day. They rehearse and perform a variety of music from Jazz to Rock to Salsa.

LITERARY MAGAZINE is open to all students who have a desire to express themselves through creative writing.  The Literary Magazine publishes an annual edition of the Appleseed that contains short stories, poems, drawings, and illustrations.

MAGIC THE GATHERING CLUB  is open to all who are interested in the card game Magic the Gathering.  The club meets regularly throughout the year.  Beginners are always welcome!  Games vary in formats but are always friendly!

MATH LEAGUE is open to all students who love math and like to compete.  Our “mathletes” train and take part in math competitions against other schools.  

OUTDOOR CLUB is open to all students who love the outdoors.  Activities include kayaking, hiking, and camping.

SKI CLUB is open to all students who like to ski.  Students will ski once a week at Labrador Mountain.  

STUDENT GOVERNMENT is open to all students.  School-wide elections are held for offices (The Executive Council), and clubs, classes and other extracurricular activities select members of the Senate.  Student Government fosters community service and leadership training.  It sponsors community projects such as food drives and blood drives as well as school activities such as dances and assemblies.

TEEN INSTITUTE is an organization that fosters leadership among students.  Students are selected to attend special weekend workshops during which they learn ways to handle peer pressure, and ways to help other students cope with the pressures of being a teenager today.  

THE MUSTANG TIMES produces a quarterly publication detailing SHS events and highlights, with stories, photography, and layout all contributed by its members.

TRAP SHOOTING CLUB meets in the spring in Otisco. Students pay or raise money in order to cover costs.

YEARBOOK is open to all students interested in the production, editing, and sale of the Marcellian, the high school yearbook.

HONOR SOCIETIES

FRENCH NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Société Honoraire de Français (FHS) recognizes French students who maintain a 92 average in every year of French. In addition, these students continue on to the highest level of French at the high school. Students are inducted during a spring ceremony. Community service is mandatory and many members fill leadership positions as well.

MATH HONOR SOCIETY The Jody Tanner Karla Marcellus Math Honor Society (MHS) identifies exceptional mathematics students in school and brings those students together to benefit the student population. Members demonstrate leadership qualities and are positive role models as well as provide mathematics tutoring to younger Marcellus School District students.  MHS students are also required to participate in math events, fundraising opportunities, and meetings. Membership requirements include:

1. must be a minimum of a sophomore with 3 semesters of mathematics.
2. continue with mathematical studies throughout high school.
3. maintain a 92 average in your mathematics courses and a minimum GPA of 85.
   

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY is bestowed upon a student. Selection for membership is by a Faculty Council and is based on outstanding scholarship, character, leadership, and service. Only students who carry a weighted in-progress GPA of 92 or better at the end of the first semester of their junior or senior year may be considered.

RHO KAPPA NATIONAL SOCIAL STUDIES HONOR SOCIETY is bestowed upon students by a Faculty Committee of the Social Studies Department.  Students must maintain an overall average of 92 in all courses as well as an average of 92 in all Social Studies courses.  Students must also show outstanding qualities in leadership, service, and character in addition to scholarship.

SPANISH NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY The Julia Álvarez Chapter of the Spanish National Honor Society’s purpose is to recognize high achievement in Spanish and to promote continuity of interest in Hispanic studies.  Selection into this society is based on an overall average of 92 or above in every level of study commencing in the eighth grade, continued study at the highest level possible, and reviewed by a committee of administrators and language teachers.

TRI-M NATIONAL MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY- Entry into the Modern Music Masters (Tri-M) Music Honor Society is offered yearly to eligible students. Eligibility includes enrollment in one or more music courses, maintenance of at least a 92 GPA in music courses and at least an 85 overall GPA each year of participation. All high school grade levels are eligible, but membership must be renewed each year. Music-based service is an important part of membership, students are expected to use their music skills within the community: opportunities are offered to students throughout the year. Students are inducted during a spring ceremony.

Interscholastic Athletics

Students in grades 9-12 have the opportunity and are encouraged to participate in the
following sports:

Boys

• Fall:  Football, Soccer, Cross Country, Golf
• Winter:  Hockey, Basketball, Wrestling, Indoor Track
• Spring:  Lacrosse, Baseball, Track and Field, Tennis
  

Girls:                                                       

• Fall:  Volleyball Soccer, Cross Country, Tennis, Swimming
• Winter: Basketball, Indoor Track
• Spring:  Lacrosse, Softball, Track and Field, Golf        

Students wishing to participate in the interscholastic athletic program must take the following steps:

• Have their parents complete the online Arbiter Sports Registration form.
• Pass a physical examination given by the school physician or by the family physician.
• Have all required immunizations.
• Comply with the Athletic Code and policies governing athletic participation.  
• Students failing two or more subjects are ineligible to participate in any of the activities.

Policies and Procedures for Spectators

• All policies and procedures of the Marcellus Central School District Code of Conduct are in full effect during all athletic contests.
• Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on school grounds.
• All spectators should exhibit good sportsmanship.
• Spectators are not permitted to smoke or use any drugs on school property.
• Artificial noisemakers are not allowed in athletic contests.
• No food or drinks are permitted in the gymnasiums by spectators.
  

Expectations and Procedures for Participation in Extracurricular Activities and Athletics

There are many opportunities for students to be involved in extracurricular activities and events at Marcellus.  We encourage students to become involved in clubs, activities, events, and sports that match and/or expand a student’s interest, skills and talents as it creates connections to school.  Listed below are some of the activities and events available to our students at Marcellus Senior High School.

Along with participation comes expectations and responsibility.  Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege that all students deserve as long as attendance, behavioral and academic expectations are met.  Marcellus Central Schools has a long-standing set of expectations for conduct on school property and at its functions.  These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, character, tolerance, honesty, integrity, and the belief in the educational goals of the organization.

As a participant in extra-curricular activities/events, students have the responsibility to:

• Contribute to maintaining a climate of respect and dignity for persons and property, as well as, a safe and orderly environment that is conducive to learning.
• Be familiar with and abide by all Marcellus Central School policies, rules and regulations dealing with student conduct, including building level Student Handbooks.
• Attend classes every scheduled day, on time, and be prepared to learn.  
• Put forth his/her best effort in all academic and extracurricular pursuits, striving toward their highest level of achievement possible.
• Accept responsibility for their actions.
• Conduct themselves as representatives of Marcellus Central School when participating in or attending Marcellus Central School sponsored extracurricular events, holding themselves to the highest standards of conduct.

Administrators may suspend a student’s participation in extracurricular/athletic activities, events and/or other privileges as a consequence for student misconduct or in situations where students are not meeting the eligibility requirements.  A student subjected to a suspension from extracurricular activities or other privileges is not entitled to a full hearing pursuant to Education Law § 3214.   However, the student and the student’s parents will be provided with a reasonable opportunity for an informal conference with the Marcellus Central School District official imposing the suspension to discuss the conduct and the penalty involved.

A link to the complete Athletic Policy can be found HERE.

Marcellus Senior High School Academic Integrity Policy  

It is the expectation that the work we turn in is our own. Our sole purpose is to help students grow and learn.  For this to occur, teachers must be equipped to honestly and authentically assess student learning. Therefore, it is critical that all work comes from the students’ own level of understanding.  

Teachers and administrators at Marcellus Senior High School understand that pressure to get good grades can sometimes create the incentive to cheat.  However we firmly believe that cheating denies the value of education, damages the ethical character of the individual student, and undermines the ability of the teacher to fairly assess. The Academic Integrity Policy affirms that we value learning for its own sake, and that we therefore demand personal integrity and intellectual honesty in all academic work.

Having academic integrity means valuing and demonstrating positive regard for:

• Intellectual honesty
• Personal truthfulness
• Learning for its own sake
• The creations and opinions of others (i.e., intellectual property)

You are acting with academic integrity to the extent that you demonstrate these values, and in particular:

• Take full credit for your own work, and give full credit to others who have helped you or influenced you, or whose work you have incorporated into your own.
• Represent your own work honestly and accurately.
• Collaborate with other students only as specifically directed and authorized.

PROCEDURES AND CONSEQUENCES

• All parties concerned—students, parents, and administrators—are to understand that the teacher’s professional judgment will determine whether a violation of the Academic Integrity Policy has occurred.
• Whenever a student is found to have violated the Academic Integrity Policy and/or course-specific rules, these procedures will be followed:

• The teacher will document the violation and report it by filing an Academic Integrity Violation in School Tool.
• The teacher will confer with the student and will contact the student’s parents. The purpose of that communication is to review the Academic Integrity Policy, clarify why the work or behavior in question constitutes a violation of it, explain the academic penalty, and help prevent future violations.
• According to the stated expectations of individual teachers, an appropriate penalty for the offense will be imposed. Consequences for first-time and subsequent offenses are outlined below.

Consequences 

Consequences for any violation of the academic integrity policy may include (but are not limited to):

• Point deduction on a quiz, test, paper, project, or homework assignment, or a zero as the grade.
• Teacher detention to make up the assignment
• A teacher may decline to write a letter of recommendation or report it in a letter of recommendation
• A teacher may rescind a letter of recommendation after it has been sent
• Conference with any combination of student, teacher, parent, counselor, principal
• Report to academic honor societies for possible sanctions

• Students in any of our honor societies are held to a higher academic standard and are subject to suspension from the honor society at the sole discretion of the principal upon confirmed violations of this Academic Integrity Policy

Student Discipline

We are committed to ensuring that Marcellus Senior High  is a safe and orderly environment in which teaching and learning are the priority each day.  A safe and supportive school depends upon the efforts of all members of the school community to treat one another with mutual respect.  All members of the school community – students, staff and families - must know and understand the standards of behavior which all students are expected to live up to and the consequences if these standards are not met.

The District Code of Conduct provides clear behavior expectations and standards of behavior  to which all Marcellus students are held accountable.  As with any incident of student misbehavior, school administrators must exercise informed judgment about whether a student’s actions constitute a violation of our District Code  of Conduct.  

Whenever possible, the administration will use a progressive discipline approach that will utilize  incremental interventions to address inappropriate behavior.  The ultimate goal is not punishment, but rather to teach and motivate students to change their behaviors.

Bullying and Conflict

Marcellus Senior High School strives for a distraction-free, safe and comfortable environment. There is no room for any type of bullying. Bullying is defined as an ongoing and deliberate misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical, and/or social behavior that intends to cause physical, social, and/or psychological harm.  Bullying behavior is repeated.  Single incidents and conflict between equals is not defined as bullying.  

Whether the behavior exhibited is classified as bullying or peer conflict, here at Marcellus Senior High School, we believe that all students should feel not only physically safe in school, but also emotionally, socially, and intellectually safe.  Bullying behavior and peer conflict are subject to discipline as per the student code of conduct.  If you directly or indirectly encounter any type of negative behaviors, please report such behavior to any adult in the building.  You may also report the behavior anonymously using our Tip 411.

Behavior and Bus Transportation

Marcellus Central School provides bus transportation for about 60% of the students.  The school is responsible for the safety of nearly 1600 students to and from school.  

Any behavior by students which, in any way, endangers the safety of fellow students is considered very serious.  Since the bus driver is the one who is responsible for this safety, students must follow all instructions.  Students should first do as the driver asks, and then take the problem up with the building principal.

All students are expected to behave courteously and safely while on buses.  All normal school rules. apply on buses.  A student who violates the student code of conduct while on the bus may lose his/her bus transportation privileges for a period ranging from 1 day to the remainder of the school year.

Late Buses

Students who stay after school for activities, extra help, or detention may ride the late bus.  Students who stay after school must be with a teacher, coach or other staff member.  Students must acquire a late bus pass from the person with whom they have stayed that afternoon.  Students will not be permitted to ride the late bus without a pass. Violation of behavior code or pass policy may result in the loss of late bus privileges.

Attendance Policy/Procedures

It is critical for student success to be in attendance and on time for school each day.  School attendance is both a right and a responsibility. The School District is an active partner with students and parents in the task of ensuring that all students meet or exceed the New York State Learning Standards.  

Arrival Procedures
Doors open each school day at 7:30.  Arrival time is between 7:30 and 7:45.  All students arriving by bus will enter at the Cafeteria Entrance.  Students arriving by other means (walk, ride, drive) will enter at the Mustang Entrance.  

At 7:45 each morning, the school doors will be securely locked.  All students and visitors arriving at the school after 7:45 are to sign-in through our attendance office at the Mustang Entrance.

ABSENCES AND LATES TO SCHOOL AND CLASS                

Parents must notify school of absence by 9:00 AM- 315-673-6304 or email shsattendance@marcellusschools.org.

For any absence that is known in advance, all reasonable efforts should be made for the student to communicate with their teachers to generate a game plan to make up any instruction/assignments during the absence.

EXCUSED ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL

An absence, tardiness or early departure may be excused if due to:

personal illness,

1. illness  or  death  in  the family
2. impassable  roads  due  to  inclement  weather,
3. religious observance
4. quarantine
5. required court appearances
6. attendance at health clinics
7. approved college  visits
8. approved  cooperative  work  programs
9. military  obligations  
10. other such reasons to be approved by the Board of Education

Upon Return to School…        

• Students must return with a written excuse within 3 days that includes: name, date of absence, reason for absence, and parent signature.         
• Report immediately upon entering the building to the attendance desk.  

Late to School…

• Go to the attendance office upon arrival with a written excuse.

*If an absence is excused, the student shall be permitted to make up all missed assignments outside of class under reasonable conditions and time limits established by the teacher.

Attendance Related Disciplinary Consequences
Unexcused absences, tardiness and early departures may result in disciplinary sanctions as described in the District's Code of Conduct. Consequences may include, but are not limited to, in-school suspension, detention, and denial of participation in interscholastic and extracurricular activities, or social probation.

Families will be notified by designated District personnel at periodic intervals to discuss their child's absences, tardiness or early departures and the importance of class attendance and appropriate interventions.

Building Review of Attendance Records 

The Building Principal will work in conjunction with the building attendance officer and other designated staff in reviewing attendance records at the end of each term. This review is conducted to identify individual and group attendance patterns and to initiate appropriate action to address the problem of unexcused absences, tardiness and early departures.

• Absent = not present in class or present less than 30 minutes.
• Missed classes may be made up by the following options (at the discretion of the teacher):

• Attend another section of the same class on the same day.
• Stay after school to make up the class time.
• Complete missed work to the satisfaction of the teacher.

LATE ARRIVAL/EARLY DISMISSAL - A Senior Privilege

Late Entry/Early Release:

Any senior who has a study hall at the beginning of the day or the end of the day may apply for late entry/early release provided they are in good academic standing.  

In order to be in good academic standing, a senior must be:

• Taking 5 credits plus physical education
• Passing all classes
• Not have habitual tardies.
  

Grades will be determined by the quarterly report cards.  If a student is not passing a particular class, not taking the prescribed number of courses, or is habitually tardy, this privilege will be revoked until the next measurement of progress through a report card or progress report can be made.  The building principal can remove the privilege due to poor academic performance, habitual tardies, and/or poor behavior.  Schedules cannot be changed solely to accommodate late arrival/early dismissal.

WORKING PAPERS

Students who wish to obtain working papers must follow this procedure:

• Student obtains application papers at the Main Office.
• Parents sign application papers and furnish certification of age (birth certificate, baptismal certificate showing birth date or school record).
• Student must have had a physical examination by the school physician or family physician within a year's time.  Students must return the Physical Fitness Certification Form to the Main Office.
• Working papers are then issued to the student in the Main Office.

Building Safety And Security

Above all else, safety at school is our number one priority.  Video cameras exist throughout the school building and campus.  In a partnership with the Marcellus Police Department, the district has hired three school resource officers to serve the district.

CLOSED CAMPUS

The Marcellus Senior High School is a closed campus.  This means that all students should be on school grounds during school hours.  Students may leave campus prior to the end of school only with parental permission for a valid “EXCUSED” absence. Students must remain in the building unless accompanied by a school official and/or has permission from the building principal.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Throughout the school year, we as an entire school, staff  and students, practice multiple drills to ensure that both the students and staff know what to do in case of an emergency.  Safety drills include but are not limited to evacuation drills (fire drills), lockdown drills, bus safety drills.

SINGLE POINT OF ENTRY

The Marcellus Central School District has implemented a procedure called “Single Secure Point of Entry” to increase the safety and security of our students and staff.

At the main entrance, an intercom, video camera and buzzer are installed.  The intercom allows visitors to speak with staff in the school office.

All visitors with a legitimate educational purpose must provide photo identification/NYS photo ID and will be given a visitor’s badge that must be worn at all times  during the visit.  Upon leaving, visitors must exit through the single point of entry and sign out.  

All Late arrival/early dismissal students must sign in and out each morning/afternoon through the single point of entry. 

STUDENT VISITORS

Visiting students must have a legitimate educational purpose, as determined by the building principal, for attending Marcellus High School.  Anyone intending to bring a guest must submit a note from their parents to the Principal explaining the educational purpose of the visit.  Said note must be provided at least one day prior to the intended visit.  The Principal will then provide a determination of whether or not the student guest is permitted on campus during the school day.

Visitors are expected to be informed of school regulations by their student hosts and are expected to follow all school regulations throughout their visit.

PARKING ON SCHOOL GROUNDS/STUDENT DRIVERS

• Students must complete the required paperwork for the current school year to be issued a parking pass.
• Parking passes are assigned by the SRO.  ALL parking passes are to be returned to the Main Office before the end of the school year.
• All vehicles used by students in driving to school must be registered with the main office and have a CURRENT school permit prominently displayed.
• Seniors have top priority followed by Juniors and then, if available, Sophomores.
• Students are expected to park in designated student parking areas only. 
• Cars may be used to get to school in the morning and from school in the afternoon.  Using a car at any other time, unless the student has a valid, written excuse from a parent and has signed out at the Attendance Desk, will cause driving privileges to be revoked for a time to be determined by the principal or his designee.
• Students who have driving privileges and are chronically tardy may have their driving privileges revoked.
• The safety and well-being of all Marcellus Central School students is dependent upon the responsible behavior of all drivers on campus.  The speed limit is 10 miles per hour.  Students are expected to drive cautiously and slowly on campus. Students who violate this safety rule will not be allowed to park on campus.

LOCKERS

Lockers are the property of the school and the school retains the right to search them at any time.   Students should not share lockers or change lockers.  Students are responsible for keeping the front of their lockers clean.  The school district is not responsible for any lost or stolen articles and thus strongly advises students not to “set” their lockers, nor share their combination with anyone else.

ELEVATOR

The elevator in the High School is to be used primarily by individuals with disabilities as determined by the Committee on Special Education or the High School Principal.  The nurse will be responsible for assigning keys to students and teachers with disabilities that require the use of the elevator.  If the person will need to use the elevator all year, he/she may be assigned a key for the duration of the school year.  If the individual's disability is temporary, the key may be assigned for the necessary period as validated by a physician's note.  Only students authorized by the principal or nurse are permitted to use the elevator with a disabled person.  Any indication of elevator malfunction or maintenance problem should be reported to the office immediately.  Do not use the elevator during a fire!

BATHROOMS

Marcellus Senior High School has a combination of single-stall restrooms, locker rooms, and multi-stall restrooms.  In the spirit of prioritizing our academic time, as much as reasonably possible, students should take care of their restroom needs during the time in between classes.  

General bathroom expectations are for students to use the restroom for its intended purpose.  Students should be quick, clean, and safe in the restrooms.  Students are not permitted to loiter in the restrooms, and only one person is allowed to be in a stall at a time.  Additionally, cell phones are not permitted to be used in the restrooms.  

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

The Marcellus Central School District periodically requests that users re-sign the Internet/Network Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).  When asked to re-sign this agreement, users understand and will abide by the use of district internet, network, and devices.  

CELL PHONE POLICY

The District consulted with local stakeholders including employee organizations representing each bargaining unit, parents, and students to develop this policy to prohibit the use of Internet-enabled devices by students during the school day on school grounds. This policy aims to ensure that students remain focused on their academic responsibilities throughout the school day, which includes all instructional and non-instructional periods such as homeroom, lunch, recess, study halls, and passing time.

For purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

a) "Internet-enabled devices" means and includes any smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or other device capable of connecting to the Internet and enabling the user to access content on the Internet, including social media applications;

"Internet-enabled devices" does not include:

1. Non-Internet-enabled devices such as cellular phones or other communication devices not capable of connecting to the Internet or enabling the user to access content on the Internet; or

2. Internet-enabled devices supplied by the District, charter school, or Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) that are used for an educational purpose.

b) "School day" means the entirety of every instructional day as required by subdivision 7 of the Education Law Section 3604 during all instructional time and non-instructional time, including but not limited to homeroom periods, lunch, recess, study halls, and passing time.

 c) "School grounds" means in or on or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, or land contained within the real property boundary line of a district elementary, intermediate, junior high, vocational, or high school, a charter school, or a BOCES facility.

Students are generally prohibited from using Internet-enabled devices during the school day anywhere on school grounds.

However, students may be authorized to use an Internet-enabled device during the school day on school grounds:

a) If authorized by a teacher, principal, or the District for a specific educational purpose;

b) Where necessary for the management of a student's health care;

c) In the event of an emergency;

d) For translation services;

e) On a case-by-case basis, upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member; or

f) Where required by law.

Students must be permitted to use an Internet-enabled device where the use is included in the student's: Individualized Education Program (IEP); or Section 504 Plan.

On-Site Storage of Internet-Enabled Devices Including Cell Phones

Students must store their Internet-enabled devices in their district issued pouch, which then can be stored in their backpack during the day.  Other options include storing the device(s) in students’ designated lockers during the school day, or simply leaving them at home.  If an internet-enabled device is confiscated for non-compliance, the device will be stored securely in the main office until the end of the school day.

If building principals encounter a large degree of non-compliance, they have the discretion to shift storage to designated secured lockboxes provided by the district. If this becomes necessary, communication to all stakeholders will occur before this change.

Methods for Parents to Contact Students During the School Day

To accommodate necessary communication, parents or persons in parental relation may use the following methods to contact their student during school hours while adhering to this policy:

a) School Office Phone: Parents or persons in parental relation may call the school's main office, and the office staff can relay messages to the student or call the student to the office to speak with their parent or person in parental relation.

b) Classroom Intercom System: In case of an emergency, the school's main office can use the classroom intercom system to notify students directly or ask them to come to the office.

c) Written Notes: Parents or persons in parental relation can drop off written notes at the school's main office, which can then be delivered to the student by school staff.

Essentially, the law now states that cell phones, smart watches, ear buds, etc. should be “away for the day.”  From 7:50 - 2:21, all of the aforementioned devices should be securely stowed, by the student in a district issued pouch inside a backpack, or in the students’ locker.

Consequences for Violations

Any violation of this cell phone policy will result in disciplinary action.  The first violation will result in confiscation of the phone, a discipline referral for noncompliance with the policy, and a phone call home.  The phone shall be returned to the student at the end of the school day.  Subsequent violations of this policy will result in a similar consequence, with the notable difference being that the device will not be returned to the student at the end of the day.  Instead, a parent must retrieve the device from the school.  

STUDENT DRESS CODE

In order to promote a safe, orderly, distraction free educational environment, all students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for Marcellus
Central School District programs. Students and their parents/guardians have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. Teachers and all other Marcellus Central School District personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable attire, and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the educational setting.

Here at Marcellus Senior High School, we employ the mantra, “dress for success.”

        * Express yourself appropriately
        * Dress so that you are adequately covered - ensure that undergarments are completely
           covered with outer clothing
        * Dress so that you do not offend - items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous, or that
           denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender,
           sexual orientation, sexual identity, or disabilities are not acceptable
        * Dress so that you are not a walking billboard for drugs/alcohol, or other illegal or
           violent activities
        * Dress so that you are safe (including footwear)...think PE classes, science labs, etc.
        * Dress to emphasize academics

Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item, and if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to further disciplinary action for insubordination.  

OVERSIMPLIFIED MAP OF THE HIGH SCHOOL