This handbook has been prepared and presented to you, the students of the

2^nd Office Referral – May Result in Administrator Assigned Detention

3^rd Office Referral and Any Office Referrals that Follow – May Result in Saturday Support or Suspension

2. A student is tardy to school if he or she is not in his/her seat when the late bell rings to start first period. These students will report to the office to the late slip monitor to be admitted to school then sent to first period. Tardy to school guidelines are the same as tardy to class. Students may also be issued academic consequences for unexcused tardiness to first period.

3. Any student who arrives at school after 10:00 a.m. will be considered a ½ day absent. Students arriving after 1:00 p.m. will be considered absent for a full day. Students leaving school prior to 1:00 p.m. and not returning will be considered absent ½ day. Students released from school for less than two hours will not be considered absent. All students must present a parent excuse to their first period teacher for absences or tardiness.

4. Any student who is late due to no fault of their own such as a late bus, an accident, a train or other extenuating circumstances must report to principal’s office and be issued a late slip. A principal will determine whether or not the student was at fault for the tardiness. If the student is not at fault, the late slip will be excused from consequence. Students will then be sent to homeroom, class, or study hall in which they belong. At times the office will excuse students who are late via the P.A. System.

5. Due to certain circumstances the Principal’s office will instruct teachers and monitors to hold attendance and excuse students who are late. This will be announced on the P.A. system and students will report to first period class.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT

The administration, faculty and staff have devised and implemented a crisis management plan at Punxsutawney High School. In the event of a crisis situation i.e. Severe Weather, Bomb Threat, etc… parents are encouraged to wait patiently for instructions through the media. Every precaution will be taken to ensure the safety of the students at the high school level. A high volume of phone calls and/or traffic to the high school could hinder emergency efforts. Your cooperation is appreciated.

EARLY DISMISSAL

If it is necessary for a student to leave school early, the student must bring a written request from a parent or guardian. The excuse must be given to the homeroom teacher by 7:45 AM and it will be sent to the office. If approved you will receive an excusal slip stating the time you are to be excused. Before leaving school students should report to the office to sign the "sign out book" before leaving the building.

WEAPONS POLICY

Any loaded or unloaded firearm or weapon possessed on or about a person while in attendance at school, while on school property or in a vehicle, while engaged in or at a school sponsored activity or events, while on, entering or leaving a school bus, or while otherwise subject to the jurisdiction of the school district is subject to seizure or forfeiture.

Incidents of students possessing firearms or weapons will be reported to the student's parents and will be reported to the police. Appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action will be taken against students who possess weapons and with students who assist possession in any way. Any violation of this weapon policy may result in suspension or expulsion.

Act 26 of 1995, Pennsylvania's Safe Schools Act requires public schools to report to the Office of Safe Schools all incidents involving acts of violence, possession of a weapon, or the possession, use or sale of a controlled substance, alcohol or tobacco by any person on school property; at school-sponsored events; and on school transportation to and from school. It also requires schools to maintain updated summary reports of all incidents of violence; incidents involving possession of a weapon; and convictions or adjudications of delinquency for acts committed on school property. A statistical summary of these records shall be maintained and made accessible to the public for examination during regular business hours by public and nonpublic schools.

The Act also requires school administrators to report the discovery of any weapon to local law-enforcement officials.

Some definitions used in this Act are:

1. "Weapons" shall include, but not be limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle, replica weapon, and any other tool, instrument or implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. School administrators may recommend to the Board of School Directors modifications of the expulsion requirement for a student on a case-by-case basis.

2. “Office” shall mean the Office of Safe Schools.

3. “School Property” shall mean any public school grounds, any school sponsored activity or any conveyance providing transportation to a school entity or school sponsored activity.

Additional Information about the Center can be obtained by calling [phone], or by visiting the Center’s web site at www.center-school.org/csshome.htm or www.safeschools.state.pa.us.

A student may also be suspended or expelled when he is involved in any conduct that violates the law, including but not limited to violating any provision of the Crimes Code, the Juvenile Code, any local ordinance, etc., or when he is engaged in any behavior that causes any unsafe condition, or that infringes upon the rights of others.
FREEDOM FROM DISRUPTION AND DANGER, ETHNIC INTIMIDATION, AND BULLYING

Any person guilty of physically assaulting or attempting to assault any other person on school property shall be reported immediately to the responsible Principal. The Principal shall then take such action as may be necessary within the guidelines established by the School District to assure the safety of all persons and their right to freedom from disruption and dangers. In addition, if an employee or official of the District is assaulted or his property is vandalized due to action that he/she has taken, the District will, in addition to taking appropriate disciplinary action, initiate civil action as well.

Ethnic intimidation is illegal in the State of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania considers certain crimes to be more serious when motivated by hatred toward the race, color, religion or national origin of another individual or group of individuals. When certain designated underlying offenses are committed and it can be shown that a motive for such crimes was hatred of the race, color, religion, or national origin of the victim, the offense of ethnic intimidation can also be charged, subjecting the perpetrator to more severe penalties. In summary, these underlying offenses include, but are not limited to crimes against persons like harassment, terrorist threats, assault and crimes against property like criminal trespass, criminal mischief and arson. Students guilty of ethnic intimidation at school face consequences consistent with the school discipline policy as well as possible consequences with local authorities if the victim chooses to pursue such action.
BULLYING

A student is being bullied or victimized when he or she is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions on the part of one or more other students. It is a negative action when someone intentionally inflicts, or attempts to inflict, injury or discomfort upon another. Bullying can result from several different forms of contact (physical, verbal, nonverbal, sexting, cyber, texting, messages from friends, violating warnings from school officials, harassment, intimidation, threatening, hazing, attempting to do any form of harm, etc.).
HARASSMENT

The term harassment includes but is not limited to slurs, jokes, or other verbal, graphic, or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race, color, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, age, or handicap/disability.

ETHNIC HARASSMENT includes the use of any derogatory word, phrase or action characterizing a given racial or ethnic group that creates an offensive environment.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to, sexual flirtation, advances, touching, or propositions; verbal abuse of a sexual nature; graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or body; sexually degrading words to describe an individual; jokes, pin-ups, calendars, objects, graffiti, vulgar statements, abusive language, innuendoes, references to sexual activities, overt sexual conduct, or any conduct that has the effect of unreasonably interfering with someone’s ability to work or which creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning or working environment.
Students shall report bullying/harassment complaints to their teacher, counselor, nurse, or the building principal.
Students found guilty of bullying/harassment are subject to consequences under the discipline code.
CHEATING

Punxsutawney Area High School administration, faculty, staff and students strive to promote and uphold the integrity of our academic programs. Cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable. If a student is involved in a cheating incident, they may receive the following consequences:

First Time: Student may receive a zero on the assignment or a 1/45 deduction from the nine- week grading period. Student will also receive an Official Warning.

Second Time: Student may receive a zero on the assignment or a 1/45 deduction for the nine-week grading period and/or fail for the nine weeks. Student will also receive a 3-day in school suspension.

Third time: Student may receive a zero on the assignment or a 1/45 deduction for the nine-week grading period and/or fail for the year. Student will also receive a 5-day Out of School Suspension.

Fourth time: Student may receive a 10- day Out of School Suspension. Student may also face a disciplinary hearing for Expulsion.

* In all cases, the teacher is required to call home to discuss the incident and academic consequences. Parents should support the importance of honesty and integrity in the academic environment.

DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES
CONFERENCES, PARENT CONTACTS, COUNSELING

Counselors, teachers, and/or principals hold conferences with students to help modify behavior. The staff at Punxsutawney Area High School strives to promote a safe and structured learning environment for all students. When student behavior is unacceptable to our code of ethics or guidelines, we work hard at having the student make a choice to modify his/her behavior to acceptable levels. Generally, the work involves discussing; behavior, choices and making better choices or self study activities to assist students in these areas. We encourage parents to become involved and be supportive of this process. We encourage our staff to inform parents of unacceptable behavior through phone calls and/or notices sent home with the students. Parents are encouraged to elicit feedback from staff members through phone calls and notes to the school.

VERBAL AND OFFICIAL WARNINGS

Verbal warnings are issued to students for minor infractions of guidelines or ethics. They are designed to call the student’s attention to behavior that is not acceptable in hopes that the student will make necessary modifications.

Official warnings are issued to students when there is a need for documentation on student behavior. Official Warnings are issued to students involved in conflicts, or other potentially dangerous situations that are reported to the office. The purpose of an Official Warning is to assist in maintaining an orderly and safe learning environment, facilitate conflict resolution, and to prevent one or more of the following infractions from occurring: Bullying, Harassment, Intimidation, Threats, Misconduct, Cheating, Attempted Harm of a Student in Any Form, Hazing, or Attempting to Cause Civil Disorder. A student is required to sign an official warning. This signifies that the student has been informed of unacceptable behavior, given direction for future behavior and consequences that will follow continued unacceptable behavior.

CAFETERIA ASSIGNED SEAT

Assigned seats in the cafeteria are given to students for unacceptable behavior in the cafeteria or when there exist a conflict among students that can be managed by a different seating arrangement. Detention and/or suspension may also be issued with a cafeteria assigned seat.

RESTRICTED MOVEMENT

Restricted movement is assigned to students who are outside of their assigned area or report to an area of the school building without proper consent. Once a student is on restricted movement, he/she must have a pass signed by the Principal or Assistant Principal to be released from homeroom or study hall. Passes are signed for academic purposes only. Passes will not be signed for sports, intramurals, clubs, etc. unless the administration determines it necessary. Detention and/or suspension may also be issued with restricted movement.

LOSS OF PRIVILEGES

Students who misbehave or stray from prescribed guidelines may lose various privileges at the high school. The time period for the loss of privileges is an administrative decision. Loss of privileges may include but is not limited to driving to school, attending extra-curricular events, participating in extra curricular events, using school resources and equipment, attending assemblies, seating in the cafeteria and work release.

DETENTION

A student may be assigned to detention including but not limited to the following reasons:

1) Truancy

2) Unexcused absences

3) Excessive tardiness

4) Misconduct

5) Being in an unassigned area of the school without permission

6) Skipping class

7) Profanity, obscenity, or vulgarity

This regulation has been set by the school administration and has been approved by the local School Board. The above reasons for detention will be used whether or not a student walks or rides a school bus. Where a student rides a bus, he will have to provide his own transportation home after detention. The school solicitor has ruled that when a student does something that requires him to make-up time in detention, that student loses his normal privilege of riding the bus. Students riding buses who are assigned to detention will be given one day's notice in order to secure a ride home before starting detention. Students will not be kept in detention nights when weather creates a hazard to their health or safety. The school operates three forms of detention:

TEACHER ASSIGNED DETENTION

Teacher assigned detention is held after school from 2:55 to 3:15 PM and is assigned by classroom teachers for tardiness or classroom misconduct. The teacher can assign two detentions for each infraction. The teacher will inform the student of the reason for the detention assignment, detention date, and location by giving them the student section of the teacher assigned detention form. Students are expected to show this slip to their parents. The teacher will document and keep in their files the teacher section of the teacher detention assignment form. Teachers assigning a teacher detention will be responsible for supervising students attending the teacher assigned detention. The student will present the slip to the teacher when reporting to the teacher assigned detention and the teacher will sign the slip indicating the student completed the assigned detention. Students should keep these slips as documentation of completed detention.

Teachers can assign detentions for any day that school is in session as long as they give notice of the detention at least one day in advance.

Teachers will also attempt to contact the parent when they assign a detention. It is our belief that communication between the teacher and parent is an important step to help remedy behavioral concerns. The attempted contact will be documented on the teacher section of the teacher assigned detention form. Students failing to attend a teacher assigned detention will be referred to the office and can be assigned other consequences.

ADMINISTRATOR ASSIGNED AFTERNOON DETENTION

Administrator Assigned After School Detention is held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday after school from 3:00 to 3:45 PM. Students assigned to this detention must attend detention on the assigned dates. Students will be given a notice from the administrator indicating the assigned dates and guidelines for the detention. Students are expected to share this information with their parents. Students failing to attend for any reason can be assigned extra days of detention, be assigned Saturday Support or be issued a suspension from school. Students should report to detention with school work and follow all behavior guidelines. Misconduct in detention will not be tolerated and will result in additional consequences being assigned. Activities requiring students to reflect on their behavior, modify their behavior and make better choices may be assigned for completion during detention.

ADMINISTRATOR ASSIGNED MORNING DETENTION

Administrator Assigned Morning Detention is held Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 7:10 to 7:40 AM in the library. Students assigned to this detention must attend detention on the assigned dates. Students will be given a notice from the administrator indicating the assigned dates and guidelines for the detention. Students are expected to share this information with their parents. Students failing to attend for any reason can be assigned extra days of detention, be assigned Saturday Support or be issued a suspension from school. Students should report to detention with school work and follow all behavior guidelines. Misconduct in detention will not be tolerated and will result in additional consequences being assigned. Activities requiring students to reflect on their behavior, modify their behavior and make better choices may be assigned for completion during detention.

Students unable to complete an administrator assigned detention can request a Saturday Support in lieu of detention and the request may be granted.
SATURDAY SUPPORT PROGRAM

The Saturday Support Program is a consequence designed to assist students in behavior modification. Saturday Support is held one or two times a month on designated Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Two staff persons are present to assist students in modifying their behavior to make better choices in the school environment. Academic assistance is also available to help the student with class work. Parents are responsible for transportation to and from school. The Saturday Support Program is to serve as an intermediate consequence between detention and suspension from school. Failure to follow through on a Saturday Support commitment may result in suspension.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

The administration has the authority to involve local law enforcement when necessary to control student behavior. Police action will follow according to provisions set forth in the Crimes Code of Pennsylvania, Juvenile Code or any local ordinance.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE

Student Assistance is a positive consequence designed to assist the student in behavior modification. The Student Assistance Team functions to diagnose problem areas and prescribe interventions to help the student in a positive manner.

INVOLVEMENT OF A SOCIAL AGENCY

Involving Children and Youth Services, Juvenile Justice or other local social agencies is a positive consequence designed to assist the student in behavior modification. These agencies work with the student in and out of school and provide direction in a positive manner.

EXCLUSIONS FROM SCHOOL

Exclusion from school may take the form of suspension or expulsion:

SUSPENSION

Suspensions at Punxsutawney Area High School may be in-school (exclusion from class) or out-of-school (exclusion from school) suspensions and are conducted according to Chapter 12 of Pennsylvania School Code as follows; "SUSPENSION" is exclusion from school for a period of from one to ten consecutive school days.

i) Suspensions may be given by the Principal or person in charge of the public school.

ii) No student shall be suspended until the student has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and given an opportunity to respond. Prior notice of the intended suspension need not be given when it is clear that the health, safety or welfare of the school community is threatened.

iii) The parents and the Superintendent of the District shall be notified in writing when the student is suspended.

iv) When the suspension exceeds three school days, the student and parents shall be given the opportunity for an informal hearing consistent with the requirements set forth on page 23.

v) Suspensions may not be made to run consecutively beyond the ten school day period.

vi) Students shall have the responsibility to make up exams and work missed while being disciplined by suspension. It is the responsibility of the students to see that this work is made up within ten school days following the readmission to school.

“IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION” is exclusion from classes. No student may receive an in-school suspension unless the student has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and has been given an opportunity to respond before the suspension becomes effective. Communication to the parents or guardian shall follow the suspension or action taken by the school.
When the in-school suspension exceeds ten consecutive school days, an informal hearing with the principal shall be offered to the student’s parent or guardian prior to the eleventh school day in accordance with the hearing procedure set forth on pages 24 and 25. Provisions for the student’s education will be made for the student’s education during the period of the in-school suspension.
EXPULSION

In the Punxsutawney Area School District expulsions are conducted according to Chapter 12 of Pennsylvania School Code as follows;

"EXPULSION" is exclusion from school by the board of Education for a period exceeding ten school days and may be permanent expulsion from school rolls. All expulsions require a prior formal hearing..
During the period prior to the hearing and decision of the Board in an expulsion case, the student shall be placed in his normal classroom except as set forth below.
If it is determined that, after an informal hearing, a student's presence in his normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals or welfare of others, and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the student may be excluded from school for more than ten days, if the formal hearing is not unreasonably delayed. Any student so excluded shall be provided with alternative education, which may include home study.
Students who are less than seventeen years of age are still subject to the compulsory school attendance law even though expelled, and they must be provided an education. The initial responsibility for this rests with the student's parents or guardian, through placement in another school, through tutorial or correspondence study or through another educational program approved by the district superintendent.
If the parents or guardian are unable to provide for the required education they must within thirty days submit to the school district written evidence so stating. The district then has the responsibility to make some provision for the student's education. If thirty days pass without the district receiving satisfactory evidence that the required education is being provided to the student, it must re-contact the parent and, pending the parent's or guardian's provision of such education, the district must make some provision for the student's education. If the approved educational program is not complied with, the school district may also take action in accordance with the Juvenile Act, to ensure that the child will receive a proper education.
DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS
FORMAL HEARINGS

A formal hearing is required in all expulsion actions. This hearing may be held before the Board of School Directors or a duly authorized committee of the Board, or a qualified hearing examiner appointed by the Board. Where the hearing is conducted by a committee of the Board or a hearing examiner, a majority vote of the entire School Board is required to expel a student.

1. The following due process requirements are to be observed with regard to the formal hearing:

i. Notification of the charges shall be sent to the student's parents or guardian by certified mail

ii. Sufficient notice of the time and place of the hearing must be given.

iii. The hearing shall be held in private unless the student or parent requests a public hearing.

iv. The student has the right to be represented by counsel.

v. The student has the right to be presented with the names of witnesses against the student, and copies of the statements and affidavits of those witnesses.

vi. The student has the right to request that any such witnesses appear in person and answer questions or be cross-examined.

vii. The student has the right to testify and produce witnesses on his own behalf.

viii. A record must be kept of the hearing, either by a stenographer or by tape recorder, and the student is entitled, at the student's expense, to a copy of the transcript.

ix. The proceeding must be held with all reasonable speed.

2. Where the student disagrees with the results of the hearing, recourse is available in the appropriate Court of the Commonwealth. If it is alleged that a constitutional issue is involved, the student may file a Claim for Relief in the appropriate Federal District Court.
INFORMAL HEARINGS

The purpose of the informal hearing is to enable the student to meet with the appropriate school official to explain the circumstances surrounding the event for which the student is being suspended, or to show why the student should not be suspended.

1. The informal hearing is meant to encourage the student's parents or guardian to meet with the principal to discuss ways by which future offenses can be avoided.

2. The following due process requirements are to be observed in regard to the informal hearing:

i. Notification of the reasons for the suspension shall be given in writing to the parents or guardian and to the student.

ii. Sufficient notice of the time and place of the informal hearing shall be given.

iii. A student has the right to question any witnesses present at the hearing.

iv. A student has the right to speak and produce witnesses on his own behalf.

v. The district shall offer to hold the informal hearing within the first five

days of suspension.

READMISSION CONFERENCE

The purpose of the re-admittance conference is to discuss the situation that caused the suspension and be proactive to prevent future occurrences. A parent/guardian is to accompany their child to the school the day the suspension has concluded to meet with a principal and sign the re-admittance form. The student could be withheld from classes until this meeting takes place.

SPECIFIC OFFENSES WHICH MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION/EXPULSION

The Pennsylvania School Code provides in section 24 Pardons Statutes 13-1318 that a student may be suspended or expelled on account of disobedience or misconduct. If a student does, or attempts to do any offenses, while in attendance at school, while on school property, while engaged in or at a school sponsored activity or events, while on, entering or leaving a school bus, or while other wise subject to the jurisdiction of the School District, such as the following offenses, which are provided only as examples, and not intended to be an exclusive list, he shall be subject to discipline, which may be severe as suspension or even permanent expulsion.

1) Lying.

2) Possession or use of tobacco in any form.

3) Refusing to report to the office when sent by an administrator or teacher.

4) Leaving school property without permission or under false pretense.

5) Excessive unexcused absences

6) Inciting or attempting to cause students to riot or cause civil disorder.

7) Defacing, damaging or destroying any school property, or the property of another student, or school personnel.

8) Theft

9) Threatening, intimidating, harassing, hazing, attempting to do, or doing bodily harm to another person.

10) Purchasing, consuming, possessing, transporting, selling, using, or being under the influence of any alcohol, liquor or malt or brewed beverages. This includes consuming alcohol off of school grounds and then entering school grounds or attending a school sponsored event on or off campus.

11) Purchasing, possessing, transporting, using or being under the influence of drugs, mood altering substances, and/or alcohol. This includes using drugs or mood altering substances, and or alcohol off of school grounds and then entering school grounds or attending a school sponsored event, on or off campus.

12) Purchasing, consuming, possessing, transporting, selling, using, or being under the influence of any non-controlled substance that has a stimulant or depressant effect on humans, or has a label or container of which, substantially resembles a specific controlled substance, including such non-controlled substances as set forth in the "Look Alike Drug Statute"; as well as any other drug paraphernalia, or any other medication, pharmaceutical product, or drug, even though these may be lawfully prescribed, or non-prescription items, unless advance approval of the school administration is obtained.

13) Using obscenities, vulgarities, and/or profanities.

14) Showing disrespect, or disobeying any teacher, administrator or other school personnel.

15) Forgery

16) Cheating (Students receive an official warning and any classroom consequences on the first offense and are suspended on the second cheating offense along with classroom consequences.)

17) Entering another student's locker or other personal possessions without office permission.

18) Fighting

19. 
    Violation of weapons policy.
    
20. 
    Possession of any knife on school property or while attending any school function.
    
21. 
    Participating in or assisting in the making of a bomb threat or any other form of threat that creates a risk or potential risk of a catastrophe.
    
22. 
    Disrupting the educational process.
    
23. 
    Repeated misconduct or any behavior deemed inappropriate by the administration.
    

A student may also be suspended or expelled when he is involved in any conduct that violates the law, including but not limited to violations of any provision of the Crimes Code, the Juvenile Code, any local ordinance, etc., or when he is engaged in any behavior that causes any unsafe conditions or that infringes upon the rights of others. In addition, a student may face a disciplinary hearing and be expelled for accumulated disciplinary infractions and/or suspensions that have occurred over the course of a school year.

THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE WILL BE FOLLOWED WHEN A STUDENT IS SUSPENDED:
1) The suspension will usually begin the day that the infraction occurs or the day school officials learn of the infraction.

2) The student will remain in school until dismissal time under the supervision of the Principal or Assistant Principal and will not attend his regular classes.

3) At the end of the day, the student will be given a suspension form to be given to his parents when he arrives home.

4) While a student is on an out-of-school suspension, he must remain home during the regular school hours.

5) When a student is on in-school suspension, he must report to school as usual but may not attend regular classes. Instead he will be under the direction of the Principal or Assistant Principal who will see that the student spends the day studying his school subjects.

6) While a student is on a suspension he/she will not participate in or attend any school sponsored activity.

7) Students who violate any of the above procedures will have their suspension extended.

8) A parent or legal guardian must accompany the student to school and attend a readmission conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal before the student may return to classes. See the Readmission Conference information on pages 32-33.

Students who receive multiple suspensions during one year will usually follow the procedures listed below:
1) The first suspension will usually be a three-day in-school suspension. During this suspension teachers will furnish assignments and the student must complete assignments and all forms of evaluation prior to readmission to regular classes. Students may be required to complete additional assignments as assigned by a principal, the ISS Monitor, or a teacher.
2) The second suspension will usually be a five-day out-of-school suspension. During this suspension assignments will be furnished upon request and the student will be responsible for getting the assignments and all forms of evaluation completed on the day of his/her return to school.

3) The third suspension usually will result in one of the following:

A. A ten-day out-of-school suspension in which all the requirements of the second suspension will be met. This option is used when two of the three suspensions are of a less serious degree.

B. A full out-of-school suspension, which results in a hearing before the Board of Education. This option is used following Option 3-A or when two of the three suspensions are of a serious degree.

These regulations will be applicable to those students enrolled in the secondary schools of the district with the exception of those students enrolled in certain special education programs. The administration reserves the right to waive the conditions as stated when it appears such action is in the best interest of the school and/or the student.
If the Principal determines the offense to be of a severe nature, he may request a hearing before the Board without proceeding through steps 1, 2, or 3 above.
ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM

This program is only for those students who require a different measure of discipline. The rationale behind this program is to provide an alternative approach to discipline at the high school level. It is felt by many, that out-of-school suspensions are not a deterrent to misbehavior

The reasons for admission to the alternative education program include the following, but are not limited to:

1. 
   Disregard for school authority, including persistent violation of school policy and rules.
   
2. 
   Display of or use of a controlled substance on school property or during school affiliated activities.
   
3. 
   Violent or threatening behavior on school property or during school activities.
   
4. 
   Possession of a weapon on school property.
   
5. 
   Commission of a criminal act on school property.
   
6. 
   Misconduct that would merit suspension/expulsion under school policy.
   
7. 
   Habitual truancy.
   

SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE CODE

The School Laws (24-2541) of Pennsylvania permit School Boards to provide transportation for elementary students living more than one and a half (l/2) miles from school and for secondary students residing more than two (2) miles from the school they attend. To facilitate the proper use of this privilege the Board of Education has prepared and approved these rules.

A. The driver of a school bus, who is in charge of maintaining discipline on the bus, has the right to verbally reprimand any student who misbehaves.

B. Immediately after any act of misconduct, school bus drivers must file with the high school Principal or Assistant Principal a written "Notice of Unsatisfactory Conduct on School Bus" so that disciplinary action can be taken.

C. If the area of misconduct encompasses any of the following the Principal or Assistant Principal shall have the authority upon receipt of "Notice of Unsatisfactory Conduct on School Bus" to enforce the following:

1) Failing to follow reasonable instructions of driver, fighting on bus, using tobacco in any form, destroying bus property, swearing, throwing any object, lighting matches, refusing to remain seated while bus is in motion, or engaging in any other action that impairs or endangers his life or the life of any other student, driver, or any vehicle or person in the vicinity of the bus may result in a minimum of three (3) days to a maximum of ten (10) days suspension of riding privileges.

2) In the instance where intentional damage to a bus occurs, the parents of the students involved will be expected to reimburse the contractor for the full amount of the damage repair/replacement costs.

3) Parents will be responsible for their child's attendance during the bus suspension.

D. A Principal shall inform the student's parents of the act of misconduct and the extent of the student's suspension, and may request the parents to meet with the Administration, bus driver, and School Transportation Director to discuss the student's misconduct before the bus privileges are restored.

E. In the event of continual and persistent misconduct by a student riding a bus, the Board may, after a proper hearing, suspend said student for such time as the Board may determine, during which time the student and his parents shall be required to furnish transportation. Such hearings or suspensions may be delegated to a duly authorized committee of the Board.

All school buses in the Punxsutawney Area School District may be equipped with video cameras for recording both the audio and video portions of the school bus ride to and from school.  Students are reminded that their conversations and behavior may be recorded and any disciplinary decisions may be based on the audio and video camera review.

RULES FOR ALTERNATIVE BUS RIDING PRIVELAGES

A. If a parent/guardian desires to have a student either ride another bus or egress from a bus at a stop other than the one initially assigned, the following procedures will be utilized:

1) The bus pass that the district issues are for the purpose of insuring that there is a responsible adult home when the children are discharged from the school bus. If there will be no one at home, the school will allow the parents to request that the child be permitted to ride a different bus to where the child may receive adult supervision.

2) All "passes" are issued for single events. Requests for extended change in busing must be made to the Director of Transportation.

3) The requests for such events should be specifically written, dated and signed by the parent/guardian.

B. The principal or head teacher - after consulting with the Transportation Agent - may grant exceptions to this procedure in cases of extenuating circumstances.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
SCHOOL POLICY

1) Regular schoolwork comes first. Participation in extra-curricular activities is a PRIVILEGE AND NOT A RIGHT. Students will be restricted in their extra-curricular activities whenever it appears that their regular schoolwork is suffering.

2) As soon as any activity becomes a teacher activity, instead of a student activity, it will be dropped.

3) A student may hold only one of the following positions:

A. Any student body office defined in the Student Government Constitution.

B. President of any class.

If a conflict with the rule exists, the student will have to make a choice of which job he wishes to hold.
INVITATION TO JOIN CLUBS

Upon entering P.H.S., you are invited to become interested and acquainted with the clubs of our high school so that you may join various clubs early in your high school course.

All school clubs are scheduled to meet on certain specified dates.
RULES FOR CLUBS

The purpose of all school clubs that are organized in Punxsutawney Area High School is to enrich classroom activities, to present opportunities for self-directed, democratic citizenship. In order to hold a membership in one of these clubs, one must be registered in the department or have already taken all courses in that department, and must not belong to more than two other clubs. The officers of these clubs must meet the requirements listed under "Rules for Office Holding."

The funds of the club must be deposited in the general school account where separate accounts will be kept for each organization. For payment of any club expense, a voucher must be drawn in sufficient time for approval of the Principal. Any money raised by clubs must be used for general school purposes.

No club is allowed to have more than one purely social meeting a year. This meeting shall be limited to the members, their guests and the faculty sponsors. The entertainment must be approved by the sponsors and limited to members of the group or to persons brought in by the sponsor. No social meeting may last later than 10 o'clock P.M. and all meetings must be held in the high school building or in homes of the sponsors or members.

The best organizations are those that can use, in worthwhile activities, the largest number of students. Intelligent, sympathetic and continuous faculty guidance is needed for all student organizations. The student organization should try to stimulate in its members participation in intellectual activities and to inculcate in them high ideals by which each individual is able to govern himself. The full test of the success of a pupil organization lies in the worthy conduct of its members, not only in school groups but in other organizations of which they are members.

All clubs should grow out of and be closely related to curricular and extra-curricular activities. All fundraisers must be approved by the Principal.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR CLUB OFFICERS

1) Must have passed all units of work the previous semester.

2) No person may be president of more than one club.

3) Must have and maintain an average of 82.5 and no failing grades.

4) Any officer suspended from school will have their position revoked.
RULES GOVERNING CLASS OFFICERS

1) All students running for class office must have a 90 average grade in their schoolwork and no failing grades in the previous school year.

2) All campaign posters, a limit of two, made by students must first be approved by the Principal in the office.

3) A student may not hold the same office two years in a row.

4) All students running for the office of president must give a speech to be considered for election. This must be approved one day prior to the speech by the Student Government advisor and/or Principal.

5) All students must submit a petition of at least fifty names from the students in their own class.

6) All members must follow the Class Officers Rules and By-laws.
CLUB DESCRIPTIONS
AGRICULTURE CLUB

The purpose of the agriculture club is to teach others that there is more to agriculture than just farm work, and to raise awareness that agriculture is a part of everyone’s daily lives. Students will learn more about all of the agricultural fields. Members may go on field trips to events and locations such as: the Farm Show, Keystone International Livestock Expo, and Penn State. The club will also host guest speakers throughout the year. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

ART CLUB (10-11-12)

The high school art club is open to students who are enrolled or have been enrolled in any art class of the Punxsutawney Area High School for the current school year. The club provides group projects for students interested in extending the use of their art skills in school and community art projects. The club sponsors an annual spring art exhibit. Special programs and field trips offer the club members a chance to learn about art from out-of-school sources.

ART CLUB (8-9)

This club is open to students in 8^th and 9^th grade who have enrolled in an art class and has a sincere interest in art. The club provides group projects for students interested in extending the use of their art skills in school and community art projects. Special programs and field trips offer the club members a chance to learn about art from out-of-school sources.

BAND FRONT

The band front is comprised of students in grades 8 through 12. Interested students must audition in February and March. The auditions are open for students in grades 7 through 11. All band front members are expected to follow the band schedule and band handbook. Band front members are expected to be positive, contributing members of the Punxsutawney Area High School Band. All band front members must have and maintain an 82.5% grade point average in order to participate in band front.

BASEBALL ASSOCIATION

The purpose of Baseball Association is to promote school spirit and provide financial assistance to the Punxsutawney High School baseball team. The association will also assist team members in the M&M fundraiser. Requirements are any student in grades 8-12 and must be a member of the Punxsutawney School District. Officers will be elected and meetings will be once a month.

BIBLE CLUB

Students from all faiths are provided with the opportunity to openly discuss relevant topics and events. The club also has a goal of helping to promote a positive environment at Punxsutawney Area High School. Bible club will be meeting during activity periods on assigned days, and it is available for all students attending PAHS. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

DANCE TEAM

Dance Team is new for 2012-2013. The purpose of this organization is to provide a creative outlet for students who are interested in the performing arts, to support school spirit, and to develop a strong skill through dance. All students are invited to audition.
DRAMA CLUB

The goal of the Drama Club is to bring legitimate theatrical experiences to the student body. This can include workshop style activities, experimenting with make-up, stage combat exercises, and watching theatrical performances. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

FUTURE HEALTH SERVICES

The Future Health Services Club meets the second Wednesday of every month during the activity period. Membership is open to any student in eighth through twelfth grades who plans to enter some field of medicine.

Various moneymaking projects enable the club members to go on a field trip to a selected medical institution or health career fair. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.
KEY CLUB

Key Club is an international student-led organization, which provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character, and develop leadership skills. The organization offers a wide range of opportunities to its members including: leadership development, vocational guidance, college scholarships, subscription to Key Club magazine, service- learning, personal enrichment, value-added membership programs, and liability insurance coverage. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

MATH CLUB

The missions of this organization are to promote spirit and enthusiasm for mathematics, help students in need, and educate its members in the study of mathematics. The club will also strive to assist students in making informed choices regarding a future career in a mathematics related area. Meetings will be held monthly. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

MOCK TRIAL

The purpose of the Mock Trial Team is to foster critical skills and to cultivate knowledge of the law through mock trials with other schools. The competition team consists of ten students (eight students during state championship matches) and the support team may have an unlimited number of students. Any student in good standing with the school may join. Tryouts for the competition team usually take place in the fall and the team competes in the winter. Anyone interested in joining should see the Mock Trial advisor. 8^th grade students are invited and encouraged to join.

SADD/Busted Club

SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions)/Busted is an organization whose goal is to equip students with skills that will help them deal with issues that are relevant in their lives. Since SADD’s approach involves students accepting the responsibility of delivering prevention messages to their peers about saying no to drug usage and smoking, underage drinking (alcohol), impaired driving, violence, and suicide; club members will be expected to participate in school and community projects that involve educating peers about these topics. SADD membership is open to students in grades eight through twelve.

SCIENCE CLUB (10-11-12)

The Science Club meets on the first Thursday of each month. It strives to educate and interest its members in the study of science and science-related careers. Sophomores, juniors and seniors with high achievement and interest in science are welcome to join. Science programs consisting of guest speakers and films are presented. The group goes on field trips to universities, museums, planetariums, or industries.

SCIENCE CLUB (8-9)

This club strives to educate and interest its members in the study of science and science-related careers. 8^th and 9^th graders with high achievement and interest in science are welcome to join. Science programs consisting of guest speakers and films are presented. The group goes on field trips to universities, museums, planetariums, or industries.

SKI CLUB

The Punxsutawney Area High School Ski Club is an organization, which promotes participation in the enjoyment and appreciation of downhill skiing. The club offers members an opportunity to meet and make friends, and to share knowledge and interest in skiing. Membership is open to any student in grades eight through twelve. Various fundraisers are held throughout the year to help members afford the opportunity to ski. Day trips are taken, as well as overnight trips, to various ski resorts. Guest speakers and films are included in the bimonthly meetings.

SPANISH CLUB

The purpose of Spanish Club is to further interest in Spanish and Hispanic culture. Often local people are brought in to discuss their trips to Spanish speaking countries. Videos of various types in Spanish are also shown. A field trip is taken each spring to see a play presented in Spanish and in English. Students must be currently taking Spanish or have completed two years of Spanish.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Although not considered a club, Student Government acts as a liaison between the student body and school administration. The Government’s purpose is to coordinate student activities and innovate useful ideas. Student Government sponsors charity events, dances, and spirit days throughout the year in which students are encouraged to participate. Student Government Projects--- PAHS Student Government is proud to have contributed a message board in the cafeteria, the copier in the library, and a sidewalk from the back parking lot. Student Government has also donated $10,000 towards courtyard renovations from which a gazebo and six tables were purchased.

TECHNOLOGY STUDENT ASSOCIATION

This organization is dedicated to providing a variety of engineering and technology experiences for students to explore. Through participation in the Technology Student Association students learn leadership and teamwork skills. Activities will include several different subgroups, competitive events, field trips and guest speakers. This club provides students with opportunity to apply science, technology, engineering and math concepts to meet challenges. To be eligible for membership students must have taken at least one technology class, participate in fund raising activities, attend meetings, and paid the required dues. 8^th grade students who are enrolled in or completed Multimedia Technology 8 are invited and encouraged to join.

VARSITY CLUB

The main objective of the Varsity Club is to promote a high standard of athletics and to create a fellowship among varsity athletes.

REQUIREMENTS:

1) Athletes who have won a letter in a varsity sport.

2) Any athlete who participates in a varsity sport for three years without lettering is eligible to join at the end of his junior year.

3) Managers of any sport may be candidates for membership if they have served as manager for two years in the same sport.

VARSITY CLUB ACTIVITIES:

1) The major fund raising campaign is the selling of advertisements for the football programs. This is done in the summer months.

2) Providing escorts for and helping organize the Winter Sports Queen ceremony.

3) Selling football programs at home games.

4) Present an award each year for the best all-around male and female senior athlete in the Varsity Club.

5) Promote the attendance of all athletic events in the high school.

6) Sponsor field trips each year to an event or place of the members' choice.

7) This club also recognizes its obligation to be a service organization to the high school.

8) Sponsor a senior field trip of the members’ choice.
WRESTLING ASSOCIATION

The Wrestling Association is an organization, which is interested in the promotion of the Punxsutawney Area High School wrestling team. They have various moneymaking activities that benefit the wrestling program. The Wrestling Association meets the second Tuesday of each month. 8^th graders who wrestle are invited and encouraged to join.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & HOME SCHOOLED STUDENTS

Act 67 of 2005 requires all school districts to allow home-schooled students to participate in extracurricular activities. Home-schooled students must meet the equivalent participation and try-out criteria as students enrolled in the district. Further, home-schooled students must comply with all policies and rules of the governing organization of the activity, including interscholastic athletics. If the district offers to its enrolled student’s physical examinations necessary to participate in the activity, it must also allow home-schooled students access to the exams. The Punxsutawney Area School District has adopted a policy on Act 67. Materials regarding participation in extracurricular activities are available in the Punxsutawney High School office.

ATHLETICS
ATHLETIC ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY

Athletes must be passing at least 4 credits to be eligible to participate and practice in an athletic program during a season. This regulation is set by the P.I.A.A.
ATTENDANCE

Students absent from school, unless excused in advance, are not permitted to practice or participate in school events on the day of the absence. Students must be in school by 12:00 Noon in order to practice or participate in that day's school activity. Any student on a doctor’s excuse not to participate in physical education class may NOT participate in athletics until a physician’s release is obtained for physical education class.

ATTENDANCE & HOW IT AFFECTS ELIGILBILITY

In accordance with the PIAA a student who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of twenty or more school days, shall not be eligible to participate in an Inter-School Practice, Scrimmage, or Contest until the student has been in attendance for a total of sixty days following the student’s 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 absences may be waived from the application of this rule by the District Committee. Attendance at summer school does not count toward the sixty days required.

ATHLETIC AWARDS AND LETTER REQUIREMENTS

Punxsutawney Area High School awards to athletes shall be:

1) The letter "P" with a gold pin for the appropriate sport attached, will be awarded with the letter jacket.

2) Any other award the athlete earns shall be a gold pin for the appropriate sport which can be attached to a varsity jacket.

Awards may be earned in the following sports: boys' and girls' basketball, boys' and girls' cross country, football, girls' volleyball, boys’ and girls’ golf, boys' and girls' track, wrestling, baseball, boys' and girls' tennis girls' softball, boys’ and girls’ soccer and cheerleading.
Athletes who are interested in learning the criteria for earning an award in a particular sport should see the head coach of that sport.

LETTER JACKET POLICY

A jacket will be awarded to an athlete participating in competitive inter-scholastic sports approved by the Punxsutawney Area School District. Awards will be made when one of the following requirements is met:

1) Earn one letter in each of any two sports, or

2) Earn two letters in one sport, for two years.

3) A senior who has completed three years in a sport and qualifies for a letter his senior year.

4) A manager or trainer must serve for three years and be a head manager or trainer during his senior year.

5) In case of injury, illness, or any unusual circumstance a decision as to whether or not an athletic assistant manager or assistant trainer will receive a jacket will be made by the coaching staff, principal and athletic director.

6) All candidates must be recommended by the coaching staff, principal, and athletic director as having exhibited good sportsmanship, loyalty, and moral character both on and off the field during the period of participation. Two options will be available to the athletes:

A. A nylon jacket with quilted lining and a knit collar, the entire cost of which will be paid by the School District.

2. 
   A wool winter jacket, part of the cost (price of nylon jacket) to be paid by the School District, with the balance to be paid by the athlete.
   

STEROID POLICY

A. Except for valid medical purposes confirmed by a written physician's statement, the use of anabolic steroids by any student involved in any school related athletic program is prohibited.

B. Process for those who are involved in any school related athletic program including intramural programs:

1) For the first violation, suspension from all school athletics for the remainder of the school year.

2) For the second violation, suspension from all school athletic programs for the balance of the current school year and the following school year.

3) For the third violation, permanent suspension from school athletics.

NOTE: The unauthorized use of Steroids on school property may result in suspension from school.

C. After being suspended under the provisions noted in section B 1 and B 2, no student shall be eligible to resume participation in school athletics unless there has been a medical determination that no residual evidence of steroids exists.

D. The dangers of the use of anabolic steroids shall be included in the District's health related instructional programs along with any other drug and alcohol program.
ATHLETIC TEAM TRANSPORTATION

No athletic team will be transported by private cars for any reason unless permission is granted by a Principal and/or Athletic Director. Commercial transportation will be chartered for all games and scrimmages. Students who are members of an athletic team going to a game or scrimmage will return on the bus unless a note signed by a parent is presented to a Principal and/or Athletic Director prior to the trip indicating the athlete will be riding home with his/her parents. Students failing to follow these guidelines may be subject to administrative penalties.

SPORTSMANSHIP

The American Heritage Dictionary defines sportsmanship as “one who abides by the rules of a contest and accepts victory or defeat graciously. Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, Inc. (PIAA) defines sportsmanship as “those qualities, which are characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others. Further, an awareness is expected of the impact of an individual’s influence on others behavior.”

The ideal of sportsmanship permeates virtually every aspect of our culture. The ethic of fair play may be witnessed in all facets of life. However, its origin has been firmly established in sports, as conceptually and pragmatically a training ground for good citizenship and high behavioral standards. Sportsmanship is viewed by the PIAA as a concrete measure of each school’s and individual’s understanding of their commitment to the educational nature of interscholastic athletics.
THE FUNDAMENTALS OF SPORTSMANSHIP

The PIAA and its member schools are strongly emphasizing the importance of GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP. The one thing we need to realize is that many people have not had GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP explained to them. Hopefully the following will help everyone to understand their responsibilities at an athletic contest.

1. 
   GAIN AN UNDERSTANDING AND APPRECIATION FOR THE RULES OF THE CONTEST.
   

Know the rules. If you are uninformed, refrain from expressing opinions on officials, coaches, or administrative decisions.

2. 
   EXERCISE REPRESENTATIVE BEHAVIOR AT ALL TIMES.
   

A prerequisite to good sportsmanship requires one to understand his/her own prejudices that may become a factor in his/her behavior. Your behavior influences others whether you are aware of it or not.

3. 
   RECOGNIZE AND APPRECIATE SKILLED PERFORMANCES REGARDLESS OF AFFILIATION.
   

Applause for an opponent’s good performance displays generosity and is a courtesy that should be regularly practiced.

4. 
   EXHIBIT RESPECT FOR THE OFFICIALS.
   

The officials of any contest are impartial arbitrators who are trained and who perform to the best of their ability. Mistakes by all those involved in the contest are part of the game.

5. 
   DISPLAY OPENLY A RESPECT FOR THE OPPONENT AT ALL TIMES.
   

Opponents are guests and should be treated cordially, provided with the best accommodations, and accorded tolerance at all times.

6. 
   DISPLAY PRIDE IN YOUR ACTIONS AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY.
   

Never allow your ego to interfere with good judgment and your responsibility as a school representative.
HIGH SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS
THE MIRROR

The Mirror staff consists of juniors and seniors who meet daily during the first semester to publish the high school yearbook. Students do not receive academic credit for this class but they do the basics of desktop publishing. Potential staff members submit applications at the beginning of the second semester for the following year's staff, a staff is chosen from the applicants.

THE SHADOW

The "Shadow" is the school newspaper. The "Shadow" staff meets daily for a semester as a journalism class for which they can earn academic credit. Students on the newspaper staff gain skills in journalistic writing, word processing, copy editing, and newspaper layout.

THE STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (S.A.P)

S.A.P is designed to help school personnel to identify issues, including alcohol, drugs, mental health, and behavioral concerns which could pose a barrier to a student’s learning and school success. It is an intervention, not a treatment program.

The SAP uses a systematic process, along with specially trained school personnel, to intervene and refer these students to appropriate in-school and/or community services. Parent involvement is an essential part of the process.

The core of the program is a team trained according to state guidelines. Members of the team include teachers, principals, nurses, school counselors, school psychologists, and representatives from human service agencies. The Student Assistance Program is a voluntary support service for a student and families. All information regarding a student’s involvement in a program is confidential and maintained in the best interest of the student.

The primary responsibility of schools is to educate students. If a student is under the influence of mind-altering chemicals, that student cannot learn. If a student is depressed and feels hopeless, he or she cannot learn effectively. If the student disrupts the school climate, other students will not be able to learn, and the teachers will not be able to teach. Schools are the only institution through which all young people must pass. This gives the school officials a unique opportunity to identify and help those whose lives are being negatively affected by a high-risk behavior.