Coopers Education Center9579 Vocational Drive

Painted Post, New York 14870962-3175

Career and Technical Education Program

Student/Parent Handbook

2016-17

Wildwood Education Center1126 Bald Hill Road

Hornell, New York 14843324-7880

Bush Education Center459 Philo Road

Elmira, New York 14903739-3581

Index

GST BOCES Contact Information ...............................................................2Calendar ..............................................................................................................3Philosophy of Career and Technical Education ....................................4Attendance ....................................................................................................4-6Grading Procedures ........................................................................................6Profiles, Certificates and Endorsements ..................................................7Transportation ..................................................................................................7Vehicle Traffic Laws .........................................................................................7Student Organizations ..................................................................................8Safety ...............................................................................................................8-9Accidents and Illness ......................................................................................9Visitors to the Campus ............................................................................ 9-10Student Dress Code ...............................................................................10-11Student Materials .........................................................................................11Lockers .......................................................................................................11-12Emergency Drill/Closing Procedures ....................................................12Telephone/Cell Phone Use ..................................................................12-13Rules and Regulations ..........................................................................13-16Student Rights and Responsibilities ................................................17-18Anti-Bullying Policy ...............................................................................18-19Sexual Harassment of Students ........................................................19-20Suspected Child Abuse and Maltreatment .........................................20Drug and Alcohol Abuse ............................................................................21Student Searches and Interrogations .............................................21-22Student Services ...........................................................................................22Grievance Procedure .............................................................................23-24Pesticide Notification ..................................................................................25Asbestos Notification ..................................................................................25

Career & Technical Education Program (CTE Program)

Administration - Bush Education Center Ann Fuller-Sincock ...........................................................................PrincipalRobert Sherburne ..........................................................Assistant PrincipalMatt Talada ......................................................................Assistant PrincipalKaren Rounds ..................................................................Program RegistrarTerry Gray .......................................................................................... Secretary

Administration - Coopers Education Center Colleen Hurd ......................................................................................PrincipalSam Gauss ...................................... Principal/Chief Information OfficerJennifer Page ...................................................................Program AssistantSusan Hamilton ......................................................................Account Clerk

Administration - Wildwood Education Center Rick Perkins ........................................................................................ PrincipalKasi Washburn ................................................................Assistant PrincipalSharyl Hammond .................................................................... Senior TypistMichelle Chamberlain ............................................. Account Clerk Typist

2

3

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

09/05/16 Labor Day09/06/16 Conference Day10/10/16 Columbus Day10/21/16 Conference Day11/11/16 Veterans Day11/23/16- Thanksgiving 11/25/16 Recess12/26/16- Winter 01/02/17 Recess01/16/17 Martin Luther King Day01/30/17 Conference Day02/20/17- Mid Winter02/24/17 Recess03/10/17 Conference Day04/10/17- Spring04/17/17 Recess05/29/17 Memorial Day06/23/17 Last Day of School

Total Number of Days: 181 + 4 = 185

Holiday or Recess

Conference Day

*October 14 will be the emergency early release day. Students will be dismissed 15 minutes early.

Regents Exams - June 14-22Rating Day - June 23

Days Schools are in Session:Sept .........18 + 1Oct ..........19 + 1 Nov .........18Dec ..........17 Jan ...........19 + 1 91 + 3

GST BOCES 2016-17Approved Regional School Calendar

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

September 2016

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

October

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

February

March

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

MayDecember

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

November S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

April

JuneJanuary 2017

Approved 03/01/16

Feb ..........15Mar .........22 + 1 Apr .........14May.........22June .........17 90 + 1

Philosophy of the Career and Technical Education Program The CTE Program’s professional staff of educators with trade experience provide a wide range of real-life workforce training programs to prepare students for future employment,post-secondary education or a military career. Our programs provide you with the opportunity to go beyond textbook theory and gain job skills through instruction and hands-on experiences in an integrated academic, technical and career setting.

Attendance All students must report directly to their class/shop for attendance. Daily attendance is reported to your home school. The total number of days missed will appear on your report cards and on five-week reports. CTE attendance becomes part of your permanent record. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the school of the student’s absence on the morning of the absence. When you return to school, it also is your responsibility to make the necessary arrangements with your teacher to make up any missed work. Sufficient time will be allowed for legal absences. Upon return (within 5 days) from the absence, you must present the reason in writing from a parent/guardian to the main office. For an absence to be considered excused, there must be a signed written note from a parent or guardian confirming one of the following: 1. illness 2. illness or death in the family 3. religious observance 4. medical appointments 5. attendance at health clinics 6. quarantine 7. required court appearances 8. approved college visits

4

5 9. military obligations 10. absences approved in advance by the principal, such as approved cooperative work programs, approved field trips and retention at home school* * (If you are held at your home school for legitimate educational purposes, the CTE main office must be notified in advance by home school officials explaining the absence.)

For the purpose of this policy, the following definitions apply: 1. Scheduled instruction: Every period that a student is scheduled to attend instructional or supervised study activities during the course of a school day during the school year. 2. Absent: The student is not present for the entire period of the student’s scheduled instruction. 3. Tardy: The student arrives later than the starting time of the student’s scheduled instruction. 4. Early departure: The student leaves prior to the end of the student’s scheduled instruction. 5. Perfect Attendance: A student does not miss any portion of the scheduled instruction.

Any reason not listed as excused shall be deemed unexcused unless the principal determines otherwise. Examples of unexcused absences include but are not limited to: 1. shopping 2. traveling 3. oversleeping 4. missing the bus 5. skipping class. An absence is considered unexcused unless the student provides documentation of an excused absence. Students arriving on campus late must sign in at the main office. If it is necessary for you to leave the campus early because of a scheduled appointment (doctor, dentist, etc.), make sure your instructor knows in advance. In order to leave school

6before the end of the school day, you must have prior written permission from a parent or guardian which also is acknowledged by your home school. When leaving the campus early, the parent or guardian picking you up must come to the main office to sign a release form before you may leave campus. Absences may deduct from the total number of hours of instruction you must accumulate for some licenses and certificates. In all courses, excessive absences may cause you to be dismissed from the program as per your home school policy. It is your responsibility to monitor your attendance. A student must be noted as present at 75 percent of a course’s scheduled classes in order to earn credit for the course. Any excused absence for which the student has completed assigned make-up work will not be counted as an absence for the purposes of determining whether the student has attended sufficient classes to receive course credit under this provision. For purposes of minimum attendance requirements, a student shall not be counted as present for a class if the student misses more than 10 minutes of class, whether through tardiness or early departure.

Grading Procedures All CTE programs regularly conduct both written and performance-based assessments. Additionally, a daily grade is assigned to each student based on his/her work ethic skills. This could include but is not limited to: being prepared, professionalism, following safety practices, having a positive attitude and strong work habits. Written and performance-based assessments account for 80 percent of the student’s report card grade; the work ethic grade/daily grade accounts for 20 percent. Interim grade reports are issued every five weeks to inform the student, parents/guardians and the home school of progress. Report cards are issued four times during the school year.

7Profiles, Certificates And Endorsements• All students who successfully complete their junior and senior level CTE program are eligible to receive a copy of their resume, any industry-specific certificates earned, a Certificate of Completion and an Employability Profile.• A Career and Technical Education Certificate of Completion with Honor recognizes superior achievement. The CTE program presents a gold seal on the Certificate of Completion to graduating students who maintain a cumulative grade average of 85 percent or above and maintain 96 percent attendance (i.e., miss no more than 14 days during a two-year program).• Students who are graduating with either a Regents or Local Diploma, who pass their CTE program, pass a national technical assessment and complete a successful work experience will be eligible to receive a CTE Technical Endorsement seal on their high school diploma.

Transportation Students are required to ride school buses to and from BOCES. If, for a valid reason, it becomes necessary for a student to drive to BOCES, permission must first be received in advance from a parent/guardian and the home school principal or assistant principal, and the CTE administrator. Forms are available in the CTE main office. BOCES does not authorize students to ride with other student drivers for any reason. Violation of CTE Program policy regarding driving/riding will result in having your driving privileges revoked. Vehicles on school grounds may be subject to search.

Vehicle Traffic Laws All vehicles must abide by the NYS vehicle and traffic laws (including stop signs, speed limit, school bus, etc.). The posted speed limit is 15 mph on campus.

8Student Organizations Student organizations may be utilized in developing and maintaining a school-wide understanding of student rights and responsibilities and to encourage the development of responsible civic behavior. The student organizations listed below provide an opportunity for students in the Career and Technical Education Program to develop leadership abilities. FFA - Future Farmers of America (Bush campus only) Finger Lakes Home Builders & Remodelers Association (Bush campus only) HOSA - Health Occupations Students of America Skills USA NTHS - National Technical Honor Society The CTE staff encourages your participation in student organizations. Your teachers will give you more information about these organizations and qualifications for membership.

Safety Safety is a primary concern in every Career and Technical Education program because: • We are concerned about your well-being. • Employers in career and technical areas continually stress SAFETY in the work place. Your instructor will outline the safety rules for your course. Be constantly alert to safety in your own shop and when visiting other shops. Learn the rules thoroughly and follow them. • When students are moving between buildings, they are required to use sidewalks where provided. • You may be provided with safety glasses and/or safety equipment. Use them. They are your responsibility. If you lose them or break them through misuse, you must pay for them. • Students will be allowed to use equipment when proper and adequate instruction has been given, with appropriate supervision, and with the teacher’s permission following successful completion of the safety module. • Students must be physically capable of performing tasks required of their individual CTE program.

9 If you are working with moving machinery, you need to take special precautions. For example: • Wearing rings, watches or other jewelry is not permitted. • Wear short sleeves, roll sleeves tightly above the elbow or secure long sleeves at the wrists. • Wear workboots or shoes approved by the instructor. • Wearing ragged or loose-fitting clothing in the shop areas is not permitted. • If you have long hair, you may be required to wear a safety cap or some other hair restraint to protect you from getting your hair caught in equipment.

Safety equipment is provided for your own protection. Listen to your instructor and follow all rules.

Accidents and Illness If an accident occurs or if you feel ill, you must report it at once to the instructor. The instructor will give you a pass and see that you are taken safely to the appropriate personnel. Only an administrator or appropriate personnel may give a student permission to go home. A Health History Form and all paperwork in the student folder must be completed and on file in the office before a student may use any equipment or participate in any off-campus field trips. Please inform your instructor of any known health problems. If you take any kind of medication which might affect your work in class or shop, you MUST inform your instructor and appropriate personnel as to what kind of medication and how often you take it. All medication must be locked up in the main office. Ambulance calls may be made at the discretion of school personnel. A school administrator must be notified when an ambulance is called.

Visitors to the Campus All visitors must report directly to the main office to make their presence known and to sign in. Parents and guardians

or visitors who wish to visit a CTE program may do so with a scheduled appointment. All visitors must make prior arrangements with the campus principal to visit the CTE Program. All visitors are required to follow staff requests. Refusal will result in administration being notified and actions taken as deemed necessary. This will ensure that the visit is a pleasant, safe and educational experience.

Student Dress Code All students of the GST BOCES are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. Teachers and all other district personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting. As a Career and Technical Education student, you are expected to dress in a manner that is appropriate to school and your learning environment. Proper dress and uniform varies with each course; each instructor will outline the appropriate dress requirement. If you are not in uniform or protective clothing, you will not be allowed to work or visit where a uniform or protective clothing is required.

Students’ dress, grooming and appearance, including hair style/color, jewelry, make-up and nails, shall: • Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process. Extremely brief garments, for example, tube tops, net tops, halter tops, spaghetti straps, plunging necklines (front and/or back) and see-through garments are not appropriate. Student dress that includes wallet chains, dog chains or other such chains that are deemed unsafe by the staff will not be allowed. Oversized, baggy or saggy clothing that is deemed unsafe by the staff is prohibited. • Ensure that undergarments are completely covered with outer clothing.

10

• Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability, or promote or endorse alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco or encourage violent/illegal activities. • Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is a potential safety hazard will not be allowed. • Be appropriate for specific classes, for example, CTE courses, physical education classes and science classes. Staff and administration will determine what appearance and dress is appropriate, under what conditions and in what areas. 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 discipline, up to and including in-school suspension for the day. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including out-of-school suspension.

Student Materials When textbooks, safety/course equipment, uniforms and supplies are provided, they should be treated as a loan to be returned in satisfactory condition. You are responsible for paying for damaged or lost materials.

Lockers Some shops and classes provide lockers for student use. School lockers, desks and other storage spaces provided by GST BOCES for the convenience of students remain at all times the exclusive property of GST BOCES. Only school locks may be used. Students have no “expectation of privacy” in these spaces. Thus, student lockers, desks and other school storage spaces may be subject to search at any time by school officials, without prior notice to students, without their consent, and with or

11

without reasonable suspicion. GST BOCES is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings. Do not bring money or valuable items to the campus.

Emergency Drill/Closing Procedures Emergency drills (i.e., fire drills, lockdown, in-shelter drills and emergency evacuations) will be practiced routinely throughout the school year. These drills are for the protection of each individual and must be taken seriously. Students must proceed according to directions posted in classrooms and/or staff directions. When the drill is completed, you must return to your class immediately. Emergency drills are an important safety precaution. Teachers will explain the drill procedures for each class. In the event of an emergency closing, parents/guardians and students should tune into the following radio stations for closing information: WVIN FM, WKPQ FM, WLVY 94.3 FM, WOKN 99.5 FM, WELM 1410 AM, WMTT 95.1 FM, WENY 92.7 FM and 1230 AM, WINK 106.1 FM, WPGI 100.9 FM, WNGZ 104.9 FM, WWLZ 820 AM, WGMM 97.7 FM, WCBA 98.7 FM, and WCLI 450 AM. The following television stations also will carry emergency closing information: WENY, WETM and WYDC-Fox. In case of emergency closing or dismissal, all students will be required to sign out with the parent or legal guardian on record, except for those who ride a bus or who have approved driving passes.

Telephone/Cell Phone Use The telephones located in classrooms and offices are not for student’s personal use. Students with extenuating circumstances may obtain a pass to the office to use the phone. Cell phone policy will mirror industry standards and expectations. Cell phone usage is not permitted during instructional time unless authorized by the classroom instructor for instructional use only. Use of a cell phone in a bullying or harassing manner is not permitted. Violation of this policy could result in a cell phone being confiscated if school

12

officials have reasonable suspicion that a student has violated the law or BOCES’ rules. Further violations could result in disciplinary action.

Rules and RegulationsGST BOCES Computer Network Agreement: The BOCES Computer Network Agreement must be signed by the student and parent/guardian before a student will be allowed to use the computer network. Students and parents/guardians must understand that inappropriate network use and/or failure to abide by Board policy will result in the loss of the privilege to use this educational tool. It also must be understood that the use of the computer and the network is not private or confidential. Students must comply with the following rules with relation to use of the BOCES network: • Non-educational use of computer equipment or cyberbulllying on school computers will not be permitted. • Students are not permitted to use staff computers. • Use of electronic equipment (computer, cell phone, etc.) in a harassing/bullying or cyberbullying manner is not tolerated. • Consuming food or beverages in computer labs is prohibited. Classroom Rules: It is the responsibility of each student to know and abide by the rules of behavior in each classroom as reviewed in orientation and posted by the teacher. Repeated infractions may result in referral to the office.

Prohibited Student Conduct: A CTE student shall be subject to disciplinary action if s/he engages in any of the following conduct: - Fighting or causing physical harm. - Being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, drinking an alcoholic beverage or in possession an alcoholic beverage on school premises (including

13

buildings or grounds) or on a bus going to or from a school function or a school-sponsored function is strictly prohibited. Alcoholic beverages shall mean and include alcohol, spirits, liquor, wine, beer and cider having alcoholic content. - The use, possession, sale or gift of any drug, controlled substance, or drug facsimile, including marijuana or any instruments for the use of such drugs, controlled substance or marijuana, such as a pipe, syringe or other paraphernalia, while on school premises (including buildings or grounds) or on a bus going to or from a school function or school-sponsored function. Excepted is any drug taken in accordance with a current prescription signed by a physician, which is to be taken by the particular student at the time in question, under the direction of the health office. - Inappropriate use or sharing of prescription and over-the- counter drugs. - Possessing or smoking a cigarette, cigar or pipe, or possessing or using chewing or smokeless of tobacco products on school premises (including buildings or grounds), or on a bus going to or from a school function or a school-sponsored function. If found, such products will be confiscated. - Failure to comply with the directions of a teacher, administrator or other school employee. - Initiating a report or warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misuse of 911, or discharging a fire extinguisher. - Possession or use of a weapon, which constitutes a firearm, destructive device or knife or other weapon, on school premises. School premises include school grounds, school buildings, or a school bus. - Bringing articles to school that are hazardous to the safety of others or interfere with the learning process, e.g., playthings or personal electronic devices or equipment such as laser pens, iPads, iPods, etc.. BOCES does not encourage students to bring personal electronic

14

equipment and BOCES is not responsible for lost or stolen items. - Cheating/plagiarism/stealing/lying or other acts of dishonesty. Plagiarism may result in receiving a grade of zero. - Gambling - Verbal or physical intimidation - Disrespect toward a faculty member - Engaging in acts of sexual harassment - Lateness for, missing or leaving school or class without permission, or an excuse from a faculty member. - Any willful act which disrupts normal operation of the school community, the educational process, or interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom. - Indecent exposure, that is, exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or indecent manner. - Using either words, clothing, signs or language that are profane, lewd, vulgar, abusive or which might incite/offend another person and the sale, use or possession of any obscene material. - Vandalizing school property or the property of another student or staff member. - Violating the civil rights of another student. - Violating the BOCES dress code. - Acting as a violent student, which means: (1) committing an act of violence upon a teacher, administrator or other school employee; (2) committing, while on school district property, an act of violence upon another student or any other person lawfully upon said property; (3) possessing, while on school district property, a gun, knife, explosive or incendiary bomb, or other dangerous instrument capable of causing physical injury or death; (4) displaying, while on school district property, what appears to be a gun, knife, explosive or incendiary bomb or other dangerous instrument capable of causing death or physical injury; (5) threatening, while on school district property, to use any instrument that appears capable of

15

causing physical injury or death; (6) knowingly and intentionally damaging or destroying the personal property of a teacher, administrator, other school district employee or any person lawfully upon school district property; or (7) knowingly and intentionally damaging or destroying school district property.

Range of Penalties and Consequences: The range of penalties which may be imposed for violations of the Student Disciplinary Code (above) is: 1. Verbal and/or written warning 2. Probation 3. Reprimand 4. Restitution 5. Exclusion from a particular class 6. In-school detention/lunch detention 7. Parental notification 8. Suspension of privileges or from social or extracurricular activities 9. In-school suspension 10. Suspension from transportation 11. Involuntary transfer 12. Out-of-school suspension 13. Arrest In addition to the penalties above, a student may be referred to the following agencies for violations of the Student Disciplin-ary Code: 1. Law enforcement agency 2. Community agencies 3. Counseling 4. Intervention Team 5. Family Court 6. Campus Core Team Students who break the law will be reported to law enforcement.

16

Student Rights & Responsibilities The GST BOCES Board of Education assures students that they shall have all the rights afforded them by federal and state constitutions and statutes. The BOCES recognizes all federal, state and local laws in connection with these rights, and reminds students that certain responsibilities accompany these rights. The goal is to provide an environment in which a student’s rights and freedoms are respected and to provide opportunities which stimulate and challenge the student’s interests and abilities to his or her highest potential. These opportunities remain available as long as the student pursues these interests and studies in an appropriate manner, and does not infringe upon the rights of others.

It shall be the right of each student: 1. to have a safe, healthy, orderly and courteous school environment; 2. to take part in all BOCES activities on an equal basis regardless of race, sex, religion, national origin or disability; 3. to attend school and participate in school programs unless suspended from instruction or participation for legally- sufficient cause, as determined in accordance with due process of law; 4. to have school rules and conditions available for review and, when necessary, explaned by school personnel; 5. to be suspended from instruction only after his or her rights pursuant to Education Law Section 3214 have been observed; and 6. in all disciplinary matters, to have the opportunity to present his or her version of the facts and circumstances leading to imposition of disciplinary sanctions to the professional staff member imposing such a sanction.

It shall be the responsibility of each student: 1. to be familiar with and abide by all BOCES policies, rules and regulations pertaining to student conduct;

17

2. to work to the best of his or her ability in all educational and extracurricular pursuits and strive toward the highest level of achievement possible; 3. behave, when participating in or attending school- sponsored extracurricular events, as a representative of the BOCES, and hold himself or herself to the highest standards of conduct, demeanor and sportsmanship, and accept responsibility for his/her actions; 4. to seek help in solving problems that might lead to disciplinary procedures; 5. to be in regular attendance at school and in class; 6. to contribute to an orderly, learning-centered environment and to show respect for other persons and property;

Anti-Bullying Policy The board finds that students’ ability to learn and to meet high academic standards, and an educator’s ability to educate his or her students, are compromised by incidents of discrimination or harassment including bullying, cyberbullying, taunting or intimidation. It is hereby declared to be the policy of the BOCES to afford all students in its schools and classrooms an environment free of discrimination, harassment and bullying. The purpose of this policy is to foster civility in the BOCES schools and classrooms and to prevent and prohibit conduct which is inconsistent with the BOCES educational mission. Harassment and Discrimination Prohibited No BOCES student shall be subjected to harassment, discrimination, bullying or cyber-bullying by BOCES employees or other BOCES students on BOCES property or at a BOCES function. No BOCES student shall be subjected to discrimination based on the student’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex by BOCES employees or other BOCES students on BOCES property or at a BOCES function.

18

Reports of harassment, bullying and discrimination shall be made to a Principal, Assistant Principal, District Superintendent or Dignity Act Coordinator. Students and parents/guardians may make a verbal or written report of harassment, bullying or discrimination to BOCES teachers or administrators. Retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports or assists in the investigation of harassment, bullying or discrimination, is strictly prohibited. Specifically, no BOCES employee shall take, request or cause a retaliatory action against any such person who, acting reasonably and in good faith, either makes such a report or initiates, testifies, participates or assists in formal or informal proceedings pursuant to this policy or applicable law. Individuals whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline or removal from the premises in accordance with school policy, including the Code of Conduct and the Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policies. .

Sexual Harassment of Students All students have a right to study in an environment free of discrimination on the basis of sex or sexual orientation, which encompasses freedom from sexual harassment. The BOCES strongly disapproves of sexual harassment of its students in any form, and states that all employees as well as students at all levels of the BOCES must avoid offensive or inappropriate sexual or sexually harassing behavior at school, on school grounds, school functions, and on school transportation and will be held responsible for ensuring that such workplace is free from sexual harassment. Specifically, the BOCES prohibits the following: 1. Unwelcome sexual advances; 2. Requests for sexual favors, whether or not accompanied by promises or threats with regard to the student-teacher, student-student or employment relationship; 3. Other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature made to any student that may threaten or insinuate either explicitly or implicitly that any person’s submission to or rejection of sexual advances will in any way influence any decision regarding that person’s employment,

19

academic performance, or any other condition of employment, academic or career development; 4. Any verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive academic environment.

Such conduct may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension upon instruction. Other sexually harassing conduct, whether physical or verbal, committed by employees or students is also prohibited. This behavior includes, but is not limited to, commentary about an individual’s body, sexually degrading words to describe an individual, offensive comments, off-color language or jokes, innuendos, and displaying sexually suggestive objects, books, magazines, photographs, cartoons or pictures. Students who have complaints of sexual harassment by anyone in the school environment, including any employees, students, or visitors are urged to report such conduct to a teacher, administrator, or the BOCES civil rights compliance officer so that the BOCES may investigate and resolve the problem in accordance with Board policy 5020.

Suspected Child Abuse and Maltreatment Pursuant to applicable law, any staff member who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or maltreatment must immediately report this to the Career and Technical Education Program principal or, in his/her absence, the assistant principal. Further appropriate action will then be initiated.

20

21

Drug and Alcohol Abuse When a student is found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol on school property or in school vehicles, the student will be immediately referred to the building principal. The student will be escorted to the office by a school administrator, school psychologist, counselor, social worker or designee for an evaluation by the appropriate personnel. The building principal will investigate the situation to the fullest extent possible. In the presence of signs of physical impairment and/or physical distress, or if a student is in possession of such substances, either on the bus or on school ground, the principal will notify the student’s parent(s), law enforcement authorities, and the home school. The student may be suspended immediately in accordance with Education Law, Section 3214. • If the student needs medical attention, an ambulance will transport him/her to the hospital• The student will be referred, along with all supporting data, to the campus social workers, counselors or support agencies for counseling and/or treatment. The BOCES will provide services to such students returning from treatement to ensure that the school environment supports the process of recovery initiated in the treatment program. Parents/guardians will be educated on when and how to access the BOCES intervention services. Confidentiality will be ensured as required by federal or state law. Before being fully reinstated into his/her CTE program, a follow-up interview will be conducted and the student will be evaluated for appropriate reentry into the program. • Upon the CTE administrator’s discretion: A student may lose or be reinstated to privileges associated with his/her program.

Student Searches and Interrogations The Board of Education is committed to ensuring an atmosphere on school property and at school functions that is safe and orderly. To achieve this kind of environment, any school official with supervisory responsibility over students

22may question a student about an alleged violation of law or the district code of conduct. Students are not entitled to any sort of “Miranda”-type warning before being questioned by BOCES employees, nor are BOCES employees required to contact a student’s parent before questioning the student. However, BOCES employees will tell all students why they are being questioned. The Board acknowledges that students have the legal right, under both the state and federal constitutions, to be free from “unreasonable” searches of their person and/or possessions (e.g., pocket contents, book bags, handbags, cell phones, etc.). The Board also acknowledges and understands, however, that it is sometimes necessary to search students and/or their possessions in order to preserve order and discipline, to safeguard District property, and to protect the health safety, morals, and welfare of students, school personnel and school visitors. Accordingly, the Board authorizes the District Superintendent, principals and assistant principals to conduct searches of students and their belongings, if the authorized official has “reasonable suspicion” to believe that the search will result in or produce evidence that the student violated the law or the applicable component school district or BOCES Code of Conduct, school policies or rules.

Student Services You and your parents/guardians are encouraged to utilize the social workers, career coaches and/or counselors located on campus. The counselors or administrators can answer questions regarding: • clarification of school policies, procedures and regulations • job availability and the general employment outlook • internship/apprenticeship opportunities. Information and training are available to all students covering such topics as résumé writing, job applications, post-secondary education and the armed services.

23

Grievance ProcedureSection 1 If a student (or his/her parent/guardian) believes that s/he has been discriminated against in violation of policy 5010, that person may bring forward a complaint, which shall be referred to as a grievance, to a teacher or administrator, who shall then report the grievance to the BOCES’ civil rights compliance officer:

Doug Johnson459 Philo Road

Elmira, NY 14903(607) 739-3581

Section 2Step (a): The complainant(s) shall discuss the grievance informally with the compliance officer, or s/he may file a written complaint with the compliance officer. The compliance officer, or a neutral, experienced party, will then investigate the substance of the complaint in a thorough and impartial manner. The compliance officer will reply to the complainant and all material parties (including the staff member/student who allegedly engaged in discrimination or harassment of the complainant), in writing within fourteen (14) days of the initiation of the complaint. If additional time is needed to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, the compliance officer will so notify the material parties (within the fourteen (14) days above), along with an expected completion date of the investigation and the reply to the complaint.

Step (b): If any material party wishes to appeal the decision of the compliance officer, the complainant may submit a signed statement of appeal to the District Superintendent within seven (7) days after receipt of the compliance officer’s decision. The District Superintendent, or designee, shall meet with any material party and/or their representatives within fourteen

24(14) days of receipt of the appeal, and make such other inquiries which the District Superintendent, or designee, deems appropriate. Thereafter, the District Superintendent, or designee, shall send his/her decision in writing to the material parties within fourteen (14) days of such meeting. The District Superintendent, or designee, will notify the material parties of the approximate date of a decision on the appeal, if there is good cause for an extension.

Step (c): If any material party is not satisfied with the decision of the District Superintendent, s/he may appeal through a signed, written statement to the Board within seven (7) days of receipt of the District Superintendent’s decision in Step (b). The Board shall notify all material parties of any such appeal. In an attempt to resolve the grievance, the Board (or a civil rights expert(s) on behalf of the Board) shall meet with the material parties and/or their representatives within thirty (30) days of receipt of such an appeal. The Board’s written disposition of the appeal shall be sent to the complainant within fourteen (14) days of this meeting. The Board will notify the material parties of the approximate date of the meeting or a decision on the appeal, if there is good cause for an extension of the deadlines above.

Step (d): If the grievance has not been satisfactorily settled at Step (c), further appeal may be made to the Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20201.Section 3 The compliance officer, on request, will provide a copy of the BOCES’ grievance procedure to any student or student’s parent/guardian of the BOCES. A copy of each of the Acts and Regulations upon which this notice is based will be made available upon written request directed to the district’s compliance officer. When used in this policy, days shall mean calendar days.

Pesticide Notification In accordance with NYS Education Law, the GST BOCES publishes the following statements to the staff and parents: • The GST BOCES may use pesticide products throughout the school year. These products may be applied either to the interior of the GST BOCES facility or to its exterior and surrounding grounds. • All NYS schools are required to maintain a list of staff and parents who wish to receive 48-hour prior written notification of pesticide applications at their facilities. To register for 48-hour prior notification, please complete the form provided in the Student Folder and return to Brian Bentley, Director of Facilities, GST BOCES Bush Campus, 459 Philo Road, Elmira, NY 14903. Notification will be given only to those individuals who have completed the form. • Contact Brian Bentley, Director of Facilities, at (607) 739-3581 with any questions.

Asbestos Notification GST BOCES has completed the inspection of all buildings to determine the condition of asbestos that is present and whether any action is required to avoid potential health hazards for students, employees and visitors. A management plan has been developed in accordance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) to ensure the continued provision and maintenance of a safe environment for students, employees and visitors. The management plan includes training of maintenance staff to prevent disturbance of asbestos and provide periodic reinspection, surveillance and limited abatement. A copy of the management plan is available. If you would like further information regarding this matter, please contact Brian Bentley, Director of Facilities, at (607) 739-3581.

25

Notes

Notes

Notes

Public Notification The Greater Southern Tier BOCES does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ethnic group, disability, sex, religion, religious practice, marital status, sexual orientation, or age, or under the Boy Scouts Act, in its programs, activities, admission of students, or em-ployment. Inquiries concerning the application of regulations prohibiting dis-crimination may be referred to BOCES’ Civil Rights Compliance Officer, Doug Johnson (djohnson@gstboces.org), 459 Philo Road, Elmira, NY 14903, (607) 739-3581 ext. 2273 or U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, 32 Old Slip, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10005-2500, Telephone: 646-428-3800, FAX: 646-428-3843; TDD: 800-877-8339, Email: OCR.NewYork@ed.gov.

GST BOCES provides cost-effective, quality programs and services through the collaborative efforts of the following

school districts: Addison • Alfred-Almond • Arkport • Avoca • BathBradford • Campbell-Savona • Canaseraga • Canisteo-Greenwood

Corning-Painted Post • Elmira • Elmira Heights • Hammondsport • Hornell Horseheads • Jasper-Troupsburg • Odessa-Montour • Prattsburgh

Spencer-Van Etten • Watkins Glen • Waverly