Springton Lake Middle School
Home of the Spartans
1900 N. Providence Road
Media, PA 19063
610-627-6500
www.rtmsd.org
Student & Parent Handbook
2015-2016
Revised June 30, 2015
1900 N. Providence Road, Media, PA 19063-1995
Phone: 610-627-6500 • Fax: 610-566-8665
Welcome to Springton Lake Middle School
Home of the Spartans
On behalf of the faculty and staff of the Springton Lake Middle School, welcome to the 2015-2016 school year! We are excited to begin
another year and look forward to having you as a part of our school community.
In order to maintain an environment that is positive and focused on learning and excellence, we require the cooperation of all students
within the school. We maintain high aspirations for every member of the Springton Lake community and ask that each individual focus
on being the best student and citizen possible. To that end, we have provided this handbook that outlines the standards and
expectations of our school.
We ask that all students and parents familiarize themselves with the information contained in the Student & Parent Handbook. It is
important for everyone to be on the same page regarding the expectations and norms that have been established for our school.
Hopefully, it is apparent that we strive to provide a safe and orderly environment in which students can realize their maximum academic
potential. In addition, we encourage students to take full advantage of the extra-curricular opportunities that are available. We look
forward to your contributions to our school community.
We wish you the best during the coming school year! Let’s work together to make this a productive and memorable year for everyone!
Please note – this handbook contains the most current information at the time of publication. Additional updates will be
communicated to students and parents as they become available.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome…………………………………………… 2
Messages & Materials Received from Parents…. 21
Communication with Springton Lake………....... 4
Parent Chaperones………………………………… 21
Mission Statement……………………………….. 4
Passes………………………………………………. 21
Rose Tree Media School Community
Physical Education…………………………………. 21
Expectations…………………. 4
Public Displays of Affection……………………….. 21
Academic Integrity……………………………….. 5
Remaining After School…………………………… 22
Announcements………………………………….. 5
Responsible Use of Network Resources………… 22
Arrival to School………………………………….. 5
Rose Tree Media Tip Line…………………………. 28
Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act….
5
School Bus Rules & Guidelines…………………… 28
Assembly Behavior………………………………. 5
School Nurse…………………………………….......29
Athletics…………………………………………… 5
School Store………………………………………… 30
Attendance Policies & Procedures……………..
6
Smoking Policy……………………………………… 30
Authorization to Ride a Different Bus…………..
9
Student Assistance Program (STAR)…………….. 30
Book Bags………………………………………… 9
Student Attire……………………………………….. 30
Bullying/Cyberbulling & Harassment…………… 9
Student Sales………………………………………. 30
Care of Books & Equipment…………………….. 12
Visitors………………………………………………. 30
Code of Conduct…………………………………. 12
Weapons Policy……………………………………. 31
Counseling………………………………………... 14
Wellness Policy……………………………………. 31
Detention………………………………………….. 15
Parent/Guardian Signature Page………………… 32
Electronic Devices……………………………….. 15
E-mail Communication…………………………..
16
Exclusion from Class…………………………….
16
Exclusion from School…………………………...
16
Extra-curricular Activities & Events…………….. 17
Field Trips…………………………………………. 17
Food, Snack, & Beverage Policy……………….. 17
Grading……………………………………………. 18
Library Media Center…………………………….. 20
Lockdown Procedures…………………………… 20
Lockers……………………………………………. 20
Lost & Found……………………………………… 21
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COMMUNICATION WITH SPRINGTON LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Main Office: 610-627-6500
7:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Dr. Robert Salladino, Jr.
Principal
610-627-6501
Assistant Principal
610-627-6505
Assistant Principal
610-627-6504
Athletic Director
610-627-6572
Mrs. Sue Griffin
Guidance Counselor – Grade 7
610-627-6508
SGriffin@rtmsd.org
Mrs. Susan Howe
Guidance Counselor – Grade 8
610-627-6509
SHowe@rtmsd.org
Mrs. Margie Gilroy
Guidance Counselor – Grade 6
610-627-6507
MGilroy@rtmsd.org
Dr. Ken Curran
School Psychologist
610-627-6525
KCurran@rtmsd.org
Ms. Kristin Hartner
School Nurse
610-627-6512
KHartner@rtmsd.org
Mrs. Jennie Ekstrom
Librarian-Media Specialist
610-627-6517
JEkstrom@rtmsd.org
Mr. Donald DiPaulo
RSalladino@rtmsd.org
DDiPaulo@rtmsd.org
Attendance Office
610-627-6500, option #2
Rose Tree Media Tip Line
610-627-6101
MISSION STATEMENT
Students are the focus of the Rose Tree Media School District learning community. Our educational program is based on world-class
standards through which all students reach their intellectual, emotional, social and physical potential. Our schools provide an
environment that celebrates students’ diversity, individual talents and efforts, and promotes collaboration, caring, respect, and
leadership.
ROSE TREE MEDIA SCHOOL COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS
A set of General Principles Guiding Student Behavior in the Rose Tree Media School District:
1. Respect yourself and others.
2. Speak kindly and avoid physical confrontations.
3. Respect personal and school property.
4. Strive to understand and respect differences between and among each other.
5. Be safe. Make the school safe for you and others.
6. Comply with all School Board policies, local, state, and federal laws.
7. Take responsibility for your education and your behavior.
8. Avoid disruptive dress by following the Dress Code.
9. Be honest and kind in your actions and words.
10. Make good choices. Take responsibility for your choices.
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ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
The Springton Lake Middle School expects all students to maintain the highest level of academic integrity. Cheating occurs when a
student has taken another’s ideas, writing, or work and submits it as his/her own. Examples of cheating include talking during an
assessment, making work available for someone else to copy, copying another student’s answers on an assessment, and using
published works bearing copyrights without giving credit to the author or publisher. Students who violate these standards will be subject
to appropriate disciplinary action.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements will be broadcast daily in the morning and afternoon. This same information will also be posted to our website for
further reference. Electronic message boards are also located in the Main Lobby and Cafeteria.
ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL
Students should arrive to school no earlier than 7:40 AM. Students will wait in the Auditorium (7 th & 8th grades) or Cafeteria (6th grade)
upon their arrival. Students will be dismissed to their lockers at 7:47 AM and will be due in homeroom/first period no later than 7:55 AM.
ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY REPONSE ACT (AHERA)
Rose Tree Media School District has engaged Eagle Industrial Hygiene Assoc., Inc. to fulfill the requirements of the Asbestos Hazard
Emergency Response Act (AHERA), 40 CFR Part 763, Subpart E. This law requires that each Local Education Authority (LEA)
engage EPA accredited individuals to initially inspect and subsequently re-inspect every three years all student and staff accessed
areas for the presence of both friable and non-friable asbestos containing materials (ACM) and to develop an Asbestos Management
Plan from the information developed from the building inspections. All accessible areas of the facility were inspected for asbestoscontaining materials. The Management Plan provides a description of the amount, type, location and condition of all ACM found in
these areas. The Plan also contains a detailed schedule of responses and activities for handling the ACM. The Management Plan,
subsequent Inspection Reports, and applicable response action documentation is available for review by parents, teachers, employee
organizations, short-term workers or other applicable interested parties in the school offices during regular business hours.
ASSEMBLY BEHAVIOR
Periodically, students will have an opportunity to attend team, grade, or school-wide assembly programs. Students are expected to
proceed to and from assemblies in a quiet, orderly manner, follow seating procedures as directed, and behave in a courteous and
respectful manner. Students are expected to show appreciation for the speaker or program by applauding in an appropriate manner
and at the proper time. Students who are unable to follow these guidelines will not be permitted to participate in future assembly
programs.
ATHLETICS
Students in grades 7 & 8 are eligible to participate in the Interscholastic Athletic Program. Interscholastic sports are athletic contests
with other schools in our area. The program for boys includes football, soccer, cross-country, basketball, wrestling, baseball, track &
field, lacrosse, and tennis. The program for girls includes field hockey, soccer, volleyball, cross-country, cheerleading, basketball,
lacrosse, softball, track & field, and tennis. Participation on a team requires a serious commitment of time and effort. Practices are held
after school every day, unless canceled by the Administration or Athletic Director. An Activity Bus is available at 4:05 PM on Tuesday,
Wednesday, and Thursday. Parents/guardians are required to provide transportation home when practice extends past 4:00 PM and
on days when a game/match is scheduled. For daily game and practice updates, please visit www.leagueminder.com.
The middle school teams are to serve as an opportunity for as many students as is safely possible to participate in athletics. These
teams must begin the implementation of the Varsity coach’s system in a manner that is possible for younger athletes to understand and
put into practice, while maintaining a focus on development and team values. Each student will be given an opportunity to try out and
demonstrate the talents and skills that will best serve the program. When squad size must be limited due to concerns for student
safety or the availability of facilities, as many opportunities as reasonably possible will be given to teach students to demonstrate their
talents and skills. Coaches will provide the dates for final team selections to those students who are trying out for a team. Until that
date, the practice sessions should be considered a tryout and the selection of the final team as an ongoing process. Each coach will
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have the responsibility to determine a student’s playing time during games/matches.
Students who participate on an athletic team are required to have a physical examination. Physicals must occur after June 1 st for the
following school year. Physicals are available at school each June at a cost of $20.00. Otherwise, students will need to see a physician
or health care provider of their own choosing. The PIAA Comprehensive Initial Pre-Participation Evaluation (CIPPE) form, available in
the Main Office, Nurse’s Office, or to download from the SLMS website, must be completed.
Students are required to maintain satisfactory academic progress, including passing all subjects, in order to be eligible to participate on
an athletic team. Students are expected to seek assistance from a teacher, make-up work, or satisfy other obligations such as
detention before attending practice or a game. A student who earns a failing grade for the marking period during a given season will be
ineligible to participate for a period of two weeks. Students who are suspended from school are ineligible to participate in athletics
during the time of the suspension. Students who are suspended from school multiple times during the season and/or who earn multiple
detentions or disciplinary referrals may be removed from the team at the discretion of the Administration & Athletic Director.
Athletes are representatives of Springton Lake Middle School and should conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on
our school. Sportsmanship is a quality that every participant and every spectator of athletic events should demonstrate. Sportsmanship
is “honest rivalry and graceful acceptance of results.” Students are expected to demonstrate respect for spectators, players and
officials, cheer for our team, respect school property, and accept victory modestly and defeat gracefully. Students who fail to adhere to
this important standard of conduct may be removed from the team at the discretion of the Administration & Athletic Director.
Athletic awards are given on the basis of participation. Emphasis is placed on the participant doing his/her best at all times. Only one
athletic letter per grade, per student is awarded. After an athlete has received his/her letter, a certificate will be given for subsequent
awards. Any student removed from a squad will not receive a letter, certificate, or award.
ATTENDANCE POLICIES & PROCEDURES
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania attendance regulations require an explanation from the student’s parent or guardian for each day of
absence from public school. A parent/guardian must call our ABSENTEE VOICE MAIL HOTLINE (610-627-6500, ext. 2) each day the
student is absent. Absence is the nonattendance of a student on those days in which school is in session. In addition to the telephone call, a
written note indicating the reason for the absence must be submitted upon the student’s return to school. A signed note may be scanned or
faxed to the Main Office.
EXCUSED ABSENCE
Excused absence refers to absence for any one of a number of legal reasons. Excused absences include the following: student illness,
family death, major religious holidays, and other urgent reasons (i.e. court appearance, doctor/dentist appointment). In addition, a
written note is required within 3 days of a student’s return to school or the absence will be considered UNEXCUSED. If a student will not
be in school on a particular day, the parent or guardian is required to provide legitimate documentation to the appropriate school
personnel. If this documentation is not received within three days, the absence will automatically be recorded as illegal. If a student is
absent five or more consecutive days, a doctor’s note is required within three days of his/her return to school or the absence will be
considered UNEXCUSED. The statement from the physician or dentist must note the date and reason for treatment. After 10 days of
cumulative absence, a note from a licensed health care provider is required for each additional absence.
UNEXCUSED
Unexcused absence pertains to students who are absent from school due to avoidable reasons, parental neglect, unapproved family
vacation and/or truancy. When students cut classes, are tardy to school, or are late to class, these minutes will also be tabulated and
counted as unexcused absences. Some examples of unexcused absences include, but are not limited to the following: parental neglect,
no documentation received from parent, illness in family, missed the school bus, overslept, helped a family to move, babysitting/sibling
care, and vacation taken without the Principal’s pre-approval.
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UNLAWFUL ABSENCE
If a phone call or note is not received after three days of the student’s return to school, the absence will be permanently recorded as
unlawful on the child’s attendance record. Parents will be notified in writing after each unlawful absence. After the student has
accumulated three unlawful absences, parents will be invited to a school/family conference in order to create a School Attendance
Improvement Plan. An accumulation of unexcused late arrivals may result in a notice of unlawful absence. This is determined by
converting the number of minutes late into a percentage or part of the school day missed. Once truancy court proceedings have been
initiated, the parents will no longer receive written notification of additional unlawful absences.
ABSENCE AND PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS & CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
By law, students are required to complete at least a half-day of school, present by 11:15 AM, in order to participate in sports, musical
programs, or other school sponsored activities. If a student is absent from school, he/she is not permitted on school property that day
for school sponsored activities or athletic practices/games without the permission of the Administration.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Requests for an early dismissal must be made in writing and brought to the Main Office by 8:15 AM. Parents are required to pick up
students from the Main Office. For emergency dismissal, please call the Main Office with your child’s name and what time you plan to
pick him/her up. Come to the Main Office to sign out your child. If another adult is picking up your child, please call the office with the
person’s name and permission. Please be advised the office staff will ask for identification.
AFTER SCHOOL PICK-UP
An automated phone service is in effect after 4:00 PM. If you have any bus concerns after 4:00 PM, please call the Transportation
Department at 610-627-6476, 610-627-6477, or 610-627-6478. Students should wait in the front of the building to be picked up by
parents. Direct adult supervision is not provided after 4:05 PM. If you cannot be here by dismissal time, please make alternate
arrangements or have your child take the bus. Student spectators are required to take the 4:05 PM school bus home. Student athletes
who stay after school for sports should be picked up by parents between 5:00 PM and 5:10 PM unless notified otherwise by the coach.
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
If the school closes early due to an emergency or weather conditions, ALL STUDENTS SHOULD LEAVE ON A BUS. Parents who
want to pick up their child when an emergency closing occurs must have the student dismissed before buses depart. If you are sending
your child home with another adult, you must call the office to provide consent along with the name of the adult picking up your child.
This communication should occur before the buses depart. Parents are required to sign their child out from the Main Office.
REQUEST FOR EXCUSED ABSENCE FOR STUDENTS TAKING NON-SCHOOL EDUCATIONAL TOUR/FAMILY TRIP
Regulations of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania provide that, upon written request from the parents/guardians of the student
involved, a student maybe excused from school attendance to participate in an educational tour or trip not sponsored by the s chool
when the trip is evaluated by the Superintendent as educational, and if the adult supervision is acceptable to both the
Superintendent and the student's parents/guardians. In the Rose Tree Media School District, the building principal has been
designated by the Superintendent to make the initial decision, based on the information provided.
In order to provide guidance to parents/guardians, the following procedure for non-school educational trips/tours has
been established:
1. Prior to the trip (except in an emergency) the form, which is available on the district website, must be submitted to the
Principal or designee within the specified time period as indicated on the district website. Parents/Guardians will be
notified in any case in which the request is denied.
2. Requests will be approved only if it can be determined that the trip/tour is of educational value to the student.
3. If more than one child in a family will be taking the trip/tour, a separate request for each child shall be made to each child's
principal if the children attend separate schools.
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4. No more than five (5) school days per student will be approved for educational trip/tour requests in any school year.
(Special requests with unusual circumstances or exceptional opportunities for learning should be discussed personally
with the Building Principal well in advance of the requested dates for absence.)
5. Unless there are extraordinarily unusual or emergency circumstances, such requests will NOT be approved during
periods of standardized assessments, when a student has accumulated an excessive number of absences, or when a
student is in academic jeopardy. Please consult the district website, school calendar, or contact the Building Principal
for specific assessment dates.
.
6. All schoolwork missed during the trip/tour must be made up at the initiation of the student immediately upon returning to
school. Teachers are not expected to provide work prior to the trip.
7. Days that are not approved for an educational trip are unexcused and may be determined to be illegal. Such a
determination may result in any or all of the following actions:
a. First legal notice
b. Citation from district court
c. Violation of School Attendance Improvement Plan
Be advised that if the family trip combined with the total number of absences to date exceeds 10 days, you will be required to provide
a doctor's note for each subsequent absence.
LATENESS
Students are required to be in their homeroom/first period class by 7:55 AM. Students who arrive to school late and who are unable to
arrive to homeroom/first period by 7:55 AM will be considered unexcused late. When students are late to school, they must first go to
the Main Office and obtain an admittance pass. Students who arrive after 7:55 AM will be considered excused late ONLY if they have a
note, on official stationery, from a doctor, lawyer, dentist, etc. All other notes, while necessary, count as unexcused late (overslept,
missed the school bus, caught in traffic, etc.) Students must show their classroom teacher the pass in order to be admitted to class.
Students who are frequently late to school will be assigned detention.
UNEXCUSED LATENESS
Number of Unexcused Lateness
(each marking period)
1
2
3–4
5 or more
Action taken
Verbal warning
Verbal warning and letter mailed to parent/guardian
Office Detention (served on Tuesday or Thursday) 3:05 PM to 4:00 PM
Saturday Detention (for each occurrence) 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
LATENESS TO CLASS
First Lateness – The teacher will confer with the student.
Second Lateness – The teacher will assign an after-school teacher detention and the parent will be notified.
Third Lateness – The teacher will submit a referral to the grade level administrator who will assign an after-school detention.
MAKE-UP WORK DUE TO ABSENCE
Students and/or parents are encouraged to access teacher websites for homework information. Every student is also encouraged to
obtain the phone numbers of one or two students in his/her classes. For absences of a day or two, students should use these methods
to remain current with their work. When a student will be absent from school for more than two days, parents may contact the grade
level guidance counselor for assistance in gathering assignments from the teachers. Parents should allow 24 hours for this process.
The responsibility for making up work missed because of an absence rests with the student. Teachers will do all they can to assist the
student, but the student must take the initiative. Students have two days for every day they are absent to make up work upon their
return to school.
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AUTHORIZATION TO RIDE A DIFFERENT BUS
Parents may request authorization to have their child ride an alternate bus for childcare purposes only. Students must present a written
note from a parent/guardian to the Main Office in the morning, prior to the start of the school day. The request will be reviewed and, if
approved, the student will receive a pass to present to the bus driver. Students are not permitted to ride home from school on a friend’s
bus for social reasons or to work on projects or assignments. Alternate transportation for these reasons is the responsibility of the
parent/guardian. The Building Administrator will make the final determination for all requests for alternate transportation.
BOOK BAGS
Students may use book bags to carry materials to and from school; however, the book bags must be kept in student hallway lockers
during the school day.
BULLYING/CYBERBULLYING & HARASSMENT
The Rose Tree Media School District strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the schools. Therefore, it shall
be the policy of the District to maintain an educational environment in which bullying/cyberbullying and harassment in any forms are not
tolerated.
BULLYING / CYBERBULLYING
The School Board is committed to providing a safe, positive learning environment for District students. The Board recognizes that
bullying at any time creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning,
and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, the Board prohibits bullying by district students.
Bullying means an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts by a District student directed at another student
or students, which occurs in a school setting and/or outside a school setting, that is severe, persistent or pervasive and has the effect
of doing any of the following:
1. Substantial interference with a student’s education.
2. Creation of a threatening school environment.
3. Substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school.
Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying. School setting means in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at
a designated bus stop or at any activity sponsored, supervised, or sanctioned by the school.
The School Board prohibits all forms of bullying by District students. The School Board encourages students who have been bullied to
promptly report such incidents to the Principal or his/her designee.
The School Board directs that complaints of bullying shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when
allegations are verified. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained, consistent with the District’s legal and investigative obligations.
No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith reports of bullying.
Each student shall be responsible to respect the rights of others and to ensure an atmosphere free from bullying.
All reports of incidents of alleged bullying should be reported to the Principal, the Superintendent, and/or his/her designee. The
Superintendent or designee shall develop administrative regulations to implement this policy.
The Superintendent or his/her designee shall ensure that this policy and administrative regulations are reviewed annually with students.
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The Superintendent or his/her designee, in cooperation with other appropriate administrators, shall review this policy every three (3)
years and recommend necessary revisions to the School Board.
District administration shall annually provide the following information with the Safe School Report:
1. Board’s Bullying Policy
2. Report on bullying incidents
3. Information on the development and implementation of any bullying prevention, intervention or education programs.
The Code of Student Conduct, which shall contain this policy, shall be disseminated annually to students.
This policy shall be accessible in every classroom. The policy shall be posted in a prominent location within each school building and
on the School District web site.
A student who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student Conduct, which
may include: counseling within the school, parental conference, loss of school privileges, transfer to another school
building/classroom/bus, exclusion from school-sponsored activities, detention, suspension, expulsion, counseling/therapy outside of
school, and referral to law enforcement officials.
For the purpose of this policy, bullying can also be defined as when a student is exposed, repeatedly and over time, to negative actions
on the part of one or more persons.




Harm or hurt is intended
A power imbalance exists between the target and the perpetrator
The perpetrator repeats the behavior, often in a systematic way
The victim is hurt physically or psychologically and has a sense of being persecuted or oppressed
Sources: Olweus (1993) Davis (2004) Sullivan (2000), Coloroso (2003)
HARASSMENT
The Board prohibits all forms of harassment of students and third parties by all District students and staff members, contracted
individuals, vendors, volunteers, and third parties in the schools. The Board encourages students and third parties who have been
harassed to promptly report such incidents to the designated employees.
The Board directs that complaints of harassment shall be investigated promptly, and corrective action shall be taken when allegations
are verified. Confidentiality of all parties shall be maintained, consistent with the district’s legal and investigative obligations.
No reprisals or retaliation shall occur as a result of good faith charges of harassment.
DEFINITION
For purposes of this policy, harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious, or otherwise) shall consist of verbal, written, graphic or
physical conduct when such conduct:
1. Is a repeated pattern of unprovoked aggressive behaviors of a physical and/or psychological nature carried out by an individual or
group against an individual or a group with the effect of causing harm or hurt. Harassing behaviors are all those behaviors that are
unwelcome, unwanted, and uncomfortable in the view of the recipient.
2. Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational
program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment.
3. Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic performance.
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4. Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s learning opportunities.
For the purposes of this policy, sexual harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other
inappropriate verbal, written, graphic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
1. Submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student’s academic status.
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for academic or work decisions affecting the individual.
3. Such conduct deprives a student of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatments.
4. Such conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the
student’s school performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive education environment.
Examples of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to, sexual flirtations, 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 a student’s
ability to work or learn, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning or working environment.
Racial, ethnic, sexual, religious harassment/intimidation means any alleged or confirmed act directed against or occurring to a person,
private property, or public property on the basis of race, ethnicity, or religious affiliation. An incident need not involve an act that
constitutes a criminal offense.
Individuals or groups are in violation of this policy if they engage in harassing or intimidating conduct at school, on school grounds,
while engaging in school-sanctioned activities or while traveling to or from school. Unacceptable conduct includes, but is not limited to:
1. Making remarks directly or indirectly, such as name-calling, fighting words, racial slurs or jokes that demean individuals or groups.
2. Physically threatening or harming individuals or groups.
3. Damaging, defacing or destroying the private property of any person.
Individuals who are not the direct recipient of harassment or intimidation may also experience a hostile environment. Third party
individuals shall, therefore, have the same right to act under this policy as those directly victimized. Actual or threatened retaliation
against a person who complains or intends to complain of harassment or intimidation will be prohibited and will be subject to
appropriate disciplinary action.
GUIDELINES
Any person who alleges sexual harassment by any staff member or student in the District may use the District’s complaint procedure or
may complain directly to his/her immediate supervisor, Principal, guidance counselor or other individual designated to receive such
complaints. Filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting sexual harassment will not reflect upon the individual’s status nor will it affect
future employment, grades or work assignments except in the case of false and malicious reporting. Therefore, false and malicious
accusations will result in the same severe disciplinary actions applicable to one found guilty of sexual harassment. The right to
confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the accused, will be respected consistent with the District’s legal obligations, and with the
necessity to investigate allegations of misconduct and to take corrective action when this conduct has occurred. A substantiated charge
against a staff member in the District shall subject such staff member to disciplinary action, including discharge in accordance with
District policy. A substantiated charge against a student in the school district shall subject that student to disciplinary action, including
suspension or expulsion, consistent with the student discipline code.
A student or third party who believes s/he has been subject to conduct that constitutes a violation of this policy is encouraged to report
the incident immediately to the Principal or a district employee. A school employee who suspects or is notified that a student has been
subject to conduct that constitutes a violation of this policy shall immediately report the incident to the building principal. The building
principal will forward the complaint to the Compliance Officer. If the building principal is the subject of a complaint, the student, third
party, or employee shall report the incident directly to the Compliance Officer. The complainant or reporting employee is encouraged to
use the report form available from the Principal, but oral complaints shall be acceptable.
Upon receiving a complaint of unlawful harassment, the Principal shall immediately notify the Compliance Officer. The Compliance
Officer or designee shall investigate the complaint. The investigation may consist of individual interviews with the complainant, the
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accused, and others with knowledge relative to the incident. The investigator may also evaluate any other information and materials
relative to the investigation. The obligation to conduct this investigation shall not be negated by the fact that a criminal investigation of
the incident is pending or has been concluded. The Compliance Officer or designee shall prepare a written report within fifteen (15)
days, unless additional time to complete the investigation is required. The report shall include a summary of the investigation, a
determination of whether the complaint had been substantiated as factual and whether it is a violation of this policy, and a
recommended disposition of the complaint. The findings of the investigation shall be provided to the complainant, the accused, the
Compliance Officer and the Superintendent.
If the investigation results in a finding that the complaint is factual and constitutes a violation of this policy, the District shall take prompt,
corrective action to ensure that such conduct ceases and will not recur. Disciplinary action shall be consistent with the Student Code of
Conduct, Board policies and district procedures, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and state and federal laws. If it is
concluded that a student has knowingly made a false complaint under this policy, such student shall be subject to disciplinary action.
1. If the complainant is not satisfied with a finding that no violation of the policy or with the corrective action recommended in the
investigative report, s/he may submit a written appeal to the Superintendent within fifteen (15) days.
2. The Superintendent shall review the investigation and the investigative report and may also conduct a reasonable investigation.
3. The Superintendent shall prepare a written response to the appeal within fifteen (15) days. Copies of the response shall be
provided to the complainant, the accused, and the Compliance Officer.
CARE OF BOOKS & EQUIPMENT
Students are responsible for the books, equipment, and materials that they are issued. Students are responsible to make note of and to
bring to the attention of the teacher any pre-existing damage to items. Students are required to place covers on all textbooks. Students
will be held liable and charged for loss or damage to any school-issued item. An item that is stolen or misplaced will still be considered
the responsibility of the student to whom it was issued. For this reason, students are strongly discouraged from leaving/storing a
textbook in a classroom.
CODE OF CONDUCT
One of the major goals of the Rose Tree Media School District is to foster a learning environment that enables all students to derive
maximum benefits from the educational program. The extent to which this goal can be achieved is dependent upon the schools’ ability
to promote student behaviors that contribute to a safe and healthy learning climate. To this end, a District Task Force, which included
teachers, students, parents, and administrators developed student behavior and dress codes, supported by a disciplinary action
framework. These guidelines, designed to discourage inappropriate conduct, and more importantly, to promote student responsibility,
establish clear expectations and provide a standardized district structure for dealing with violations. The Rose Tree Media Board of
School Directors has approved both the codes and framework. Successful implementation of these codes will require the full
cooperation of all persons in the school community and will insure that all of our students continue to enjoy the high quality educational
experiences for which our district is known and respected.
DISCIPLINARY RESPONSES TO STUDENT MISCONDUCT
LEVELS OF MISCONDUCT
EXAMPLES
PROCEDURES
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS
Level 1
List is not all-inclusive:
Conference with student(s)
Minor misbehavior on the part
of the student committed on
school property or in schoolrelated activities which
impedes or interferes with the
orderly operation of the
school.
Littering
There is immediate
intervention by the staff
member who is supervising
the student or who observes
the misbehavior.
A proper and accurate record
of repeated offenses and
disciplinary action must be
maintained by the staff
Withdrawal of Privileges
Horseplay/pushing
Classroom tardiness
Abusive language/behavior
Chronic failure to complete
assignments or carry out
Verbal Reprimand
Special Assignment
Behavioral Contract
Detention
Parental Contact/Conference
12
These misbehaviors can
usually be handled by an
individual staff member but
may require the intervention of
other school support personnel.
directions
member.
Classroom/building/bus
disturbance
Parental contact may be
made by the teacher and/or
administrator.
Dress code violations
Work Detail
Failure to respect person’s
property
Violation of Code of Conduct
Level II
Continuation of unmodified
Misbehavior whose frequency Level I misbehavior
or seriousness tends to
School tardiness
disrupt the learning climate of Truancy
the school.
Using forged notes or excuses
The infractions, which usually
result from the continuation of Disruptive classroom/building
Level I misbehaviors, require /bus behavior
intervention on the
Cutting class and/or detentions
administrative level because
Defiant failure to complete
the execution of Level I
assignments or carry out
disciplinary option has failed. directions of school personnel
Included are misbehaviors
Obscene language or gesture
which do not represent a
direct threat to the health
Cheating, lying and
and/or safety of others but
misrepresentation
whose educational
Bullying/Cyber Bullying
consequences are serious
enough to require corrective
action.
Repeated misbehavior
requires a conference
between the student,
administrator and/or teacher.
Any Level 1 Option
The administrator meets with
the teacher, parents and
student (as required).
In-School Suspension
A proper and accurate record
of the offense and the
disciplinary action is
maintained by the
administrator.
Referral to School/Community
Support Services.
Schedule Modification
Modified day
Saturday Detention
Behavioral Modification Plan
The teacher must be informed
of the administrator’s action.
Level III
Actions against people or
property whose
consequences do not
seriously endanger the health
or safety of others.
Continuation of unmodified
Level II misbehavior
Intervention if appropriate
Removal from Class
Refer to an administrator
Alternative Programs
Fighting
In-School Suspension
Threats and/or extortion
Out-of-School Suspension
Administrator begins
disciplinary action by
Chronic cutting and/or truancy investigating the infraction and
These actions may be
conferring with staff if
considered criminal but can, in Insubordination
necessary.
most cases, be handled within Harassment - verbal/or
Administrator meets with
the disciplinary structure in the physical
student, confers with parent
school. Corrective measures
about the misconduct and
Bullying
depend on the school’s
resources for remediating the Forgery (official school related disciplinary action to be taken.
situation in the best interest of documents)
Administrator keeps accurate
all students.
records of offenses and
Stealing
disciplinary actions, and
Possession and/or use of
informs staff of them.
unauthorized substances
In some cases, the police will
(drugs, alcohol, tobacco
be contacted regarding these
products, chemicals, etc.)
major offenses.
Vandalism/graffiti
Specialized counseling and/or
Obscene language/gestures
referral to outside agency may
Work Detail
Restitution of Property and
Damages
Expulsion Proceedings
See RTMSD Acceptable Use
of Computer Network/Internet
Policy
Monetary Fines
Counseling/Referral for
Psychological Evaluation
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to staff
be necessary.
Bullying/Cyber Bullying
Level IV
Continuation of unmodified
Actions resulting in violence to Level III misbehavior
another person or property, or Possession, use, and/or
posing a direct threat to the
transfer of weapons
safety of others.
Sale and/or transfer of
These actions are clearly
criminal and must require
administrative reactions
resulting in the immediate
removal of the student from
the school. The intervention
of law enforcement
agencies/authorities and/or
action by the school board will
ensue.
unauthorized substances
(drugs, alcohol, tobacco
products, chemicals, etc.)
Major theft (includes
possession and/or sale of
stolen property)
Arson in or around school
buildings or on school buses.
The student is immediately
Out of School Suspension
removed from the school
Expulsion Proceedings
environment. The parents are
Alternative Placement in/out
notified.
of District
Law enforcement officials are
Other Appropriate Board
contacted.
Action
A complete and accurate
Restitution of Property and
report is submitted to the
Damages
Superintendent and to the
Board of School Directors.
Police Investigation
A referral may be made to
outside agencies.
Tampering with fire alarms
and/or extinguishers.
False fire alarms and/or bomb
threats
Breaking and entering
Assault/battery
Vandalism/reckless driving
on school property - Any other
criminal acts committed on
school property or during
school-related activities.
Building administrator verifies
offense, confers w/ staff
involved meets with student.
Bullying/Cyber Bullying
COUNSELING
Counseling and guidance services are available to all students and parents. These services are designed to help all students
experience success at Springton Lake Middle School. Various types of assistance are available to students through the Guidance
Department. These services include academic counseling, social and emotional support, appropriate decision-making, peer support
groups, and classroom instruction. Students are welcome to visit the Guidance Office, with teacher permission, in order to schedule an
appointment with their counselor. Parents may also contact the guidance counselor to discuss any questions or concerns related to the
student.
Grade 6
Mrs. Margie Gilroy
610-627-6507
Grade 7
Mrs. Sue Griffin
610-627-6508
Grade 8
Mrs. Susan Howe
610-627-6509
Student/Parent Relations
610-627-6503
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DETENTION
Detention is assigned when students violate the Code of Conduct. When assigned a detention, the student will receive a Discipline
Notice Form which must be signed by a parent or guardian and returned to the Middle School Main Office the first day after the
infraction. Parents will also be notified by a staff member. Detention may be Teacher (assigned by the classroom teacher and served
in the teacher’s room at the time designated by the teacher) or Administrative (Assigned by an administrator as a result of a disciplinary
referral submitted by a teacher/staff member or observed by the Administrator.)
Administrative Detention is held Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3:05 PM to 4:00 PM. In cases of certain, more serious
infractions, or when a pattern of behavior develops and other interventions have proven unsuccessful, students may be assigned to
Saturday Detention from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Parents/guardians are required to provide transportation for Saturday Detention and
students are to be picked-up promptly at 10:00 AM.
Students serving detentions are expected to come prepared with enough books and materials to keep themselves busy for the entire
detention period and to be quiet and orderly while there. Any student without work or appropriate reading material will be assigned work
by the teacher in charge. Students are not permitted to talk or to write/pass notes during the detention period.
A student who must miss detention due to an early dismissal or family obligation must bring a written excuse from a parent or guardian
to the grade level administrator before the detention is to be served. A student who is absent from school on the day of the assigned
detention will automatically have their detention reassigned for the next detention day. Failure to attend an assigned detention may
result in additional administrative detention, Saturday Detention, or suspension. Failure to attend Saturday Detention will result in the
student’s assignment to In-School Suspension on the next school day.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Because many middle school students possess electronic devices, including cell phones and iPods, the following guidelines are in
place at the Springton Lake Middle School to preserve the integrity of the learning environment.
1. Student electronic devices may not be used during the school day. The school day will include, but is not limited to, morning arrival
to school, lunch periods, passing time, and on school-sponsored trips. The Principal and/or designated staff member may provide
an exception to this guideline if the device will be used for educational purposes and/or in conjunction with a classroom activity or
lesson.
2. All electronic communication devices, including cell phones, are to be turned off during the school day. Cell phones may not be set
to silent, sleep, standby, or vibrate mode. They are to be turned completely off.
3. Students may not receive cell phone calls or check messages at any time during the day. If parents have a need to contact their
child, they must call the Main Office and make contact using existing established channels and procedures.
4. Students may not make cell phone calls or text at any time during the school day.
5. Cell phones must be stored in the student’s locker and not carried on the student’s person during the school day.
6. Cell phones may not be “on” or otherwise used in the school locker rooms or bathrooms at any time, including during participation
in a school activity or athletic event. This includes the use of the picture/camera feature that is available with some electronic
devices.
7. The unauthorized use of cell phones or other electronic devices to communicate or access information during classes or testing is
expressly prohibited.
8. The School and School District is not responsible for the loss, theft, damage, or vandalism to student cell phones or other
electronic devices that students choose to bring with them to school. Students are strongly encouraged to safeguard these items.
9. The Springton Lake Middle School recognizes the need students may have to contact their parents at the end of the school day,
prior to or following an extra-curricular activity or event, including athletic activities and school dances. Therefore, students will be
permitted to use their phones during these times for such purposes. Use of a cell phone or other electronic device during the event
is subject to the same guidelines as are in effect during the school day.
10. School administrators may conduct searches of student electronic devices when there is reasonable cause to believe that the
search will reveal evidence of a violation of one or more guidelines set forth above. This requirement will also apply in situations
involving suspected cyberbullying, harassment, threats, and/or other inappropriate behavior.
Discipline:
Students who possess or use a cell phone or other electronic device in violation of the usage guidelines as outlined above will be
subject to the following disciplinary action:
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First Offense – The student will have the device confiscated and turned over to the Principal or his/her designee. The item will be
held in the Main Office until the end of the school day at which time the student may retrieve the item. A verbal warning will be
issued.
Second Offense – The student will have the device confiscated and turned over to the Principal or his/her designee. The item will
be held in the Main Office until retrieved by a parent or guardian. An Administrative Detention will be assigned.
All Further Offenses - The student will have the device confiscated and turned over to the Principal or his/her designee. The item
will be held in the Main Office until retrieved by a parent or guardian. A Saturday Detention or In-school Suspension will be
assigned.
Refusal of a student to surrender to a staff member a cell phone or electronic device that is used or possessed in violation of the
above guidelines will be considered insubordination and the appropriate disciplinary action will be applied.
Laser-pointers and other laser devices are particularly capable of causing harm and disruption and are therefore prohibited from
being in a student’s possession in school buildings, on school property, on school vehicles, and while attending school-sponsored
activities.
Students are prohibited from taking, storing, disseminating, transferring, viewing, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, or
otherwise illegal images or photographs, whether by electronic data transfer or other means, including but not limited to texting and
e-mail. Because such violations may constitute a crime under state and/or federal law, the District may report such conduct to
state and/or federal law enforcement agencies. Such prohibited activity shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school
property if:
1. There is a nexus between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the student’s attendance at school or schoolsponsored activities.
2. The student is a member of an extra-curricular activity and has been notified that particular off-campus conduct could result in
exclusion from such activities.
3. The conduct has a direct nexus to attendance at school or a school-sponsored activity, such as an agreement made on school
property to complete a transaction outside of school that would violate the Code of Conduct.
E-MAIL COMMUNICATION
The primary means of communication with parents will take place through e-mail. Parents should ensure that the e-mail address
indicated in Home Access Center (HAC) is current at all times. Additional information for parents will be posted to our website.
EXCLUSION FROM CLASS
Any student asked to leave a classroom because of improper conduct must report immediately to the Main Office. The student may not
wander about the building or loiter in the hallways or restrooms.
EXCLUSION FROM SCHOOL
Exclusion (suspension and expulsion) means that a student may not be on school district property and may not participate in schoolsponsored activities. Serious infractions of school rules or repeated minor infractions may result in exclusion from school. There are
three types of exclusion:
Temporary suspension means exclusion from school, by the Principal or Assistant Principal, for a period up to three school
days. The student will be informed of the reasons for the suspension and will be given an opportunity to respond before the
suspension becomes effective. Parents will be notified immediately. Any student who is suspended from school may not
participate in any after school activities/sports, except for extra help with a teacher, for the duration of the suspension with
Administrative permission.
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Full suspension means exclusion from school for a period of up to ten school days after an informal hearing before the
Principal or Assistant Principal is offered to the student and his/her parents. Parents will be notified, in writing, of the reasons
for the suspension and given sufficient notice of the time and place of the hearing. Students are permitted a reasonable period
of time to make up tests and work missed while on suspension. It is the responsibility of the student to make all necessary
arrangements. Any student who is suspended from school may not participate in any after school activities/sports, except for
extra help with a teacher, for the duration of the suspension with Administrative permission.
Expulsion means exclusion from school for a period exceeding ten school days. Expulsion may be permanent. Pre-Expulsion
hearings are held before the Superintendent, the School Board, or a committee of the School Board after four suspensions or if
deemed necessary by the building administrative staff. In addition to the procedures listed for the informal hearing, notification of
the charges will be sent by certified mail, and the student will have the right to be represented by counsel. The School Board may
consider expulsion for any student who has had four suspensions during a school year.
In-School Suspension (ISS) may be utilized at the discretion of the Administration for certain infractions. Students
suspended in-school will report to the Main Office upon their arrival to school. Students will spend the day in the In-School
Suspension room under the supervision of a teacher or staff member. No student will be excused prior to the end of the school
day except for a medical appointment or emergency. There will be bathroom breaks as determined by the staff member on
duty in the ISS room. Students may bring their lunch or purchase one in the cafeteria. Students absent from school on any
day they are assigned to ISS will report to make up the ISS immediately upon their return to school. Students must come
prepared with all necessary books and materials. Classroom teachers will send assignments and tests for the student to
complete. Students will receive full credit for work completed during the ISS. Talking is not permitted in ISS. Students serving
in-school suspensions may not attend and/or participate in any school-sponsored activity/event on the day(s) of his/her ISS.
Students serving ISS may not be on school property after school on the day(s) of his/her ISS.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
A wide range of clubs, activities, intramurals, and events will be offered for students throughout the school year. These activities help to
create a positive atmosphere within our school community and serve as a great opportunity for students to make friends and to build
relationships with peers. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in these activities. Information will be made available to
students as part of the daily announcements. Because participation in these activities is a privilege, the Administration reserves the
right to establish eligibility requirements linked to student behavior and/or academic progress.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are scheduled periodically throughout the school year to support the curriculum. These trips are intended for educational
purposes only. A permission slip signed by a parent or guardian is required before a student may participate in a field trip. Students
may be excluded from participation in field trips as a result of inappropriate behavior and/or academic concerns at the discretion of a
Building Administrator.
While on a field trip, students will be required to remain with their assigned group and under the direct supervision of a chaperone at all
times. Students will refrain from conduct or actions which will tend to reflect poorly on the Springton Lake Middle School. All provisions
of the Middle School Discipline Code and guidelines for student behavior and attire are in effect at all times. Any student who is
dressed inappropriately for the trip at the discretion of a Building Administrator will not be permitted to accompany the group.
FOOD, SNACK, & BEVERAGE POLICY
Food, snacks, and beverages are not permitted in classrooms without the expressed permission of the teacher or supervising staff
member. At the teacher’s discretion, an opportunity for snack may be provided. Snacks should have nutritional value and their
consumption should not cause an interruption to the learning process. Students may carry clear water bottles throughout the day.
Chewing gum is prohibited at all times and in all locations of the Middle School. Peanut-free teams and/or areas of the building may be
established depending upon the needs of the student population. Heavily caffeinated beverages such as Red Bull may not be brought
to or consumed at school.
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GRADING
Student grades are computed by the subject area teacher. Classwork, homework, tests, quizzes, and class participation constitute the
major parts of the grade.
Letter Grade Numerical Performance in Academic and Special Subject Courses
A+
98-100
A
Excellent
D+
68-69
93-97
D
63-67
A-
90-92
D-
60-62
B+
88-89
E
59.44
B
83-87
B-
80-82
C+
78-79
C
73-77
C-
70-72
Very Good
Passing
Failing
Average
I
Incomplete
R
Recent Entrant
X
Excused
P
Passing
S
Survey/Audit
W
Withdrawn
M
Medical
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are issued on a quarterly basis at the end of each marking period. Report cards will be made available through Home
Access Center (HAC) within ten days of the end of the marking period. Parents will be notified via e-mail when report cards are ready
to view. Students and parents are urged to contact the specific teacher regarding any questions about a report card grade or comment.
Parents may contact the Guidance Office to arrange a conference with the assigned guidance counselor and team of teachers.
HOME ACCESS CENTER (HAC)
Students and parents have the ability to monitor progress and grades through the use of our online grading portal – Home Access
Center (HAC.) Students and parents are encouraged to utilize HAC on a regular basis to ensure satisfactory academic progress.
Please be sure to allow sufficient time for the teacher to grade an assignment and to post the information to HAC. Log-on information
will be provided to students and parents upon the child’s enrollment at Springton Lake. Log-on information must be kept secure in order
to preserve confidentiality and privacy.
The final averages for the semester and year are running totals and are not finalized until the marking period or school year closes.
When reviewing grades, the following designations may appear in HAC:
0 - student received a zero for this assignment
Z - this assignment has not been turned in by the student but may still be turned in, potentially for reduced credit
X – the student is excused from the assignment
BLANK - the grade for this assignment has not yet been entered by the teacher.
If you have questions about your child's assignments or assessments, please contact the teacher or the guidance counselor. If you
have technical questions about your password, log-on, or configuration of reports, please contact the guidance counselor.
HOMEWORK
Homework is assigned in order to reinforce concepts introduced in class, to supplement and complement daily classroom activity, and
to provide opportunities for independent reading, preparation, and study. In general, homework may account for 10% to 15% of a
18
student’s marking period grade. Students are encouraged to utilize the planner to record daily and long-term assignments. At the
middle school level, students should have a structured routine for nightly homework preparation and review even when no written work
is due. Generally, total homework should not exceed 90 minutes per day.
PROMOTION
In order to be promoted to the next grade level, a student must pass all four of the core academic subjects – mathematics, language
arts, science, and social studies. Students who do not meet this minimum standard will be required to attend Summer School in order
to be promoted to the next grade level. Summer school dates and tuition rates are established annually and communicated to the
families of eligible students. Transportation for summer school is the responsibility of the parent/guardian.
EXTRA HELP
Teachers are available for extra help after regular school hours from 3:03 – 3:20 PM on Tuesday and Thursday of each week.
Students should take the initiative in speaking with teachers to arrange for this extra assistance. At the conclusion of the extra help
session, students may be picked-up by a parent/guardian, attend Homework Club, or report to a designated room for a supervised
Study Hall until 4:00 PM.
HONOR ROLL
Honor Roll is awarded in grades 7 & 8 in order to recognize academic excellence. In order to achieve Honor Roll, a student must earn
A’s and B’s in all core and special area subjects for the given marking period. Those students who earn all A’s (90% or higher) in all
core and special area subjects for the given marking period make the Distinguished Honor Roll.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Academic achievement awards are given at the end of each year. Students in all grade levels will be recognized for their excellence in
each of the subject areas that comprise the curriculum. In addition, eighth grade students may qualify to receive the following special
award:
President's Award for Educational Excellence - The President's Award for Educational Excellence and criteria were
established in 1983 by the Office of the President of the United States and United States Secretary of Education. The award
recognizes students whose outstanding efforts have enabled them to meet challenging standards of excellence. In order to
qualify for this recognition, students must have earned all A’s (90% or higher) beginning in 7th grade through the first semester
of 8th grade (end of 2nd marking period) AND must have achieved scores in the advanced range on the PSSA in grade 7 in
both mathematics and English-language arts.
Eligible students will be invited to apply for membership in the National Junior Honor Society during the fall of the 8th grade year. In
order to be eligible, students must have attended Springton Lake Middle School for at least one semester during the previous school
year, and have earned an average of 90% or higher with no grade lower than 88% in a given class during their 7th grade year. Students
who are eligible based upon their academic performance will be invited to submit an application to document participation in extracurricular activities, community service, and leadership experiences. A committee of faculty members will review all applications based
upon the established guidelines for scholarship, leadership, citizenship, character, and service. All decisions of the faculty panel will be
final. Students who are selected for membership will be inducted into the organization in the fall. Members of the National Junior Honor
Society will be expected to maintain their academic standing, while also committing to being involved in service projects decided upon
by the group.
19
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER
The Library Media Center has available to students a wide array of resources and materials. The hours of operation are Monday and
Friday from 7:55 AM to 3:03 PM and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 7:55 AM to 3:55 PM. The Library Media Center
operates on a flexible schedule, allowing students multiple opportunities to visit throughout the school day. Students may visit the
Library Media Center with an academic class, come in a smaller group or individually with a pass from a classroom teacher, or stop by
before first period, between classes, or during lunch. During lunch, students must eat in the cafeteria first before coming to the library
to complete work.
Students may check out three books or periodicals at a time. Books circulate for two weeks, while magazines and periodicals circulate
for one week at a time. Materials may be renewed, as needed. Reference materials do not leave the Library Media Center. Students
are expected to return materials on time. Students with overdue books will not be permitted to check out new materials until they have
either returned the overdue materials or replaced or paid for lost or damaged materials.
Students may use the Library Media Center after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:03 PM to 3:55 PM to work
on assigned projects. Students must obtain an after school pass from the classroom teacher who has assigned the project and must
also reserve a space in the Library Media Center before the end of the school day. Teachers may call to reserve a place for a student,
or students may stop in the Library Media Center during the school day to check availability and to reserve a spot. Students may use
computers strictly for school-related work.
LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES
In the event of a building lockdown, it is mandatory that all students carefully follow the announced instructions and adhere to the
directions provided by teachers and staff members. Students who are in the hallway are to move into the nearest occupied classrooms.
Students are not permitted to use the classroom telephone or cell phones during a lockdown. From time to time, a lockdown drill may
be initiated in order to practice those procedures that would be implemented in the event of an actual emergency.
LOCKERS
Student lockers are owned by the Rose Tree Media School District and loaned to students for their use and convenience. The Building
Administrators exercise exclusive control over student lockers. A student should not expect privacy regarding items placed in a locker,
as lockers are subject to search by school officials.
Building Administrators or other school officials may conduct a search of a particular locker when there is reasonable suspicion that the
locker contains contraband. Prior to the search of a particular locker, the student assigned to the locker will be notified and given an
opportunity to be present. However, where school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that a particular locker contains materials
that pose a threat to the welfare and safety of students or staff, the student locker may be searched without prior notice.
School officials may conduct blanket or random searches of lockers without suspicion of any particular student where school officials
determine in good faith that a substantial problem is threatening the welfare or safety of students and that blanket or random searches
may help to solve or to eliminate the problem. Blanket or random locker searches may be conducted by opening and searching lockers
or through the use of drug-detecting dogs or other means of detecting contraband. No additional notice to students is required prior to a
random or blanket search of students’ lockers.
Any contraband found in a locker will be considered in the possession of the student assigned to the locker. For purposes of this policy,
“contraband” includes drugs, alcohol, weapons, or other materials possessed by a student in violation of federal or state law or the
Code of Conduct. All contraband found during searches by school officials will be seized and used as evidence against the student in
disciplinary proceedings. In addition, illegal material confiscated will be turned over immediately to the appropriate law enforcement
agency for further investigation and for the institution of possible juvenile or criminal proceedings.
Under no circumstances are students permitted to share lockers or locker combinations with other students. Sharing a locker includes
storing items or permitting the storage of items, regardless of the length of time, in another student’s locker. Any student who violates
this guideline will be subject to Level I discipline as described in the Code of Conduct.
The Rose Tree Media School District does not carry insurance to protect the loss of students’ valuables or money. Students should
keep their lockers locked at all times, keep combinations private, and leave valuables and large sums of money at home. Students
should report any locker damage or necessary repair to the Main Office immediately.
20
LOST AND FOUND
A Lost and Found will be maintained in the Main Office for items of value such as electronics, jewelry, and eyeglasses and in the
Cafeteria for clothing and other miscellaneous items. Students should be aware that any item “found” has been “lost” by someone else.
When a student finds an item in the school, he/she is asked to be a good citizen and to bring it to the Main Office. Students who lose or
misplace an item should check the Main Office or Cafeteria. Students may also check with teachers and/or look in the appropriate
Team Center or Guidance Office.
MESSAGES & MATERIALS RECEIVED FROM PARENTS
Due to the number of students in the school and the disruption that this causes to the learning environment, it may not be possible for
our staff to relay telephone messages or to deliver items or materials that a student may have forgotten to bring to school. Only
messages of an urgent nature will be delivered between class periods. It is the responsibility of students to know to check with the Main
Office if they have forgotten something from home or if they are expecting an item to be delivered. Students will not be notified when
items have been brought to the Main Office. Students and parents are expected to be aware of this procedure and to have these
arrangements in place. Please note - contacting your child via cell phone or text message is disruptive to the learning environment of
the classroom and also constitutes a violation for your child of our electronic device policy.
PARENT CHAPERONES
Parents who are interested in chaperoning a field trip must comply with the RTMSD Guidelines for Chaperones that are posted on the
District website.
PASSES
All students who are in the corridors or restrooms during the school day must sign out from their classroom and have a hall pass.
Students may visit the restroom between classes without a pass.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
State law mandates Physical Education for all students. If a student is physically unable to participate in physical education, a note
from a physician will be required. If a student misses more than 40% of class for any reason, the student will receive an “X” for “medical
excuse” rather than a letter grade. Students are expected to actively participate in Physical Education. Absent a medical excuse,
students who do not participate in Physical Education will be held accountable in accordance with the Physical Education Department
policy. Students will experience a variety of activities that will include experiences that may be physically challenging or unfamiliar. It is
the goal of the Department to provide activities that encourage lifetime fitness, as well as aid in the development of the whole child –
physically, emotionally, mentally, and physically.
Physical Education Classes will be held in a variety of locations appropriate to the activities and lesson. Facilities include the
Gymnasium, outside track and fields, and Swimming Pool. Each student will be issued a locker at the beginning of each school year.
Combinations are not to be shared with other students. Valuable, including money, iPods, and cell phones, should not be brought to
Physical Education. Any electronic devices with recording capabilities are prohibited in the Locker Rooms and may result in disciplinary
action. Teachers and the school are not responsible for students’ valuables. If a student does bring valuables, they must always be
locked in assigned lockers for safety. During class, each student’s clothing, books, and any other belongings should be kept in his/her
assigned gym locker. Items found in the locker room will be placed into the Lost and Found. Students are not permitted to wear any
jewelry during Physical Education class, including watches, dangling or hoop earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc. Any jewelry that
cannot be removed must be covered with tape for safety purposes.
Proper attire is expected for all activities in class for both hygiene and effective movement purposes. Proper Physical Education
uniforms for class and one-piece bathing suits for swimming must be worn for all classes unless otherwise directed. All Physical
Education uniforms must adhere to the school dress code policy.
PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
Physical conduct and public displays of affection are prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, handholding, hugging, and kissing.
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REMAINING AFTER SCHOOL
All students remaining at school after 3:03 PM must be under the supervision of an adult. A student must secure an after school pass
from a teacher to remain after school. There is no loitering in the building or on the grounds. The only students permitted to use the
Activity Buses are those participating in supervised athletic events, those granted special teacher permission with a pass, and those
staying for extra help, detention, or other supervised activities. Once a student leaves the school property, he/she is not permitted to
return to the building or ride the Activity Bus. Whenever a student misses the bus after school, it is his/her responsibility to notify his/her
parents and make arrangements for transportation home. Students found wandering around the building after school will be placed in
detention and will lose their privilege of staying after school in the future. Students wishing to utilize the Activity Bus who are dismissed
early from extra help or detention will report to a designated room and remain there until the buses arrive.
RESPONSIBLE USE OF NETWORK RESOURCES
SECTION I - PURPOSE:
In a free and democratic society, access to information is a fundamental right of citizenship. Digital literacy is essential for student
success. Appropriate technology tools and network resources are made available to students and staff to increase engagement
through fostering creativity, enhancing productivity, facilitating research and promoting communication and collaboration with others in
an educational setting.
The Board of School Directors of the Rose Tree Media School District (Board) supports the use of the Internet, information technology,
district and personally owned devices, and other network facilities in the district’s instructional programs in order to facilitate learning
and teaching through interpersonal communications, access to information, research and collaboration. Use of the School District’s
information technology tools and network facilities shall be consistent with and in furtherance of the curriculum adopted by the School
District as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of students.
The changing educational environment and level of technology integration may require that students access web-based resources
while using School District or personally owned equipment. The use of technology tools, websites, and resources, for the purpose of
completing curricular objectives, is a privilege, not a right. Any web-based, personally owned user accounts created by School District
personnel or by the end-user for the purpose of completing activities associated with course curricula or other school related functions
are subject to the guidelines defined by the Responsible Use of RTM Network Resources Policy, regardless of where the access to that
resource has taken place.
SECTION II - AUTHORITY:
This policy applies to students, staff, and others using School District technology. The electronic information available to students and
staff from various sources does not imply endorsement of the content by the School District, nor does the School District guarantee the
accuracy of information received on the Internet. The School District shall not be responsible for any information that may be lost,
damaged or unavailable when using the network or for any information that is retrieved via the Internet. The School District shall not be
responsible for any unauthorized charges or fees resulting from access to the Internet or other network resources. The School District
reserves the right to monitor and log network use and to monitor fileserver space utilization by School District users, while respecting
the privacy rights of both School District users and outside users; however, all data stored or transmitted on the RTM network can and
may be reviewed, if necessary. The RTM Board establishes that use of School District or personally owned information technology
tools and network facilities impacting the School District is a privilege, not a right; inappropriate, unauthorized and illegal use will result
in the cancellation of those privileges. Appropriate disciplinary action may be taken in accordance with established discipline policies
and procedures.
SECTION III – DELEGATION OF RESPONSIBILITY:
The School District shall make every effort to ensure that students and staff use this educational resource responsibly. The School
District reserves the right to utilize electronic devices and other media to determine that users are in compliance with this policy.
Administrators, teachers and staff have a professional responsibility to work together to help students develop the information literacy
skills necessary to discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and developmental levels,
and to evaluate and use the information to meet their educational goals. Administrators, teachers, librarians and other staff will
collaborate to ensure that students develop the information literacy skills necessary to identify when they need information, and to
locate, evaluate and effectively use the information to answer questions, solve problems and make decisions. Students and staff have
the responsibility to learn the rules and guidelines for the use of technology devices, network facilities, and technology resources and to
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abide by them. The School District will annually educate all students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other
individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response.
The building administrator or the School District Superintendent, with the Director of Technology, shall have the authority to determine
what constitutes inappropriate use. This policy will be disseminated to all parents, students and staff via the School District web site,
the student handbook, and the staff handbook. Employees will be responsible for safeguarding passwords and be held accountable for
the unauthorized or negligent disclosure of this information.
The Superintendent or his/her designee shall be responsible for implementing procedures to determine whether the School District’s
information technology and network facilities are being used for purposes prohibited by law and this policy, or for accessing sexually
explicit materials. The procedure shall include, but not be limited to:
1. Requiring the utilization of a technology protection measure that blocks or filters user’s Internet access to certain visual
depictions that are obscene, that constitute child pornography, are harmful to minors with respect to use by minors or
determined by the Board to be inappropriate for use by minors.
2. Maintaining and securing a usage log.
3. Monitoring and storing information related to online activities of minors and all other users.
SECTION IV - DEFINITIONS:
Child Pornography – Under federal law, is any visual depiction, including any photograph, film, video, picture or computer or computergenerated image or picture, whether made or produced by electronic, mechanical, or other means, of sexually explicit conduct, where:
1. The production of such visual depiction involves the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct;
2. Such visual depiction is a digital image, computer image, or computer-generated image that is, or is indistinguishable
from, that of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct; or
3. Such visual depiction has been created, adapted, or modified to appear that an identifiable minor is engaging in sexually
explicit conduct.
Child Pornography – Under state law, is any book, magazine, pamphlet, slide, photograph, film, videotape, computer depiction or other
material depicting a child under the age of eighteen (18) years engaging in a prohibited sexual at or in the simulation of such act.
CIPA - Key terms are as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act.
CIPA Filters - The term “technology protection measure” means a specific technology that blocks or filters Internet access to visual
depictions that are:
1. Obscene, as that term is defined in section 1460 of Title 18, United States Code.
2. Child pornography, as that term is defined in section 2256 of Title 18, United States Code.
3. Harmful to minors, with respect to use of the computers by minors.
Hacking - Any attempt to unauthorized access or the unauthorized access to network facilities or using School District network facilities
to attempt or to gain unauthorized access to other networks or computing resources for the purpose of:
1.
2.
3.
Determining the data structure and security restrictions of the computer system.
Making unauthorized changes in the data structure and security restrictions of the computer system.
Making unauthorized use of services provided by the computer system to share information regarding all of the
above with other unauthorized users.
The term Harmful to Minors is defined under both federal and state law.
Harmful to Minors and Inappropriate Material - Both mean any text, audio file, picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual, sound
or written depiction that:
1.
2.
Taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion.
Depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or
simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated, normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of
the genitals.
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3.
4.
5.
Taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.
Depicts extreme violence.
Promotes intolerance.
Illegal Activities/Uses - Any use of network facilities which violates a municipal ordinance or local, state or federal law, including those
activities relating to intellectual property rights, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, or the Family
Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA.)
Information Technology – Any electronic device, computer hardware and software, operating systems, web-based information and
applications, telephones and other telecommunications products, video equipment and multimedia products, and office products such
as photocopiers and fax machines. Examples of information technology tools includes, but is not limited to, such devices as cell phones
smart phones, tablets, eReaders, laptop computers, PDA’s, iPods or other electronic music players, etc. When used in this policy
information technology is sometimes referred to as information technology tools or tools.
Network Facilities:
1. Computer hardware and software, electronic connections, electronic devices and other information technology tools used for
information processing as well as peripheral devices connected to these tools.
2. Network bandwidth including Internet bandwidth and other devices necessary to facilitate network connectivity such as e-mail
services, fileservers, routers, switches, hubs, firewalls, premise wiring, network data ports, etc.
3. Computers hardware and software, electronic connections electronic devices and other information technology tools used on School
District property or used off School District property that impacts the School District, or causes a disruption to the educational
environment, or when such used comes in conflict with the Student Code of Conduct or School District Policy, whether or not they are
connected physically or wirelessly to the School District’s information network(s).
4. Computers, electronic connections, electronic devices and other information technology tools while they are connected remotely
(from home or elsewhere) to the School District’s network.
Obscene – Any material or performance, if:
1. The average person applying contemporary community standards would find that the subject matter taken as a whole appeals to the
prurient interest;
2. The subject matter depicts or describes in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct described in the law to be obscene; and
3. The subject matter, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, educational or scientific value.
Online Collaboration – using site-based or web-based technology tools to communicate and work productively with other users to
complete educationally relevant tasks.
Personally Identifiable Information - May include, but is not limited to, Social Security Number, address, phone number and/or
password.
RTM Network - Any wired or wireless access to resources provided by and through the School District.
Technology - Electronic devices of communication of any kind, including, but not limited to: desktop computers, laptops, PDA’s, cell
phones, MP3 players, e-mail, instant messaging, and blogs.
Technology Tools – Including but not limited to, hardware, software, web-based applications (e.g. Google Apps for Education, Gmail,
Wikispaces.com, Blackboard, Blogs, Discussion Boards, Podcasts, etc.) electronic devices, telecommunication products, audio/video
equipment and other tools used for classroom instruction.
SECTION V: GUIDELINES
Network accounts or other information technology based accounts shall be used only by the authorized owner of the account for its
authorized purpose. All communications and information accessible via the School District network facilities or personally owned
information technology should be assumed to be the private property of the School District; however, personal information shall not be
disclosed, unless legally required to do so. The School District reserves that right to impose network, Internet, and/or printing
restrictions on any or all users.
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SECTION VI: PROHIBITIONS
Users are expected to act in a responsible, ethical and legal manner in accordance with School District policy, accepted rules of
network etiquette, and federal, state, and local law. Specifically, the following uses of district or personally owned information
technology tools and network facilities are prohibited and constitute inappropriate use:
1. Facilitating illegal or inappropriate activity on or by network facilities, or activities done on network facilities to facilitate an
illegal or inappropriate act or purpose.
2. Commercial, for-profit, or political purposes, including gambling, lobbying, soliciting sales, advertising, selling, servicing, or
conducting any other business-related activities using School District resources that are not for the benefit of or associated
with the operation of the School District.
3. Non-work or non-school-related work, during work hours or interfering with work responsibilities, except where permission is
granted via policy, building guidelines, or administrative approval.
4. Uploading, creating, or attempting to create a computer virus or other inappropriate or damaging information technology tool
exploitation or misappropriation.
5. Hate mail, discriminatory remarks, bullying or threatening, antisocial, and offensive or inflammatory communications or
postings.
6. Violating copyright laws, including unauthorized or illegal installation, distribution, plagiarism, reproduction, copying,
modification, forwarding, downloading or use of copyrighted materials and fraudulent copying. Copyrighted materials include,
but are not limited to, games, stories, encyclopedia entries or software written by another. Any data uploaded to or
downloaded from network facilities are subject to fair use guidelines.
7. Accessing, storing, sending, receiving or transmitting obscene, inappropriate, or pornographic materials or text files, child
pornography, or material or text files, harmful to minors or potentially dangerous to the integrity of the local area network, the
district’s information technology tools, or its network facilities, as determined by Board policy.
8. Accessing or transmitting files or applications dangerous to the integrity of the School District’s information technology or
network facilities.
9. The use of inappropriate language or profanity while utilizing School District network resources. Such mediums would include
blogs, discussion forums, texts, email, files, usernames, passwords, etc.
10. Transmitting sound, pictures, or text likely to be offensive or objectionable to recipients or in violation of the student code of
conduct for inappropriate behavior.
11. Intentionally obtaining or modifying files, passwords, data, or information belonging to other users.
12. Impersonating another user, including, but not limited to, by using another’s email address, user account, or password, or
using anonymity, or pseudonyms.
13. Violating software or other licensing agreements.
14. Loading, installing previewing, copying, or use of unauthorized games, programs, files, software or other electronic media.
15. Transmitting or creating any digital content disruptive to the instructional process or threatening to another district user
whether or not the district’s information technology or network facilities are used to facilitate, send or receive any such
transmission.
16. Destruction, modification, abuse, or unauthorized access to the School District’s information technology or network hardware,
software, and data by physical or electronic means (viruses, worms, etc.). This includes hacking, keystroke logging, port
scanning, unauthorized attempts to access network resources, creating malicious code, phishing, or spamming.
17. Quoting of personal communications in a public forum without the original author's prior consent.
18. Engaging in or accessing chat rooms, discussion forums/boards or instant messaging without the permission or direct
supervision of a teacher or administrator during the school day.
19. Attempting to circumvent or disable any filter, information security, or other security measure.
20. Attempting to use network facilities while access privileges are suspended or revoked.
21. Reading, deleting, copying or modifying the email or files of other users or deliberately interfering with the ability of other users
to send or receive email.
22. Using the network facilities or information technology to access, send, create, or post material or communications that are
damaging to another person’s reputation, abusive, obscene, sexually-oriented, threatening, contrary to School District policy
on harassment, or illegal. This includes use of any social networking or communication medium, on or off-campus, that
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23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
causes, or could be reasonably expected to cause, a substantial disruption to the educational environment of the School
District.
Revealing personal information or passwords related to any users on the network other than by School District staff in the
performance of assigned duties.
Failing to report a known violation of this policy.
Taking pictures, video, or audio of individuals without their knowledge or consent and/or relevance to School District curricular,
co-curricular or extra-curricular activities.
Attaching personal technology devices to the network without following the rules detailed in faculty or student handbooks.
Using a non-School District network as a means to connect personally owned devices to the Internet in order to circumvent
filtering or the guidelines set forth in the Responsible Use of RTM Network Resources Policy. Per the Student Handbook, the
use of personal technology devices is permitted on School District-designated and provided networks only. All use of personal
technology devices must be in accordance with the Student Handbook. All users who connect to permitted networks agree to
the requirements of the Responsible Use of RTM Network Resources Policy and should consider his/her personal device
subject to the same level of monitoring and access as any School District-owned technology device. The School District
reserves the right to monitor Internet and network use on School District guest networks.
Employee User Specific Guidelines
1. School District assigned laptops and related equipment remain the property of the School District and employees shall
abide by the School District’s Responsible Use of RTM Network Resources Policy, regardless of where such use takes
place. Users have no expectation of privacy related to the assigned equipment. All data and content stored on district
owned devices shall be the property of the School District.
2. Use of the filter override for the express purpose of accessing sites that are prohibited by this policy is prohibited.
3. In order to maintain appropriate student-employee boundaries, current students who are not relatives, should not be
allowed to post or become members of any employee’s social networking site, including but not limited to Facebook,
MySpace, Twitter, etc. Employees are strongly advised against interacting or communicating with students on such sites
for non-instructional purposes. Further, personal social networking sites are in the public domain and thereby must
comply with the applicable law and code of professional practice and conduct for educators, as established by the PA
State Department of Education.
Safety and Security
To the greatest extent possible, users of the School District’s network will be protected from harassment and unwanted or
unsolicited communication while using School District resources. To protect the integrity of network facilities and the safety of
users, the following guidelines shall be followed:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Security of network facilities is protected through the use of passwords. Users shall not reveal their passwords to
another individual or use any other user’s password. If a user suspects someone else has his/her password, s/he
shall change it immediately and notify the district. Failure to adequately protect or update passwords could result in
unauthorized access to personal or district files.
Employees and students shall not reveal their passwords to another individual.
Users are not to use a computer that has been logged in under another student's or employee's name.
Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied
access to the network.
Network users shall not reveal personal information to other users on the network, including through chat rooms,
email, Internet, etc. that could identify themselves or other users, or allow a person to locate a user.
Any network user who receives threatening or unwelcome communications shall immediately report them to a
teacher or administrator.
Users shall report to a supervising teacher or administrator Internet contacts which attempt to arrange a face-to-face
meeting with any user.
Users shall not transfer or download confidential data or data that contains sensitive personally identifiable
information via flash drives, thumb drives, or such other portable storage devices.
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School District Website
The School District shall establish and maintain a website and shall develop and modify its web pages to present information about the
School District under the direction of the Superintendent or designee. All users publishing content on the district website shall comply
with this and other applicable district policies. Users shall not copy or download information from the School District website and
disseminate such information on unauthorized web pages without authorization from the Principal.
Consequences for Inappropriate Use
The network user shall be responsible for payment for damages to the equipment, systems, and software resulting from deliberate or
willful acts. Illegal use of the network, intentional deletion or damage to files of data belonging to others, copyright violations or theft of
services will be reported to the appropriate legal authorities for possible prosecution. General rules for behavior and communications
apply when using the Internet, in addition to the stipulations of this policy. Loss of access and other disciplinary actions according to the
Student Discipline Code and payment for cost of repair or replacement caused by vandalism shall be consequences for inappropriate
use. Vandalism will result in cancellation of access privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of
another user, Internet or other networks. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
The School District will report any illegal uses of its information technology or network resources to the appropriate legal authorities, as
some violations may be subject to prosecution under Pennsylvania and/or Federal criminal statutes or liability under civil statutes.
Offenders may be subject to criminal prosecution for activities such as, but not limited to, illegal use of the network, intentional deletion
or damage to files of data belonging to others, copyright violations, theft of services, accessing, altering, or damaging any computer
system, network, software or database, with an intent to interrupt the normal functioning of an organization, disclosing a password to a
computer system, network, intentional and unauthorized access to a computer, interference with the operation of a computer or
network, or alteration of computer software.
School District technology tools and personally owned electronic devices may be confiscated and subject to search consistent with
applicable law and policy and in consultation with the School District Solicitor. School District employees should be aware that files and
electronic communications may be discoverable under law, including the Right to Know Law. School District employees shall be
subject to discipline, up to and including termination, for violation of this policy or federal, state, or local law in accordance with Board
policies.
Copyright
The illegal use of copyrighted materials by students and staff is prohibited. Any data uploaded to or downloaded from the network shall
be subject to fair use guidelines and applicable laws and regulations
Filtering
Any School District computer/server utilized by students and staff shall be equipped with Internet blocking/filtering software. The School
District will also monitor online activities of users through direct observation or technological means, to ensure adherence to this policy.
Internet filtering software or other technology based protection systems may be disabled by the Director of Technology or his/her
designee, as necessary, for purposes of valid research or other educational projects being conducted by users, as determined and
approved by a building administrator. Every School District computer used by students and staff shall be equipped with Internet
blocking/filtering software.
Internet safety measures shall effectively address the following:
1. Control of access by minors to inappropriate content on the Internet.
2. Safety and security of minors when using email, chat rooms, and other forms of direct communications.
3. Prevention of unauthorized online access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities.
4. Unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information.
5. Restriction of minors’ access to materials harmful to them.
6. Restriction of access to visual depictions that are obscene, child pornography or harmful to minors.
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Disclaimer of Warranties/Indemnification
The School District makes no warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, in connection with this policy, access to and use of its
information technology, or network facilities. The School District shall not be responsible for any claims, losses, damages or costs
(including fees), of any kind suffered, directly or indirectly, by any user or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) arising out of the use of its
information technology or network facilities under this policy. Further, the School District is not responsible for damage that may occur
as a result of an individual user attempting to connect a personal technology device to any School District owned device. Use of any
information obtained through the use of the School District’s computers is at the user's risk. The School District disclaims responsibility
for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the Internet or e-mail.
References:
Board Policy – 218, 233, 814
Child Internet Protection Act – 24 P.S. Sec. 4601 et seq
Cyber Crime Law - 18 Pa. C.S.A. Sec 7611
Enhancing Education Through Technology Act of 2001 – 20 U.S.C. Sec. 6777
Internet Safety, Children’s Internet Protection Act – 47 U.S.C. Sec. 254
PA Crimes Code – 18 Pa. C.S.A. Sec. 5903, 6312
School Code – 24 P.S. Sec. 1303.1-A
Sexual Exploitation and Other Abuse of Children – 18 U.S.C. Sec. 2256
U.S. Copyright Law – 17 U.S.C. Sec. 101 et seq
ROSE TREE MEDIA TIP LINE
The Rose Tree Media School District, local law enforcement officials and RTM DARE (Drug and Alcohol Resistance Effort) have
established an anonymous RTM Tip Line that parents, students, and community members can call to alert officials to potentially
dangerous situations within the schools or the community. The RTM Tip Line number is 610-627-6101. Community members are
urged to join the school and police in their efforts to keep students safe by contacting officials directly or by calling the Tip Line number,
with information about situations that they feel are potentially volatile.
SCHOOL BUS RULES AND GUIDELINES
Bus riding is a privilege, not a right. Cooperation with the bus driver and fellow students will result in a safe journey for all passengers.
Failure to comply with rules may result in losing the privilege of riding school buses. The following guidelines will apply for students who
utilize School District transportation services:
Before Boarding:
1. Arrive on time to the designated bus stop.
2. Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus.
3. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to board.
4. Exercise caution when approaching the bus.
5. Board the bus promptly and in an orderly manner.
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On The Bus:
1. Keep hands and feet inside the bus and out of the aisle at all times.
2. Assist in keeping the bus safe and sanitary at all times.
3. Do not shout or talk in an excessively loud manner.
4. Treat bus equipment with respect - never tamper with the bus or equipment.
5. Do not leave books, lunches, or other articles on the bus.
6. Do not throw anything out of the bus windows.
7. Do not throw anything inside of the bus.
8. Do not engage in horseplay, fighting, or any other behavior that may distract the driver.
9. Be courteous to fellow students and the bus driver.
10. Do not put anything in the aisle at any time.
11. No smoking.
12. Seats are for students, not equipment.
13. No eating or drinking.
When a student is reported to the Administration for misconduct on the bus, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. This action
may include notification of the parents, assignment of detention, or any other consequence as determined by the Building
Administrator. If the first offense is sufficiently serious, the privilege of bus transportation will be withdrawn for a specified period of
time. Repeated violations of the rules for bus safety may also result in the suspension of bus transportation. Absence from school while
a student is suspended from riding the bus will be considered unexcused/unlawful.
SCHOOL NURSE
Student health and wellness are an important part of our School District’s holistic approach to education. The health service is
concerned with health education, establishing good health habits, appreciation of good public health, and detecting personal needs and
illnesses. Parents/guardians have the primary responsibility for their children’s health. The school provides assistance only by
administering first aid, notifying parents/guardians of illness or accidents, and providing counseling in health-related matters. It is
important to note that this service is rendered only for accidents or illnesses that occur in school, not for those that occur at home.
The School Nurse is on duty each day from 7:55 AM to 3:20 PM. With the exception of emergencies, students must obtain a pass from
the teacher whose class he/she will be missing in order to visit the Nurse’s Office. Students should report directly to the Nurse’s Office
and should not contact a parent or guardian directly with a request to leave school early due to illness. If in the judgment of the Nurse,
the student should not remain in school, he/she will initiate contact with the parent or guardian. All students must have a current
Emergency Health Card on file in the Nurse’s Office. The card is distributed at the beginning of each school year. A child with a fever may
not return to school until he/she has been fever free for 24 hours without taking Tylenol or ibuprofen.
The Pennsylvania School Health Code requires all 6th grade students to have a physical examination completed and a report filed in their
School Health Record. All 7th grade students are to have a dental examination completed and a report filed in the School Health Record.
The State also mandates that all students have vision, height, weight, and BMI (body mass index) screenings every year. Additionally, 7th
grade students receive scoliosis and hearing screenings. Parents/guardians will be notified of abnormal screening results.
According to the Rose Tree Media School District’s medication policy, medication(s) should be given at home before and/or after
school whenever possible. If medication must be given during school hours, the following criteria must be met. In accordance with
guidelines from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, ALL medications, prescription and over the counter, must be accompanied by
a written, signed order from a licensed prescriber. The parent/guardian must also sign the RTMSD Student Medication Authorization
form for each medication. The exception is acetaminophen & ibuprofen, as these medications are covered by a standing order and
permission can be granted on the Student Emergency Card. Prescription medication must be in a current pharmacy container with
directions for administration from the physician and all over the counter medications must be in the original container. There are
provisions for students who need to self-carry emergency medications. Please check with the Nurse for more information. Orders and
medication authorization forms must be renewed annually. Medication not picked up at the end of the school year will be discarded.
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SCHOOL STORE
The School Store is operated by the Parent-Teacher Group (PTG.) Assorted school supplies, gym shirts, and other Springton Lake
spirit wear are available for purchase. The School Store, located near the Cafeteria, is open during the lunch periods on designated
days. Please refer to the PTG website for additional information.
SMOKING POLICY
Smoking is strictly prohibited on any Rose Tree Media School District property, including schools buses and/or school-sponsored
activities that are held off campus. A student will be in violation of this smoking policy if he or she possesses, takes out, lights, and/or
smokes tobacco products or has matches or a lighter in their possession (book bag, purse, locker, etc.) All students who are in violation
of the smoking policy may be cited through the courts.
STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (STAR)
The STAR team is a multidisciplinary team that includes teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors. The team is trained to
understand and work with adolescent chemical use, abuse, dependency and depression. The team’s primary role is to identify, refer, and
intervene when a student is suspected of chemical use, abuse, possession and/or distribution. Referrals to the STAR Team may be made
by teachers, parents, guidance counselors, fellow students, or other concerned adults, as well as self-referral by students. In addition to
identifying, intervening, and referring students for help, the STAR Team may provide in-school educational support groups on such topics
as drug/alcohol abuse, dealing with conflict, self-esteem, changing families, life skills, anger management, goal setting, and grief.
STUDENT ATTIRE
In an effort to maintain an orderly and safe academic atmosphere, student attire is expected to be appropriate and in good taste for the
school environment. Students are urged to emphasize cleanliness, neatness, and generally acceptable good taste in their dress and
grooming habits. Any clothing judged to be disruptive to the educational environment will be considered improper dress. The Building
Administrators reserve the right to determine proper attire.
Students and parents are expected to exercise careful judgment in the selection of appropriate attire for school. While a listing of all
prohibited items is not possible, the following list will serve as a guide: Head coverings (including hats and hoods); pajamas or slippers;
halter tops; spaghetti-strap tank tops; shorts of an inappropriate length; overly tight, baggy, or revealing clothing; clothing or other items
with printed messages or images that are offensive or inconsistent with educational values and objectives; excessively torn or ripped
clothing; sunglasses and spiked jewelry. Coats, jackets, or garments designed for protection from the outside weather are not to be
worn in school. Undergarments should not be visible and shoes must be worn at all times. Students are not permitted to write on their
faces or bodies, and no face paint is permitted. Please note – headwear for religious or medical reasons may be permitted with the
permission of the Administration.
Guidelines for student attire will be in effect for all school-sponsored events and activities, including dances. A student whose attire
does not conform to acceptable standards will be removed from class and assigned to In-School Suspension (ISS) until the item or
clothing is either replaced or covered or until the school day ends. This infraction will be recorded by a Building Administrator and a
parent or guardian will be notified. Serious or repeated violations of the guidelines for student attire are subject to further disciplinary
action, including detention or suspension from school.
STUDENT SALES
Students may not conduct any sales for personal gain in school or on school property, including the bus. All fundraising activity must
receive prior approval and permission from an Administrator.
VISITORS
All visitors to Springton Lake Middle School are required to sign-in and to present photo identification at the Main Office upon entering
the building. All schools in Rose Tree Media School District utilize the School Gate Guardian system. The School Gate Guardian
system is a web-based software visitor management system that has the ability to scan a visitor’s driver’s license or other government
issued photo ID. The information from that ID is compared to a database that consists of registered sex offenders throughout the
United States. The School Gate Guardian system quickly prints a visitor badge that includes a photo, name of the visitor, time, date
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and destination of the visitor. This badge must be worn at all times in order to maintain proper security. Parents or guardians who wish
to visit specific classrooms must make prior arrangements through a Building Administrator. No student visitors will be permitted during
the school day without prior administrative approval. Requests for visits by prospective students must be scheduled through the
Guidance Office.
WEAPONS POLICY
According to federal law, students may not have any weapon in their possession or control in school, in their locker, on school property,
at any school function or activity, at any school events held away from school, or while on their way to or from school. The term
weapon shall include but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, brass or metal knuckles, firearm, shotgun, rifle, BB
or pellet gun, look-alike knife or gun, chemical agent, explosive device, and/or any other tool, instrument or implement capable of
inflicting serious bodily injury. A student who violates this rule will be recommended to the School Board for expulsion from school for
no less than one year.
WELLNESS POLICY
The Rose Tree Media School District is committed to providing a school environment that promotes student wellness, proper nutrition,
nutrition education and regular physical activity as part of the total learning experience. The District established Policy #246 to assess
and improve the school health environment for all students. Statistically, one out of three children in the United States is overweight.
Since the 1970s, obesity rates have doubled for preschoolers and adolescents, and tripled for children age six to eleven. Studies by
the USDA and the Institutes of Medicine show that students consume a minimum of more than one third of their daily calories during
school hours–healthy choices are important. As a result, any classroom snacks provided to students will reinforce the importance of
healthy choices. Any snack items must contain 35% or less fat. No candy or sugary beverages, such as soda or Gatorade, may be
given to students during the school day.
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PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE PAGE
I have reviewed the contents of this Student Handbook for the Springton Lake Middle School and understand the guidelines and
procedures that have been established for student conduct and for the safe and orderly operation of the school.
Student Name ________________________________________________________________________
Please Print
Grade ________________
Student Signature______________________________________________________________________
Date ________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature _______________________________________________________________
Date ________________________________
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