Student Handbook
2013-2014
Table of Contents
Important Contact Information ...................................3
Administration........................................................................3
Where to Go and Whom to See ......................................3
NYC DOE School Year Calendar (2013-2014) ......4
Daily Schedule ........................................................................5
Attendance................................................................................6
General Attendance Information ....................................6
Unexcused Absences ...........................................................6
Lateness ...................................................................................6
Illness While at School .......................................................6
Early Excuse Procedures ....................................................6
Code of Conduct .....................................................................7
General Expectations ..........................................................7
Misconduct and Possible Consequences ......................7
ID Cards and Class Schedules .........................................7
Use of Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices.....7
General Dress Code .............................................................8
Use of School and College Cafeterias ...........................8
Bullying .....................................................................................8
Elevator Policy .......................................................................8
Academics and Student Services.................................9
Grading Policies .....................................................................9
Book Policy ..............................................................................9
Academic Integrity ...............................................................9
Academic Support ................................................................9
Library .......................................................................................9
Use of School Computers and Internet Policy ...........9
Promotional Requirements..............................................10
Valedictorian and Salutatorian ......................................13
Guidance Counselors/College Advisors ......................13
Metrocards.............................................................................13
Release of Student Records............................................14
Working Papers ...................................................................14
Updating Personal Information .....................................14
Photo Release.......................................................................14
Immunizations and Health Screenings ......................14
Extra-Curricular Activities .............................................14
Clubs ........................................................................................14
Student Government .........................................................14
ARISTA....................................................................................15
Athletic Eligibility ................................................................15
Student Safety ......................................................................15
General Expectations ........................................................15
Fire Drills ................................................................................15
Visitor Policy .........................................................................15
Useful Websites ...................................................................16
2
Important Contact Information
Administration
David Marmor, Principal
Dmarmor@schools.nyc.gov
Room 215
Greg Reo, Assistant Principal
GReo@schools.nyc.gov
Room 217
Lenneen Gibson, Assistant Principal
LGibson4@schools.nyc.gov
Room 223C
Where to Go and Whom to See
Guidance/College
Jennifer Meslin
JMeslin@schools.nyc.gov
Room 203
Elissa Goldstein, Dean
EGoldst9@schools.nyc.gov
Room 223D
Shanaz Baksh, Arista
SBaksh@schools.nyc.gov
Room 238
John Campanella, COSA
JCampanella@schools.nyc.gov
Room 233
Barbara Wittstruck, Pupil Accounting/Working Papers
BWittst@schools.nyc.gov
Room 215
Rosaria Bucaria, Attendance/Transportation/Health
RBucaria@schools.nyc.gov
Room 215
Christina Miller, Librarian
CMiller@york.cuny.edu
Room 2G05
(Academic Core Building)
School Telephone Number:
School Fax Number:
School Website:
(718)657-3181
(718)657-2579
www.qhss.org
Important!
In the event of inclement weather, school delays and closings will be posted at the
New York City Department of Education website at
http://schools.nyc.gov/default.aspx. Delay and closing information will also be
reported on local television stations and radio stations. Please also check the
school website at www.qhss.org for updated information.
3
NYCDOE School Year Calendar (2013-2014)
September
5-6
9
Thur. - Fri.
Monday
Rosh Hashanah – SCHOOL CLOSED
First day of school for all students
October
14
Monday
Columbus Day – SCHOOL CLOSED
November
5
11
28-29
Tuesday
Monday
Thur. - Fri.
Election Day – SCHOOL CLOSED
Veterans Day – SCHOOL CLOSED
Thanks Giving Recess – SCHOOL CLOSED
Thursday
Winter Recess– SCHOOL CLOSED
Wednesday
Monday
Friday
Winter Recess – SCHOOL CLOSED
3
17-21
Monday
Mon. – Tue.
First Day of Spring Term
Mid Winter Recess – SCHOOL CLOSED
April
14-21
Mon. – Tue.
Spring Recess – SCHOOL CLOSED
May
26
Monday
Memorial Day – SCHOOL CLOSED
Thursday
Chancellor’s Conference Day – NO STUDENTS
Thursday
Last Day for Students and Teachers
December
January
February
23
Thru
1
20
31
Dr. Martin Luther King Day – SCHOOL CLOSED
Last Day of Fall Term
March
June
5
26
4
Daily Schedule
QUEENS HIGH SCHOOL for the SCIENCES at YORK COLLEGE
David Marmor
Principal
2013 – 2014
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Period 1
8:00 – 8:46
8:00 – 8:46
8:00 – 8:46
8:00 – 8:46
8:00 – 8:37
Period 2
8:49 – 9:35
8:49 – 9:35
8:49 – 9:35
8:49 – 9:35
8:40 – 9:17
Period 3
9:38 – 10:24
9:38 – 10:24
9:38 – 10:24
9:38 – 10:24
9:20 – 9:57
Period 4
10:27 – 11:13
10:27 – 11:13
10:27 – 11:13
10:27 – 11:13
10:00 – 10:37
Period 5
11:16 – 12:02
11:16 – 12:02
11:16 – 12:02
11:16 – 12:02
10:40 – 11:17
Period 6
12:04 – 12:50
12:04 – 12:50
12:04 – 12:50
12:04 – 12:50
11:20 – 11:57
Period 7
12:52 – 1:42
12:52 – 1:42
12:52 – 1:42
12:52 – 1:42
12:00 – 12:37
Period 8
1:44 – 2:30
1:44 – 2:30
1:44 – 2:30
1:44 – 2:30
12:40 – 1:17
Period 9
2:32 – 3:18
2:32 – 3:18
2:32 – 3:18
2:32 – 3:18
1:20 – 1:57
Clubs
2:00 – 2:40
Note: Lunch periods are
4, 5 and 6
5
Attendance
General Attendance Information
Our school is in session from 8:00 a.m. to 3:18 p.m. Monday through Thursday,
and from 8:00 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Fridays. Free breakfast is available to all
students from 7:30 a.m. to 7:55 a.m. in the school cafeteria only. No students
should be in any area of the building without permission prior to 7:50 a.m., unless
they are eating breakfast in the school cafeteria or participating in scheduled
tutoring or extra-curricular activities. Students must exit the building after their
last class unless they are in a supervised activity.
Official daily attendance is taken during seventh period and subject class
attendance is taken in all periods. Any student late to school should report
directly to his/her appropriate subject class.
All students are expected to attend school every school day and to report to all of
their scheduled classes. If a student is absent from school, a parent should call
the school at (718) 657-3181 to inform the school of his/her child’s absence.
Without this notification, a staff member of the school will contact parents by
phone to inform the parents of the student’s absence.
When a student returns to school after his/her absence, an absence note signed
by a doctor or by a guardian should be submitted to the office (room 215). In
addition, a copy of the note should be shown to each teacher on the first day of
return after the absence.
Unexcused Absences
Students who fail to bring a written excuse upon their return may be subject to a
detention. Repeated offenses may result in a principal’s suspension. Students
who are present in school but cut certain classes may be disciplined in a similar
manner.
Lateness
Students should arrive at school and at every class on time. If a student is
detained by a staff member, a written note from the staff member must be
provided. A student with repeated lateness may be subject to a detention.
Illness While at School
If a student should become ill or is injured during school time, he/she must report
to the office (room 215). The school will then notify the parent or guardian and
proper medical and/or dismissal procedures will be followed.
Early Excuse Procedures
It is understood that all students are to attend every class each day. In the
unlikely event that a student needs to be dismissed for a special circumstance,
he/she must report to room 215 and fill out the Early Excuse Request form at
least 48 hours in advance with a note from the parent.
6
Code of Conduct
General Expectations
Students are expected to be courteous and respectful to the QHHSYC staff and to
each other. It is essential for all students to be prepared for classes with
notebooks, pens, and other materials requested by teachers.
Misconduct and Possible Consequences
Students are not permitted to
o
Students must remain on the York campus for the entire school day.
o
Bring weapons to school.
o
Threaten or otherwise endanger the safety of others.
o
Sell, distribute, or use illegal drugs and/or controlled substances.
o
Engage in scholastic dishonesty.
o
Bring visitors into the school area.
o
Use abusive language or engage in verbal, physical, or sexual harassment
of others.
o
Remain in the school building after classes unless under direct supervision
of a staff member.
o
Smoke or drink alcohol in the building or on the grounds contiguous to
the school.
o
Play any type of cards in school.
o
Play games of chance on school property or video games on our
computers.
o
Loiter in exits, stairwells or halls.
o
Use electronic devices, including cameras, MP3 players, IPods, and game
boys, etc.
o
Wear Clothing with inappropriate messages.
Students who demonstrate misconduct may be subject to a detention or
suspension. Additionally, privileges, such as school trips, participation in afterschool activities, school prom, graduation, and participation in PSAL events, may
be revoked. For a comprehensive listing of all school rules please see The New
York City Department of Education Citywide Standards of Discipline and
Intervention, available at school or at http://schools.nyc.gov.
ID Cards and Class Schedules
Students are required to carry their ID and class schedule at all times. They must
present their ID card to any member of the faculty or staff of QHSSYC and to any
security officer at York College. In addition to our school building, they may be
asked to present their ID and/or program upon entering York College Academic
Core Building, Health and Physical Education Building, Performing Arts Center,
cafeteria or library. For class schedule replacements, please see the guidance
counselor. For ID card replacement, please see Ms. Bucaria in room 215D. There
will be a $2.00 charge for each new ID card.
Use of Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices
In accordance with Chancellor’s Regulation A-412, no cell phones, IPods, PSP, and
other electronic devices are allowed in school. If an item is confiscated, the
following actions will be taken:
7
o
o
o
First offense – student can pick up the item in room 223D after his/her
last class.
Second offense – student must wait for one week before he/she can pick
up the item in room 223D. A parent/guardian may make an arrangement
with a dean to pick up the item during the two-week period.
Third offense – A parent/guardian is required to make an arrangement
with a dean to pick up the item.
General Dress Code
Students should dress in a way that contributes to the health and safety of the
individual, promotes a positive educational environment, and brings good school
spirit. Student dress should be non-disruptive of the educational activities and
processes of the school. Those who do not comply will be asked to change into
appropriate clothing. If a student does not have appropriate clothing available in
school, a parent/guardian will be notified. The following are some of the items
considered INAPPROPRIATE:
Midriff blouse
Midriff shirt
Crop top
Tube top
Spaghetti straps
See-through top
Low neckline top
Mesh shirt (unless a suitable undershirt is worn)
Skirt and shorts that are more than 3 inches above the knee
Clothing with inappropriate messages
Except for religious reason, hats, caps, “do rags”, sunglasses, and other head
coverings are not permitted to be worn in school.
Use of School and College Cafeterias
Department of Education Food Services will provide lunches in the school
cafeteria, located in the basement of the high school building. Students may also
use the college cafeteria during their lunch period. Every student must stay in one
of the lunch locations for the entire period, unless he/she presents a pass issued
by a staff member. However, students with passes are still required to complete
their lunch before leaving one of the cafeterias.
Bullying
Bullying is an intentional written, verbal or physical act that a student has
exhibited toward another person more than once and the behavior causes mental
or physical harm to the other person. No students are allowed to engage in any
bullying/cyber-bullying
Elevator Policy
Students are not permitted to ride the elevator unless they have a valid elevator
pass issued by the school.
8
Academics and Student Services
Grading Policies
QHSSYC operates on an annualized ten month learning cycle. All courses and
grading policies reflect this annualized cycle. While grading polices differ from
teacher to teacher, there are general criteria used in all subjects. They include
class participation, tests and/or quizzes, homework assignments, projects,
reports, and labs (selected science courses only).
Each of your teachers will discuss his/her expectations and grading policies,
including exam make-up policies for the class at the beginning of each semester.
Book Policy
All students will be provided with textbooks or other instructional materials for
various courses throughout the school year. Unless instructed otherwise, the
students are not required to bring textbooks to class on a daily basis.
Students will be notified in advance when an item is due for returning. If a
student fails to return or defaces an item, he/she is expected to pay for the
missing or damaged item.
Academic Integrity
Plagiarism and collusion are two primary forms of academic dishonesty.
Plagiarism is defined as presenting someone else’s work or ideas as your own.
Collusion is defined as allowing other people to write, revise, or alter significantly
the text of a paper that is supposed to be your work. Any student found engaging
in any type of academic dishonesty will receive a grade of zero and/or additional
disciplinary actions.
Academic Support
Before and/or after-school tutoring by subject teachers is available for most part
of the school year. Some teachers also offer individual or small-group tutoring
during school time. The QHSSYC chapter of ARISTA, the National Honor Society,
also provides peer tutoring throughout the year. Students interested in being
tutored should contact Ms. Baksh, the ARISTA coordinator, in room 228.
Library
All students are invited to use the York College library during its hours of
operation. They can use their ID card to access library materials. Students have
borrowing privileges at York College Library and unlimited access to the Library’s
online databases. The High School Librarian assists individual students and
provides class instruction in the Library’s Information Literacy Classroom.
Use of School Computers and Internet Policy
The use of school computers as well as accessing the internet using a school
computer must be solely educational. Students are prohibited from
o
Playing video games on school computers
o
Sending or receiving personal messages
o
Using the internet for commercial purposes
o
Utilizing copyrighted materials without permission
o
Accessing obscene materials
9
o
o
Sending or receiving inappropriate messages
Vandalizing equipment
Promotional Requirements
A ninth grade student entering tenth grade is required to have earned a minimum
of eight (8) credits. Furthermore, these credits must include two credits in
English, two credits in social studies, and two passing terms of physical education.
A tenth grade student entering eleventh grade is required to have earned a
minimum of twenty (20) credits. Furthermore, these credits must include four
credits in English, four credits in social studies, two credits in mathematics, two
credits in science, and four passing terms of physical education.
An eleventh grade student entering twelfth grade is required to have earned a
minimum of twenty eight (28) credits. Furthermore, these credits must include
six credits in English, six credits in social studies, four credits in mathematics, four
credits in science, and six terms of physical education.
In order for a student to graduate at the end of the twelfth grade, he/she is
required to have earned a minimum of forty-four (44) credits as well as
satisfactory grades on all required New York State Regents Exams. See the next
three pages for details.
Any student who does not meet promotional requirements will be held back in
his/her current grade. Additionally, he/she is expected to take extra courses in
the following year(s) to make up the failing courses and may be required to attend
summer school and/or extended hour programs.
10
Graduation Requirements
Credit Requirements
English
Social Studies
Global History
American History
Economics
Participation In Government
Science (Including Lab)
Life Science
Physical Science
Life Science or Physical Science
Mathematics
Visual Art, Music, Dance and /or Theater
Second Language
Health and Physical Education
Physical Education
Health Education
Elective Areas
Total
Regents Exam requirements
Comprehensive English
Mathematics
Integrated Algebra
Geometry
Algebra II/Trigonometry
Global History and Geography
U.S. History and Government
Science
Science
Language other than English
3 Exams: Integrated Algebra, Integrated
Geometry and Algebra 2/Trig
Regents
Diploma
# Credits
8
8
4
2
1
1
6
2
2
2
6
2
2
5
4
1
7
44
Regents
Diploma
Score
≥ 65
≥ 65 or
≥ 65 or
≥ 65
≥ 65
≥ 65
≥ 65 (any
science)
Advanced Regents
Diploma
# Credits
8
8
4
2
1
1
6
2
2
2
6
2
6
5
4
1
3
44
Advanced Regents
Diploma
Score
≥ 65
3 exams
≥65
≥65* &
≥ 65*
≥ 65*
≥ 65
≥ 65
≥ 65
(life science)
≥ 65
(physical science)
≥ 65
Additionally, Students who receive an Advanced Regents Diploma with an average
of 90 or above on eight required Regents Exams will be granted an Advanced
Regents Diploma with Honors.
11
REQUIREMENTS FOR QHSSYC ENDORSED DIPLOMA
Students may earn a Queens High School for the Sciences at York College
Endorsed Diploma by successfully completing the following requirements:
I.
Students must meet all state requirements for an Advanced Regents
Diploma.
II.
English – All students must successfully complete an English class every
term at the QHSSYC and pass the English Regents exam. Minimum 8
credits.
III.
History – All students must successfully complete a history class every
term at the QHSSYC and pass both history Regents exams. Minimum 8
credits.
VI.
Mathematics –All students must successfully complete a mathematics
class each term at the QHSSYC including Integrated Algebra, Geometry,
Algebra II & Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus and pass all math Regents
exams.
Note: Students who have successfully completed Integrated Algebra,
Geometry, Algebra II &Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus by the end of the
10th or 11th grade must take Calculus. Only students who complete
calculus by the end of the 11th grade may choose not to continue
mathematics in the 12th Grade, but they are encouraged to take college
level mathematics courses.
Minimum 8 credits
VII.
Science – All students must successfully complete Living Environment,
Chemistry and Physics and pass the corresponding Regents exams. In
addition, students must take two science classes every term at QHSSYC
from one of the following options:
Plan A: Science 1: 1 Regents Science or 1 AP Science
Science 2: 1 additional Science course depending upon
the first Science.
Plan B: Science 1: 1 Regents Science or 1 AP Science
Science 2: 1 Science Research or 1 Math
Research (or Math Team)
Minimum 8 credits.
Note: Students may choose either Plan A or Plan B each year.
IV.
Foreign Language – All students must successfully complete 3 years of a
foreign language and pass the corresponding Regents exam.
Minimum 6 credits.
V.
Health & Physical Education - All students must successfully complete and
pass 1 term of Health Education. They must successfully complete
physical education every term at the QHSSYC.
VIII.
Additional Required Courses – All students must successfully complete 2
terms of Art/Music
IX.
Electives – All students must successfully complete 2 terms of additional
electives selected from:
12
Art, English, Foreign Language, History, Mathematics, Music, Research,
and Science
Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Valedictorian status is awarded to the student(s) earning the highest grade point
average in the graduating class at the end of 7th term. Salutatorian status is
awarded to the student(s) earning the second highest grade point average in the
class at the end of 7th term. If two students receive exactly the same grade point
average, both of them will be awarded the valedictorian status and no salutatorian
status will be awarded.
Additionally, both valedictorian and salutatorian are required to take at least one
mathematics course and at least science course during their senior year.
Guidance Counselors/College Advisors
Guidance counselors help students with both academic and personal needs. A
student should seek counseling when needed. Except in certain circumstances,
what he/she discloses to the counselor is confidential. A student may also be
referred to his/her guidance counselor by parents, teachers, or other students. If
additional counseling is necessary, the guidance counselor will then follow up with
a referral to outside resources.
College advisors work primarily with juniors and seniors to help the with the
college and scholarship application process.
Metrocards
The New York City Department of Education Office of Pupil Transportation
determines whether a student is eligible for a Metrocard, based on the distance
his/her home from QHSSYC.
All students eligible for Metrocards will receive their Metrocard at the beginning of
each semester. Proper behavior is expected of all students on the buses and
trains. A student Metrocard is only to be used by the student to whom it is
issued, and whose name appears on the card. No student may loan his/her card
to any other student.
Metrocards are only to be used for transportation to and from school or for school
related activities during the hours of 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Students may not
use their Metrocards on weekends and holidays. Students who are members of
teams may be entitled to additional 2-trip Metrocards for transportation to
practices and games. A full fare Metrocard provides three trips on both train and
surface bus lines. On most trips, students can use their Metrocard freely to
transfer from bus to bus, train to bus, or bus to train. A half-fare Metrocard is only
good for bus transportation and is also valid for three trips per day.
If a student loses or damages a Metrocard, this must be reported to a staff
member in room 215 during a student's lunch period. Lost Metrocards will be
replaced immediately. Metrocards will be exchanged for a new Metrocard in room
215.
13
Release of Student Records
For release of official student records, see Ms. Wittstruck in room 215.
Working Papers
Working papers can be processed for students in room 215. See Ms. Wittstruck
during lunch periods.
Updating Personal Information
In order to maintain the accuracy of student records, any change to personal
information, such as name, home address, and phone number, should be
reported. A request of change can be processed in room 215 with the proper
documentation.
Photo Release
Written parental consent is required for any student to be photographed in school
related activities and to appear in any school publications. Such a form will be
distributed to all new students annually.
Immunizations and Health Screenings
A student may not attend school unless he/she provides documentation that
he/she meets the provisional immunization requirements set forth by the New
York City Department of Education.
When a student fails to meet immunization requirements for school attendance,
the parent/guardian will be informed by school that his/her child will be excluded
from school if he/she does not present documentation of additional immunizations
within 14 days of notification. If the documentation is not received in the required
14-day time period, the student will be excluded from school until the required
documentation is provided.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Clubs
Weekly club time is included in your program, from 2:00 p.m. to 2:40 p.m. on
Fridays. QHSSYC has a variety of clubs to choose from. If you would like to start
a new club, see Mr. Campanella, the Coordinator of Student Activities (COSA) in
room 233. The following is list of past clubs:
Book Club
Dance Club
Film Club
Key Club
Literary Magazine
Newsmakers Club
Rock n' Roll Club
Chess Club
Digital Photography
GO Club
Knitting Club
Model UN
Polar Bear Club
Science Club
Student Government
The Student Government brings students together and helps them voice their
opinions. The Coordinator of Student Activities (COSA), the President, the Vice
14
President, and the Secretary head the Student Government. Any student who
wishes to learn about the Student Government should see Mr. Campanella in room
233.
ARISTA
ARISTA, the National Honor Society, is an organization consisting of students who
demonstrate academic excellence, outstanding character as well as school and
community service and leadership. Any student in his/her junior or senior year
interested in learning about or joining ARISTA should see Ms. Baksh in room 228.
Athletic Eligibility
Any student interested in trying out for a sports team must submit a Department
of Education Medical Form completed by his/her doctor and a parent consent form
signed by his/her parent/guardian. Additional academic requirements may apply.
Student Safety
General Expectations
During school hours, students are expected to remain on the York College
campus. Every student is required to eat lunch either in the school cafeteria or in
the York College cafeteria.
Fire Drills
Fire drills at regular intervals are required by law. It is essential that, during a fire
drill, every student obeys orders promptly and exits the room and/or building by
the prescribed route as quickly as possible. Talking is not permitted during fire
drills.
Visitor Policy
All visitors, including parents of current students, must present a valid photo ID at
the security desk on the first floor. They will be issued a Visitor’s Pass that must
remain visible at all times. All visitors must report to room 215 to obtain
permission to visit any teachers, students and/or classrooms.
15
Useful Websites
Our School Website:
http://www.qhss.org
Official New York City Website:
http://www.nyc.gov
New York City Department of Education: http://schools.nyc.gov
New York State Education Department:
http://www.nysed.gov
York College:
http://www.york.cuny.edu
Queens Public Library:
http://www.queenslibrary.org
Regents Exam Prep Center:
http://www.regentsprep.org
College Board:
http://www.collegeboard.com
FAFSA:
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov
16