Welcome to Methacton High School
Methacton School District Mission Statement
The Methacton School District, with its strong tradition of excellence, will challenge all students to achieve their greatest
potential and create a vibrant community of learners who appreciate diversity and will lead and succeed in a dynamic
global society.
Learn, Lead, Succeed – Together
Principal’s Message
Welcome to Methacton High School!
To our new students, welcome to a new adventure...to our retuning students, I welcome you to another exciting
year, filled with new opportunities to be a part of our athletic teams, our performing arts, visual arts, business,
community service, science, or cultural clubs and programs. Each of you should know that YOU are the most
important part of this year!
Each year brings with it a chance to start with a clean slate, to recreate ourselves anew. A chance to build on
our past and to take advantage of all the programs and opportunities your school has to offer. Whether you are
looking for academic, athletic, or social outlets, we have a place for you to shine! Our halls are filled with
students who, just like you, are trying to discover what their interests are what the best path is to reach their
goals for tomorrow. While it is important that you don’t stretch yourself too thin, don’t be afraid to try
something new. Make this the year you design your own future, your own tomorrow, your own today!
You are surrounded at Methacton by people who are here to support you, pick you up, and help you on the right
path. Take some time to get to know the people around you, teachers and staff. Build a circle of people, old
and young that you trust, and who inspire you to be the very best you can be. Set your mind on what you can do
and leave behind all thoughts of “but I can’t.” Embrace the “yes I can” that will mark the beginning of your
future successes! Remember that "Obstacles are what you see only when you take your eyes off your goals."
Strive toward your goals and you can overcome any obstacle.
Welcome to Methacton High School, be a part of who we are, be Methacton Proud and we will Learn, Lead and
Succeed – Together!
Judy Landis – Principal
Table of Contents
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
SAPPHIRE COMMUNITY WEB PORTAL
CENTRAL ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL
METHACTON SCHOOL BOARD
METHACTON HIGH SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION
BELL SCHEDULES
SCHOOL CALENDAR 2012-2013
WORKING PAPERS
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
REPORT CARD/MARKING PERIODS 2012-2013
INTERIM TIMELINE 2012-2013
MARKING SYSTEM
WITHDRAWAL/FAIL POLICY
MID-TERM/FINAL EXAMS
FINAL EXAM EXEMPTION POLICY
CLASS RANK
HONOR ROLL
PROGRAMS FOR ELIGIBLE OR PROTECTED HANDICAPPED STUDENTS
PROGRAM OF STUDIES
PROCEDURE FOR MAKE-UP WORK
HOMEWORK REQUESTS
EXTRA HELP
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM
ALTERNATIVE INSTRUCTION
SUMMER REMEDIATION/CREDIT RECOVERY/ACCELERATION GUIDELINES
Course Remediation
Remedial Summer School Guidelines:
Remedial Private Tutoring Guidelines:
Grading/Credit Guidelines:
THE LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER
Library Hours
HONOR CODE CONSEQUENCES FOR PLAGIARISM AND CHEATING
Level I Plagiarism
Level I Cheating
Level II Plagiarism and Cheating
Level III Plagiarism and Cheating
ATTENDANCE
POLICY AND PROCEDURES
DAILY SCHOOL ARRIVAL PROCEDURE
REPORTING A STUDENT ABSENT
TARDY TO SCHOOL
EARLY DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL
UNEXCUSED/UNLAWFUL ABSENCE
NON-CUMULATIVE ABSENCES
EDUCATIONAL ABSENCE/COLLEGE VISITATION
STUDENT DISCIPLINE - CODE OF CONDUCT
METHACTON SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL CONDUCT CODE
TEACHER AUTHORITY
STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
APPEARANCE
GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES FOR PUBLIC COMPLAINTS
BEHAVIORS REQUIRING DISCIPLINE
Insubordination
Personal Listening Devices
Food/Drinks
Derogatory Comments/Inappropriate Language
Leaving School Grounds
Vandalism
Fighting
Class Cutting
Stealing
Unlawful Harassment
Bullying
Restorative Practices
Drugs, Alcohol and Other Illegal Goods
Prohibition of Tobacco Use and/or Possession by Students
Weapons Policy
Terroristic Threats/Acts
DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES
Detention
Disciplinary Probation
Early Morning Community Service (EMCS)
Exclusion from Classes (In-school Suspension)
Exclusions from School (Out of School Suspension)
Expulsion
SCHOOL COUNSELING/STUDENT SERVICES
COUNSELING SERVICES
Counselor Case Management
Parent Portal
NOTICE OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA
SAP – Student Assistance Program
HEALTH SERVICES
HEALTH SERVICES
MEDICATION POLICY
ACCIDENT INSURANCE
ACTIVITIES
MEMBER REQUIREMENTS
ACADEMIC PROBATION
Co-Curricular Eligibility
Pay to Participate Fee
SEMIFORMAL/PROM
ATHLETICS
ATHLETICS ELIGIBILITY
Pay to Participate Fee
Curriculum Requirements
Eligibility Reporting
Weekly Eligibility Requirements
Period of Ineligibility – Weekly Requirements:
Report Card Eligibility Requirements
Period of Ineligibility – Report Card Requirements
Beginning of the Year Eligibility Requirements
Period of Ineligibility – Beginning of the Year Requirements
PENNSYLVANIA INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (PIAA) ELIGIBILITY RULES
METHACTON ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT GENERAL DISCIPLINE POLICY
Rights/Responsibilities and Expectations
Athletic Discipline
Athletic Review Board
Interscholastic Sports Program
Sportsmanship
SCHOOL PROCEDURES
NORTH MONTCO TECHNICAL CAREER CENTER (NMTCC) PROCEDURES
FIRE/SECURITY DRILLS
LOCKS AND LOCKERS
TELEPHONES
CELL PHONES/SMART PHONES
VISITORS REGULATIONS
STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS/ID BADGES
SIX-DAY CYCLE
INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
EMERGENCY CLOSING
LOST AND FOUND
SCHOOL SPONSORED FIELD TRIPS
CURRICULUM SUPPORT ROOM (CSR) GUIDELINES
STUDY HALL GUIDELINES
OBLIGATIONS
REMAINING AFTER SCHOOL
PARKING/TRANSPORTATION
AUTOMOBILES, DRIVING AND PARKING
BUS REGULATIONS/CONDUCT
Local Regulations:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations:
PARENTS OF EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN
SCHOOL RECORDS
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Administrative Information
Sapphire Community Web Portal
The Methacton School District has developed the Community Web Portal as a means to further promote
educational excellence and to enhance communication with parents/guardians. The Community Web Portal is
available to every parent or guardian of an enrolled student in the Methacton School District. The Community
Web Portal allows parents to view their own child/children's school records at anytime.
We strongly encourage you to access the Parent Portal regularly as more documents, including report cards,
will be phased out and no longer be sent home as a hard copy.
The first step in gaining access to the Parent Portal is to complete the Parent Portal Application and Acceptable
Use Policy Form that is located on the following website:
http://sapphire.methacton.org/parentportal/
(The keyword is Methacton)
Follow the instructions on each screen to complete the application process. You will be asked to print and sign
the form and send it to the following address:
Technical Services Office
Parent Portal User Policy
Farina Administration Building
1001 Kriebel Mill Road
Norristown, PA 19403-1047
You will receive an email when your Parent Portal User Account is ready for use. If you have any further
questions you can email k12questions@methacton.org and someone will assist you.
Learn, Lead, Succeed - Together
Central Administrative Personnel
Dr. Timothy J. Quinn, Superintendent
Dr. Diane Barrie, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
Mr. Denis J. McCall, Director of Business Services
Mr. Robert P. Harney, Director of Human Resources/Labor Relations
Dr. Todd Fay, Director of Pupil Services
Geraldine Ryan-Washington, Secondary Special Education Supervisor
Jenifer Brucker, Coordinator of Staff Development
Methacton School Board
Joyce Petrauskas, President
Herbert B. Rothe, III, Vice President
Cathleen Barone
Howard A. Jones
S. Christian Nascimento
Mark E. O’Neill
James W. Phillips
Marie Shackelford
Kim Woodring
Methacton High School Contact Information
District’s Main Number 610-489-5000
Principal’s Office
Rhonda Asher (for Judy Landis, Principal) .
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Assistant Principals’ Office
Lorraine Endlich .
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Karey Kochenour (9th grade Ph-Z; 11th grade Ll-Z; 12th grade: A-Li)
Dan Bontempo (9th grade A-Go; 11th grade A-Li; 12th grade: Ll-Z)
Assistant Principals’ Office
Josie Matty
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Jamie Gravinese (9th grade Gr- Pf; 10th grade)
Athletics/Activities Office
Debbie Bennett
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Paul Spiewak, Asst. Principal of Athletics and Activities
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Guidance Office
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Transportation
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Department Coordinator Information
Math Department (Sue Coglianese)
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Social Studies Department (Adam Sussman)
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English Department (Steve Rice)
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Science Department (Steve Savitz)
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Foreign Language Department (Mary Phelps) .
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Gifted Ed. (Sue Cattie) .
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Music (Sue Basalik)
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Health & Phys. Ed./Drivers Ed. (Jeff Derstine) .
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Technology/Business/FCS (Mark Krick) .
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Special Education (Heather DePiano, AJ Maida, Tracy Murray, Stacy Pred)
Community Service Coordinator (Michael Gallagher) .
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English as a Second Language (Debbie Morris) .
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Methacton High School Fax Numbers
Fax Main Office
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Fax Guidance Office .
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Fax Assistant Principals’ Office .
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Fax Athletic Office
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610-489-8165
610-489-1502
610-489-5089
610-489-5052
Bell Schedules
Daily Bell Schedule
Warning Bell
7:35
Homeroom
7:37 – 7:48
(A.M. Vo-Tech Dismissed…7:40)
Mod 1
7:53 – 8:39
Mod 2
8:44 – 9:30
Mod 3
9:35 – 10:21
Mod 4/5
10:24 – 11:12
Mod 4 lunch
10:26 – 10:56
Mod 5/6
11:01 – 11:47
Mod 6 lunch
11:17 – 11:47
(P.M. Vo-Tech Dismissed…11:47)
Mod 6/7
11:17 – 12:03
Mod 7/8
11:52 – 12:38
Mod 8 lunch
12:08 – 12:38
Mod 8/9
12:08 – 12:54
Mod 9/10
12:43 – 1:29
Mod 10 Lunch
12:59 – 1:29
Mod 11
1:34 – 2:20
Two Hour Delay Bell Schedule
Warning Bell
9:35
Homeroom
9:37 – 9:42
(**NO A.M. Vo-Tech**)
Mod 1
9:47 – 10:17
Mod 2
10:22 – 10:52
Mod 3
10:57 – 11:27
Mod 4/5
11:32 – 12:02
Mod 4 lunch
11:32 – 12:02
(P.M. Vo-Tech Dismissed…12:02)
Mod 5/6
12:07 – 12:37
Mod 6 lunch
12:07 – 12:37
Mod 6/7
12:07 – 12:40
Mod 7/8
12:42 – 1:12
Mod 8 lunch
12:42 – 1:12
Mod 8/9
12:42 – 1:12
Mod 9/10
1:17 – 1:47
Mod 10 Lunch
1:17 – 1:47
Mod 11
1:52 – 2:20
(Return to Table of Contents)
School Calendar 2012-2013
(the following data is subject to change without notice as needs dictate)
July 4-Holiday (Offices Closed)
August 21-22-Induction for New Teachers
August 28 & 29-In-Service Day K-12
September 3 Holiday (Schools & Offices Closed)
September 4-First Student Day
September 17-Holiday (Schools Closed)
September 26- Holiday (Schools Closed)
November 6-In-Service Day Act 80 K-12 (Election Day)
November 20-21- In-Service- No school elementary/
Skyview/ Arcola ONLY
November 22-23-Holiday (Schools & Offices
Closed)
December 5- In-Service Day- Act 80 (Schools Closed)
Dec.24-Jan.1-Winter Holiday (Schools Closed)
(Offices Closed Dec. 24, 25, 31, & 1/1)
January 21-Holiday (Schools Closed)
January 22-In-Service Day Act 80 Grades 7-8
(Conferences 7-8) High School in Session
February 15-In-Service Day K-12 (Flex#1)
February 18-Holiday (Schools & Offices Closed)
February 19 -In-Service Day Act 80 K-12 (Graduation
Projects)
March 20- In-Service Day- Act 80- Schools Closed
March 27- April 1 -Spring Holiday (Schools Closed; Offices
closed March 29)
April 1- In-Service Day K-12 (Flex # 2)
April 26- In-Service- No School MHS ONLY (Prom)
May 21 – In-Service – Schools closed
May 24 – In-Service – Schools closed (Flex # 3)
May 27 – Schools/Offices closed
June 13 - Tentative Last Student/Teacher Day
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Working Papers
Students 14 to 17 years of age who are employed during vacation periods or have part-time jobs must obtain working
papers. Application for working papers are located at the main office on school days and in the East Wing Office when
school is closed and the offices are open. Working papers may be obtained and completed only during normal hours of
operation:
7:30 a.m. – 3:15 pm
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 pm
School Year
Monday to Thursday (Summer)
Academic Information
Report Card/Marking Periods 2012-2013
Period #1
Period #2
Period #3
Period #4
Ends
Distributed
Ends
Distributed
Ends
Distributed
Ends
Report cards mailed home
November 8
November 12
January 28
January 30
April 11
April 15
June 13
June 20
Thursday
Monday
Monday
Wednesday
Thursday
Monday
Thursday
Thursday
*All dates are subject to change as result of changes in the school calendar. Please note that the district is moving toward
a paperless grade reporting system in an effort to conserve valuable revenue.
Interim Timeline 2012-2013
Interim #1
Interim #2
Interim #3
Interim #4
October 5
December
13
March 4
May 10
Friday
Thursday
Monday
Friday
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Marking System
Marks for reports to parents and office records shall be expressed numerically to describe the quality of student
achievement. Percentages will be reported to the nearest whole number.
90-100% - Excellent - Work is characterized by accuracy, neatness, originality, thorough understanding, and effort to an
exceptional degree.
80-89% - Above average - Work is characterized by a high degree of understanding.
70-79% - Average - This mark indicates satisfactory completion of minimum requirements. It is the minimum grade
used to qualify for the next sequential course.
60-69% - Passing - This mark indicates less than satisfactory attainment of minimum standards. If this mark is recorded
as a final average mark, the student receives credit toward promotion or graduation, but does not qualify for advance work
in the next sequential course.
59 – 50% Failure. There is evidence of effort, but work is not acceptable for credit. The course must be remediated or
repeated if required for promotion or graduation. Comments on the report card are required. Interim report
required.
49% & Below. Failure Not Qualifying for Remediation. Indicates the student has not acquired sufficient knowledge and
skills to progress through remediation. The entire course must be repeated.
Incomplete (I) - The work must be made up before credit is given. Failure to complete major projects satisfactorily or to
turn in daily assignments regularly is cause for marking the student “incomplete,” and can result in failure for the year
regardless of marks that have been recorded in earlier report periods. Graduation or promotion may be withheld for
incomplete grades in any course, pending satisfaction of the requirements. Upon the return of a student from an
extended absence, the student must make arrangements to make-up all incomplete work. Failure to make-up assignments
will result in a zero being recorded for the assignments and possible failure for the marking period. Excessive absence,
regardless of the reason, may seriously affect a student’s grade. Many classes depend on an oral exchange of ideas and
discussion. Frequent absence seriously detracts from the total educational experience. Students who enroll but do not
complete a course will receive a grade of withdraw fail. No credit will be given and the course may not be remediated in
summer school.
(Return to Table of Contents)
Withdrawal/Fail Policy
Withdrawal/Fail (WF) is a grade given rarely and reluctantly. It is expected that the student will benefit from, complete,
and accept the final grade of the course begun. A schedule may be modified due to unusual circumstances within the first
three weeks of the semester. Following that window a grade of WF is recorded. A WF is recorded only after teacher
input, parental contact, and administrative approval. A WF form must then be completed.
Mid-Term/Final Exams
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Semester courses with a mid-term examination will receive 20% of the grade from the examination and 80% from the
two marking period grades.
Full year courses will receive 20% of the grade from an average of the midterm examination and the final
examination. The four marking period grades will count for 80% of the grade.
Final Exam Exemption Policy
The following criteria must all be met to qualify for Final Exam exemption:
 Seniors only
 A 90% or better grade throughout the academic year in all four marking periods plus the mid-term exam
 The average for the four marking periods plus the mid term exam is a 93% or better
 A student who has scored higher than projected on the 11th grade PSSA, maintains an 80% in each marking
period, and passes the mid-term with a 75% or better may exempt the senior final exam.
These qualifications apply to all courses (AP or otherwise). Students are reminded that any exemption is not mandatory
and is always dependent upon teacher approval.
Class Rank
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Class rank is based on final average and computed at the end of the freshman, sophomore and junior year. Senior
year class rank is computed at the end of the third marking period. To differentiate between identical GPA’s, the 100
point GPA scale will be used.
Grade point averages are calculated by multiplying the grade earned by the course credit.
Honors, Advance Placement and Dual Enrollment courses provide weighted grades by granting additional quality
points. Advanced Placement grade calculations are computed by multiplying the grade earned by the course credit
times the 1.2 weighted value, and honors level courses are multiplied by 1.1 for all honors classes except foreign
language.
Honor Roll
Honor Roll parameters are based on the course credit value combined with the grade in the marking period.
Distinguished
Meritorious
Honors
93 - 100
85 - 92.9
80 - 84.9
https://sapphire.methacton.org/parentportal/index.cfm
Honor Roll may be withheld if grades include an I, WF, or grades below 70%.
(Return to Table of Contents)
Programs for Eligible or Protected Handicapped Students
In compliance with state and federal law, notice is hereby given by the Methacton School District that it conducts ongoing
identification activities as a part of its school program for the purpose of identifying students who may be in need of
special education and related services (eligible student).
If your child is identified by the District as possibly in need of such services, you will be notified of applicable
procedures. Individualized services and programs are available for children who are determined to need specially
designed instruction due to the following conditions:
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Autism/pervasive development disorder
Blindness or visual impairment
Deafness or hearing impairment
Developmental delay
Mentally gifted
Mental retardation
Multi-handicapped
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Neurological impairment
Other health impairments
Physical disability
Serious emotional disturbance
Specific learning disability
Speech and language impairment
If you believe that your school-age child may be in need of special education services and related programs, screening and
evaluation processes designed to assess the needs of the child and his/her eligibility are available to you at no cost. You
may request screening and evaluation at any time, whether or not your child is enrolled in the District’s public school
program. Requests for evaluation and screening are to be made in writing to the Director of Pupil Services at the
Education Center, 1001
Kriebel Mill Road, Eagleville, PA 19403-1047.
In compliance with state and federal law, the Methacton School District will provide to each protected handicapped
student without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aids, services or accommodations which are
needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular
activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected handicapped
student, the child must be school age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits
participation in or access to an aspect of the school program. These services and protections for “protected handicapped
students” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible or exceptional students enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in
special education programs.
For further information on the rights of parents and children, provision of services, evaluation and screening (including
purpose, time and location), and rights to due process procedures, you may contact in writing the person listed above or
any building principal.
Confidentiality: All information gathered about your child is subject to the confidentiality provisions contained in federal
and state law. The District has policies and procedures in effect governing the collection, maintenance, destruction and
disclosure to third parties of this information. For information about these policies and procedures, as well as rights of
confidentiality and access to educational records, you may contact in writing the person named above or any building
principal.
(Return to Table of Contents)
Program of Studies
Refer to the “Methacton High School Program Planning Guide” available online at www.methacton.org.
Procedure for Make-Up Work
1. Arrangements for completing make-up work shall be initiated by the student immediately upon return to school and
made at the convenience of the teacher.
2. Make-up work should be completed after the regular student day.
3. Make-up work not completed during the prescribed time will be graded as failing.
4. Students missing class for field trips, academic and/or extra-curricular activities must see their teacher in advance for
work missed. All work is due on day of return. Quizzes/Tests/Projects should be taken/completed upon return to
class.
5. Students going abroad with school trips are expected to get their make-up work before leaving, and to have it
completed within 7 calendar days of returning to school. The established test make-up days and specific due dates
for assignments are to be discussed and established by the student and teacher before going on the trip.
Homework Requests
In case of a student absence due to illness, homework may be requested from teachers by accessing district email. Email
addresses include teacher’s first initial and last name@methacton.org.
Extra Help
We encourage students to seek extra help from our teachers if you do not understand an assignment, if the work is
difficult, or if you have been absent. This Extra help will be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time. Teachers may
request a student to stay after school if it is apparent that the student is having difficulty with his or her work. This is not a
punishment, but rather a desire to help the student make the necessary progress in the subject area. Students are
encouraged to seek extra help after school, but are cautioned to arrange transportation as there is no longer a late
bus.
Physical Education
1. All students are required to dress for physical education.
2. Girls and boys are required to wear a regulation uniform or a plain white t-shirt and green shorts. The regulation
uniform consists of a white or grey t-shirt with a Methacton logo and regulation green mesh shorts. White
socks, with or without stripes and sneakers, are required.
3. Students who take swimming class must provide their own bathing suit and towel. Girls must wear a one-piece suit.
4. You should have your name on all equipment for your own protection.
5. Methacton regulation shirts and gym shorts may be purchased from the Physical Education Department.
6. Towel service will not be available.
7. Each student is assigned a combination lock and locker in which they must keep their valuables.
8. This does not allow an expectation of privacy as locker searches may be conducted with reasonable suspicion.
9. Additional PE regulations are explained during the first week of classes.
10. Students carrying large amounts of money or other valuables should have the physical education instructor lock them
up during class. Methacton High School cannot be responsible for stolen items or money left unlocked.
11. Jewelry of any kind is prohibited during class due to safety reasons.
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Community Service Program
The Community Service Program (course #2400) is an elective course that is open to all Methacton High School Students,
grades 9-12. This is not a club. You may sign up at the beginning of the school year and anytime during the school year.
We would like to have you sign up for a community service course each time you fill out your course selection card.
Once enrolled, you are to complete 30 hours of community service and submit a reflection to receive .25 credits. The
course is graded Pass/Fail. This course does not affect your Grade Point Average. The credit received does help you
meet your elective requirements for graduation.
Anything you do to help in your community or school that you do not get paid for will most likely count toward your 30
hour requirement. Your participation and service through clubs at Methacton counts as well. If you would like to get
involved in the community service program but do not know what you would like to do, information is available in the
main office. All students who sign up will meet with the community service coordinator to learn more about how the
program works and the numerous opportunities that are available to them.
During the time that you are providing this service, you are to keep a daily service journal and a record of your hours of
service. When you have completed the 30 hours of service, you will submit a reflection activity that allows you to see
what you have learned and how the community benefited from your service.
Alternative Instruction
(Additional information regarding this policy can be found in Board Policy 124.1 on Alternative Instruction.)
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Summer Remediation/Credit Recovery/Acceleration Guidelines
Alternative Instruction
(Additional information regarding this policy can be found in Board Policy 124.1 on Alternative Instruction.)
The following options may be explored only if a comparable course is offered but undersubscribed, or not
offered at all by the Methacton School District. During the summer, these options also may be explored if
course offerings are full.
Course Remediation
A student who completes a course but fails to earn academic credit may remediate that course in summer school
or through private tutoring provided the final course average is a 50% or greater*. All expenses are the
responsibility of the student.
*Note: A final course average less than 50% will require the course to be repeated according to the
Grading/Credit guidelines (below). These same guidelines apply during the school year.
Remedial Summer School Guidelines:
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Grade earned for course during summer school will be recorded and labeled as “summer” on the student’s
transcript.
The grade earned during the school year will also be recorded on the transcript with the original course title
and calculated into the GPA.
Successful completion of an approved summer school course will earn credit.
Remedial Private Tutoring Guidelines:
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Students must be tutored by a Pennsylvania certified secondary teacher in the specific subject area needed
for course remediation**.
**Note: This area of certification must appear on the Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate and can not be
presented as Praxis scores alone.
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Teacher must be pre-approved by Methacton School District and the District must receive a copy of teacher
certificate.
30 hours of tutoring for a full year course = 1 credit.
15 hours of tutoring for a semester courses = 0.5 credit.
7.5 hours of tutoring = 0.25 credit
At the conclusion of tutoring, the guidance office must receive a copy of the grade earned and a brief
narrative of the student’s academic progress.
Grade and credit earned will follow the same criteria as summer school remediation.
Course Acceleration – Acceleration is meant to allow a student to move more quickly through an established
curricular sequence and, ultimately, take higher level offerings within that subject area. The next required
course within the sequence must be taken at Methacton High School. Students may not accelerate more than
one course in a curricular discipline. Acceleration is NOT designed to provide an opportunity to avoid courses
in an established curriculum. All requests for acceleration must be approved in advance by the Principal or
designee. Please see your counselor for specific information. All expenses are the responsibility of the student.
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Acceleration may be accomplished in five different ways:
1. High School Summer School
 Students must fill out the acceleration form and follow directions necessary for this option. Student must
enroll, attend and successfully complete the course at the designated high school. Successful completion
will result in the award of credit on the transcript and the grade being calculated into the student’s GPA
as per the guidelines for Grading/Credit below.
2. Private Tutoring Acceleration Guidelines:
 Students must fill out the acceleration form and follow directions necessary for this option.
 Students must be tutored by a certified secondary teacher in the specific subject area of the acceleration.
 Teacher must be pre-approved by Methacton School District and the District must receive a copy of
teacher certificate.
 Teacher must follow the Methacton High School approved curriculum for instruction leading to the
awarding of credit.
 Successfully complete 60 hours of tutoring for 1.0 credit.
 Successful completion will result in the award of credit on the transcript and the grade being calculated
into the student’s GPA as per the guidelines for Grading/Credit below.
3. College/University Acceleration Guidelines:
 Course outline/content from the institution must be screened and approved by the department
chairperson of the subject area being taken.
 Student must enroll, attend and successfully complete the course at the designated college/university.
Successful completion will result in the awarding of credit on the transcript and the grade being
calculated into the student’s GPA as per the guidelines for Grading/Credit below.
 The Methacton Final Exam is waived with the successful completion of the course.
4. Self-Study Guidelines
 Students must fill out the acceleration form and follow directions necessary for this option.
 If a student is able to demonstrate sufficient prior knowledge in a subject area, by attaining at least 80%
on the Methacton final exam for that subject area, he/she may skip the course in question and take the
next course for which the course being skipped is a prerequisite.
 No credit will be given or recorded on the student transcript if a course is skipped in this manner and all
graduation requirements will still be applicable.
5. On-line courses
 Students must fill out the acceleration form and follow directions necessary for this option .
 Course outline/content must be screened and approved by the department chairperson of the subject area
being taken.
 Student must enroll, attend and successfully complete the course through the on-line vendor.
Successful completion will result in the award of credit on the transcript and the grade being calculated
into the student’s GPA as per the guidelines for Grading/Credit below.
 Students will take the final exam at Methacton on the designated date and time furnished on the
acceleration form.
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Grading/Credit Guidelines:
All students wishing to accelerate, whether or not for credit, must adhere to the following:
 At the conclusion of program, the guidance office must receive a copy of the grade earned, a brief narrative
of student’s academic progress (private tutoring only) and verification of enrollment and completion of the
course.
 The student must take Methacton High School’s final examination(s) (where appropriate), which will be
administered and graded by the Department Coordinator.
 A minimum of 70% on the exam(s) must be earned in order for credit to be awarded.
 The final grade is a combination of the grade earned through summer school or tutoring (80%) and
Methacton’s test(s) (20%).
 If acceleration is successful (e.g. meets minimum criteria as outlined in the Program Planning Guide), credit
earned will be recorded on the student’s transcript and the next sequential course will be scheduled.
 If acceleration is unsuccessful, credit will not be awarded, transcripts will not reflect the attempted course,
and the appropriate course will be scheduled for the school year.
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The Library Media Center
The Library is dedicated to serving the students and staff of the district both in curricular and recreational areas. The
Library has an extensive collection of resources for research as well as a large fiction collection. Computers are available
for student use and offer Internet access, productivity software online database services, and the OPAC – Computerized
Card Catalog. Students are permitted to come to the library before homeroom and after school. Students that wish to use
the library during the school day (lunch, study hall, etc.) must have a signed passbook. Student ID’s are necessary to sign
out library material. Please note that there are no late buses available on any day of the week.
Library Hours
Mon & Wed: 7:30 - 3:00
Tues & Thurs: 7:30 - 4:00
Fri: 7:30 - 2:30
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Honor Code Consequences for Plagiarism and Cheating
Cheating/plagiarism is defined as the giving and/or receiving of outside help on anything (including homework) that has
been determined by the teacher to be an individual effort. Examples are: stealing, borrowing, buying, or copying someone
else’s work (e.g., homework, lab reports, take-home tests, tests and research papers). Cheating and plagiarism fall under
the heading of the Academic Honor Code that can be found in its totality on the High School web page. It should be
understood by the consequences that plagiarism and cheating are behaviors that are strongly discouraged. Any cell phone
or unauthorized electronic device confiscated during a test will be considered level 1 cheating.
Level I Plagiarism
 The assignment is graded as is, with points deducted as with any other assignment
 The parent(s) or guardian will be contacted and the incident will be explained.
 A zero (0) is recorded. The problem is explained to the student and he/she is given one night to correct the paper.
- If corrected, the student gets the original score with no grade change for additional corrections.
- If not corrected, the student maintains a zero (0) on the assignment
- The zero (0) is assigned with no additional opportunity to compensate with extra credit or make-up work.
 The teacher will submit a discipline referral to the appropriate administrator.
Level I Cheating
 As a first offense, this compromises the integrity of the assignment.
 The parent(s) or guardian will be contacted and the incident will be explained. A zero (0) is recorded for the
assignment with no opportunity for correction or retest.
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The teacher will submit a discipline referral to the appropriate administrator.
Level II Plagiarism and Cheating
 Occurs when there is a blatant disregard for the integrity of the assignment or is a second offense within the same
course.
 The parent(s) or guardian will be contacted and the incident will be explained.
 A zero (0) is recorded for the assignment with no opportunity for correction.
 When applicable, the National Honor Society advisor will be contacted for possible action. The Guidance
Department (and any other academic award agent) will be notified of the name to be discounted from scholarship
consideration.
 Will result in a 50% reduction to the student’s marking period grade in the offended course.
 The teacher will submit a discipline referral to the appropriate administrator.
 Additional consequences may include:
- In-school suspension
- Automatic disciplinary probation for a minimum of 15 days
- Sponsors and coaches will be notified of the offense
Level III Plagiarism and Cheating
 Subsequent offenses in a single course will result in Withdrawal Failing (WF) the student from the course. A grade
between a 0 and 50% will be assigned based on the current grade of the student.
 The parent(s) or guardian will be contacted and the incident will be explained
 This will necessitate the repetition of a required course the next school year.
 *** NOTE *** Course repetition in a following year may result in the student being unable to graduate with
his or her class. Many courses cannot be taken concurrently (at the same time as the next one in the sequence
of courses).
 When applicable, the National Honor Society advisor will be contacted for possible action. The Guidance
Department (and any other academic award agent) will be notified of the name to be discounted from scholarship
consideration.
 The teacher will submit a discipline referral to the appropriate administrator.
 Additional consequences will include, but not be limited to
- In-school suspension
- Automatic disciplinary probation for a minimum of 15 days
- Sponsors and coaches will be notified of the offense.
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Attendance
Policy and Procedures
The Board of Education requires that school-aged pupils enrolled in the schools of this district attend school regularly in
accordance with the laws of this state. The educational program offered by this district is predicated upon the presence of
the pupil and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation.
The State Department of Education guidelines determine which absences are considered legal and which are illegal.
Regular attendance is a valuable recommendation on your record when qualifications are prepared for college entrance or
job placement.
Pupils may be excused from school attendance for non-school sponsored educational tours and trips when certain
requirements are met. Hospitalization and other special circumstances will be taken into consideration. Absence of four
consecutive days or more requires a doctor’s note. Students enrolled at Methacton High School obligate themselves to all
work assigned in each course in which they are enrolled. The following guidelines are intended to promote student
responsibility and learning. Participation in any extracurricular activities requires that the student be present by
9:30 a.m. on the day scheduled for the activity. This includes athletic games, practice sessions, proms, etc. In
addition, all students expecting to participate in athletic or co-curricular events must be in attendance for 3 hours
in order to participate. A valid medical excuse does not apply. Students signing in after 11:00 a.m. are considered
absent for the entire day.
Daily School Arrival Procedure
Doors open at 7:30 a.m. If you are reporting to a teacher before 7:30, please make sure to have a signed pass. At 7:30,
students will proceed to their locker. Students must place all garments (coats, jackets, hats, etc.) and non-school
items in their locker. Students are not permitted to wander through the halls prior to 7:30.
Reporting a Student Absent
When a student is absent, a parent or guardian must call the school at 610-489-5000, ext. 25037 (24 hour voicemail is
available). If there is no confirmation of absence within 24 hours, the absence will be considered unexcused. To report a
child absent from school, please provide the following information: Child’s name and grade, reason for absence, your
name.
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Tardy to School
All students are encouraged and expected to be in school on time. Any student who arrives after the start of homeroom
must report to the Attendance Office, sign in, and receive a tardy slip with the time of arrival indicated. Students will not
be admitted to class without a Tardy Slip. Students who arrive late to school and fail to sign in at the Attendance
Office are considered to be trespassing and will be disciplined accordingly. Students who are late must bring in a
signed note from their parents explaining the lateness. Notes from parents must be brought in within one day. After
three parent notes have been submitted during one semester regarding illness, the student must bring in a doctor’s or
dentist’s note verifying any illness in order for the tardy to be excused. All lateness to school is unexcused or unlawful,
except for the following reasons: medical illness, death in the immediate family or other family emergency, and religious
holidays. OVERSLEEPING, CAR TROUBLE, CLOCK FAILURE, MISSED BUS, ETC. IS UNEXCUSED OR
UNLAWFUL.
The following outlines the disciplinary action taken for Attendance issues:
 Lateness is accumulated by semester
 No disciplinary response is warranted for the first three (3) unexcused latenesses
 All late students (after 7:37) must report to the Attendance Office to be admitted to class
Fourth Unexcused Late - A warning notice is given to the student.
Fifth Unexcused Late - One detention will be assigned. This includes a Discipline Referral.
Sixth Unexcused Late – One detention will be assigned and an Administrator or designee will call home. This includes a
Discipline Referral and a letter home.
Seventh Unexcused Late – One detention will be assigned and an Administrator or designee will call home. This
includes a Discipline Referral and a letter home. The student is also placed on Disciplinary Probation for 10 school days.
The Disciplinary Probation form will be sent home to define the time of the Probationary Period and to outline the
suspension of driving privileges, exclusion from attending school functions and field trips, as well as participation in extra
curricular activities or athletic teams.
Any additional Unexcused Lateness will result in 1 detention and 10 additional school days of disciplinary
probation.
Early Dismissal from School
When a student must be excused from school prior to the end of the school day, the student must present a note
specifying the reason for the early dismissal from the parent to the Attendance Office during homeroom. If a note is not
presented to the Attendance office before the end of homeroom then a parent/guardian must come in to sign-out the
student at the time of dismissal. After three parent notes have been submitted for one semester dismissing a student early
from school for a medical visit, a doctor or dentist note is required to validate the dismissal.
Students may be excused from school for dental and/or medical appointments when such appointments are unable to be
arranged on non-school time. If a doctor or dentist note is not submitted within one day of the scheduled appointment the
early dismissal will be considered unexcused and disciplinary action will follow. If it becomes necessary to leave
because of illness or any other valid reason, permission must be obtained from an administrator or the school
nurse. Please be advised that contact must be made with a school nurse, administrator or other responsible member of the
school staff before picking a student up at school. The student cannot make these arrangements themselves.
Should it be discovered that a student has used his/her cell phone for this purpose, disciplinary action will follow.
Students in grade 12, whose schedule indicates a study hall last mod of the day, may obtain a parental permission
release form located in main office. A properly completed and signed form will allow the student to leave the school
building and school grounds at the conclusion of the student’s academic schedule. This parental permission form must be
completed for each semester needed.
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Unexcused/Unlawful Absence
Truancy is an unexcused/unlawful absence from school. This includes absence from school without permission from
school authorities, absence without parental knowledge, or an illegal/ unexcused absence being condoned by a
parent/guardian.
The mere fact that a parent has sent a written explanation does not necessarily mean that the absence is an excused
absence. Such reasons for absence as “missing the bus,” “car problems,” “personal,” “academic reasons,” or
“oversleeping” are classified as unexcused absences.
When a pupil has three days of unexcused absences, the pupil is reported as a “first offense case.” A “first offense”
notice is sent from the Attendance Officer to the parents. After the first offense notice the school authorities are required
to refer each succeeding absence to the district justice.
Students under 17 years of age whose absence(s) is/are marked unexcused is/are also marked unlawful.
Students who establish a pattern of unexcused and/or unlawful absences will be referred to the Home and School
Visitor’s office. Detention, suspension or expulsion, and/or withholding of course credit may result if the situation cannot
be satisfactorily resolved.
Students who are unexcused/unlawfully absent will receive no credit for the day’s assignments and may not make
up work. Unexcused absences of seven or more days will result in withholding of course credit until a conference
with the Principal is scheduled.
Any parent/guardian of a student who fails to comply with compulsory attendance requirements shall be reported to the
District Magistrate and fines could be imposed.
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Non-Cumulative Absences
Absences due to the following four (4) conditions shall be considered non-cumulative:
1. Death in the immediate family.
2. Subpoenaed court appearance.
3. Verified acute or chronic medical condition as documented by the parent/ guardian and physician, and medical or
dental appointments that cannot be scheduled at a time other than during school hours. A physician's note related to a
chronic condition must state that the severity of the condition will prohibit the student from attending school as
specified by the physician.
4. Preapproved absences from school such as excused educational tours and trips, approved college visitation day, and
excused religious observance or instruction.
Absences of seven (7) or more days not attributable to these four (4) conditions shall result in withholding of course credit
(secondary students) or withholding of promotion to the next grade (elementary and middle school students). Course
credit may be awarded or promotion granted after satisfactory completion of an alternate education plan. This plan may
include disciplinary options such as detention, suspension, or expulsion; repetition of required courses; and/or other
educational options at the recommendation of the principal. Absences of four (4) or more consecutive days require a
doctor's note or a medical excuse upon return.
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Educational Absence/College Visitation
When a student is to be absent from school because of an educational trip, tour, family travel or college visitation, the
attendance office must be contacted by the parent via phone, note or visit. At that time, the proper form will be
handed out and this form must be returned before the trip.
Upon receipt of a written request from the parents/guardians of the students involved, students may be excused from
school attendance to participate in an educational tour or trip in accordance with state regulations. Such travel shall be at
the expense of the parent/guardian and shall be subject to direction and supervision by a parent, grandparent or legal
guardian.
Requests must be submitted two (2) weeks before the date of departure and should be completed in detail. Forms shall not
be accepted after the trip.
Submission of the form does not constitute approval. These requests will be evaluated on the following criteria:
1. Length of trip – number of school days the student will miss.
2. Only five (5) days per year shall be considered for an educational absence and an additional (5) days for college
visitations.
3. The number of absences accumulated prior to the scheduled trip.
All school work and tests missed during an approved trip shall be made up at the initiation of the student and reasonable
convenience of the teacher at the secondary level. Work that is not made up shall count as a failure. Unapproved trips
shall be treated as unexcused absences. As such, no work missed may be made up.
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Student Discipline - Code of Conduct
Methacton Senior High School Conduct Code
The Board acknowledges that conduct is closely related to learning; an effective instructional program requires a safe and
orderly school environment. The Board understands “discipline” to mean the nurturing of those habits, attitudes, and skills
suited to efficient learning. In support of the aims of public education, this Board further believes that the behavior of all
pupils attending the public schools shall reflect standards of good citizenship demanded of members in a democratic
society. Self-discipline, assuming responsibility for personal actions, is one of the important goals of education. The
following statements represent the policy of this Board of Directors:
1. Pupil conduct shall reflect consideration and respect for the rights and privileges of others which is required of
citizenship in a democracy. To this end, pupils shall be expected to cooperate with all members of the school
community.
2. High personal standards of courtesy, morality, decency, honesty, and wholesome relationships with others shall
be maintained. Respect for real and personal property, pride in one’s work and achievement within one’s ability
shall be expected for all students.
3. Pupils shall respect constituted authority, which includes conformance to school rules and regulations and those
provisions of civil law that apply to the conduct of juveniles or minors.
4. The Board expects all certified employees to exercise sound professional judgment in employing disciplinary
measures. Such measure shall be aimed at stimulating respect for the school, for self and fellow students, and to
develop in pupils the power of self-control. While individual discipline needs may differ, the accepted standards
of behavior must be common to all.
5. The Board does not encourage the use of corporal punishment as a means of disciplining children. However,
this statement does not preclude the possibility of a teacher or an administrator forcibly directing, restraining or
controlling children through the use of their hands, if, in the judgment of the teacher or administrator, the
circumstances so dictate.
6. The Board holds parents responsible for the behavior of students. The Board expects concern and cooperation
from parents in dealing with a behavior problem. The Board expects this cooperation to be apparent to the child.
7. The school’s authority over its students covers the time spent in school, on the way to and from school, and at
school sponsored events.
8. The school authorities have no authority to discipline students for misbehavior not connected with the school;
except from time they leave home and until they return home from school.
9. School rules are assumed to be reasonable until they are rescinded or waived. Students, therefore, shall obey
school rules while working through channels to help change those rules of which they do not approve.
The Superintendent is responsible to the Board for establishing such rules and regulations which are deemed necessary to
insure a wholesome educational atmosphere, and which will represent standards of good school citizenship. PA School
Code (Title 22). The Conduct Code established for the Methacton High School is necessary for an effective educational
environment. We view education as being a privilege granted by the citizens. Each student is expected to develop his
talents, to have respect for authority, and to display responsible citizenship, self-discipline, concern for others and a sense
of courtesy and sportsmanship. Students attending the Methacton High School are expected to exhibit appropriate
behavior and to be accountable for the consequences to their actions.
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The student conduct code of the Methacton High School is designed to create a spirit of fairness and equity and to nurture
a positive student attitude toward responsible behavior. This development of school and self-pride will enhance the
learning climate at all grade levels.
Any item which is not specifically listed in the Conduct Code will be handled by the building principal or assistant
principals in accordance with the due process procedure.
Any act of offense which would cause the school district to expend funds to correct, repair, replace or pay labor costs
will carry with the prescribed discipline action full restitution in the amount of the school district’s cost.
Teacher Authority
“Every teacher in the public schools in this Commonwealth shall have the right to exercise the same authority as to the
conduct and behavior over the pupils attending this school, including the time required in going to and from their homes,
as the parents, guardians or persons in parent relation to such pupils may exercise over.” (Quoted from the School Laws
of Pennsylvania.)
Students are advised to respect the authority of teachers and staff at all times and to follow the directions issued by them
regardless of the student’s feelings about the right or wrong of the situation. Follow the directions and then clarify your
position later. Defiance will only lead to further trouble and possible endangerment of you and others.
Student Rights & Responsibilities
Students attend school so that they may develop to their fullest potential. The rights established for each student includes
certain responsibilities, which are not limited to respect for the rights of others; obedience to properly constituted school
authority; and compliance with the policies, rules, and regulations of this district. Each student is also expected to:
1. Read the MHS Senior High Code of Conduct and seek interpretation of parts not understood.
2. Accept responsibility for his/her own actions.
3. Attend school on a regular basis.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Be punctual at all times.
Maintain habits of personal cleanliness.
Respect school property and help to keep it free from damage by reporting issues when seen.
Make an earnest effort to do his/her best work.
Contribute toward establishing and maintaining an atmosphere that generates mutual respect and dignity for all.
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Appearance
The Board is committed to not interfering with the right of students and their parents to make the decisions regarding their
appearance except when their choices affect the educational program of the schools or the health and safety of others. As
a center of learning the school shall provide for the development of habits and attitudes conducive to acceptable practices
of the school community, including good manners, appropriate wearing of apparel and good grooming. The Board of
School Directors of the Methacton School District has adopted the following rule:
If, in the opinion of the Administration, a student’s attire is thought to be a disruption/distraction to the
educational process or constitutes a health or safety hazard it is deemed unacceptable and can be cause for
suspension or expulsion depending on the circumstances.
The following are examples of items considered inappropriate in Methacton School District:
1. Bare midriff, low-cut, revealing or any see-through clothing.
2. Spandex, tight clothing or ill-fitting garments
3. Clothing/jewelry displaying patches/slogans/pictures which suggest the use of alcohol, and/or drugs, which
contain obscene or offensive language, or depict sexual, violent or illegal behavior.
4. Skirts and shorts of inappropriate length (appropriate length would be shorts with a 4-inch inseam and skirts that
are fingertip length).
5. Sleeveless and off-the-shoulder shirts.
6. Ragged, holey, or cut-off clothing.
7. Hats, caps, headbands, other head coverings and sunglasses.
8. Chains, spikes, metal work on boots, pants, shirts, jackets, clothing or accessories.
9. Footwear that leaves marks or abrasions on floor surfaces.
10. Bathing suits, tops or trunks.
Students will be asked to change their clothing if deemed inappropriate. The student will sit in In-School
Suspension until such time as appropriate clothing is provided by a parent or the conclusion of the school day.
Time missed from class due to inappropriate clothing will be considered unexcused.
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Guidelines and Procedures for Public Complaints
In the event a student and/or parent encounter(s) a problem or has a concern about school operational practices, the
following procedure should be followed to ensure an equitable solution:
Step 1 ● Discuss the matter with the staff member who is closest to the source of the concern. This includes contacting
the classroom teacher first when a question arises about individual grades and/or specific classroom procedures.
If unresolved - Step 2 ● Parent or guardian may contact the area supervisor / department coordinator (if applicable).
Step 3 ● Parent or guardian may contact the appropriate grade level assistant principal (if applicable).
Step 4 ● Parent or guardian may contact the building principal.
Step 5 ● Parent or guardian may contact the Superintendent.
Step 6 ● If the issue is still unresolved, appeal in writing to the Board of School Directors.
Contact Information
Any issue concerning the immediate health, safety, and security of the student body or school community should be
directed to the attention of the building administration. Whenever possible, responses to initial inquiries/contacts will be
made within 24 hours and appeals within five (5) working days.
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Behaviors Requiring Discipline
Insubordination
This constitutes any interaction with school personnel that contradicts directions given as described in the conduct code
printed.
Cell Phones/ Personal Listening Devices
Students are restricted in their use of personal listening devices, cell phones, videogames, beepers, and/or other electronic
devices during school hours (7:37a.m. – 2:20 p.m.). We encourage students to place these in their assigned locker upon
arrival. If any of these items are being used without permission they may be confiscated immediately and disciplinary
consequences will be enforced. If a student refuses to hand over their electronic device when instructed to do so, further
disciplinary action will be taken for insubordination.
At no time should parents call their child’s cell phone or accept calls from the student’s cell phone during the
school day (7:30 – 2:20). This year we will be allowing students to use their cell/smart phones during study-halls, for
texting purposes only. All phone calls still need to be made through the office.
Food/Drinks
Students are advised that the consumption of food, candy, or drinks are limited to water and unobtrusive snacks that have
been brought from home. Under no circumstances are students permitted to purchase beverages or snacks from the
cafeteria unless during their assigned lunch period. There are no beverages or food permitted in computer labs,
gymnasiums, library, auditorium or LGI. Any additional limitations are left to the discretion of the classroom teacher.
Derogatory Comments/Inappropriate Language
The environment of Methacton High School plays an important role in the education of the students. To function properly
in this role, it is believed that the students, parents, teachers, administrators and other staff, have the responsibility to
promote an atmosphere of mutual respect for each other. Therefore, profanity, and/or derogatory/inappropriate remarks,
including, but not limited to, racial, sexual, or religious remarks will not be tolerated.
When an incident occurs, it is the responsibility of the student who experiences the derogatory comment to report it
immediately to the administration. Violations of this rule will result in administrative action, notification to parent, and if
necessary, notification to the local authorities.
Leaving School Grounds
Students are required to remain on school grounds and in designated areas during school hours, including lunch periods.
Students may not access the parking lot during school hours regardless of reason. Leaving the school grounds without
permission shall be cause for immediate suspension. When leaving school grounds without permission or with falsified
permission, the student forfeits the right to make up all missed work for that time period. Teachers may treat the missed
class time as a class cut.
Vandalism
Willful damage to or destruction of school property is cause for discipline of the student, including suspension, possible
expulsion, or legal proceedings. Students are liable for personal injury or theft, destruction or loss of property. The
school system does not assume any responsibility for the loss and or damage to personal property.
Fighting
Instigating as well as actual participation in physical violence is considered fighting. Students are encouraged to prevent
and/or report incidents of fighting. Fighting will result in a multiple day suspension, law enforcement will be contacted,
and a fine may be imposed upon each party involved.
Class Cutting
A student who fails to report to an assigned class without having been properly excused will include disciplinary action
and:
1. The student will forfeit the right to make up work missed. Additionally, the student may incur further academic
consequences.
2. The teacher may reduce the student’s final average by 10 percentage points for the marking period.
3. The classroom teacher will file a disciplinary referral form to the proper administrator.
4. Parents will be notified.
Repeated cutting of classes shall be cause for further disciplinary action and may result in failure for the year.
Stealing
Any student involved in stealing or taking articles that are the property of others will receive: a conference with the
assistant principal; notification to parents; possible police intervention; restoration of property to owner and a suspension.
The outcome of the hearing could result in a recommendation to the School Board for expulsion.
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Unlawful Harassment
The Methacton School District School Board strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the
schools. Therefore, it is the policy of the district to maintain an educational environment in which harassment in any form
is not tolerated.
The term harassment includes, but is not limited to, slurs, jokes or other verbal, graphic or physical conduct relating to an
individual’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation or disability.
Ethnic harassment includes the use of any derogatory word, phrase, or action characterizing a given racial or ethnic
group that creates an offensive educational environment.
For 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 would compromise a student’s academic status.
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used to make academic decisions that affect the student.
3. Such conduct deprives a student of educational aid, benefits, services or treatment.
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 educational
environment.
Examples of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to sexual flirtations, advances,
touching or propositions; inappropriate hand gestures; verbal abuse of a sexual nature; graphic or suggestive comments
about an individual's dress or body; using electronic devices to transmit sexual material; sexually degrading words to
describe an individual; jokes; pin-ups; calendars; objects; graffiti; vulgar statements; abusive language; stalking;
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.
Bullying
Bullying means any intentional written, electronic, verbal or physical act or actions against another person that a
reasonable person under the circumstances should know will have the effect of:
1. Substantial interference with a student’s education.
2. Creation of a threatening environment.
3. Substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school.
Bullying, as defined in this policy, includes cyber bullying.
The Board encourages students who have been bullied or harassed to promptly report such incident(s) to an
administrator, teacher, counselor, or nurse so the incident(s) can be investigated promptly, and corrective action
be taken when allegations are substantiated.
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Restorative Practices
Methacton High School faculty, staff, and administrators will proactively work with students whenever possible by
approaching the situation restoratively. Restorative Practices is the science of building social capital and achieving social
discipline through participatory learning and decision-making. Restorative Practices provides a more useful way of
looking at school discipline than the limited punitive-permissive continuum – to punish or not to punish. The positive
relationships that can be created by Restorative Practices helps reduce incidents of bullying as it defines and distinguishes
bullying from other problematic behaviors. Bullying is addressed “on the spot,” consistency is ensured among the staff,
and the opportunity to intervene early is provided so the initial bullying type behaviors can be addressed.
We invite parents and families to be a part of the Restorative Practices used at the high school. If your child is involved in
an incident in school (or out!), you can use these questions to guide your own processing and discussion of the event.
Questions for the student/child involved
What happened?
What were you thinking of at the time?
What have you thought about since?
Who has been affected by what you have done? In what way?
What do you think you need to do to make things right?
Questions for the parent/guardian/sibling/friend
What did you think when you realized what had
happened?
What impact has this incident had on you and others?
What has been the hardest thing for you?
What do you think needs to happen to make things right?
Drugs, Alcohol and Other Illegal Goods
The Board prohibits any student from possessing, using, distributing, or selling any drug including anabolic
steroids, alcohol, mood-altering substance, drug look-alike or drug paraphernalia on school district property,
school vehicles, or at any school-sponsored function. In addition, such prohibition extends to any student who is
involved in any part of a transaction involving controlled substances or paraphernalia. Any student who receives
controlled substances or paraphernalia while in school, on school property, at school-sponsored events or while
traveling to and from school is equally covered by this prohibition.
School discipline shall be imposed independent of court action. Any student, including student athletes, who are found
guilty of violating this rule shall be subject to immediate suspension, an informal hearing, and the
student shall be referred to the Student Assistance Program. The outcome of the informal hearing could result in a
recommendation to the School Board for expulsion. Students who are suspended for possession or use of unauthorized
substances or paraphernalia may be required to meet with a designated drug and alcohol abuse counselor as a condition
for re-entering Methacton High School.
Student athletes and students involved in extracurricular and co-curricular activities who are suspended from school or
expelled from school under this policy shall have such suspensions or expulsions count toward the time limits established
in the appropriate section of the board policy.
All school personnel have the same responsibility as every other citizen to report violations of the law. Teachers shall
have the right to question a student possessing or using any drugs or paraphernalia for purposes of referral to the school
nurse or building administrator. The principal shall report promptly to the community’s law enforcement agents students
possessing or using on school premises drugs or paraphernalia prohibited by law. All school employees shall
communicate all available information to the police and offer full cooperation of the administration, faculty, and all other
school personnel to a police investigation.
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Prohibition of Tobacco Use and/or Possession by Students
The Board of School Directors recognizes that smoking and/or tobacco use may present a health and safety hazard which
can have serious consequences. It is the intent of this Board of School Directors to provide a safe and healthful
environment for all students and employees of the District and to comply with state law. Therefore, the use of tobacco in
any form is strictly prohibited by students, employees, visitors, and guests or other individuals in all District buildings,
vehicles used to provide transportation to school or school-sponsored activities, and on school property. Additionally, the
possession of tobacco by students in all District buildings, vehicles used to provide transportation to school or schoolsponsored activities, field trips, off-site school sponsored events, or on school property is prohibited. Violations of this
policy will result in issuance of a monetary fine or police citation.
Weapons Policy
The purpose of this policy (Board Policy 218.1) is to provide information regarding the district’s prohibition of weapons
on school property, at any school-sponsored activities, or in any vehicle used to provide transportation to school or
school-sponsored activities hereafter noted as at school. This policy also provides guidelines to be followed in the event
of violation of this policy.
Weapons shall include, but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool, nunchaku, firearm, shotgun, rifle,
and any other tool, instrument, implement or replica of a weapon capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.
Additionally, zip ties that are used inappropriately will be considered a weapon and are not to be possessed or distributed
on school property.
Weapons are forbidden at school. Any weapon possessed on or with a person while at school is subject to seizure and
forfeiture.
Incidents of students possessing weapons at school shall be reported to students’ parent(s) or guardian(s) and also to local
law enforcement officials.
Expulsions for possession of a weapon at school shall be reported to the Department of Education.
Weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel at school are permitted.
The building principal may authorize an exception to this policy for the purpose of a weapon being used as a part of a
program approved by the school, by an individual who is participating in the program. The building principal may
prescribe special conditions or procedures to be followed before giving such authorizations.
For purposes of this policy, trade related tools used specifically for instructional purposes will not be identified as
weapons, provided they are used for the intended trade related purpose as determined by certified personnel.
Transportation of trade related tools, both to and from school, are the responsibility of the students’ parent(s) or
guardians(s). Under no condition are students to transport trade related tools which may be construed as weapons as
described in this policy.
Students in violation of this policy shall be expelled for not less than one year, unless other disciplinary measures are
recommended by the Superintendent. Incidents will be evaluated on an individual basis. Students who assist in the
possession of a weapon and/or who impede intervention procedures will also be subject to disciplinary action.
Terroristic Threats/Acts
The Board recognizes the danger that terroristic threats and acts by students presents to the safety and welfare of district
students, staff and community. In order to protect public safety, the board acknowledges the need for an immediate and
effective response to any situation involving such a threat or act.
Terroristic threat means a threat to commit violence, (1) communicated with the intent to terrorize another with
reasonable expectation that it will be received as such, or (2) to cause evacuation of a building, or (3) to cause serious
public inconvenience, in reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror, inconvenience, or cost.
Terroristic act means an offense against property or involving danger to another person.
The Board prohibits any district student from communicating terroristic threats or committing terroristic acts directed at
any student, employee, Board member, community member or school building.
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Disciplinary Consequences
Detention
Students may be assigned detention for inappropriate behavior. Once a detention is assigned, the student is expected to
report to the next available detention. Work schedule and/or personal commitments are NOT valid excuses to miss
detention. Failure to serve detention in the allotted time will result in additional administrative action. When a
student is absent from school on the day that he/she has been assigned office detention, he/she must make up this missed
detention time at the next scheduled detention. The detention sheet will be posted outside the East Wing Assistant
Principals’ Suite.
Failure to report to detention will result in additional detentions and/or suspension. Detention will be held
Wednesday and Thursday from 2:30 to 3:30 pm in room A241. Students arriving after 2:30 without proper permission
will not be admitted.
Disciplinary Probation
A student is placed on disciplinary probation by the administration in response to a particular incident, a series of office
referrals or consistent lateness. This probationary period varies, but extends a minimum of 10 school days. During this
probationary period, all extra-curricular activities and/or school sponsored events are denied to the student. Any incident
of inappropriate behavior during this probationary time will result in suspension. Once a student is removed from the
disciplinary probation list, any subsequent referrals to the office will result in automatic placement back on the
disciplinary probation list.
Early Morning Community Service (EMCS)
EMCS is a restorative approach to disciplining a student for a number of inappropriate behaviors. Some behaviors may
include “littering” in the hall, vandalizing the building, insubordinate behavior in the cafeteria, or smoking. EMCS can
occur during any morning on a regular school day from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. During EMCS the student will assist a
custodian with specific tasks that need to be completed around the building. The student is required to work hard, listen,
and respect the custodian in charge. If the student is insubordinate during an EMCS they will be dismissed immediately
and reported to their appropriate grade level assistant principal where further disciplinary consequences will be assigned.
Exclusion from Classes (In-school Suspension)
In-school suspension (ISS) is defined as the exclusion from classes for a period of time determined by the administration.
No student may be assigned to ISS unless he/she has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and has been given
an opportunity to respond before the suspension becomes effective. Communication in writing to the parents or guardian
shall follow the suspension action taken by the school.
The school district has the responsibility to make some provision for the student’s education during the period of the ISS.
Students assigned to ISS may not participate in school sponsored social or extracurricular activities in any way until full
participation resumes. Activities in the ISS room are designed to modify behavior. A list of ISS rules and regulations will
be provided upon arrival the first day of suspension. The student must report to the ISS room instead of homeroom. No
school facilities, other than a bathroom, are available. Therefore, the student must provide his/her own lunch or purchase a
delivered lunch at a cost of $4. The nurse will provide services in the ISS room for emergencies only. Violators of the
established ISS rules will serve their suspensions out-of-school and may be subject to an extension of the period of
suspension.
Exclusions from School (Out of School Suspension)
The Board of School Directors shall define and publish the types of offenses that would lead to exclusion from school.
Exclusions affecting certain exceptional students shall be governed by laws relating to right to education and disciplinary
exclusions of certain handicapped students from special educational placement. Exclusion from school may take the form
of out of school suspension or expulsion. Out of School Suspension (OSS) is exclusion from school for a period of one
to ten consecutive school days. OSS may not be made to run consecutively beyond a ten school day period. Students
suspended out-of-school are not permitted on school property or in the building. Violators will be prosecuted for defiant
trespassing. No student shall be suspended until the student has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and
given an opportunity to respond. Prior notice of the intended suspension need not be given when it is clear that the health,
safety, or welfare of the school community is threatened. The parents and the Superintendent of the district shall be
notified immediately in writing when the student is suspended. Whenever the student is suspended for more than three
days, the student and a parent or guardian is required to meet with an administrator before the student returns to class.
This may occur at any time during the suspension.
Students shall have the responsibility to make up exams and work missed while serving suspension and shall be permitted
to complete these assignments within guidelines established by the Board of School Directors. Suspended students may
not participate in school sponsored social or extra-curricular activities in any way until re-entry to school.
Expulsion
Expulsion is exclusion from school by the Board of Education for a period exceeding ten school days and may be
permanent expulsion from the school roles. All expulsions require a prior formal hearing under law relating to hearings.
During the period prior to the hearing and decision of the Board of School Directors in an expulsion case, the student shall
be placed in his normal class except as indicated below. If it is determined after an informal hearing that a student’s
presence in his normal class would constitute a threat to the health, safety, morals, or welfare of others and it is not
possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of suspension, the student may be excluded from school for more than
10 school days, if the formal hearing is not unreasonably delayed. Any student so excluded shall be provided with
alternative education which may include home study.
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School Counseling/Student Services
Counseling Services
The Counseling Department at Methacton is designed as a support system for students during their high school years.
The counselors will be following the American School Counselor Associations (ASCA) Model which emphasizes student
support in the areas of personal/social, academic, and career development.
Counselor Case Management
Students’ last names
A – Co
Cr – Go
Gr – Li
Ll – Pf
Ph – S
T–Z
Counselor
Will Peck
Leah Millrood
John Midgley
Dave Ruminski
Stacy Olitsky
Cindy Hartson
The Counseling Department is aware that you have other support systems, including your family. To help you further
with your present concerns and future plans, your parents are urged to make appointments with counselors during the
school day. Communication between parents and teachers regarding a student’s academic progress is also encouraged and
can be accomplished in the following ways:
1. An opportunity exists for parents to attend a fall open house to learn about individual class curriculums and
expectations from their student’s teachers.
2. A telephone conference may be arranged with a student’s teacher by contacting the main office or the student’s
counselor.
3. To obtain an updated report of your child’s progress, parents may check the parent portal or contact individual
teachers by accessing district email. Email addresses include teacher’s first initial and last name@methacton.org.
4. Parent-Teacher conferences may be arranged by the student’s counselor. Conferences can include all, some, or just
one of the student’s teachers. Meeting times are Tuesday through Thursday shortly after the school day ends. At
least one week’s notice should be provided.
Parent Portal
The Parent Portal is a user-friendly state-of-the-art communication tool designed by K12 Systems, allowing parents to
interact more closely with their children’s school activities. The Methacton School District has developed the Parental
Portal as a means to further promote educational excellence and to enhance communication with parents/guardians. The
Parent Portal is available to every parent or guardian of an enrolled student in the Methacton School District. The Parent
Portal allows parents to view their own child/children’s school records at anytime.
In response for the privilege of accessing the Methacton School District Parent Portal, every parent/guardian is expected
to act in a responsible, ethical and legal matter. Parents/guardians can log onto the following website to apply for access
or to find out more about the Parent Portal: www.methacton.org.
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Notice of Rights Under FERPA
for Elementary and Secondary Students in the Methacton School District
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) grants for its parents and students who are over eighteen years of
age (”student pro se”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the date the District receives a
request for access. Parents or students pro se should submit to the school principal or other appropriate school
official a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements
for access and notify the parent or student pro se of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or student pro se believes
are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or students pro se may ask Methacton School District to amend a record
that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal. Clearly identify the part of
the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If Methacton School District
decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or student pro se, the District will notify the parent or
student pro se of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding their request for the
amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or student
pro se when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent
that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is
disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.
4. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff
member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school
board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a specific task (such as an attorney,
auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a
disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official performing his or her task.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record in order
to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, the District discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in
which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
5. The school may disclose personally identifiable information from the education records of a student who is in
attendance at the institution or agency if that information has been designated as directory information (as
defined below). The parent or student pro se has the right to refuse disclosure of directory information if written
notice is given to the school within thirty days of the beginning of the school year.
Directory information includes the following information relating to a student: Name, address, telephone
number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports,
weights and heights of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent
previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, other similar information.
6. The right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the
District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA
is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
SAP – Student Assistance Program
SAP is designed to improve the quality of education in our schools by providing assistance to students troubled by mental
health or drug/alcohol related problems. Utilizing school staff and community resources, SAP focuses on identifying
student behavior which adversely affects learning. SAP is coordinated by a group of concerned members of the
professional staff who have received training in recognizing student behaviors that inhibit educational growth.
Referral to SAP may be made by school staff, a student’s parents, guardians, peers, by the student themselves, or any
other concerned individual such as a minister, priest or rabbi. Referrals are made when success in school is affected by
personal problems and /or inappropriate behavior. Referrals are kept confidential and are made by contacting any
member of the SAP Team. After receiving the referral the SAP Team collects information from the members of the
professional staff who may have contact with the student. Parents are also contacted and encouraged to participate in the
SAP process. An individual interview may then be conducted with the student and in some instances with his or her
parents or guardians. The SAP Team might next meet with the student and his or her family to present recommendations
based upon all the information which has been gathered. The SAP Team might continue to monitor and to provide
support for the student. Confidentiality between the student and school personnel will be respected and maintained with
the best interest of the student. SAP Team members can be identified by the SAP logo displayed on classroom window.
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Health Services
Health Services
Unless it is an emergency, all students must have a written pass before entering the nurse’s office. IN CASE OF ILLNESS
OR ACCIDENT, REPORT TO THE NURSE’S OFFICE. STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO CALL
PARENTS TO BE PICKED UP FROM SCHOOL FOR ANY REASON WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM AN
ADMINISTRATOR OR NURSE. THE STUDENT MAY NOT LEAVE THE CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMISSION.
Procedural violation will result in disciplinary action.
Students WILL NOT be treated for illness or accidents occurring off school grounds or outside school time (7:30 –
3:00). The main “treatment function” of the nurse’s office is one of first aid. Pennsylvania School Law requires a
medical examination for all students in Grade 11. This will become an obligation and the report card will be withheld at
the end of grade 11 if the completed form is not on file. A sports physical done at school may not be used to satisfy this
requirement. Other mandated services:
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 – Vision screening, height/weight.
Grades 11 – Hearing Screening.
All Grades: An emergency form must be completed for all students with the parent’s signature. The school physician
has been given permission to dispense certain over-the-counter medications. Parents may circle those which their child
can have.
Medication Policy
As of the 2000-2001 school year, there have been significant changes in the Methacton School District Medication Policy.
Please note that when it becomes necessary to administer any medication during school hours, these regulations apply:
1. A signed physician’s note must be given to the School Nurse for any prescription, over-the counter
medication or homeopathic preparation to be taken during school hours. All notes must be renewed at the
beginning of each school year and expire at the end of the school year.
2. A signed parental/guardian permission note for the medication must be given to the school Nurse.
3. The medication must be provided in the original pharmacy container with original label intact.
NO MEDICATION WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR ADMINISTRATION UNTIL ALL THREE OF THESE
REQUIREMENTS ARE MET. Please keep the School Nurse informed of any changes in the prescribed medication.
Students are NOT permitted to carry medication in school. This includes all prescriptive, OTC and homeopathic
preparations. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action which may include recommendation for expulsion.
Accident Insurance
Information about accident insurance can be obtained by contacting the Business Office. This type of policy covers all
accidental injuries while going to and from school or while engaged in any school-sponsored activity or sport except
senior high football.
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Activities
The following is a list of the many activities and clubs that are offered at Methacton High School. Get involved! Be part
of the fun! Those in italics are not approved by the Board of Directors, but are provided voluntarily by our teachers.
Any questions, contact the Activities Office at extension 25058.
CLUB
ALL THINGS OCEAN
ARCHERY CLUB
ART HONOR SOCIETY
ATHLETIC TRAINER'S CLUB
AUDITORIUM DIRECTOR CLUB
BAND-MARCHING/JAZZ/CONCERT/PERCUSSION/COLOR GUARD
BASKETBALL - BOYS
CHORUS DIRECTOR
CLASS OF 2013
CLASS OF 2014
CLASS OF 2015
CLASS OF 2016
CULMINATING PROJ & COMM SERVICE
DANCE COMPANY
DANCE TEAM
DEBATE MOCK TRIALS
DUMBLEDORE'S ALLIANCE (DA)
ELECTRIC CAR CLUB
ENVIRONMENTAL
EQUINE CLUB
FBLA
FAMILY CAREER & COMMUNITY LEADERS OF AMERICA
FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES
FRENCH
GERMAN CLUB
GSA
HELP FUND
HONOR SOCIETY
INSOURCING
JETS
KEY CLUB
KIDS AGAINST CRISIS
KNITTING CLUB
LEO CLUB
MASS APPEAL CLUB
MODEL UNITED NATIONS
MULTICULTURAL
MUSE POETRY CLUB & LITERARY MAGAZINE
MUSICAL DIRECTOR - CHOIR
MUSICAL DIRECTOR - ORCHESTRA
NEWSPAPER
ORCHESTRA
PEER
POKEMON CLUB
SPONSOR
VERBEKE
KRICK
MCCAULEY/BLAKELY
ZACH MURRAY
LLOYD
MASCARO
DERSTINE
FRANCISCO
N.RYAN/KOONS
HARTSON/JORDAN
NIXON/MUSSELMAN
FOWLSTON/ALZAMORA
MARKLE/SCHECK
WELSH
MCLAUGHLIN/LAMBERT
WALTON, S.
MEANIX
SAVITZ
SAVITZ
KAMINSKI
SCHECK
JANSSEN/TYSON
MUSSELMAN
NICKERSON
TARLECKI
MCGETTIGAN
JEN JOHNSON
ADOFF/KOONS
LADSON
CATTIE
MCCANN
CATTIE
GRIFFITH
MCCANN
HALL, JON
DRIBIN
tbd
WELSH
FRANCISCO
LEONARD
CLARK
MAGANN
ASHENFELTER
MCGOLDRICK
READING OLYMPICS
WOUDENBERG
Students are urged to become members of a high school club. Such an organization functions under a faculty advisor, and
the club is then entitled to all privileges accorded a chartered organization of the high school campus. The following
regulations have been established for club membership:
1. Members are admitted to the organization by the advisor.
2. Regular club meetings are established and scheduled on the club calendar and each club should follow very
carefully the scheduled meetings.
3. The club sponsor must be present at all club meetings.
4. If permission is given for a club to hold a meeting on a school night, the meeting must end no later than 9:00 p.m.
5. Any club wishing to obtain a concession to sell merchandise or services must present a request for approval to the
Activities Office.
Member Requirements
The following requirements pertain to ALL school organizations/activities:
1. Students must adhere to the established Activities Code of Conduct.
2. Students are representatives of the school 24 hours a day. Being a member of a high school organization does not
entitle students to any special privileges in the school. Rather, it may carry a burden of being a good school
citizen in the face of peer pressure to be a participant in some action which violates school rules.
3. The sponsors of each club may establish additional rules and procedures which they expect their members to
follow. We expect all students to represent themselves, their families, their organization and their school
favorably at all times.
a) Use or possession of a controlled substance, paraphernalia or alcoholic beverages will result in immediate
suspension from the organization for a period of 60 school days whether such use is on or off school
grounds. Reinstatement is contingent upon due process and administrative approval.
b) Any student suspended from school is ineligible for participation in activities during the time of
suspension.
c) The faculty advisor and officers of any organization may establish additional rules and procedures for
members. The faculty advisor and officers may also establish disciplinary action for a breach in rules and
procedures.
Academic Probation
Co-Curricular Eligibility
Scholastic eligibility shall be enforced for all students participating in co-curricular activities. Scholastic eligibility will
be reported quarterly. All students must be cumulatively passing the marking quarter. A student will be placed on
academic probation if they are not passing four credits. While on probation, the student is expected to attend every
practice and team obligation, but he/she is barred from participating in any contest(s) during the probationary period. An
incomplete is counted as a failure. Once incompletes are converted to a passing grade the student may be removed from
academic probation. The period of ineligibility will be fifteen (15) school days.
Pay to Participate Fee
The Board shall maintain the program of extracurricular and athletic activities at no cost to participating
students, except that participating students will pay an annual activity fee. The amount of the fee to be paid will
be set annually by the Board. Activities covered shall include all middle and high school interscholastic
athletics and school musicals, and high school marching band and fall play.
The fee will now be known as a "Pay to Participate Fee," that will be assessed only to secondary students who participate
in the extracurricular programming including:
 All MHS athletics
 The MHS Marching Band (includes Jazz Band, Winter Guard, and Winter Percussion)
 The MHS play and musical
1. While the fee will continue to apply only to grades 7-12, it will now be assessed PER STUDENT, as opposed to
per family.
2. Fees for participating students will be:
 $75 - one-time fee for MHS students who participate in one or more sports, and/or applicable activities at
MHS (see above).
Students will be considered INELIGIBLE for their activity or sport if the fee is not paid within the designated two
week grace period after the official start of the athletic season or activity - a detailed schedule can be found here
http://www.methacton.org/688010818154615270/lib/688010818154615270/activity_fee_DATES.pdf
Students who qualify for the free and reduced lunch program will not be expected to pay the fee. No student shall be
denied participation in extracurricular or athletic activities due to their inability to pay the fee. Families with financial
concerns may contact the office of the Assistant Principal Paul Spiewak (pspiewak@methacton.org or 610-489-5000, ext.
25054) to determine if other arrangements may be made for payment of the fee.
All of this information is available on the methactonwarriors.org and methacton.org sites. You can find frequently asked
questions at www.methacton.org/studentactivityfee . If you continue to have questions or concerns, please call the
athletics/activities office at 610-489-5054.
Semiformal/Prom
Dances are designed for the enjoyment of Methacton High School students. Guests will be permitted at both the prom and
9th and 10th grade semi-formal. Dances will begin at 7:30 and end at 10:30. Students will be admitted no later than onehalf hour after the scheduled start of the dance and are expected to stay until the end. Any exceptions require parental
contact with administration. Guest permission slips must be completed with proper signatures and then submitted for
approval prior to the purchase of tickets. Permission slips are available in the main office. Student ID badges are
required to purchase tickets and for admittance to all dances.
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Athletics
Following is a list of the many athletic teams that are offered here at MHS. Get involved! Be part of the fun! Students
should inquire at the athletic office.
Male Sports Programs
Varsity Football
Junior Varsity (JV) Football
9th Grade Football
Varsity Soccer
JV Soccer
Cross Country
Male Sports Programs
FALL
Co-Ed
Golf
WINTER
Co-Ed
Varsity Basketball
JV Basketball
Freshman Basketball
Swimming/Diving
Varsity Wrestling
JV Wrestling
Indoor Track
Male Sports Programs
Varsity Baseball
JV Baseball
Freshman Baseball
Track and Field
Varsity Lacrosse
JV Lacrosse
Varsity Tennis
JV Tennis
Female Sport Programs
Varsity Field Hockey
JV Field Hockey
9th Grade Field Hockey
Varsity Tennis
JV Tennis
Cross Country
Varsity Volleyball
JV Volleyball
Varsity Cheerleading
JV Cheerleading
Varsity Soccer
JV Soccer
Female Sport Programs
Varsity Basketball
JV Basketball
Freshman Basketball
Swimming/Diving
Varsity Cheerleading
JV Cheerleading
Indoor Track
SPRING
Co-Ed
Female Sport Programs
Varsity Softball
JV Softball
Freshman Softball
Track and Field
Varsity Lacrosse
JV Lacrosse
Freshman Lacrosse
Athletics Eligibility
Pay to Participate Fee
The Board shall maintain the program of extracurricular and athletic activities at no cost to participating
students, except that participating students will pay an annual activity fee. The amount of the fee to be paid will
be set annually by the Board. Activities covered shall include all middle and high school interscholastic
athletics and school musicals, and high school marching band and fall play.
The fee will now be known as a "Pay to Participate Fee," that will be assessed only to secondary students who participate
in the extracurricular programming including:
 All MHS athletics
 The MHS Marching Band (includes Jazz Band, Winter Guard, and Winter Percussion)
 The MHS play and musical
3. While the fee will continue to apply only to grades 7-12, it will now be assessed PER STUDENT, as opposed to
per family.
4. Fees for participating students will be:
 $75 - one-time fee for MHS students who participate in one or more sports, and/or applicable activities at
MHS (see above).
Students will be considered INELIGIBLE for their activity or sport if the fee is not paid within the designated two
week grace period after the official start of the athletic season or activity - a detailed schedule can be found here
http://www.methacton.org/688010818154615270/lib/688010818154615270/activity_fee_DATES.pdf
Students who qualify for the free and reduced lunch program will not be expected to pay the fee. No student shall be
denied participation in extracurricular or athletic activities due to their inability to pay the fee. Families with financial
concerns may contact the office of the Assistant Principal Paul Spiewak (pspiewak@methacton.org or 610-489-5000, ext.
25054) to determine if other arrangements may be made for payment of the fee.
All of this information is available on the methactonwarriors.org and methacton.org sites. You can find frequently asked
questions at www.methacton.org/studentactivityfee . If you continue to have questions or concerns, please call the
athletics/activities office at 610-489-5054.
Curriculum Requirements
To be eligible to participate in athletics, students must pursue a program of studies defined and approved by the principal
as a “full-time curriculum.” That curriculum must conform to regulations of the State Board of Education, the
Pennsylvania School Code and policies of the Methacton School District.
Eligibility Reporting
All coaches will submit a list of students involved in their programs to the Athletic Office as soon as their group members
are established. Teachers will report eligibility to the athletic office on a weekly basis for all athletic teams in season.
Weekly Eligibility Requirements
All students must be cumulatively passing the marking quarter. A student will be ineligible to participate if they are not
pasting four credits. An incomplete is counted as a failure.
Period of Ineligibility – Weekly Requirements:
A student will be ineligible to participate in any part of the activity (practice, performance or competition) until he/she is
eligible academically – a minimum of one week.
Report Card Eligibility Requirements
To maintain eligibility, sports team members must be passing four credits (or the equivalent) in any single marking
period. (1/2 credit semester courses are equivalent to a one credit full year course for this purpose.) Withdrawal/Failure
from any subject continues as a failure for the full year with regard to eligibility. If a student has not passed four credits or
more at the end of a marking period, they will be ineligible to participate in athletics for a period of 15 school days.
Period of Ineligibility – Report Card Requirements
A student will be ineligible to participate in any part of the activity (practice, performance or competition) beginning the
day following report card distribution. This period of ineligibility will extend a minimum of 15 school days.
Beginning of the Year Eligibility Requirements
In order to be eligible to participate in athletics, students must be on grade level and have passed a minimum of four (4)
credits by the beginning of the new school year. Grade level is defined in the Program Planning Guide under graduation
requirements.
Period of Ineligibility – Beginning of the Year Requirements
Students will not be denied the opportunity to try out for an athletic team in the fall. However, once the school year starts,
a student who has not met beginning-of-the-year eligibility requirements will be ineligible to participate in any part of the
activity for fifteen (15) school days.
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Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) Eligibility Rules
Participation in interscholastic athletics is strictly regulated according to the By-laws of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic
Athletic Association. A complete copy of the PIAA Handbook is available in the Activities Office for review. For your
information, some of the more important rules are quoted here:
I. AGE: Senior High School
“A pupil shall be ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition upon attaining the age of 19 years with the
following exception: If the age of 19 is attained on or after July 1st, the pupil shall be eligible to compete through
the school year.”
II. ATTENDANCE
“A pupil who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of twenty or more school days shall not be
eligible to participate in any athletic contest until he has been in attendance for a total of sixty school days
following his twentieth day of absence except that where there is a consecutive absence of five or more school
days, due to confining illness, injury, death in the immediate family as defined in Section 1154 of the Public
School Code of 1949, as amended, court subpoena, quarantine, or an absence of five or more school days due to
the same confining illness, such absence may be waived from the application of this rule by the District
Committee. Attendance at summer schools does not count toward the sixty days required.”
III. CONSENT OF PARENT
“A pupil shall be eligible for practice of participation in each sport only when there is on file with the principal a
certificate of consent which is signed by his parent or guardian.”
IV. HEALTH
To be eligible to participate in any athletics for the 2009-2010 school year, the athlete must have completed a
Comprehensive Initial Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (CIPPE) after June 1, 2010. CIPPE forms are
available in the Athletic Office.
Once completed, the CIPPE is valid for any or all of the three consecutive sports seasons of the 2011-2012 school
year – but only for the 2011-2012 school year. All CIPPE’s completed for the 2011-2012 school year
(regardless of when completed during the year) will become invalid after May 31, 2012. Students who wish to
participate the next year (2012-2013) will have to redo the CIPPE procedure again after June 1, 2012.
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Methacton Athletic Department General Discipline Policy
Rights/Responsibilities and Expectations
1. Every athlete who represents Methacton School District on an athletic team is expected to conduct himself/herself in
such a manner as to reflect credit upon both the individual and Methacton.
2. Every athlete must remember that they are a student first, and an athlete second. Participation in athletics is a
privilege granted to the student, not a right guaranteed to them.
3. Being a member of an athletic team does not entitle a student to any special privileges in school. Rather, it may carry
an increased expectation of good school citizenship in the face of peer pressure. Athletes are expected to set examples
of appropriate behavior and cooperation.
4. Students afforded the privilege of athletic participation must assume that these responsibilities accompany them at all
times.
Athletic Discipline
1. Possession and/or use of controlled substances, anabolic steroids, or alcoholic beverages by an athlete at any time will
result in Athletic Probation consisting of fifteen (15) practice days or to the completion of the sport season, whichever
comes first. While on Athletic Probation, the athlete is expected to attend every practice and team obligation, but
he/she is barred from participating in any contest(s) during the probationary period. The coach may reinstate the
athlete to full team membership at the end of this probationary period if expectations are met to the coaches’
satisfaction. Behavior and attitude during this time of probation may influence the amount of playing time afforded
the athlete when the suspension is lifted.
2. Students whose offense(s) occur in or outside of their respective season, must appear before the Athletic Review
Board to be eligible for reinstatement to the athletic program for the current or subsequent seasons. If outside of the
athlete’s competitive season, he/she may be subject to serving an Athletic Probation consisting of fifteen (15) practice
days from the outset of any future athletic participation.
3. The coach of each team may establish additional rules and procedures that he/she expects his/her team members to
follow. The coach may also establish disciplinary action for a breech in these rules and procedures. The use of
tobacco or any other substance harmful to the athlete’s person or which will not permit the athlete to perform at
his/her highest level of potential is strongly discouraged and may be punishable by his/her coach.
4. Any player dismissed or suspended from a team for violation of this policy loses the privilege of participating on any
other team during the season.
5. Involvement in the possession or use of controlled substances by an athlete may result in further consequences by
school administrators and the local police agency.
NOTE: If an athlete is found to be involved with any Off-Campus Activities involving Controlled
Substances, Board Policy 227 allows the policy to be applied as a violation of the Code of Student Conduct if:
1. There is a nexus between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the student's
attendance at school or school-sponsored activities. Pol. 122, 123
2. The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular offcampus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities.
3. Student expression or conduct materially and substantially disrupts the operations of the school, or
the administration reasonably anticipates that the expression or conduct is likely to materially and
substantially disrupt the operations of the school.
4. The conduct has a direct nexus to attendance at school or a school-sponsored activity, such as an
agreement to complete a transaction outside of school that would violate the Code of Student
Conduct.
5. The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of school property.
Athletic Review Board
The following offenses will require that the student submit a written request of the Athletic Director for review by the
Athletic Review Board before the student may participate in subsequent sports seasons, or continue in their present sport
season:
1. Dismissal or suspension from an athletic team for any reason, including the use of controlled substance, anabolic
steroids and/or alcoholic beverages.
2. Suspension from school for (3) three or more days.
3. Any action that causes a student to be retained in the Juvenile Probation System or to be convicted/cited/involved
in any criminal/illegal activity.
Interscholastic Sports Program
The Senior High School is a member of the Pioneer Athletic Conference. Other members of our league are: Perkiomen
Valley, Upper Perkiomen, Pottsgrove, Phoenixville, Springford, Pottstown, Owen J. Roberts, Boyertown, and Pope John
Paul II. The sports program includes varsity, junior varsity and freshmen competition in the Sports Listing above.
Sportsmanship
Conduct During Athletic Contests
The following rules, if followed, may mean a great deal to your school:
1. Neither team nor individual players should be booed.
2. The decisions of the referee should be accepted without comment.
3. “Rough” or “dirty play” by contestants from your own school or other schools should not be applauded or
condoned.
4. Good plays by either team should be recognized and applauded.
5. Good sportsmanship should always be our goal. The name and prestige of our school is worth far more than the
winning of any athletic contest.
6. The following items may not be brought into outside athletic activities: Derogatory signs, noisemakers of any
kind – including sirens, bugles, horns, bells, drums, whistles, etc.
7. The following items may not be brought into indoor activities: derogatory signs, banners, flags, pennants, confetti,
streamers, shakeroos, horns, whistles, drums, etc.
8. The same courteous behavior and display for good sportsmanship is expected of all spectators
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School Procedures
North Montco Technical Career Center (NMTCC) Procedures
Transportation is provided to and from NMTCC. These students are required to ride the bus. There may be assigned
seating on the bus. Misconduct on the bus will result in disciplinary action and may result in removal from NMTCC.
Any student who misses the NMTCC bus will be assigned to the ISS room. Suspension from either the home school or
NMTCC automatically results in suspension from both schools. In the event of a two-hour delay, Session I NMTCC
students will have the option of arriving later in the morning. Any NMTCC student who misses homeroom and goes
directly to the bus must check in at the attendance office immediately upon their return to the high school.
Fire/Security Drills
Methacton School District has developed plans to effectively respond to several different crisis scenarios. Procedures
involving fire drills, evacuations and sheltering are all reviewed and practiced. Fire drill exits are posted in each room.
Locks and Lockers
Coat and book lockers are provided for every student. These are assigned as close as possible to the student’s homeroom.
During the first week of school, lockers and combination numbers will be issued. It is important that students do not
reveal their locker combination to any other person or leave valuables in their lockers. All lockers are and shall remain
the property of the school district. As such, students shall have no expectation of privacy in their lockers. The Board
authorizes its superintendent or principals or designees of either administrator to inspect a student’s locker when the
administrator has reason to suspect that the locker is improperly used for the storage of contraband, a substance or object,
the possession of which on school property is illegal, or any material which poses a hazard to the safety and good order of
the school. The Board also authorizes the use of canine, “sniff”, searches or the use of other detection devices to identify
lockers that should be opened to be searched.
Telephones
Telephones are available for student use during school hours only with main office approval. No student will be called
to the telephone during school hours except in an emergency. The office will contact students who receive emergency
messages from home. In the event of an emergency you will be notified by school district personnel.
Visitors Regulations
Methacton students are NOT permitted to bring visitors to school during the school day. Visitors may come to the
building after 2:20. Please check in at the main office.
Student Photographs/ID Badges
Student photographs are taken each year. Student ID badges are also produced during this photograph session. The ID
badge must be worn at all times and will be used for school event ticket purchases, admittance to most school activities
and for library checkouts. For safety and security reasons, all students need to wear their school-issued ID badge daily.
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Six-Day Cycle
Methacton High School operates on a six-day cycle schedule. Each day is lettered from A to F rather than identified by
the weekday name.
Internet Acceptable Use Policy
It is general policy of the Methacton School District that network services are to be used in a responsible, efficient,
ethical, and legal manner in accordance with the mission of the Methacton School District. Users of the Methacton
School District network must acknowledge their understanding of the general policy and guidelines as a condition of
using the network. The term network refers to any internal or external use of computers at Methacton including the
Internet, email, and any other online services.
Use of the Methacton School District network services is a privilege, not a right. Failure to adhere to this policy and
administrative procedures may result in suspension or revocation of network access. Willful or intentional misuse could
lead to disciplinary action or criminal penalties under applicable state and federal law. Students will Print this form
from this document and MUST return it to the school.
Emergency Closing
In the event that school must be closed, local radio and television stations will broadcast the announcement of our
emergency closing. Please refrain from telephoning the school. Instead, listen to KYW for announcements. Our school
will be identified by the number 316.
The Methacton School District utilizes the Alert-Now System of emergency notification in the event of a weather related
school schedule change. In the event of a school closing, early dismissal or late arrival, you will be notified via the two
primary phone numbers and primary email provided to the District on your Alert-Now signup sheet. Families who did not
complete a form will be notified via the primary phone number they provided on their emergency card update.
If you wish to obtain a sign up form, you may contact the main office, or download one from the website under “MSD
Families.” For KYW News radio 1060 listeners, Methacton School District’s code number for snow and other
emergency school closings is 316. Up-to-date information regarding school cancellations, delays, or early dismissals is
also available by watching the Lower Providence Township Community Access Channel on Comcast Cable channel 28 or
visiting the District’s website at www.methacton.org.
Lost and Found
The Lost and Found Department is located in the main office and the cafeteria. After a reasonable length of time,
unclaimed articles will be discarded or donated to an appropriate local charitable organization.
School Sponsored Field Trips
Written parent permission is necessary for any student going on a school sponsored field trip. School rules and
regulations apply when students are participating in a school sponsored field trip.
Curriculum Support Room (CSR) Guidelines
The CSR is a space designed to provide help in all our core subjects to any student wanting or requiring additional time
with an instructor. This space provides access to computers/printers, instructional help in English, Math, Social Studies,
or Science, peer tutoring, make-up quizzes/tests, extended time (when permitted by IEP) for quizzes and tests, help with
organization or study skills, study guides, study-buddies, and more. This space is open at 7:10 AM (by appointment) until
the end of the school day at 3:00PM (2:20 on Fridays). All you need to come down and use the facility is a pass signed by
your study hall teacher.
Study Hall Guidelines
Students are expected to work on academics while in Study Hall. As such, card playing and other game playing is not
appropriate. Students who wish to be excused from study hall to serve as aides to teachers must first complete a
permanent pass form, which will be issued by the study hall teacher. Students may also access the Library and the
Curriculum Support Room (CSR) during any study hall on a day-by-day basis or on a permanent level. All students
leaving the study hall must have a pass for the day or a permanent pass form must be filled out for each semester.
Obligations
It is expected that all student obligations be met fully and promptly. Outstanding obligations will place a student on
disciplinary probation. In addition, students with unresolved obligations at the end of the year will not be issued a report
card or diploma.
Remaining After School
Students may not remain after school except for participation in school-related activities such as academics, sports or
detention. Students must be under the direct supervision of a teacher or coach. At the conclusion of the period of direct
supervision, students are to report directly to the main lobby to await a ride. There is no longer a late bus for
transportation. Failure to comply with these procedures will result in the student being placed on disciplinary probation
and the revocation of all after-school privileges.
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Parking/Transportation
Automobiles, Driving and Parking
Seniors are eligible to apply for parking privileges on the Methacton student lot on half of the days school is in session.
Parking limitations are necessitated by the fact that the senior class numbers over 460 while only 256 student parking
spaces exist. We are unable to make exceptions to the parking policy as it is the only equitable way for us to provide
equal opportunity to a senior privilege. Students who are enrolled in Pre-Career, Bio-Tech, and Allied Health are not
provided with district transportation and must submit paperwork for parking during the registration days so they can drive
as necessitated by their academic schedule.
Seniors will have to choose from two different sticker plans.
 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday first semester and Tuesday and Thursday the second semester
-OR Tuesday and Thursday first semester and Monday, Wednesday, and Friday second semester
Each registered student driver will be assigned a numbered parking space based on the order of registration. The vehicle
registered at that time will be the only vehicle permitted to park in that space on the assigned day.
Vehicle registration will be conducted as follows:
 On the day of registration, any student wishing to register his/her vehicle MUST be physically present at
Methacton High School and present the following:
1. The MHS registration card with complete information including parent/guardian signature,
2. PA vehicle registration form and insurance card,
3. a valid PA driver’s license.
 The registration packet MUST be completed and turned in at the time the vehicle is registered.
 No exceptions will be made.
** Registration continues throughout the year as seniors acquire licensure and access to a family registered vehicle. By
signing the MHS registration form, each student and his/her parent/guardian acknowledge that all documentation provided
for registration is true and accurate and that the student and his/her parent/guardian accept the terms and conditions of
parking privileges as established by Methacton School District Board of Directors policy.
Driving an automobile to school is a privilege limited to students in senior homerooms only. To ensure that 1) all seniors
get to drive, and 2) seniors get to drive from September through June, the following driving policy will be in effect:
 Rising seniors will be provided with the necessary information and forms in June. At registration (in September), the
student will be asked to choose from one of two specific stickers. One will allow the student to park Monday,
Wednesday and Friday in semester one and Tuesday and Thursday during semester two. The other sticker will
represent the opposite. (Tuesday and Thursday first semester, Monday, etc. second) Both sticker sales will be capped
at 230. Students with outstanding, unpaid driving violations will not be registered.
 Students are not permitted to use their assigned space or any other space on opposite days that do not fall under their
sticker. In rare emergencies a temporary pass may be obtained from the assistant principals’ office, a day in advance
when possible. Any driver who fails to secure an emergency pass and display it on his/her dashboard prior to the start
of the school day at 7:35 will be responsible for paying any fines associated with unapproved parking.
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Students will be limited to one registered vehicle and accompanying sticker only.
Students violating this policy, or parking on school property in unauthorized areas, will lose privileges for the
remainder of the semester. Underclassman violating this policy will lose senior parking privileges. Misuse of student
vehicle/illegal parking will subject students to fines and could result in ultimate removal of driving privileges. If you
are eligible and plan to drive to school, submit a completed registration card to those who are assigned to sell stickers
and register vehicles. Registration cards are available in the assistant principal’s suite.
The cost of the sticker is $5. A sticker must be purchased and permanently affixed to the left side rear window.
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Bus Regulations/Conduct
School buses are operated on a regular schedule. The Pupil Transportation Policy of the Board of School Directors of the
Methacton School District states in part, “The school bus driver shall not permit any live animals, firearms, explosives or
anything of a dangerous or objectionable nature on the bus. Gym bags, band instruments, school projects or items of this
nature will be permitted on the school bus provided they can be held on the student’s lap without endangering the safety
of other pupils.” It has been determined that the following musical instruments/accessories cannot be held safely and,
therefore, shall not be transported: baritone sax, baritone horn, base trombone, cello, drums, electric bass, electric piano,
marimba, mellophone, sousaphone, string bass, tuba, vibraharp, xylophone, amplifier system.
Students must obey state bus regulations and cooperate with bus drivers at all times. While on the bus they are
responsible directly to the driver. The following procedures shall be administered in regard to student discipline on all
Methacton School District buses and at bus stops:
1. For a report of misconduct, the building administrator will reprimand the student. This could include loss of bus
privileges, detention, and in some cases, legal action. The school will insist that the students understand and
agree to abide by the rules of conduct. Parents will be notified in writing by mail of this offense and action taken.
2. For a report on continued misconduct, the building administrator may suspend the bus privileges for a period of
time. In such cases, a parent(s) may be required to come to school for a conference before bus privileges are
restored. The driver may or may not be present for this conference.
3. Further misconduct may be cause for an “indefinite” suspension of that student’s bus privileges. Any such
determination will occur only following a formal hearing with the pupil, parent(s) or guardian in attendance
before a committee of the Board of School Directors. NOTE: Students whose bus privileges are suspended are
not excluded from school attendance. Absenteeism will constitute an illegal absence.
4. Any offense of a serious nature may result in immediate suspension.
The Methacton School District Board of School Directors has authorized the use of video/audio cameras on school district
buses. These cameras can record both what is said and done on buses. The video/audio cameras will be used to monitor
student behavior, to maintain order on the school buses, and to promote and maintain a safe environment.
Students and parents are hereby notified that the content of the tapes may be used in a student disciplinary proceeding.
The contents of the tapes are confidential student records and will be safeguarded. Tapes will be retained only if
necessary for use in a student disciplinary proceeding or other matter as determined necessary by the administration.
Parents may request to review the tapes of their child if the tapes are used in a disciplinary proceeding involving their
child.
The school bus driver is responsible for driving the school bus safely in accordance with all the rules and regulations
established by the state and local authorities. His/her full attention must be devoted to the operation of the vehicle and the
observation of traffic conditions.
Local Regulations:
 While waiting for school buses at assigned stops, pupils must not play games on the street or highway, enter onto
private property, or misbehave in any manner.
 Pupils must wait for the bus to come to a full stop before attempting to get on the bus or before getting up form
the seat to get off the bus.
 Pupils are not to put hands, arms, legs or any part of the body out of the window, or tamper with the bus or any of
its equipment.
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When boarding buses, students are to go immediately to a seat, and remain there until the bus comes to a halt at
their assigned stop.
Eating on the bus in not allowed.
Only students assigned to a particular bus may ride the bus. Students wishing to ride another bus for a special
reason must present a note to the bus driver. The note must be signed by an administrator.
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations:
1. Only eligible pupils and school personnel, authorized by the Board of School Directors, are permitted to ride the
school bus.
2. Pupils will not be authorized to get off at a stop other than their assigned stop unless they have permission from a
proper school authority.
3. Trash will not be thrown in or around the neither bus, nor are any articles to be thrown out of the bus windows.
4. The school bus driver is in full charge of the pupils while they are riding the bus. The driver has the same
responsibility as the classroom teacher.
5. The use of alcoholic beverages or any habit forming drugs is never permitted at any time on a school bus by
driver, pupil or any passengers.
6. School bus drivers or students are not permitted to use tobacco in any form while on a school bus.
7. School bus drivers shall not allow gym bags, band instruments and related items, or any school project to be
placed in aisles or areas near entrance door. Items of this nature must be held on pupil’s lap without endangering
the safety of other people.
These rules will be strictly enforced. In the event of misbehavior on a school bus, drivers are to report incidents
immediately to the Transportation Supervisor, who will refer the report to the proper school official for action.
Principals, or their authorized representatives, are responsible for disciplinary actions to correct any misconduct
on a school bus.
Since there will not be a late bus run this year, we encourage students to arrange for a ride to pick them up
immediately following their school business.
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PARENTS OF EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN
The Methacton School District provides special education and related service to resident children with
disabilities who are ages three through twenty-one. The purpose of this notice is to describe (1) the types of
disabilities that might qualify the child for such programs and services, (2) the special education programs and
related services that are available, (3) the process by which the Methacton School District screens and
evaluates such students to determine eligibility, and (4) the special rights that pertain to such children and their
parents or legal guardians.
The Methacton School District also offers services in the form of acceleration or enrichment, for students who
are identified by a gifted multidisciplinary team (“GMDT”) as “mentally gifted.”
Please click here to download the MSD Notification of Special Education Services.
SCHOOL RECORDS
The Methacton School District maintains records concerning all children enrolled in public school, including
students with disabilities.
The Methacton School District Records Policy (please reference page 6-7 of the MSD Notice of Special
Education Services) permits a student’s school records to be forwarded to another school, Intermediate Unit,
or State Educational Agency either with parental permission or without such permission if the student is
enrolled in another educational setting and is no longer a student in Methacton schools.
Parents are hereby notified that necessary student records will be forwarded to the school where the child is
enrolled, upon request of the receiving school. Parents have the right to examine student records and to be
given a copy if desired. Written parental permission to forward records will be obtained whenever possible.
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High School
Responsible Use Agreement
The Methacton School District offers students access to network services to support the district's vision and mission. Many of
the essential tools for teaching and learning in the 21st century require internet access. While the Internet can be used as an
extension of the classroom, it also presents potential risks to student safety. Students and staff members have the responsibility
to respect and protect the rights of every other user in the district and on the Internet.
Listed below are guidelines that outline responsible use for equipment and personal devices that are used on school property.
Students are responsible for appropriate behavior online just as they are in a classroom or any other area of the school. All
network users are required to read and abide by this agreement as well as all provisions contained in School Board Policy 815
– Acceptable Use of Internet.
I WILL:
 Only use the computers and internet searches for school-related purposes.
 Be responsible with the school's equipment and treat it with care.
 Create or type appropriate things that I only would want my parents and teachers to see.
 Keep my usernames and passwords to myself to respect and protect the privacy of myself and others.
 Communicate only in ways that are kind and respectful.
 Do work on my computer without distracting the people sitting near me.
 Notify a teacher or staff member if I notice someone who is not being a responsible user.
 Notify a teacher if I notice broken equipment.
 Tell a teacher if I receive a hurtful message online while in school.
 Use safe usernames and passwords when directed to create them by my teacher.
 Cite my sources for all information taken from the Internet or other media sources.
 Watch out for online scams, posers and impersonators.
 Have an adult’s permission to download files or print.
I WILL NOT:
 Use School technology to share my private information or picture/video image with other students or anyone else online.
 Use School technology to reproduce or distribute private information or picture/video image of any other person online.
 Type my full name, address, or any other personal/school information on the Internet without my teacher’s or parent’s
permission.
 Use or access School technology to engage in communication which is offensive, lewd, inflammatory; or to harass, bully or
intimidate other students or staff; or which promotes or encourages illegal conduct.
 Pretend to be someone else online or use someone else's login.
 Intentionally click on advertisements or suspicious links.
 Copy information that I find and pretend it is my own (plagiarize).
 Intentionally move, change, or delete someone else's file on the network.
 Bully or treat someone with disrespect online.
 Use pictures or other media from the Internet without proper citation (violate copyright law).
 Change computer settings or damage computer equipment on purpose.
 Register on a new site unless I have my teacher’s permission.
I UNDERSTAND:
 It is my responsibility to read and follow the terms in this Responsible Use Agreement.
 Any personal device on school property must conform to all aspects of responsible use. When brought onto school property,
these devices are subject to search and may be confiscated pending review of appropriate disciplinary action.
 Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators, school site administrators and teachers
may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are using the system responsibly.
Files stored on district servers are not private nor will they be maintained indefinitely.
 The computers and network belong to the District. Using them is a privilege, not a right.
 The computers, network, and printers may not work every day.
 The things that I do on a school computer or network are not private. My teachers and/or District staff members may review
my work and activities at any time.
 I may not be allowed to use the computers or District network if I break these rules.
Please electronically sign this form
by September 14, 2012. Failure to do
so may result in your forfeiture of
computer privileges while in school.
September 2011
I,
(Print Student Name Here)
have accessed and read the Methacton High School
Student/Parent Handbook and the “High School Responsible Use Agreement” and understand my
rights and responsibilities as outlined in these two documents. My signature below indicates that I
have read and understand these two documents.
______________________________
Student’s Printed Name
_______________________________
Student Signature
______________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Printed Name
_______________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature