SEWANHAKA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
“A National District of Excellence”
ELMONT MEMORIAL
HIGH SCHOOL
“A Nationally Recognized School of Excellence”
STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2011-2012
ELMONT MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
“A Nationally Recognized School of Excellence”
MISSION STATEMENT OF ELMONT MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
We believe that the purpose of Elmont Memorial High School is to effect an
environment where learning takes place. We are dedicated to academic
achievement, the development of academic and personal values, and the
cultivation of individual strengths and talents in a supportive environment for
our diverse, multinational student body. This learning process results from a
covenant between the students and those involved in their education:
teachers, parents, administrators, support staff and community members.
Building Administration
Mr. John Capozzi, Principal
Mr. Brian Burke, Assistant Principal
Ms. Alicia Calabrese, Assistant Principal
Dr. Edward Thomas, Assistant Principal
Curriculum Departments
Mr. Chris Yee, Art Department Chairperson
Mr. Scott Greene, Business Department Chairperson
Ms. Dayna Sotirhos, English Department Chairperson
Ms. Caron Cox, Guidance Department Chairperson
Ms. Kimberly Bramfeld, Library Department Chairperson
Ms. Irina Kimyagarov, Math Department Chairperson
Ms. Eileen Kramer, Music Department Chairperson
Mr. Peter Gaffney, Physical Education Department Chairperson
Ms. Regina Huffman, Science Department Chairperson
Dr. Baytoram Ramharack, Social Studies Department Chairperson
Ms. Marian O’Connor, Special Education Department Chairperson
Dr. Judith Toussaint, World Languages Department Chairperson
Deans
Ms. Terri Ianniello, Dean of Students, Grades 7 and 8
Mr. Matthew Reyer, Dean of Students, Grades 7 and 8
Mr. Brian Suckle, Dean of Students, Grades 10 and 12
Mr. Kevin Sullivan, Dean of Students, Grades 9 and 11
Attendance
Mr. Michael Graham
Student Activities
Ms. Patricia Justin
Head Custodian
Mr. Arthur Pearsall
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Principal’s Greeting………………………………………………………………………………………………
1
Welcome…………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
2
Administrative Assignments……………………………………………………………………………………..
3
Attendance………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
3
Student Bill of Rights & Responsibilities……………………………………………………………………….
3
Student Dress Code………………………………………………………………………………………………
4
Cafeteria Service…………………………………………………………………………………………………...
4
Co-Curricular Activities ………………………………………………………………………………………...
4
Athletic Programs………………………………………………………………………………………………..
6
Cutting Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
7
Early Release for Students………………………………………………………………………………………
7
Eligibility for Activities…………………………………………………………………………………………..
7
False Reporting…………………………………………………………………………………………………...
8
Field Trips…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
8
Free and Reduced Lunch…………………………………………………………………………………………
8
Grading Procedures………………………………………………………………………………………………
9
Health Services……………………………………………………………………………………………………
10
Honor Roll………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
11
Honor Society…….……………………………………………………………………………………………….
11
Lateness Policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………
11
Library……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
12
Lockers……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
12
Lost and Found…………………………………………………………………………………………………..
12
Project Welcome…………………………………………………………………………………………………
12
Schedule Change Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………
13
School Conduct………………………………………………………………………………………………….
13
Saturday Detention………………………………………………………………………………………………
14
Suspensions………………………………………………………………………………………………………
14
School Discipline…………………………………………………………………………………………………
14
Page
School Hours……………………………………………………………………………………………………..
15
School Store………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 16
Secondary Testing Program………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
Security……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
17
Sexual Harassment…………………………………………………………………………………………………... 17
Student Identification Cards………………………………………………………………………………………… 17
Technology Policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 17
Visitor Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18
Working Papers……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 18
Special Sections:
*Graduation Requirements……………………………………………………………………………….. 20
*Summary of the Student Code of Conduct……………………………………………………………… 22
*Summary of the District Attendance Policy…………………………………………………………….. 24
*Equal Educational Opportunity…………………………………………………………………………. 25
ELMONT MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
“A Nationally Recognized School of Excellence”
Dear Students and Parents:
Elmont Memorial High School is one of the five outstanding schools of the Sewanhaka Central
High School District. The district also includes Floral Park Memorial High School, H. Frank
Carey High School, New Hyde Park Memorial High School, and Sewanhaka High School. The
district, long recognized for its educational leadership, is truly AN ENVIRONMENT OF
EXCELLENCE.
Elmont Memorial is particularly proud of its strong academic reputation. We have a 96%
graduation rate and a 96% college attendance rate. This year’s graduating class has carefully
amassed over $6.1 million in college scholarship money. In addition, 95% of our graduates have
been awarded a New York State Regents diploma and 47% have been awarded an Advanced
Regents Dipolma. These impressive academic accomplishments are the results of the special
level of care and nurturing that every child at Elmont Memorial receives.
We are delighted to distribute the Elmont Memorial High School Student/Parent Handbook. It
is the result of a great deal of input by students, staff, and parents. The material presented
herein represents a number of new policy updates that will benefit all of our students.
Please take the time to review the table of contents. A quick glance will indicate the wide
variety of information at your fingertips. This information is necessary to ensure a positive
educational experience here at Elmont Memorial.
Be assured that the entire staff has accepted the responsibility of giving the children of the
Elmont and Valley Stream community the very best education possible. Keep in mind that the
success of a school is dependent upon the support of faculty, students, and parents alike. Keep
in touch with staff and the PTSA: communication contributes to student achievement.
As a National School of Excellence and cited as a benchmark high school by The Magellan
Foundation, we feel confident that the best education possible is available for you at Elmont
Memorial High School.
Sincerely,
John Capozzi
Principal
1
WELCOME
It is always very exciting to prepare and distribute a revised student handbook. This signals the
start of a school year filled with improved programs, new hopes, and fresh dreams. The student
handbook provides vital information on all activities, rules, and school procedures. It is a handy
reference designed to answer some of the most common questions about our exciting school.
It is through the collaborative efforts of teachers, students, parents and administrators that we are
able to bring this extensive handbook to our Elmont Community. Please take a moment to
review all of the enclosed information. Your understanding of this information will assure our
continued excellence and, of course, your own personal success while at Elmont Memorial High
School.
Enclosed you will find valuable information on everything from attendance to extra-curricular
activities and grading policies.
The Student/Parent Handbook Committee
Mr. Brian Burke
Ms. Dania Barrera
Ms. Lenora Elliot
Mr. Peter Gaffney
Mr. Michael Graham
Ms. Irina Kimyagarov
Mr. Frank Nuara
Ms. Jessica Torres
Mr. Chris Yee
Students:
Ashley McCarthy
Qusarn Caldwell
2
ADMINISTRATIVE GRADE ASSIGNMENTS
Elmont Memorial has a dedicated main office staff of administrators that is committed to
meeting the needs of our student population. In an effort to develop close personal relationships,
however, a specific Assistant Principal and Dean has been assigned to deal with each grade of
students.
Mr. Brian Burke, Assistant Principal
Mr. Brian Suckle, Dean
-
10th and 12th grades
Ms. Alicia Calabrese, Assistant Principal
Ms. Terri Ianniello, Dean
Mr. Matthew Reyer, Dean
-
7th and 8th grades
Dr. Edward Thomas, Assistant Principal
Mr. Kevin Sullivan, Dean
-
9th and 11th grades
ATTENDANCE
Arriving to class on time and prepared every day is the best way to ensure success in school.
Illegal absences from class (cuts) are not only against school policy, but also affect a student’s
academic achievement and extra curricular participation. It is imperative that every parent and
child read and understand the Sewanhaka Central High School District’s attendance policy. For
more information, please see the special section on the attendance policy on page 24. It is also
important to understand that illegal absences will not be tolerated at Elmont Memorial High
School. A brief description of the consequences of cutting follows:




An illegal absence (cut) will result in a cutting detention.
A cutting detention must be served from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. on the day it is received.
A parent will be notified after each cut.
Five cuts in any class will result in a parent meeting with the appropriate
administrator.
STUDENT BILL OF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. To be in regular attendance at school and in class on time.
2. To conduct themselves in a proper manner abiding by all district policies, rules and
regulations when participating in or attending school sponsored co-curricular events.
3. To work to the best of their abilities in all academic and co-curricular pursuits.
4. To maintain an environment that is conducive to learning and to show due respect to
other persons and to property.
5. To follow the posted classroom rules.
6. To take part in all district activities on an equal basis regardless of race, sex, or
national origin.
7. To take part in all school activities unless suspended or ineligible.
3
STUDENT DRESS CODE
All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress
appropriately for school and school functions. A student’s dress, grooming and appearance,
including hair style/color, jewelry, make-up and nails, shall:
 Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.
 Recognize that extremely brief garments and see-through garments are not appropriate.
Students cannot wear shirts with very thin straps, tube tops, backless shirts, halter tops,
extremely short skirts, pajamas, hats, bandanas, do-rags, and jewelry or items of clothing
with sharp, pointed edges, flags or clothing that depicts flags of other countries,
costumes, or coats in the classrooms.
 Ensure that underwear is completely covered with outer clothing.
 Ensure that pants are worn at the hips.
 Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be allowed.
 Not include the wearing of hats except for a medical or religious reason.
 Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous or denigrate others on account of
race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
 Not promote and/or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs and/or encourage
violent activities.
Students who violate the dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering up
or removing the offending item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline
up to and including school suspension.
CAFETERIA SERVICE
Our cafeteria is open from 7:15 a.m.-7:50 a.m. for breakfast, and during periods 4 through 8 for
lunch. The menu offers a full complement of food, snacks, and drinks for our students and staff.
All food must be eaten in the cafeteria. In an effort to provide a clean environment, food will
not be permitted out of the cafeteria for any reason.
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The following clubs, activities, and sports are available to Elmont Memorial High School
students:
GOVERNMENT
Class Boards
Student Government
Grades 7 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
ACADEMIC ORGANIZATIONS
Business Honor Society
Computer Club
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Global Links
International Culture Club
Mathletes (Junior High)
4
Grades 11 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
Grades 7 – 9
Mathletes (Senior High)
Math Honor Society
Model United Nations
National Art Honor Society
National Jr. Honor Society
National Sr. Honor Society
Portfolio Preparation
Science Honor Society
Science Research
Tri-M National Music Honor Society
World Language Honor Society
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 9 – 10
Grades 11 – 12
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 10 – 12
SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS
Big Brothers/Big Sisters Club
Builders Club
Key Club
MSG Varsity Club
SADD
Stage Crew
Grades 11 – 12
Grades 7 – 9
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
PERFORMING ARTS GROUPS
Audio Tech Club
Dance Band
Dance Team
Drama (Junior High)
Drama (Senior High)
Jazz Choir
Junior High Jazz Band
Senior High Band
Marching Band
String Ensemble
Junior High Choir
School Musical
Sparks
Stage Crew
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 11 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
Grades 7 – 9
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 7 – 8
Grades 10 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 7 – 8
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 9 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
PUBLICATIONS
The Olympian
The Phoenix
Grades 11 – 12
Grades 7 – 12
5
ATHLETIC PROGRAMS
FALL SEASON
Varsity Cross Country
Jr. High Cross Country
Varsity Football
J. V. Football
Jr. High Football
Varsity Soccer
J.V. Soccer
Jr. High Soccer
Varsity Volleyball
J.V. Volleyball
Varsity Soccer
J.V. Soccer
Jr. High Soccer
Varsity Swimming
Varsity Tennis
Varsity Volleyball
J.V. Volleyball
Varsity Golf
(BOYS)
(BOYS)
(BOYS)
(BOYS)
(BOYS)
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
WINTER SPORTS PROGRAM
Varsity Basketball
(BOYS)
J.V. Basketball
(BOYS)
Jr. High Basketball
(BOYS)
Varsity Basketball
(GIRLS)
J.V. Basketball
(GIRLS)
Jr. High Basketball
(GIRLS)
Jr. High Volleyball
(GIRLS)
Jr. High Volleyball
(BOYS)
Varsity Winter Track
(BOYS)
Varsity Winter Track
(GIRLS)
Varsity Wrestling
(BOYS) @ HFC
Varsity Gymnastics
(GIRLS) @ NHP
Varsity Bowling
(CO-ED)
Varsity Rifle
(BOYS) @ NHP
SPRING SPORTS PROGRAM
Varsity Lacrosse
(BOYS)
J.V. Lacrosse
(BOYS)
Jr. High Lacrosse
(BOYS)
Varsity Lacrosse
(GIRLS)
J.V. Lacrosse
(GIRLS)
Jr. High Lacrosse
(GIRLS)
Varsity Softball
(GIRLS)
6
J.V. Softball
Jr. High Softball
Varsity Track
Varsity Track
Jr. High Spring Track
Varsity Baseball
J.V. Baseball
Jr. High Baseball
Varsity Badminton
Varsity Tennis
(GIRLS)
(GIRLS)
(BOYS)
(GIRLS)
(CO-ED)
(BOYS)
(BOYS)
(BOYS)
(GIRLS)
(BOYS) @ SHS
CHEERING SQUADS
Cheerleading (Junior High)
Cheerleading (Jr. Varsity)
Cheerleading (Varsity)
Grades 7 – 8
Grades 9 – 10
Grades 11 – 12
CUTTING POLICY
Attendance in class is the single most important factor in a student’s academic success.
At Elmont Memorial, we follow a cutting policy that is designed to eliminate illegal
absence and encourage regular class attendance. Students who cut class will be issued a
cutting detention that must be served from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. The student’s parent will
receive a call from the teacher or administrator informing them of the cut and arranging
for the cutting detention to be served. A meeting with the appropriate administrator and
parent will be convened on the student’s 5th overall cut, and students may not enter the
class until this meeting is held. It is also important to understand that illegal absences
will place a child in jeopardy of violating the Sewanhaka Central High School District’s
attendance policy.
EARLY RELEASE FOR STUDENTS
We understand that an unexpected appointment might occasionally require you to take
your child out of school during the day. We would ask that you send a note with your
child to the attendance office on the day that the early release will be necessary. The
attendance office will then issue a pass so your child can meet you in the office at the
designated time. This procedure will limit the number of times that we must call into
classrooms and interrupt instruction during the school day.
ELIGIBILITY FOR CO-CURRICULAR AND/OR SPORTS ACTIVITIES
Participation in co-curricular activities is predicated on the successful fulfillment of our
District Eligibility Policy. Eligibility is determined by the academic grades recorded on
the latest report card. Students who receive two or more failing grades in a marking
7
period are ineligible for participation. Participation may begin again if the academic
problems are rectified at the start of the next marking period. Participation may
commence earlier if the effort of the student, in the judgment of the Extracurricular
Eligibility Committee, is sufficient.
In order to participate in any after school activity, a student must be in attendance during
the regular school day. Suspension from school makes the student ineligible to
participate in any activity. An administrator, under certain circumstances, may grant
permission for participation in sports or an activity.
FALSE REPORTING
New York State now has a law establishing a felony penalty for making a bomb threat
against a school. These threats are now punishable by up to a three-year prison sentence,
a $5,000 fine and a mandatory one-year driver’s license suspension. In addition, the
False Reporting Act of 1999 took effect which allows the government, schools, and
emergency services organizations to recover costs incurred when responding to a false
report of a bomb. This law holds individuals – or parents of those under the age of 18
who make bomb threats – liable for the cost of responding to these threats.
FIELD TRIPS
It is the philosophy of Elmont Memorial High School to wholeheartedly encourage
participation in curricular related field trips. All trips must be approved by the principal.
RULES FOR FIELD TRIPS:
1. Permission slips or Power of Attorney forms are needed for all trips, in advance of the
trip.
2. Students must attend all classes prior to departure.
3. No student is permitted to travel unsupervised to the field trip destination because
he/she missed the bus.
4. All school rules apply while on the trip; (i.e., consumption of alcohol, smoking, etc.
are expressly prohibited).
5. A teacher may, with reason, deny permission for a student to participate in a field trip.
6. No student will be allowed to exceed ten (10) class absences for field trips per school
year without the permission of the principal.
FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH
Applications and details about the free and reduced rate lunch programs are available
from the finance clerk in the Main Office. Completed applications are due by the end of
August for the new school year. Our students will be using an identification card system
to purchase lunch from the cafeteria (see Student Identification Cards). These cards will
be automatically credited to reflect the free or reduced price of a student’s lunch.
8
GRADING PROCEDURES
Students are graded at Elmont Memorial following the guidelines established in
Administrative Regulation 5124 of the Board of Education of the Sewanhaka Central
High School District.
The report card will indicate both achievement and effort of the student for each marking
period, final examination, and overall yearly performance. These assessments shall be
consistent with sound educational philosophy and with sincere efforts to measure and
report on each student according to grade standards as well as the student’s ability.
1. Achievement reported by numerical grade:
TABLE 1
Excellent
90-100
Good
80-89
Fair
70-79
Poor
65-69
Failure
60, 55, 50
2. The numerical average, weighted for full-unit and half-unit courses, will be carried out
to two decimal places. The grades in all Advanced Placement will receive a weighting
of 1.08 and all advanced courses will receive a weighting of 1.05 when the grade point
average is calculated. Grades given in Regent classes will not be adjusted by any
weighting factor. (Note: All courses receiving a weighting increment are identified in
the course description provided in the District’s Course Catalog.)
3. Final Examination
a. The final examination will comprise one-fifth of the final grade.
b. A student who fails to take a final examination (Regents, district or school)
without proper authorization will be assigned a grade of “0” for the
examination.
4. Final Grade:
a. In each of the four marking periods, a numerical grade shall be assigned,
consistent with Table 1.
b. For the final examination, a numerical grade shall be assigned. This will be
the actual score and will count for 20% of the final grade.
c. Final grades will be assigned on the basis of the numerical average, consistent
with Table 1.
d. Teachers are urged to give maximum consideration of the quality of the year’s
work rather than to the performance on the test.
e. If a teacher feels that an exception should be considered, he/she would make
this request known to the department chairperson. The chairperson and the
principal will review the request and notify the teacher of the decision.
f. When extenuating circumstances exist, such as long periods of illness, the
principal may exercise judgment in determining the final grade to be given to
a student.
9
5. Assignment of Grades:
a. Incomplete grades shall be assigned for extended illness and/or extenuating
circumstances. This grade will be entered as a fifty (50) on the report card.
Students receiving the grade of Incomplete shall have two weeks to make up
the required work.
b. Students will receive a report card four times per year. The length of each
report card period will be approximately 10 weeks.
6. Special Note
a. Passing a Regents examination does not in itself merit school credit towards
graduation requirements. The course credit is granted as a result of the
computation of the four marking periods and the final examination.
b. District-wide examinations may be administered in specific disciplines.
HEALTH SERVICES
1. The Health Office is a support service for students when they are sick or injured.
Students must have a pass from a teacher in order to go to the Health Office.
2. When a student is ill and will be absent from school, the parent must call the
Attendance Office to report the information (488-9251). For an extended illness of
four weeks or more, a doctor’s note is required. The note should specify the
diagnosis and be brought personally by the parent as soon as possible to the Guidance
Office (Room 150). The guidance staff will then arrange for homebound instruction.
3. It is mandatory that every student supply an emergency contact card. This is
imperative in cases of sickness and/or emergency when the school must contact
the parent/guardian.
4. According to Public Health Law 2164, it is mandatory for ever student entering 7th
grade to have their Hepatitis B shots completed in order to enter school.
5. New York State law requires a physical examination for all seventh and tenth graders
to be handed in by October 3, 2011.
6. Students who need to be excused from physical education classes must supply a note
from a physician outlining this request. Present this note to the school nurse for
approval.
7. Any students who require adaptive physical education, due to a physical disability,
must have their parents contact the school nurse to make the necessary arrangements.
8. Students who are ill may not leave school unless supervised by a parent. This parent
must either personally pick up or designate someone to come to the school and
authorize his/her child’s release. (Identification is required.)
9. If the nurse feels that a student is too ill to remain in school, the parent will be
contacted. At this time, arrangements will be made for the student’s release.
10. All students who wish to participate in the sports programs must have a yellow school
Health History form, signed by the School Nurse and a parent, on file in the nurse’s
office prior to August 15, 2011
10
HONOR ROLL CRITERIA
We encourage all students to excel academically. Students are recognized for their
scholastic achievement by being placed on the Honor Roll.
1. High Honor Roll
2. Honor Roll
3. Principal’s List
Average of 93 or better with no grade under
85 and no failures in courses not averaged
(such as P.E.)
Average of 88 or better with no grade under
80 and no failures in courses not averaged
(such as P.E.)
Average of 85 or better with no grade under
75 and no failures in courses not averaged
(such as P.E.)
HONOR SOCIETY
Students who experience continued academic success will be invited to join the National
Honor Society. To qualify for this prestigious honor, a student must demonstrate
remarkable scholarship, leadership, character, and service. Students must be
recommended for this society and obtain approval of the building selection committee.
LATENESS POLICY
Lateness to school is a serious impediment to a student’s academic success.



If a student arrives to school late with a legal note, he/she is to report directly to
the attendance office, where he/she will be issued a pass to enter class.
If a student arrives late to school without a legal note, he or she is to report to the
attendance office where he/she will be issued a lateness detention from our
attendance teacher. This detention must be served from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. in the
junior cafeteria the day it is received.
The consequences for lateness to class throughout the day are listed below:
- All students are expected to be in class at the sound of the bell.
- Any students who are late to class will be issued a late detention by the
classroom teacher.
- Late detentions are to be served on the same day they are issued from
3:00 – 4:00 pm in the junior cafeteria.
- If the student fails to serve the lateness detention, he or she will receive a
Saturday detention.
11
LIBRARY
Students are encouraged to use the wide range of books, reference materials, CD ROM
databases, and research tools for school work and recreation use. Hours are from 7:30 a.m. to
3:30 p.m.
Students may come to the library during an assigned or lunch period. They must arrive in the
library by the second bell and complete the sign-in slip at the beginning of the period. All
students must present a schedule or ID card to stay in the library or borrow books. Books may
be borrowed for a two-week period, renewable upon request. Overdue books are fined five cents
per school day.
LOCKERS
A. SCHOOL LOCKERS
Assignment and use of student lockers remains under the control of the administration and are
subject to the right of entry and periodic unannounced inspection at any time.
Lockers are assigned by the administration in September. Students may not share lockers.
Students occupying another assigned locker will be subject to disciplinary action. The Finance
Clerk handles locks and locker problems in the main office.
B. PHYSICAL EDUCATION LOCKERS
Students are not assigned permanent physical education lockers. These lockers are available only
during Physical Education class. All possessions must be removed immediately after class.
Students may not share gym lockers.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost and found articles are kept in the Main Office. Students are advised to keep a close watch
on their possessions and avoid bringing expensive items (jewelry, clothing or large sums of
money, etc.) to school. When an item cannot be found, students are advised to complete a form
in the main office. If the lost item is found, the student will be contacted. The Sewanhaka
Central High School District does not carry insurance for lost or stolen articles.
PROJECT WELCOME
Elmont Memorial High School has developed Project Welcome to help its new entrants. Project
Welcome gives your child an opportunity to complete missed work in the subjects of
Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and English. Your child’s subject teachers will prepare
assignments and your child will receive one-on-one help. Guidance counselors will schedule
your specific children for these Saturday morning academic sessions.
12
SCHEDULE CHANGE POLICY
Program changes will be made only to correct errors such as course omissions, course
duplication, or improper course sequence. In this case, a “Request for Change of Program” form
must be completed and submitted to the Guidance Office.
IMPORTANT:
You may not leave a class or enter a new class without having received a
formal change.
SCHOOL CONDUCT
A. RULES
1.
Any student who fails to identify himself/herself or is found in the halls without a pass
or is insubordinate to a faculty or staff member is subject to disciplinary action.
2.
Student I.D.’s will be issued and must be in the student’s possession at all times.
3.
Ipods, radios, mp3 players, walkmans, beepers, cellular phones, portable computer
games, water guns, and water balloons are not allowed on school grounds. These
items will be confiscated. The school district shall not be responsible for loss,
theft, or damage to devices. This specifically includes devices placed in student
lockers.
4.
Students are not permitted to wear hats or head coverings of any kind in school. These
items will be confiscated.
5.
All students are expected to leave the building by 3:15 p.m. unless they are
participating in a supervised after school activity.
6.
Students who enter school before their scheduled class must report to the Ridge Road
cafeteria entrance. Students may not enter the building until 7:00 a.m.
7.
Students may not smoke in the building or on school grounds.
8.
Students found in possession of weapons will be referred to a Superintendent’s
Hearing and/or subject to police action.
9.
Only seniors are allowed to leave the building for lunch. They may only re-enter the
building through the Ridge Road cafeteria entrance.
10.
Fraternities, sororities, and secret organizations are prohibited by Board of Education
Policy.
11.
Students in grades 7 – 11 DO NOT HAVE FREE PERIODS. They are required to
attend all assigned classes.
B. BEHAVIOR
In the beginning of the term, each teacher discusses the classroom rules and regulations and
distributes a grading criteria sheet to each student. A listing of infractions and specific
consequences is provided under the Student Discipline section. The best way to be
successful, however, is to be aware of all of the rules and regulations and follow them.
DETENTION POLICY
Teachers and administrators may issue detentions for minor student infractions. These
detentions are one hour long and must be served in the junior cafeteria.
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SATURDAY DETENTIONS
Saturday detentions will continue to be held every Saturday. Any student with four or more
detentions pending, will be assigned a Saturday detention. Students who fail to serve their
cutting or lateness detentions will also be assigned a Saturday detention.
All detentions must be served by the end of each marking period, without exception. No
detentions may be carried over into the next marking period. Failure to serve all detentions
by the end of the marking period will result in an in-school suspension.
SUSPENSION
If a student is suspended from school (including in-school suspension), the student is not
allowed to participate in any co-curricular activity on the day(s) of suspension.
SCHOOL DISCIPLINE
INFRACTION
FIRST OFFENSE
Cheating/Plagiarism
Receives failing mark,
Parent contact. Appointment
with Dept. Chairperson
SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES
l day suspension
Class disruption
Detention/Internal
Suspension
1-3 day suspension
Parent Conference.
Principal’s Review
Drug, alcohol influence,
alcohol possession
5 day External suspension
Parent contact
Principal’s Review
Notify Social Worker
Superintendent’s Hearing
Drug distribution, fire arms,
weapons, fire crackers
5 day Suspension
Parent contact
Superintendent’s Hearing
Police Referral
Superintendent’s Hearing
Police Referral
Drug possession
5 day Suspension
Parent contact
Superintendent’s Hearing
Superintendent’s Hearing
Police Referral
Extortion
1-5 day Suspension
Parent contact
Principal’s Review
Superintendent’s Hearing
Police Referral
Fighting/Assault
2-5 External Suspension
Superintendent’s Hearing
Gambling
Internal Suspension
Confiscate gambling
Property
3-5 day External
Suspension
Principal’s Review
Superintendent’s Hearing
1-3 day Suspension
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Harassment, Hazing,
Bullying
1-5 day External Suspension
Possible Police Referral
Superintendent’s Hearing
Principal’s Review
Superintendent’s Hearing
Missing detention
Saturday Detention
1-3 day Suspension
Parent Conference
Profanity, Obscenity,
Abusive Language
Internal Suspension
1-3 day Suspension
Parent Conference
Smoking
Detention/Saturday Suspension
1-2 day Internal
Suspension
Parent Conference
Tardiness to school/class
P.M. Detention
1-3 day Suspension
Parent Conference
Theft
1-5 day External Suspension
Principal’s Review
Possible Police Referral
Superintendent’s Hearing
Principal’s Review
Trespassing
Trespassing letter sent home
Police Referral
Trespassing
(Elmont student)
Internal Suspension
Possible Police Referral
1-3 day Suspension
Principal’s Review
Truancy/Class
Cutting/Loitering
Internal Suspension
1-3 day Suspension
Parent Conference
and/or Principal’s Review
Vandalism
1-5 day External Suspension
Restitution
Principal’s Review and/or
Superintendent’s Hearing
In addition to those methods listed above, administrators utilize other strategies to improve
student behavior such as probation, daily attendance monitoring, etc. For more information,
please see the special section on the District Code of Conduct on page 22.
SPECIAL NOTE:
Depending on the seriousness of the situation, the administration
has the prerogative to exceed or reduce the aforementioned step(s).
SCHOOL HOURS
Our normal school day consists of nine academic periods. These periods are scheduled from
7:55 a.m. – 2:55 p.m. It is important to understand that students are individually scheduled
during this day. Starting times may vary depending upon a student’s individual program. Please
check your child’s schedule carefully to determine exactly what time the school day begins and
ends.
In order to provide a safe and secure environment, the school doors will open
promptly at 7:00 a.m. Students may enter at that time through the Ridge Road cafeteria
door. Students must remain in the cafeteria until 7:35 a.m. unless they are participating in
a morning program. Passes to Operation Success will be given between 7:00-7:20 a.m.
Students may go to their lockers at 7:35 a.m. Breakfast will be served between 7:15 and
7:50 a.m. in the Ridge Road cafeteria. Breakfast will not be sold during class time.
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SCHOOL STORE
The school store is located in the Senior High Cafeteria. It is here that your child can purchase
needed supplies. Hours are posted outside the store, in the Business Department, and listed in
the Main Office.
SECONDARY TESTING PROGRAM
Listed below are school-mandated tests. These tests are used by the professional staff as part of
the assessment process for purposes of helping students reach their potential. Also listed are
standardized tests, which are recommended for all students for the reasons indicated.
PLEASE NOTE:
M = Mandated
R = Recommended
GRADE LEVEL
TEST TITLE
PURPOSE OF TEST
7(R)
Learning Styles
Inventory (LSI)
Identification of learning
situations, which may
enhance student achievement.
7&8
JOB-O
Development of student
awareness of career interests.
10 & 11 (R)
Preliminary
Scholastic
Aptitude Test (PSAT)
Practice test for SAT’s;
Qualification for National Merit
Scholarship Competition. (Note:
there are special National awards for
black and Hispanic students).
11(R)
Scholastic Aptitude Test
(SAT)
Part of college admissions
criteria.
10 & 11 (R)
SAT Subject Tests
Part of college admissions criteria.
12 (R)
SAT
Part of college admissions criteria.
12 (R)
ACT
Part of college admissions criteria.
12 (R)
SAT Subject Tests
Part of college admissions criteria.
(Early Action students must
complete all required testing by
November.)
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SECURITY
Elmont Memorial places a high premium on the safety of its students, faculty, and staff. In an
effort to maintain that safety, we will be locking all building doors until 7:00 a.m. Students will
not be permitted to enter the building before that time. Students may only enter through the
Ridge Road cafeteria doors and will be required to remain in the cafeteria unless they are
involved in a supervised activity. All building doors will be locked at 8:15 a.m. Students, staff
and visitors will be required to use the loading dock doors after that time. At dismissal, all
students are asked to exit the school by 3:15pm unless they are in a supervised activity.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The Board of Education is committed to safeguarding the rights of all students and providing a
school environment that is free from all forms of sexual harassment. Any student who believes
that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should report the alleged misconduct
immediately to the Principal, or another administrator, teacher, or guidance counselor so that the
appropriate corrective action may be taken at once. Incidents of sexual harassment may be
reported immediately or through the filing of a formal complaint. Please see page 25 for more
information on the District’s Equal Educational Opportunity.
STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS
The Sewanhaka Central High School District and Elmont Memorial High School have installed a
computerized student identification system. Each student will be issued an identification card
during the first week of school. These cards will be used as a student identification, library card,
school discount card, and debit card in the school cafeteria. Students are required to bring this
card to school every day. Students MUST have their identification cards to purchase
tickets to school-wide events (ie: musical productions, athletic events, class events).
Students MUST bring their identification cards with them to school-wide events.
TECHNOLOGY POLICY
Elmont Memorial High School is very proud of the instructional technology that we have
available to our students. This technology includes scanners, digital cameras, computers, CDROM Drives, projections, and internet connections. This technology is to be used solely for
educational purposes. Students (and parents of students) using this technology must sign a
consent and waiver form indicating that they are aware of Sewanhaka Central High School
District’s Internet and Instructional Technology Acceptable Use Policy (Board Policy
#6105).
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VISITOR POLICY
Elmont Memorial High School is a closed campus. No unauthorized visitors are permitted in the
school or on school grounds. Authorized visitors must report to the Main Office. Unauthorized
visitors will be arrested.
WORKING PAPERS
Working papers are issued to students who would like to work during vacations, after school, or
in permanent employment before they are 18 years old. An application for an Employment
Certificate must be obtained from the school nurse. This application must be returned to the
nurse along with proof of a physical examination given within the past twelve months. The
nurse will issue the working papers to the students. A Social Security card is also necessary.
Fourteen (14) and fifteen (15) year old students are eligible for a Student Nonfactory
Employment Certificate. This allows you to work in a factory or any other trade, business or
service, but is not valid for hazardous employment, such as construction work, operating most
power-driven machines, and so on. There are also restrictions on the number of hours and times
of day you can work.
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SPECIAL SECTION
GRADUATION
REQUIREMENTS
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NEW YORK STATE GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Classes of 2012 – 2015
Required Courses
English
Social Studies
Mathematics
Science
World Language
Health
Art or Music
Electives
Physical Education
TOTAL
Regents Diploma
4 Units
4 Units
3 Units
3 Units
1 Unit
½ Unit
1 Unit
3 ½ Units
2 Units
22 Units
Regents Diploma with
Advanced Designation
4 Units
4 Units
3 Units
3 Units
3 Units
½ Unit
1 Unit
1 ½ Units
2 Units
22 Units
REQUIRED REGENTS EXAMS
Students must earn a score of 65 or above on the following required Regents exams:
Regents Diploma
English Language Arts
Integrated Algebra 1
Global History
U.S. History
Living Environment
Students averaging 90% or better on required
Regents examinations will earn a Regents
Diploma with Honors.
1
Regents Diploma with
Advanced Designation
English Language Arts
Integrated Algebra 1,
Geometry and Algebra 2/Trigonometry
Global History
U.S. History
Two Regents in Science (Living Environment
and one additional science)
*World Language1
Students averaging 90% or better on all
Regents examinations required for a Regents
Diploma with Advanced Designation will earn
a Regents Diploma with Advanced
Designation with Honors.
Students with an IEP may be exempt from these requirements. Students completing a five-unit
sequence in Art, Music or Career and Technological Education may also be exempt.
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SPECIAL SECTION
SUMMARY OF THE
STUDENT
CODE OF
CONDUCT
21
SEWANHAKA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
SUMMARY OF BOARD POLICY 5500: CODE OF CONDUCT
The Sewanhaka Central High School District believes that students have the right, regardless of
race, creed, disability, sex or national origin, to take part in a strong academic educational
program.
On the other hand, all district students have the responsibility to:
1. Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to
learning and to show respect to other persons and to property.
2. Be familiar with and abide by all district policies, rules and regulations dealing with
student conduct.
3. Attend school every day unless they are legally excused and be in class, on time, and
prepared to learn.
4. Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive
toward their highest level of achievement possible.
5. React to direction given by teachers, administrators, and other school personnel in a
respectful, positive manner.
6. Work to develop mechanisms to control their anger.
7. Ask questions when they do not understand.
8. Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline.
9. Dress appropriately for school and school functions.
10. Accept responsibility for their actions.
11. Conduct themselves as representatives of the district when participating in or attending
school-sponsored extracurricular events and to hold themselves to the highest standards
of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.
The Board of Education expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil
manner, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, district personnel, and
other members of the school community, and for the care of school facilities and equipment.
Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school, when
they:
1. Engage in conduct that is disorderly (ie: using abusive language, trespassing, possessing
or using cell phones, engaging in activities relating to membership in a prohibited
fraternity, sorority, or secret society).
2. Engage in conduct that is insubordinate (ie: failing to comply with the reasonable
direction of school personnel, lateness to class, cutting class).
3. Engage in conduct that is disruptive (ie: any behavior which adversely interrupts the
education process).
4. Engage in conduct that is violent (ie: committing an act of violence upon school
personnel or another student, possessing a weapon).
5. Engage in any conduct that endangers safety, morals, health or welfare of others (ie:
stealing the property of other people, discrimination, bullying, harassment, hazing,
possessing, consuming, selling, distributing or exchanging illegal substances, gambling).
6. Engage in misconduct while on a school bus.
7. Engage in any form of academic misconduct (ie: plagiarism, cheating, copying).
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SPECIAL SECTION
SUMMARY OF THE
DISTRICT
ATTENDANCE
POLICY
23
SEWANHAKA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
SUMMARY OF BOARD POLICY 5502: STUDENT ATTENDANCE
Regular school attendance is a major component of academic success. Any absence from class is
therefore detrimental to the learning process. The attendance policy is intended to encourage full
attendance by students and limit the level of absences, tardiness, and early departures (ATEDs)
from school.
Excused ATEDs are defined as absences, tardiness, and early departures from class or school due
to personal illness, illness or death in the immediate family, approved family emergency,
religious observance, required court appearances, medical appointments, approved college visits,
and approved school activities. All other ATEDs are considered unexcused absences. All
ATEDs must be accounted for. It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school within 24
hours of the reason for the ATED and to provide a written excuse upon the student’s return to the
school. If after three school days the school has not been notified to the contrary, the absence
will be considered unexcused.
The Sewanhaka Central High School District continues to have a no-cut policy. Every
unexcused absence will be followed by disciplinary actions as outlined in the Sewanhaka Code
of Conduct. Only those with excused ATEDs will be given the opportunity to make up a test or
other missed work and/or submit a late assignment for inclusion in their marking period grade.
A student who has more that twelve (12) absences in a semester course, and twenty-four (24)
absences in a full year course, will receive no credit for that course. Being late to class three (3)
times is the equivalent of one (1) absence.
A student who has exceeded the number of allowable ATEDs for a course may request a review
of his/her attendance and appeal the loss of credit at any time prior to the conclusion of the
course. Students whose ATEDs include more than two (2) cuts in a one-semester class and more
than four (4) cuts in a full year course will forfeit the right to an appeal. Parents and students
will be notified when absences approach the point at which credit will be denied and be made
aware of the appeal process.
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SEWANHAKA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Equal Educational Opportunity
Each student will have equal educational opportunities and will not be excluded from
participating in or having access to any course offerings, school services or activities on
the basis of race, color, creed, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or handicapping
condition. Anyone with a complaint concerning sex discrimination should contact the
District’s Title IX Compliance Officer, Ms. Regina Agrusa, Director of Pupil Personnel
Services, at 516-488-9851. Complaints concerning discrimination on the basis of
handicap should be directed to Dr. Victoria Tripodi, Director of Special Education, at
516-488-9853. All other complaints should be made to the building principal or
Superintendent of Schools.
October 26, 2007
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