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Annual Notifications

ANNUAL NOTIFICATIONS

In compliance with board policy, state or federal laws and regulations, the following information is provided annually to the Eastern Lancaster County School District learners, parents and guardians.  For additional information or to view complete policies, please reference the board policy designated by the number and title of each section below:

103 - Discrimination/Title IX Sexual Harassment Affecting Students

103.1 - Nondiscrimination – Qualified Students With Disabilities

105.1 - Review of Instructional Materials by Parents/Guardians and Students

113 - Notice to Parents of Children Who Reside in Eastern Lancaster County School District

138 - Limited English Proficiency Program

203 - Immunizations and Communicable Diseases

204 - Attendance

209 - Health Services

209.2 - Diabetes Management

210 - Administering Medicine

210.1 - Possession/Administration of Asthma Inhalers/Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

216 - School Records Policy

218.1 - Weapons

222 - Tobacco and Vaping Products

224 - Care of School Property

226 - Searches

227 - Controlled Substance Policy

233 - Suspension and Expulsion

235.1 - Surveys

237 - Electronic Devices

247 - Hazing

249 - Bullying/Cyberbullying

250 - Student Recruitment

252 - Dating Violence

716 - Integrated Pest Management Notification

806 - Child Abuse

808 - Food Services

810 - Transportation Code of Conduct

810.2 - Transportation – Video/Audio Recording

815 - Acceptable Use of Internet/Network Safety Policy

819 - Suicide Awareness, Prevention and Response

824 - Maintaining Professional Adult/Student Boundaries

103 - Discrimination/Title IX Sexual Harassment Affecting Students

The ELANCO School District will provide equal opportunity for students to achieve their maximum potential through the programs and activities offered in the schools without discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, marital status, pregnancy or handicap/disability.

The Board also declares it to be the policy of this District to comply with federal law and regulations under Title IX prohibiting sexual harassment, which is a form of unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex. Such discrimination shall be referred to throughout this policy as Title IX sexual harassment. Inquiries regarding the application of Title IX to the District may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education, or both.

The District is committed to the maintenance of a safe, positive learning environment for all students that is free from discrimination by providing all students course offerings, counseling, assistance, services, employment, athletics and extracurricular activities without any form of discrimination, including Title IX sexual harassment. Discrimination is inconsistent with the rights of students and the educational and programmatic goals of the District and is prohibited at or, in the course of, District-sponsored programs or activities, including transportation to or from school or school-sponsored activities.

Violations of this policy, including acts of retaliation as described in this policy, or knowingly providing false information, may result in disciplinary consequences under applicable Board policy and procedures.

The Board encourages students and third parties who believe they or others have been subject to Title IX sexual harassment, other discrimination or retaliation to promptly report such incidents to the building principal, even if some elements of the related incident took place or originated away from school grounds, school activities or school conveyances. A person who is not an intended victim or target of discrimination but is adversely affected by the offensive conduct may file a report of discrimination. The student’s parents/guardians or any other person with knowledge of conduct that may violate this policy is encouraged to immediately report the matter to the building principal.

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103.1 - Nondiscrimination – Qualified Students With Disabilities

The Board declares it to be the policy of this district to ensure that all district programs and practices are free from discrimination against all qualified students with disabilities. The Board recognizes its responsibility to provide academic and nonacademic services and programs equally to students with and without disabilities.

The district shall provide to each qualified student with a disability enrolled in the district, without cost to the student or parent/guardian, a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). This includes provision of education and related aids, services, or accommodations which are needed to afford each qualified student with a disability equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits from educational programs and extracurricular activities without discrimination, to the same extent as each student without a disability, consistent with federal and state laws and regulations.

The Board encourages students and parents/guardians who believe they have been subjected to discrimination or harassment to promptly report such incidents to designated employees.

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105.1 - Review of Instructional Materials by Parents/Guardians and Students

The Board adopts this policy to ensure that parents/guardians and students have an opportunity to review instructional materials and have access to information about the curriculum, including academic standards to be achieved, instructional materials and assessment techniques.

Definition

Instructional material means primary instructional content that is provided to a student, regardless of its format, including printed or representational materials, audiovisual materials, and materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the Internet).  For purposes of this policy, the term does not include academic tests or academic assessments.

Guidelines

The rights granted by this policy are granted to parents/guardians of students enrolled in this school district where the students are under the age of eighteen (18) and to the students themselves when the student is age eighteen (18) or over.

Upon request by a parent/guardian or student, the district will make available existing information about the curriculum, including academic standards to be achieved, instructional materials and assessment techniques.

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113 - Notice to Parents of Children Who Reside in Eastern Lancaster County School District

In compliance with state and federal laws, Eastern Lancaster County School District hereby gives notice that it conducts ongoing activities to identify learners who may be in need of various learner services including special education and related services, services for protected handicapped learners, and services for gifted learners.

Special education (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2007)

If you believe your school-age child may be eligible as a child with a disability and in need of special education and related services, screening and evaluation processes are available to you at no cost upon written request.  These processes are designed to assess your child’s needs and determine eligibility.  You may request screening and evaluation at any time, even if your child is not enrolled in the District’s public school program.  Requests for evaluation and screening should be made in writing to the Building Principal.  Individualized services and programs are available for children who are determined to need specially designed instruction due to the following conditions:

a)    Autism

b)    Emotional Disturbance

c)    Hearing Impairment, including Deafness

d)    Intellectual Disability

e)    Multiple Disabilities

f)     Orthopedic Impairment

g)    Other Health Impairment

h)    Specific Learning Disability

i)     Speech and Language Impairment

j)     Traumatic Brain Injury

k)    Visual Impairment, including Blindness

Children age three through the age of admission to the first grade are also eligible if they have developmental delays and as a result, need Special Education and related services.  Developmental delay is defined as a child who is less than the age of beginners and at least three years of age and is considered to have a developmental delay when one of the following exists:

a)    The child’s score, on a developmental assessment device, on an instrument which yields a score in months, indicates that the child is delayed by 25% of the child’s chronological age in one or more developmental areas or

b)    The child is delayed in one or more of the developmental areas, as documented by test performance of 1.5 standard deviation below the mean on a standardized test.  Developmental areas include cognitive, communicative, physical, social/emotional and self-help.

For additional information you may contact the Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 Early Intervention Program at (717) 606-1601.

Service Agreement Plans (Section 504 of Americans with Disabilities Act)

Eastern Lancaster County School District provides to each protected handicapped learner related aids, services or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from the public school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the child’s abilities.  Services are provided without discrimination or cost to the child or family.

To qualify for services under Section 504, the child must be school age with a physical or mental disability that substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the public school program.  These services and protections for “protected handicapped learners” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible or exceptional learners enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in the special education programs. 

Gifted Education Programs (Chapter 16)

If you believe that your school-age child may be in need of gifted support services, screening and evaluation processes are available to you at no cost upon written request.  These processes are designed to assess the learner’s needs and determine eligibility.  You may request screening and evaluation at any time, even if your child is not enrolled in the District’s public school program.  Requests for evaluation and screening need to be made in writing to the Building Principal.

 Additional Information

For further information on the rights of parents and children, provision of services, screening and evaluation, and procedural safeguards, you may contact an Eastern Lancaster County School District Principal or the Director of Special Education and Gifted Services in writing.

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138 - Limited English Proficiency Program

In accordance with the Board's philosophy to provide a quality educational program to all students, the district shall provide an appropriate planned instructional program for identified students whose dominant language is not English. The goal of the program shall be to increase the English language proficiency of eligible students so that they can attain the academic standards adopted by the Board and achieve academic success. Students who have Limited English Proficiency (LEP) will be identified, assessed and provided appropriate services.If you believe your child may qualify for LEP services, please contact your child’s building administrator. 

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203 - Immunizations and Communicable Diseases

In order to safeguard the school community from the spread of certain communicable diseases, the Board requires that guidance and orders from state and local health officials, established Board policy and administrative regulations, and Board-approved health and safety plans be followed by students, parents/guardians and District staff.

All students shall be immunized against specific diseases in accordance with state law and regulations, unless specifically exempt for religious or medical reasons.

A certificate of immunization shall be maintained as part of the health record for each student, as required by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

A student shall be exempt from immunization requirements whose parent/guardian objects in writing to such immunization on religious grounds or on the basis of a strong moral or ethical conviction similar to a religious belief or whose physician certifies that the student's physical condition contraindicates immunization.

A student who has not been immunized in accordance with state regulations shall not be admitted to or permitted to attend District schools, unless exempted for medical or religious reasons or on the basis of a strong moral or ethical conviction similar to a religious belief, provisionally admitted by the Superintendent or designee after beginning a multiple dose vaccine series and submitting proof of immunization or a medical certificate on or before the fifth school day of attendance, or in accordance with programs or guidance established by the PA Department of Health.

Homeless students who have not been immunized or are unable to provide immunization records due to being homeless shall be admitted in accordance with the provisions of applicable law and regulations.

Foster care students and students transferring into a school within the Commonwealth shall be admitted in accordance with law and regulations and shall have thirty (30) days to provide proof of immunization, a medical certificate detailing the plan to complete a multiple dose vaccine series or to satisfy the requirements for an exemption.

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204 - Attendance

The Board recognizes that the educational program offered by the district is predicated upon the attendance of the student and supports a comprehensive approach to identify and address attendance issues.

Authority

The Board requires the attendance of all students during the days and hours that school is in session, except that temporary student absences may be excused by authorized District staff in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, Board policy and administrative regulations.

Compulsory school age shall mean the period of a student’s life from the time the student’s person in parental relations elects to have the student enter school, which shall be no later than age six (6) until age eighteen (18).  The term does not include a student who holds a certificate of graduation from a regularly accredited, licensed, registered or approved high school.

Habitually truant shall mean six (6) or more school days of unexcused absences during the current school year by a student subject to compulsory school attendance.  Students who are habitually truant shall have a School Attendance Improvement Conference (SAIC), with additional interventions or consequences assigned as consistent with policy and regulations.

Truant shall mean having incurred three (3) or more school days of unexcused absences during the current school year by a student subject to compulsory school attendance.

Students may be excused from full-time attendance upon request by a parent or guardian and approval by the appropriate school personnel.  For a full list of applicable circumstances, please see policy #204.

Students may be excused from attendance if any of the following occur:

  1. Illness, including if a student is dismissed by designated District staff during school hours for health-related reasons.
  2. Obtaining professional health care or therapy service rendered by a licensed practitioner or the healing arts in any state, commonwealth or territory.
  3. Quarantine.
  4. Family emergency.
  5. Recovery from accident.
  6. Required court attendance.
  7. Death in family.
  8. Participation in a project sponsored by a statewide or countywide 4-H, FFA or combined 4-H and FFA group, upon prior written request.
  9. Participation in a musical performance in conjunction with a national veterans’ organization or incorporated unit, as defined in law, for an event or funeral.
    • The national veterans’ organization or incorporated unit must provide the student with a signed excuse, which shall include the date, location, and time of the event of funeral.
    • The student shall furnish the signed excuse to the District prior to being excused from school.
  10. Observance of a religious holiday observed by a bona fide religious group, upon prior written request from the person in parental relation.
  11. Nonschool-sponsored educational tours or trips, if the following conditions are met:
    • The person in parental relation submits the required documentation for excusal prior to the absence, within the appropriate timeframe.
    • The student’s participation has been approved by the Superintendent or designee.
    • The District may limit the number and duration of non-school-sponsored educational tours or trips for which excused absences may be granted to a student during the school year.
  12. College or postsecondary institution visit, with prior approval.
  13. Other urgent reasons that may reasonably cause a student’s absence, as well as circumstances related to homelessness and foster care.

 Absences shall be treated as unexcused until the District receives a written excuse explaining the absence, to be submitted within three (3) school days of the absence.  A maximum of ten (10) days of cumulative lawful absences verified by parent notification are permitted during a school year. 

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209 - Health Services

Certified School Nurses and Staff Nurses provide professional nursing care to learners in each building in Eastern Lancaster County School District.  These nurses address the physical, social, and emotional health of the learner.  The ultimate goal of their practice is to enhance and support learner success in the learning process.  In addition to providing services to the entire school population, they provide screening services mandated by the PA Department of Health.  Some of these services include maintaining health records and coordinating and performing screenings for height, weight, vision, hearing and scoliosis.  In addition, school nurses monitor state mandated programs including physical examinations required for entry into school and at grades 6 and 11, and dental exams required for school entry and in grades 3 and 7.  These examinations must be completed and returned to the school nurse prior to or during the school year that they are required.  School nurses also consult with other health professionals regarding learner health issues, provide education to learners and staff about health issues, monitor and request immunizations for each learner, refer learners and staff for health care, and provide input to promote a healthy school environment.  The nurses may also act as liaisons between learners and teachers, as well as between learners and parents.

Eastern Lancaster County School District nurses are available to handle school related illness or injury.  Any learner who becomes ill or has an accident during the school day must report to the school nurse.  Although the nurse will administer first aid at the time of accident or illness s/he may not prescribe or continue to treat such cases.  The nurse, in collaboration with the parent when necessary, will determine whether the learner should remain in school or should go home.  The parent/guardian or their designee needs to report to the school to pick up the learner, after s/he has been signed out.

Physical Education Excuses

For a learner to be excused from a physical education class because of illness or injury, the learner must bring a note from a doctor or parent stating the reason for the excuse.  If the request is for a period of time, the excuse must be given by a doctor.  All excuses must be submitted to the school nurse for proper recording.  No notes from the doctor or parents will be accepted by the teacher until the excuse has been checked by the school nurse.  If a learner becomes ill during school hours, the school nurse will issue a gym excuse if necessary.

Athletes who are excused from physical education class because of illness or injury may not participate in inter-scholastic sports, intramurals, practice or games on the same day of excusal from physical education class.

Transportation of Learners

School nurses are not permitted to transport learners for any reason.  If your child becomes ill or injured in school you will be contacted and will be expected to make arrangements for transportation home.  In the event that you cannot be reached and your child is in need of medical attention, the school will reach out to your emergency contacts and if necessary, call an ambulance.

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 209.2 - Diabetes Management

An effective program of diabetes management in school is crucial to the immediate safety of and long-term health of students with diabetes.  A diabetes management program will ensure that students with diabetes are ready to learn and participate fully in school activities and minimize the possibility that diabetes-related emergencies will disrupt classroom activities.

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210 - Administering Medicine

Eastern Lancaster County School District recognizes that to insure good health and the best educational conditions, it is sometimes necessary for pupils to receive medication during school hours. 

The school’s role in the administration of medication to learners is that of overseer of the physician or parent directions so that the correct dosage is received at the proper time with a minimum of interferences to the educational program of the learner.  The District has put in place the following procedures for the administration of medication.

1.    Medication should be administered at home whenever possible.

2.    The use of all medication during the school day must be reported to the school nurse.

3.    Medicine must be given to the school nurse in its original container labeled with a prescription by a pharmacist or a physician.

a.    Medicine must be accompanied by a completed medication permission form.  Medication permission forms are in the Health Room of each school building.

4.    Any medication that comes under the law of controlled substances must be delivered by the parent/guardian to the school nurse.  School nurses may not accept  unlabeled containers sent to school.

5.    All medications are kept in the nurse’s office at all times.  The nurse, in consultation with a parent/guardian and physician, will determine the best way to administer the medication during the school day.  Refrigeration is available when required.

6.    Learners are expected to come to the health room at the appropriate time to take their medicine.

7.    Learners who need to carry with them self-administered medications (such as inhalers) must have a completed medication form reviewed by the school nurse.  Medication forms are available in the Health Room of each school building.

8.    Medication forms must be completed yearly by the parent/guardian and physician and returned to the school nurse at the beginning of each school year.

The District and/or any employee cannot be held responsible for the benefits or consequences of the prescribed medication when it is parent authorized.  Eastern Lancaster County School District bears no responsibility for ensuring that the medication is taken.  If a learner refuses to take a medication as directed, the parent/guardian will be notified.

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210.1 - Possession/Administration of Asthma Inhalers/Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

Students shall be permitted to possess asthma inhalers and to self-administer the prescribed medication used to treat asthma when such is parent-authorized.  Possession and use of asthma inhalers by students shall be in accordance with state law and Board policy.

Before a student may possess or use an asthma inhaler during school hours, the Board shall require the following:

  1. A written request from the parent/guardian that the school complies with the order of the physician, certified registered nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
  2. A statement from the parent/guardian acknowledging that the school is not responsible for ensuring the medication is taken and relieving the district and its employees of responsibility for the benefits or consequences of the prescribed medication.
  3. A written statement from the physician, certified registered nurse practitioner or physician assistant that states:
    1. Name of the drug.
    2. Prescribed dosage.
    3. Times medication is to be taken.
    4. Length of time medication is prescribed.
    5. Diagnosis or reason medication is needed, unless confidential.
    6. Potential serious reaction or side effects of medication.
    7. Emergency response.
    8. If child is qualified and able to self-administer the medication.

The student shall be made aware that the asthma inhaler is intended for his/her use only and may not be shared with other students. The student shall notify the school nurse immediately following each use of an asthma inhaler.

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216 - School Records Policy

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parent and learners over 18 years of age (eligible learners) certain rights with respect to the learner education records.  These rights are:

1.    A parent or eligible learner has the right to review the learner’s education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access.  A parent or eligible learner may submit to the building principal a written request to review education records they wish to inspect.  The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible learner of the time and place where the records may be reviewed.

2.    A parent or eligible learner has the right to request the amendment of a learner’s education record that the parent or eligible learner believes is inaccurate.  Any request should be submitted to the building principal, and identify the record sought to be changed, and specify why it is inaccurate.  IF the District declines to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible learner, the District will notify the parent or eligible learner of the decision and advise them of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible learner when notified of the right to a hearing.

3.    A parent or eligible learner has the right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the learner’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes the District to disclose an education record without consent to a school official with a legitimate educational interest.  A “school official with a legitimate educational interest” is any employee or consultant of the District, an intermediate unit, a career and technology school, or any other facility the District uses or proposes to use to provide services to the learner –

4.    Who is or will be responsible for providing or supervising the provision of education, education-related services, or extra-curricular activities or experiences to or for the learner; and

5.    When information concerning the learner is relevant to the learner’s education, education-related services, or extracurricular activities or experiences, or is necessary to protect the health, safety, or welfare of the learner or others.

6.    The phrase “school official with a legitimate education interest” includes clerical staff of the agencies enumerated above who are responsible for the maintenance and security of education records, and also attorneys, consultants, and school board members when school board action concerning the learner is required by law or when the learner is the subject of present or potential litigation or legal dispute.  Additionally, the School District may disclose education records without consent to official of another school district in which a learner seeks or intends to enroll.

7.    A parent or eligible learner has the right to file a complaint with the U.S. 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 20202-5901

8.    The District is permitted by law to disclose directory information without the written consent of the parent or eligible learner.  The parent or eligible learner has the right to refuse to permit the disclosures of any or all directory information if a written refusal is forward to the building principal no later than September 15th of the current school year.

9.    Directory information means information contained in an education records of a learner which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.  Directory information includes, but is not limited to a learner’s name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, photos, videos, date and place of birth, names of parent and siblings, dates of attendance, whether the learner graduated and the date of graduation, awards received, participation in extracurricular activities, weight and height of interscholastic athletic team members, schools attended within the District, and contact information for a learner’s parents/guardians.

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218.1 - Weapons

Students are prohibited from possessing and bringing weapons and look-alike weapons into any school district buildings, onto school property, to any school-sponsored activity, and onto any public vehicle providing transportation to school or a school-sponsored activity or while the student is coming to or from school.

The Board shall expel for a period of not less than one (1) year any student who violates this weapons policy. Such expulsion shall be given in conformance with formal due process proceedings required by law and Board policy. The Superintendent may recommend modifications of such expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.

In the case of a student with a disability, including a student for whom an evaluation is pending, the district shall take all steps required to comply with state and federal laws and regulations, the procedures set forth in the memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement and Board policies.

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222 - Tobacco and Vaping Products

The possession, use, purchase or sale of tobacco and vaping products, including the product marketed as Juul and other e-cigarettes is prohibited, regardless of whether such products contain tobacco or nicotine, at any time in a school building; on school buses or other vehicles that are owned, leased or controlled by the School District; on property owned, leased or controlled by the School District; or at school-sponsored activities that are held off school property.

Student possession or use of products marketed and sold as tobacco cessation products or for other therapeutic purposes is prohibited, except as authorized in the Board’s Medication policy.

Student possession of any form of medical marijuana is prohibited at any time in a school building; on school buses or other vehicles that are owned, leased or controlled by the School District; on property owned, leased or controlled by the School District; or at school-sponsored activities that are held off school property.

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224 - Care of School Property

Each student in the district's schools is tasked with the responsibility for the proper care of school property, school supplies and equipment entrusted to the student's use.

 

Students who willfully cause damage to school property shall be subject to disciplinary measures and financial responsibility for the damage caused. Students and others who damage or deface school property may be prosecuted and punished under law. Parents/Guardians shall be held accountable for the actions of their child.


Fees assigned to learners will be recorded in PowerSchool, indicating the date, the reason and the amount of the fee.  Parents/guardians will be notified of the assigned fee and the timeframe for payment.  Lack of payment of fees may result in a learner being unable to participate in extra-curricular options or programs.

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226 - Searches

The Eastern Lancaster County School Board has adopted reasonable policies and procedures regarding learner searches.  Searches of lockers, desks, closets or other storage locations assigned to students may be searched at any time, based on reasonable suspicion, for the purpose of determining whether the location is being used improperly.

Illegal or prohibited materials seized during a learner search may be used as evidence against the learner in a school disciplinary proceeding.Prior to a locker search, learners shall be notified and given an opportunity to be present.  When school authorities have a reasonable suspicion that the locker contains materials that pose a threat to the health, welfare or safety of learners in the school, learner lockers may be searched without prior warning.  Lockers are the property of the District and learners should have no expectation of privacy in their usage.

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227 - Controlled Substance Policy

Eastern Lancaster County School District and the School Board recognizes that the abuse of controlled substances is a serious problem with legal, physical and social implications for the whole school community.  As an educational institution, the schools shall strive to prevent abuse of controlled substances.

Controlled substances include:

1.    Controlled substances prohibited by federal and state laws 

2.    Look-alike drugs

3.    Alcoholic beverages

4.    Anabolic steroids

5.    Drug paraphernalia

6.    Any volatile solvents or inhalants, such as, but not limited to glue and aerosol products

7.    Substances that when ingested cause a physiological effect that is similar to the effect of a controlled substance as defined by federal and state laws

8.    Prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications, except those for which permission for use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy

Cooperative Behavior – the willingness of a learner to work with staff and school personnel in a reasonable and helpful manner, complying with requests and recommendations of the members of the SAP Team and/or administration.

Distribute – deliver, sell, pass, share or give any controlled substance, as defined by this policy, from one person to another or to aid therein.

Drug & Alcohol Assessor – trained assessor with expertise in the area of chemical dependency and school-based assessment.

Drug Paraphernalia – any utensil or item used to carry, conceal, distribute, ingest or package-controlled substances.  Examples include but are not limited to roach clips, pipes, and bowls.

For purpose of this policy, look-alike drug shall include any pill, capsule, tablet, power, plant matter or other item or substance that is designed or intended to resemble a controlled substance prohibited by this policy, or is used in a manner likely to induce others to believe the material is a controlled substance.

Possession – possess, hold or bring without any attempt to distribute, any controlled substance determined to be illegal or as defined by this policy.

SAP (Student Assistant Program) Team – multidisciplinary teams composed of school personnel (teachers, staff, administrators, nurses, counselors).  The teams have been trained to understand and work on the issues of adolescent chemical use, abuse, and dependency and will play a primary role in the identification and referral process of learners coming to their attention through the procedures outlined in this policy.

Uncooperative Behavior – resistance or refusal, either verbal, physical or passive, on the part of the learner to comply with the reasonable request of recommendations of school personnel.  Defiance, assault, deceit, and flight shall constitute examples of uncooperative learner behavior.  Uncooperative behavior shall also include the refusal to comply with the recommendations of the members of the SAP team.

Under the Influence – shall include, for purposes of this policy, any consumption or ingestion of controlled substances by a learner.  Under the influence means that a learner is affected in any detectable manner by alcohol, one (1) or more controlled substances, or a combination thereof.  Symptoms of an individual being under the influence may be demonstrated by behavior, school performance, impairment of physical or mental ability, such as slurred speech or difficulty in maintaining balance, or other observable factors. A determination that a learner is under the influence may be established by a learner’s admission of use of alcohol and/or a controlled substance; professional medical opinion; a scientifically-valid test; or the opinion of a school administrator based upon commonly recognizable facts evidencing alcohol and/or controlled substance usage.  

Authority

While on school property, during school hours, in attendance at school district-sponsored events or being transported by vehicles owned or contracted by the school district, learners are prohibited from engaging in the following activity:

1.    Possessing, selling, or distributing alcohol or drugs.

2.    Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

3.    Possessing drug paraphernalia.

4.    Using alcohol or drugs, which include a learner coming or returning to a school-sponsored event after having used alcohol or drugs elsewhere.

Learners may be subject to disciplinary sanctions for policy violations.  Potential disciplinary sanctions for policy violations may include, but are not limited to: suspension or expulsion from school; suspension from extracurricular activities; loss of driving privileges; and loss of learner privileges (i.e. attendance at prom, graduation ceremony or other special events).

The Board may require participation in drug counseling, rehabilitation, testing or other programs as a condition of reinstatement into the school’s educational, extracurricular or athletic programs resulting from violations of this policy.

In the case of a learner with a disability, including a learner for whom an evaluation is pending, the district shall take all steps required to comply with federal and state laws and regulations, the procedures set forth in the memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement and Board polices.

 Off Campus Activities

This policy shall also apply to learner conduct that occurs off school property and would otherwise violate the Code of Learner Conduct is any of the following circumstances exist:

1.    The conduct occurs during the time the learner is traveling to and from school or traveling to and from school-sponsored activities, whether or not via school district furnished transportation.

2.    The learner is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular off-campus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities.

3.    Learner 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, for example, a transaction conducted outside of school pursuant to an agreement made in school, that would violate the Code of Learner Conduct if conducted in school.

5.    The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of school property.

6.    There is otherwise a nexus between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the learner’s attendance at school or school-sponsored activities.

 Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution.

 Reasonable Suspicion Testing

If based on the learner’s behavior, medical symptoms, vital signs or other observable factors, the building principal has reasonable suspicion that the learner is under the influence of a controlled substance, the learner may be required to submit to drug or alcohol testing.  The testing may include but is not limited to the analysis of blood, urine, saliva, or the administration of a Breathalyzer test.

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233 - Suspension and Expulsion

 Exclusion from School

1.    The types of offenses, as defined by the School Board, that may lead to exclusions from school are set forth below and the Principal or school authorities shall not recommend exclusion from school unless the learner, while on school grounds or a school activity off school grounds:

a.    Intentionally causes or attempts to cause damage to school property or steals or attempts to steal school property; or

b.    Intentionally causes or attempts to cause damage to private property or steals or attempts to steal private property; or

c.    Intentionally causes or attempts to cause physical injury to another person except in self-defense; or

d.    Knowingly possesses or transmits any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the learner at school; or

e.    Knowingly possesses, uses, transmits, or is under the influence of any narcotic drug, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind; or

f.     Knowingly uses or copies the academic work of another and presents it as his/her own without proper attribution, cheating; or

g.    Repeatedly and/or intentionally defies the valid authority of school authorities; or

h.    Repeatedly and/or intentionally disregards the rules set forth by the school authorities.

Exclusions affecting certain learners with disabilities shall be governed by §14.143 (relating to discipline procedures).

1.    Exclusion from school may take the form of suspension or expulsion.

a.    Suspension is exclusion from school for a period of from 1 to 10 consecutive school days.

i.    Suspensions may be given by the principal or person in charge of the public school. 

ii.    A learner may not be suspended until the learners 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. 

iii.    The parents or guardians and the superintendent of the district shall be notified immediately in writing when the learner is suspended.

iv.    When the suspension exceeds 3 school days, the learner and parent shall be given the opportunity for an informal hearing consistent with the requirements in §12.8(c) (relating to hearing). 

v.    Suspensions may not be made to run consecutively beyond the 10-school day period. 

vi.    Learners shall have the responsibility to make up exams and work missed while being disciplined by suspension and shall be permitted to complete these assignments within the guidelines established by the governing board.

b.    Expulsion is exclusion from school by the governing board for a period exceeding 10 school days and may be permanent expulsion from the school rolls.  Expulsions require a prior formal hearing under §12.8.

2.    During the period prior to the hearing and decision of the governing board in an expulsion case, the learner shall be placed in his normal class except as set forth in subsection (d).

3.    If it is determined after an informal hearing that a learner’s presence in his normal class world constitute a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of others and it is not possible to hold a formal hearing within the period of a suspension, the learner may be excluded from school for more than 10 school days.  A learner may not be excluded from school for longer than 15 school days without a formal hearing unless mutually agreed upon by both parties.  Any learner so excluded shall be provided with alternative education, which may include home study.

4.    Learners who are under 17 years of age are still subject to the compulsory school attendance law even though expelled and shall be provided an education.

a.    The initial responsibility for providing the required education rests with the learner’s parents or guardian, through placement in another school, tutorial or correspondence study, or another educational program approved by the district’s superintendent.

b.    Within 30 days of action by the governing board, the parents or guardians shall submit to the school district written evidence that the required education is being provided as described in paragraph (a) or that they are unable to do so.  If the parents or guardians are unable to provide the required education, the school entity shall, within 10 days of receipt of the notification, make provision for the learner’s education.  A learner with a disability shall be provided educational services as required by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.A.§§1400-1482).

c.    If the approved educational program is not complied with the school entity may take action in accordance with 42 Pa.C.S. Chapter 63 (relating to the Juvenile Act) to ensure that the child will receive a proper education. See § 12.1(b) (relating to free education and attendance).

 Exclusion from Classes – In-School Suspension

1.    A learner may not receive an in-school suspension unless the learner has been informed of the reasons for the suspension and has been given an opportunity to respond before the suspension becomes effective.

2.    Communication to the parents or guardian shall follow the suspension action taken by the school.

3.    When the in-school suspension exceeds 10 consecutive days, an informal hearing with the principal shall be offered to the learner and the learner’s parent or guardian prior to the 11th school day in accordance with the procedures in §12.8 (relating to hearings).

Hearings

1.    General.  Education is a statutory right, and learners shall be afforded due process if they are to be excluded from school.  In a case involving a possible expulsion, the learner is entitled to a formal hearing.

2.    Formal hearings.  A formal hearing is required in all expulsion actions.  This hearing may be held before the governing board or an authorized committee of the board, or a qualified hearing examiner appointed by the board.  When a committee of the board or a hearing examiner conducts the hearing, a majority vote of the entire governing board is required to expel a learner.  The following due process requirements shall be observed with regard to the formal hearing:

a.    Notification of the charges shall be sent to the learner’s parents or guardians by certified mail.

b.    At least 3 days’ notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be given.  A copy of the expulsion policy, notice that legal counsel may represent the learner and hearing procedures shall be included with the sharing notice.   A learner may request the rescheduling of the hearing when the learner demonstrates good cause for an extension.

c.    The hearing shall be held in private unless the learner or parent requests a public hearing.

d.    The learner may be represented by counsel, at the expense of the parents or guardians, and may have a parent or guardian attend the hearing.

e.    The learner has the right to be presented with the names of witnesses against the learner, and copies of the statements and affidavits of those witnesses.

f.     The learner has the right to request that the witnesses appear in person and answer questions or be cross-examined.

g.    The learner has the right to testify and present witnesses on her/his own behalf.

h.    A written or audio record shall be kept of the hearing. The learner is entitled, at the learner’s expense, to a copy.  A copy shall be provided at no cost to a learner who is indigent.

i.     The proceeding shall be held within 15 school days of the notification of charges, unless mutually agreed to by both parties.  A hearing may be delayed for any of the following reasons, in which case the hearing shall be held as soon as reasonably possible:

i.    Laboratory reports are needed from law enforcement agencies

ii.    Evaluations or other court or administrative proceedings are pending due to a learner invoking his rights under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C.A.§§1400-1482).

iii.    In cases in juvenile or criminal court involving sexual assault or serious bodily injury, delay is necessary due to the condition or best interests of the victim.

j.     Notice of a right to appeal the results of the hearing shall be provided to the learner with the expulsion decision.

3.    Informal hearings.  The purpose of the informal hearing is to enable the learner to meet with the appropriate school official to explain the circumstances surrounding the event for which the learner is being suspended or to show why the learner should not be suspended.

a.    The informal hearing is held to bring forth all relevant information regarding the event for which the learner is being suspended or to show why the learner should not be suspended.

b.    The following due process requirements shall be observed in regard to the informal hearing:

i.    Notification of the reasons for the suspension shall be given in writing to the parents or guardians and to the learner.

ii.    Sufficient notice of the time and place of the informal hearing shall be given.

iii.    A learner has the right to question any witnesses present at the hearing.

iv.    A learner has the right to speak and produce witnesses on his own behalf.

 v.    The school entity shall offer to hold the informal hearing within the first 5 days of the suspension.

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235.1 - Surveys

PPRA affords parents and learners who are 18 or emancipated minors (“eligible learners”) certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams.  These include the right to:

1.    Consent before learners are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED).

a.    Political affiliations or beliefs of the learner or learner’s parents;

b.    Mental or psychological problems of the learner or learner’s family;

c.    Sex behavior or attitudes;

d.    Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

e.    Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;

f.     Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;

g.    Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the learner or parents; or

h.    Income other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

2.    Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a learner out of participation in

a.    Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;

b.    Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a learner, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law; and

c.    Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from learners for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

3.    Inspect, upon request and before administration or use

a.    Protected information from surveys of learners;

b.    Instruments used to collect personal information from learners for any above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and

c.    Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

The Eastern Lancaster County School District has developed and adopted policies regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect learner privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.  The Eastern Lancaster County School District will notify parents and eligible earners of these policies at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes.  The Eastern Lancaster County School District will notify parents and eligible learners of the specific approximate dates of the following activities and provide an opportunity to opt a learner out of participating in:

1.    Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution

2.    Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED.

3.    Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.

Parents/eligible learners who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605

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237 - Electronic Devices

The Board recognizes that mobile phones and electronic devices are now an integral part of the daily lives and culture of many of the District’s students. Nonetheless, the Board believes that students should have an educational environment free from unnecessary disruptions and distractions. The Board has determined that the presence of mobile phones and electronic devices has the potential to distract students from their educational mission and to otherwise disrupt the educational environment.

Therefore, the Board adopts this policy to maintain an educational environment that is safe and secure and free from distractions for its students, while aiming to permit pupils to reasonably and responsibly utilize mobile technology.[1]

Electronic Devices shall include any personal communication device including mobile telephones and smartphones; any device that can capture still images or movies; any device that can record, store, display, transmit, or receive audio or video; any device that can provide a connection to the internet (whether wireless or wired); laptops and tablet computers, electronic gaming systems, pagers, e­-readers, and laser pointers.

The Board prohibits all students from any use of electronic devices in locker rooms, bathrooms, and other changing areas.

The Board prohibits the use of electronic devices to take photographs, or to record or livestream audio or video at any time during the school day or at any school sponsored event that is not open to the general public, unless the building administrator has authorized the photograph/video/livestream or recording by giving written consent, unless the use is authorized for educational purposes as outlined below. “During the school day” includes the time while students are engaged in remote instruction – even if students are not physically in a School District building.

The Board prohibits the use of any personal electronic device by any Elementary School student during the school day in District buildings; on District property; during the time students are under the supervision of the District; and in locker rooms, bathrooms, health suites and other changing areas at any time.

The use of personal electronic devices as a classroom tool is permitted with prior permission of the teacher or building administration and under the supervision of the teacher.

The Board prohibits the use of any electronic devices by any Middle School student during instructional times during the school day (from the beginning of 1st period until the end of last period), which includes homeroom and study halls, except that students may use electronic devices during instructional times for instructional purposes if, and only if, they have the prior permission of the teacher or building administrator to do so.

Students on the secondary campus are permitted to use electronic devices during non-instructional times including lunch periods, before school hours, after school hours, and between classes, so long as such use does not:

  1. Disrupt school activities or instruction.
  2. Violate any other Board or school policies.
  3. Violate state or federal law.
  4. Violate any of the prohibitions set forth elsewhere in this policy.

If an electronic device utilizes the District’s internet connection, the School District’s Acceptable Use Policy applies.

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247 - Hazing

The Board prohibits hazing in connection with any student activity or organization regardless of whether the conduct occurs on or off school property or outside of school hours.

No student, parent/guardian, coach, sponsor, volunteer or District employee shall engage in, condone or ignore any form of hazing.

The Board encourages students who believe they, or others, have been subjected to hazing to promptly report such incidents to the building principal or designee.

Disciplinary and Other Actions

A learner who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Learner Conduct may include:

1.    Counseling with the school

2.    Parental conference

3.    Loss of school privileges

4.    Transfer to another building, classroom or school bus

5.    Exclusion from school-sponsored activities

6.    Detention

7.    Suspension

8.    Expulsion

9.    Counseling/Therapy outside of school

10. Referral to law enforcement officials

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249 - Bullying/Cyberbullying

The Board recognizes that bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, detracts from the safe environment necessary for student learning, and may lead to more serious violence. Therefore, the Board prohibits bullying by District students.

Definitions

Bullying - means an intentional electronic, written, verbal or physical act or series of acts directed at another student or students, which occurs in a school setting and/or outside a school setting, that is severe, persistent or pervasive and has the effect of doing any of the following:

  1. Substantially interfering with a student’s education
  2. Creating a threatening environment
  3. Substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school

Bullying - as defined in this policy, includes cyberbullying.

School setting - means in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop or at any activity sponsored, supervised or sanctioned by the school.[1]

Authority

The Board prohibits all forms of bullying by District students.[1]

The Board encourages students who believe they or others have been bullied to promptly report such incidents to the building principal or designee.

Disciplinary and Other Actions

A learner who violates this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Learner Conduct may include:

1.    Counseling with the school

2.    Parental conference

3.    Loss of school privileges

4.    Transfer to another building, classroom or school bus

5.    Exclusion from school-sponsored activities

6.    Detention

7.    Suspension

8.    Expulsion

9.    Counseling/Therapy outside of school

10. Referral to law enforcement officials

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250 - Student Recruitment

In accordance with law, the Board shall permit disclosure of required student information about secondary students to representatives of postsecondary institutions and to representatives of the armed forces of the United States.

Equitable access to secondary students shall be granted to postsecondary education representatives, military recruiters and prospective employers.

If a parent/guardian does not want this information released, the district form must be submitted to the building principal during a student’s sophomore year, but no later than March 1st.

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252 - Dating Violence

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe, positive learning environment for all students that is free from dating violence. Dating violence is inconsistent with the educational goals of the District and is prohibited at all times.

Dating Partner shall mean a person, regardless of gender, involved in an intimate relationship with another person, primarily characterized by the expectation of affectionate involvement, whether casual, serious or long-term.

Dating Violence shall mean behavior where one person uses threats of, or actually uses, physical, sexual, verbal or emotional abuse to control the person’s dating partner.

The Board encourages students who have been subjected to dating violence to promptly report such incidents.

The District shall investigate promptly all complaints of dating violence and shall administer appropriate discipline to any student who violates this policy.

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716 - Integrated Pest Management Notification

The ELANCO School District uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach for managing insects, rodents, and weeds.  Our IPM approach focuses on making the school buildings and grounds an unfavorable habitat for these pests by removing food and water sources and eliminating their hiding and breeding places.  We accomplish this through routine cleaning and maintenance and monitoring the school buildings and grounds to detect and pests or weeds that are present.

From time-to-time, it may be necessary to use chemicals to manage a pest problem.  Chemicals will only be used when necessary and will not be routinely applied.  When chemicals are used, the district will use the least toxic product possible.  Applications will be made only when unauthorized persons do not have access to the area(s) being treated.  Notices will be posted in these areas 72 hours prior to application and for two days following the application.

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806 - Child Abuse

The Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law mandates that all teachers, administrators, and professional support personnel who work for public school districts, independent contractors, attorneys affiliated with the district, and volunteers (Mandated Reporter) are required to report suspected child abuse. A Mandated Reporter who suspects child abuse shall immediately make a report of the suspected abuse to ChildLine.  The local child protective agency (CYA) is charged with investigating reports of suspected child abuse.  Suspected abuse by a staff member will be investigated according to the provisions of Act 151.  It is the policy of the Eastern Lancaster County School District to comply with the CPS Law and Act 151 to their fullest extent.

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808 - Food Services

The ELANCO food service program shall be operated in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations, as well as federal guidelines established by the Child Nutrition Division of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The district shall ensure that, in the operation of the food service program, no student, staff member, or other individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.

Food sold by the school may be purchased by students and district employees but only for consumption on school premises. The price charged to students shall be established annually by the district in compliance with state and federal laws.

The district shall provide free and reduced-price meals and/or free milk to students in accordance with the terms and conditions of the National School Lunch Program, the School Breakfast Program, and the Special Milk Program.

The district shall make appropriate food service and/or meal accommodations to students with special dietary needs in accordance with applicable law, regulations and Board policy.  Additional information may be found in the Food Services portion of the district website.

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810 - Transportation Code of Conduct

The purpose of the bus code is for each learner to behave responsibly and to ensure the safety of all passengers while being transported to and from school.  Each school bus is equipped with a video camera box that is capable of holding a video camera at any given time.  Neither the school bus driver nor the learners are able to determine if the video camera is in the box on their bus.  The cameras on the school buses will record oral communications as well as visual images.  Learners and their parents agree that a learner’s use of the school bus constitutes consent to the District’s audio/visual monitoring.  The Administration will monitor all the school buses for disciplinary as well as safety-related concerns. 

The following rules are in order:  

1.    Pupils eligible for bus transportation are given assignments by the transportation department.  A pupil may only ride the bus assigned and to meet or leave the bus at the assigned stop.  Requests to change buses to visit schoolmates shall not be granted.

2.    Riders should be at their bus stop prior to the scheduled pick-up time, remain on the side of the highway or sidewalk, not interfere with traffic and conduct themselves in a safe manner.  The driver will not wait an excessive amount of time for a rider.

3.    If it is necessary for riders to cross the highway, they may only do so when the driver signals that it is safe.  Riders shall cross the highway only in front of the bus – NEVER behind the bus.

4.    Riders are to respect the property rights of those who reside at or near the bus stop and remain off lawns and private property while waiting.

5.    Riders shall board the bus in an orderly fashion and without delay, only once it has stopped. 

6.    All riders will sit in assigned seats and remain seated while the bus is in motion.  No rider shall deny another rider an assigned seat.

7.    Riders shall treat the school bus driver with the same authority a teacher has in the classroom.

8.    Riders are expected to respect school as well as personal property.  Damage to seats, windows, etc. must be paid for by the offender and may be referred to law enforcement if necessary.

9.    All school rules apply while riding the bus.  In appropriate behavior is strictly forbidden.

10. When windows are opened, riders must keep all body parts within the bus and may not project or throw anything out the window of the bus.

11. Pets are not permitted on the bus.

12. Trash must be disposed of properly and may not be left on the bus or on the floor.  No food or drink is to be consumed on buses.

13. Books, lunch boxes, musical instruments and other objects must be kept out of the aisle.

14. Riders are expected to avoid making unnecessary noises or actions that may distract the bus driver’s attention from his/her job.  Therefore, learners should not talk to the bus driver, except when necessary or when the bus is stopped to avoid unnecessary commotion or disturbance.

15. Riders are to remain seated until the bus has completely stopped before exiting the bus.

16. After leaving the bus, riders will cross the road at least ten (10) feet in front of the bus, making sure that no traffic is approaching from either direction and alert to the danger signal from the driver.

Violation of any of the above regulations poses a potential safety hazard.  A learner may lose her/his privilege to ride the bus if the regulations are violated. Loss of riding privilege does not mean a learner is excused from attending class.  Attendance regulations will apply to all absences.

School bus evacuation drills are held periodically so that pupils know exactly what to do in case of an emergency.  Bus riders are asked to cooperate fully with the bus driver and the assigned helpers.  Absolute silence must be observed.

Extra-Curricular Activities

  • All of the regulations above apply to any trip under school sponsorship.
  • Directions from athletic coaches, faculty sponsors, or school-approved chaperones are responsible for conduct on the bus and are to be respected the same as teachers or drivers.

When it is necessary to bring a learner to school or pick a learner up at the school by car during bussing hours, significant caution must be used on school property and drivers are to follow each building’s traffic patterns when dropping off or picking up learners.  Please avoid areas used by buses for unloading and loading learners at all buildings and use the lanes and areas designated for cars.

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810.2 - Transportation – Video/Audio Recording

The use of video and audio recording equipment supports efforts to maintain discipline and to ensure the safety and security of all students, staff, contractors and others being transported on district-owned, operated, or contracted school buses or school vehicles.

Therefore, the use of video and audio recording on school buses and school vehicles will be permitted when school buses and school vehicles are being used for a school-related purpose.

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815 - Acceptable Use of Internet/Network Safety Policy

The Eastern Lancaster County School District provides its employees, students, and guests (“users”) access to technology resources including, but not limited to, electronic communications systems, computers, computer networks, networked devices, hardware, software, Internet access, mobile devices, peripherals, copiers, and cameras.

The use of the District’s technology resources is to facilitate teaching and learning, to provide access to information, to aid in research and collaboration, to foster the educational mission of the District, and to carry out the legitimate business and operation of the District.

The use of the District’s technology resources is for appropriate school-related educational and operational purposes and for the performance of job duties consistent with the educational mission of the District. Use for educational purposes is defined as use that is consistent with the curriculum adopted by the District as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities and developmental levels of students. All use for any purpose must comply with this policy and all other applicable codes of conduct, policies, procedures, and rules and must not cause damage to the District’s technology resources.

Only users who have agreed to abide by the terms of this policy may utilize the District’s technology resources. Unauthorized use, utilizing another user’s District account, or exceeding one’s authorization to use District technology resources is prohibited. Nothing in this policy, however, shall prevent a Parent or Guardian from assisting his or her child with the use of the District’s technology resources, or from monitoring a student’s use of the District’s technology resources in the student’s home.

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819 - Suicide Awareness, Prevention and Response

The health, safety, and welfare of learners in ELANCO is everyone’s responsibility.  Reporting concerns or behaviors that may be harmful to someone can be done through a variety of ways and are shared below. Most importantly, if you are aware of the possibility that someone may be considering harming themselves or others, share what you know immediately so they can receive the support they need.

Emergency services and response:  call 911

Safe2Say:  1.844.723.2729 or safe2saypa.org

Any building or district administrator

https://www.preventsuicidepa.org/task-force-county-init/

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824 - Maintaining Professional Adult/Student Boundaries

All adults shall be expected to maintain professional, moral and ethical relationships with District students that are conducive to an effective, safe learning environment. This policy addresses a range of behaviors that include not only obviously unlawful or improper interactions with students, but also precursor grooming and other boundary-blurring behaviors that can lead to more egregious misconduct.

For purposes of this policy, legitimate educational reasons include matters or communications related to teaching, counseling, athletics, extracurricular activities, treatment of a student’s physical injury or other medical needs, school administration or other purposes within the scope of the adult’s assigned job duties.  

Adults shall establish and maintain appropriate personal boundaries with students and not engage in any behavior that is prohibited by this policy or that creates the appearance of prohibited behavior.

Any person, including a student, who has concerns about or is uncomfortable with a relationship or interaction between an adult and a student, shall promptly notify the building principal or Title IX Coordinator. Reports may be made using the Discrimination/Sexual Harassment/Bullying/Hazing/Dating Violence/Retaliation Report Form or by making a general report verbally or in writing. Upon receipt of a report, school staff shall promptly notify the building principal.

As with other forms of communication, when communicating electronically, adults shall maintain professional boundaries with students.

Electronic communication with students shall be for legitimate educational reasons only.

When available, District-provided email or other District-provided communication devices or platforms shall be used when communicating electronically with students. The use of District-provided email or other District-provided communication devices or platforms shall be in accordance with District policies and procedures.

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