Great Salt Bay School

PARENT/STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2009-2010

559 Main Street

Damariscotta, ME 04543
Telephone: 207 563-3091
Fax: 207 563-6974
GSB Website: http://www.aos93.org/Home/
AOS 93 Website: http://www.aos93.org
 OUR VISION FOR GSB
Every student will graduate
with the tools necessary
for life long learning.

OUR MISSION AT GSB

The mission of the Great Salt Bay School is to provide a
nurturing, safe and enjoyable environment in which all children
are challenged and inspired to pursue excellence in all aspects
of their education.

OUR STANDARDS FOR CIVILITY AT GSB

We will achieve and maintain...
...an environment that is free of aggression and violence.
...an environment that is free of harassment, bullying, teasing, and
discrimination.
...an environment that is free of inappropriate and disrespectful
language.
...an environment that is clean, orderly, safe and inviting.
...an environment that promotes learning through challenge,
kindness, clarity, and respect.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Our Web site offers a wealth of information about Great Salt Bay Community School, including
a calendar of events, weekly bulletins, newsletters, and G.S.B. links. Make sure you regularly
visit http://www.aos93.org/Home/

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 Great Salt Bay Community School
Bremen / Damariscotta / Newcastle
559 Main Street, Damariscotta, Maine 04543
207/563-3091 (tel) 207/563-6974 (fax)

Jeffrey S. Boston, Principal Kim Schaff, Assistant Principal

[email protected] [email protected]

Welcome to Great Salt Bay Community School!

This Parent/Student Handbook is designed to provide you with information about many
aspects of attending school at GSB. The contents include the school’s procedures and
excerpts from district policies. Should Great Salt Bay Community School District
policies or procedures change during the school year, those details will replace policies
and procedures that are stated here.

Our goal is to provide a positive, safe and orderly learning environment for your child –
a place where students feel they belong and parents feel welcome. The success of a
school depends on good communication among teachers, parents, and students. We
welcome your input and ask you to visit and join us in the educational process of your
child.

Further information and/or clarification of a particular service may be obtained from the
office of the principal or the superintendent of schools.

We wish you and your child a positive and productive school year and look forward to
developing a strong educational partnership. Please stop by and introduce yourself!

Jeffrey S. Boston, Principal

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Core Values of the AOS 93 Communities..........................1

Curriculum Design in AOS 93....................................1
Great Salt Bay CSD School Board................................2
School Staff...................................................2
Communication..................................................4
Questions and Concerns.........................................4
Daily Operating Procedures.....................................5
Attendance Guidelines..........................................6
Student and School Safety......................................9
Student Dress.................................................13
Great Salt Bay Parent Teacher Organization....................14
Volunteers....................................................14
Programs and Opportunities....................................15
Student Services..............................................17
Student Activities and Opportunities..........................22
Student Academic Progress.....................................23
School Nutrition Program......................................25
Health Services...............................................25
Great Salt Bay Code of Conduct and Discipline.................28
Student Transportation........................................34
Student Computer and Internet Use.............................36
Student Computer and Internet Rules...........................37
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action..........................39
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).............39
Child and Family Services and Child Protection Act............41
Firearms......................................................41
Notification of Pesticides Use at Great Salt Bay School.......41
Public Notice: Asbestos Containing Materials..................42

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 CORE VALUES OF THE AOS 93 COMMUNITIES

Respect: Respectful people show consideration for persons, places or things.

Responsibility: Responsible people fulfill their obligations and are accountable

for their actions.

Self-discipline: Self-disciplined people control their behavior and feelings.

Caring: Caring people feel and demonstrate concern for others.

Tolerance: Tolerant people recognize and respect the beliefs or practices of

others.

Honesty: Honest people respond in a sincere and truthful manner to people

and events.

Involvement: Involved people participate in school and community activities.

Compassion: Compassionate people understand the suffering of others and

want to do something to help.

Courage: Courageous people face their fears with confidence.

Trustworthiness: Trustworthy people are reliable and dependable in all they do.

CURRICULUM DESIGN IN AOS 93

The AOS 93 and Lincoln Academy Curriculum Assessment Team is committed to

helping the student meet the standards set by the State of Maine in the Learning
Results. The team is a group of teachers providing leadership by building a framework
that effectively coordinates classroom practice, curriculum, and assessment as defined
by AOS 93, Lincoln Academy and the Maine Learning Results.

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 GREAT SALT BAY CSD SCHOOL BOARD
James Cosgrove, Chair Damariscotta 2010
Carole Brinkler Newcastle 2010
William Thomas Bremen 2010
Sally Farrell Damariscotta 2011
Raoul Nelson Newcastle 2011
Brent Hallowell Damariscotta 2012
William Walton Newcastle 2012

SCHOOL STAFF
Central Administration
Robert Bouchard, Superintendent of Schools
Deryl Holt, Director of Special Services Adam Hanson, Business Manager
Sharon Marchi, Curriculum Coordinator Michelle York, Wellness Coordinator

Building Administration

Jeffrey S. Boston, Principal Kim Schaff, Assistant Principal

Teaching Staff
Kindergarten Nicole Ball Megan Gray Diane Simonds

Grade 1 Ellen Durgin Mary Hanna

Grade 2 Lorna Fake Kami Peaslee

Grade 3 Veronica Babcock Jennifer Feltus Geri Pinkham

Grade 4 Caroline Harris Pat McLean Peter Simonds

Grade 5 Dan Hupp Heidi Kopishke

Grades 5 and 6 Ted Kane Steve Roy

Grade 6 Liz Norton Tim Burch

Grades 7 and 8 Sherry Dec Anne Tibbetts Ann Jackson

Mike Stenstrom Susan Lewis Annie Bolduc

Special Education Kim Schaff (Dept. Head)

Linda Gagnon Susan Buckland Cathy Sleeman
Heather Greene Amanda Brightman-Uhl

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 Occupational Therapy Bethany Hancock

Physical Therapy Kail Cadman

Social Worker Rebecca Cannon Marie Paschke

Computer KJ Flewelling

Gifted and Talented Alison Macmillan

Art Karen Hight

Instrumental Music John Morneau Kaity Newell

Choral Music Anne-Marie D’Amico

Physical Education Jason Adickes Susan Lewis

Ed Tech III Sharon Mathews Lenore Parsons

Ed Tech II Deirdre Coggins Stella Lydon Laurie Murphy

Amy Sykes Betsy Lincoln Kyle Feltis
Cindy Sherman Heather Hardy Lisa Hargreaves
Debbie Walder Linda Blackman Anna Libby

Title I Rita Grindal Renee Thivierge

Ed Tech I Michele Brown

School Nurse Sunny Kirkham

Support Staff

Secretarial Staff Cindy Russell Paula Thompson

Food Service Lisa Mondor Karen Bryant Sandra Dinsmore

Angela Mercer

Custodial Staff Gary Michaud, Supervisor

Larry Gross Mike Lessner Mark Hagar

Bus Drivers Gary Michaud, Coordinator

Charlotte Simmons Debby Newell Maggie Quinlan
Allan Ray Gordon Benner John Mitkus
Sandra Lane Mark Hagar Tina Libby

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 COMMUNICATION
The school tries very hard to keep parents and the community informed of activities,
both routine and special, which are going on at Great Salt Bay. A “Weekly Reminder” is
posted on our web site, as is a monthly GSB Newsletter with a calendar of events, and
articles are printed in the Lincoln County News. Much more information will also be
available on our school web site. The upper grades print a school newspaper from time
to time and a yearbook is published near the end of each school year. The school staff
would appreciate any suggestions on improving community-school communications.
Parents can expect courteous and clear communication from Great Salt Bay School
staff at all times. Parents are welcome to call, visit, or request a conference at any time
during the year. Please do not drop by for a conference with your child’s teacher
without an appointment, as their attention needs to be on their students and the learning
at hand. If you wish the principal, assistant principal, or any other staff member present
during a conference, please feel free to request their presence.

QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS

The staff at Great Salt Bay wishes to address questions and concerns in a timely and
cooperative manner. We encourage parents and students to bring concerns forward for
early resolution.

If a parent or other community member wishes to discuss a concern, we encourage

him/her to begin the discussion with personnel closest to the source of that concern.
The route to gaining the best information and answers is as follows:

Classroom Teacher

Principal or Assistant Principal

Superintendent

School Board

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 DAILY OPERATING PROCEDURES

STUDENT ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

Students may arrive on campus between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. When parents find it
necessary to bring their children to school early, students are to wait outside in the front
of the school. It is important to note that supervision of children by school
personnel begins at 8:15 a.m.

Classes are in session from 8:30 a.m. until 2:40 p.m. All students should be in their
seats at 8:30; students are considered “tardy” if they enter their classroom after 8:30
a.m. Individual class schedules are according to grade level.

Students are dismissed to go home at 2:45 p.m. (grades 5-8) and 2:50 p.m. (grades K-
4). Students who walk or ride bicycles to and from school should use extreme caution
when entering or exiting school grounds.

Students who are driven to and from school may arrive at 8:15 and may be dismissed at
2:45 p.m. All students being picked up must be signed out at the office prior to
leaving with their driver. Any driver other than a parent must be listed on the student’s
emergency card or bus note before they will be allowed to take a child.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS OR DELAYED OPENINGS

When road or weather conditions require the cancellation of school or a delayed
opening, an announcement will be made by 7:00 a.m. over television stations 6, 8, and
13, and the following radio stations:
560 AM WGAN 101.9 WPOR 93.1 WMGX
102.9 WBLM 100.9 WYNZ

If the entire student body needs to be sent home early due to worsening weather
conditions or other emergencies, the school will make every effort to notify the parents
through announcements on the radio and television.

RECESS AND LUNCH SCHEDULES

Kindergarten Recess (10:45 – 11:10)

Lunch (11:10 – 11:35)

Grades 1 and 2 Recess (11:40 – 12:00) Grades 3 and 4 Lunch (11:35 – 12:00)
Lunch (12:00 – 12:25) Recess (12:00 – 12:20)

Grades 5 and 6 Lunch (12:25 – 12:50) Grades 7 and 8 Recess (12:25 – 12:45)
Recess (12:50 – 1:10) Lunch (12:45 – 1:10)

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 ILLNESS WHILE AT SCHOOL

If a student should become ill during school, the student needs to ask to see the school
nurse. The school nurse must obtain parental permission in order for a student to be
released from school due to illness. Prior to leaving for home, students and parents (or
their designee) must sign out in the office.

In general, no student should be sent to school if he/she has had a fever, vomiting,
diarrhea or any other symptoms of illness within the previous 24 hours. Written excuses
are required for all absences from school unless there has been phone contact between
the parent and the school.

ELECTRONICS

Personal electronic equipment used for communication or entertainment is not

allowed to be used during the school day (8:15 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.).
• All electronic devises must be turned off and out of sight.
• The use of cameras, including camera phones, is strictly prohibited in locker
rooms, restrooms, and classrooms. In all other locations teacher permission and
the permission of the individual(s) being photographed is required.
• On field trips and extracurricular activities, including but not limited to athletic
teams, students may only use these devices with teacher or coach permission.
• If this rule is violated, the teacher or staff member will immediately confiscate the
devise for the remainder of the school day and disciplinary actions will be
imposed.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Great Salt Bay Community School does not assume responsibility for the personal
property of students. Parents and students are urged to carefully consider the type and
value of property taken to school, especially items with monetary and/or sentimental
value. Unidentified articles found on school property are placed in Lost and Found.

ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES
Being present at school every day is the first and most important ingredient of a
successful educational experience. Absence for any reason breaks the
continuity of the instruction a student receives, interrupts the practice and
reinforcement necessary to solidify early learning, and keeps a student from the
in-class discussions and activities designed to bring learning to life. In short,
“Showing Up Matters!”

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 STUDENT TARDINESS

Students are reported tardy if they are not in their seats at 8:30 a.m.. They must go to
the office and check in with the secretary to obtain a tardy slip before entering class or
they will be reported absent. Parents of students who are tardy for more than three (3)
days per trimester will be asked to meet with the principal and/or assistant principal to
develop an action plan to remedy the situation.

STUDENT ABSENCE

If a student is absent from school, a parent needs to call the school office to let us
know. Without this notification, the school will contact parents by phone. Students will
be recorded absent from school on any day they are not attending school-based
activities. If the school does not receive a call from a parent or guardian within 24 hours
the absence or tardiness will be considered unexcused.

State law establishes conditions under which children may be excused from attending
school. By law, an absence may be EXCUSED for one of the following five reasons:

1. Personal illness or injury - a doctor’s medical verification note may be

required by the principal after three (3) consecutive days.
2. Family illness or emergency - an emergency situation requiring the
student to be absent from school.
3. Observation of a religious holiday - a holiday consistent with a student’s
established creed or belief requiring observance during the school day.
4. Medical appointments – appointments with a health professional that can
not be made outside the regular school day.
5. Planned absences for personal or education purposes - planned absences
need to be approved by the principal in advance.

According to the AOS 93 Attendance Policy, the parents of a student who exceeds (10)
excused absences during one academic year or who establishes a pattern of excused
absences will be asked to attend a school conference to determine a course of action
for addressing the problems caused by excessive absence.

STUDENT TRUANCY

Absences not listed above or approved specifically by the school administration shall be
classified as UNEXCUSED. Under Maine law, a student who has completed grade 6 is
truant if they have the equivalent of 10 full days of unexcused absences or 7
consecutive school days of unexcused absences during a school year. A student who
is at least 7 years of age and has not completed grade 6 is truant if they have the
equivalent of 7 full days of unexcused absences or 5 consecutive school days of
unexcused absences during a school year. It is the goal of the Great Salt Bay

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Community School to ensure the rights of access for all school-aged children to an
appropriate educational opportunity and, when necessary, to develop interventions to
regular school curricula for those children and youth at risk of becoming dropouts and
those who may have left school.

When a student is truant, a letter is sent to the parents requesting a conference to

discuss the student’s absences from school and the development of a plan of action to
resolve the situation. Failure of the student or the student’s parents to appear at
scheduled meetings does not preclude the school from implementing a plan to address
the student’s habitual truancy.

If the superintendent or designee is unable to correct the truancy, a letter will be sent via
registered mail. The letter will:

1. Include a statement that the student is required to attend school, pursuant to

section 5001-A
2. Explain parents’ right to inspect the student’s attendance record.
3. Explain that the failure to send the student to school and maintain
regular attendance is a civil violation, in accordance with section 5053-A
4. Explain the possible actions
a. Notification of local law enforcement department
b. Request for another meeting to review and adjust plan
c. Notification of school board and possible action taken by law
enforcement authorities (District Attorney’s Office)

STUDENT DISMISSALS AND EXTENDED ABSENCES

A student needing to be dismissed early from school must bring a note stating the time
and reason for the early dismissal. Parents picking students up early must go to the
office to have their child dismissed and to sign them out; students will be called down to
the office to meet their ride. Any driver other than a parent must be listed on the
student’s emergency card or bus note before they will be allowed to take a child.

If a parent wishes to take a child out of school for a week or more, a note stating the
reasons should be sent to the principal prior to the planned absence. Being away from
that much class time means missing class lessons, labs, and activities that cannot be
duplicated outside of the school. Students only get a snapshot of concepts being
covered in the classroom when taking homework or class work with them on vacation.
Teaching of new concepts and all the activities that go along with them cannot be
duplicated outside of school. Teachers will try to be flexible in these situations; students
will be given a day for each day out of school to make up the work that was missed.
Additional homework or after school time may be required when the student returns to
regular classes (to make up for lessons missed or to prepare for quizzes/tests).
Parents are highly encouraged to take this information into consideration when
planning family vacations.

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 STUDENT AND SCHOOL SAFETY

IDENTIFYING MEMBERS OF OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

A major part of keeping school a safe place for students and staff is to maintain a
system of identifying those people on school grounds who are known to be here for
legitimate, education-related reasons. Several steps are in place to help with this
process.
• All visitors entering the school (including parents and others on school business)
must stop at the office, sign in, and wear the pin or badge provided by the office
staff. These pins are to be returned when leaving the building.
• All students receive photo ID cards. While students are not required to wear or
carry them, they are used for access to lunch room accounts by students in
grades 5 through 8.
• All staff receive photo ID cards and wear them at all times. This allows students
to immediately identify a “safe adult” whom they may approach for assistance.
• Substitute teachers wear an identifiable pin provided by the office on any day
they are working in the building.
If an adult is met within the building who is not identified in one of the ways listed, they
are directed back to the office for proper check-in.

EMERGENCY CARDS
Emergency cards are kept on file in the school office for each student attending GSB. It
is very important that parents contact the office if there are any changes in phone
numbers, addresses or employment. It is critical that you have at least one (1) alternate
person listed on your emergency card in case we cannot reach you when the need
arises. If you need to add or change any information on the card please send in written
notification as soon as you are aware of the changes.

BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS, ROLLER BLADES, & “HEELIES”

Only students who are 11 years old and older may ride bicycles to school.
Skateboards, scooters, roller blades, or “heelies” are not allowed on school property.
The following school rules for bicycling safety will apply to all students:
1. By state law a bicycle helmet must be worn at all times when riding a bicycle.
2. Any bicycle must be in a safe mechanical condition to be ridden on school
property.
3. Safe riding habits must be practiced.
4. Bicycles must be parked in the racks as soon as practical after entering school
property and not ridden on school grounds.
Violation of the school’s bicycling rules can result in loss of the privilege to bicycle on
school grounds or other penalties appropriate to the seriousness of the offense.

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 STUDENT SUPERVISION

The faculty and staff at Great Salt Bay Community School are responsible for the
supervision of students from 8:15 – 3:00.

WEAPONS AND SCHOOL SAFETY

The School Board believes that students and staff are entitled to learn and work
in a school environment free of violence, threats and disruptive behavior.
Students are expected to conduct themselves with respect for others and in
accordance with Board policies, school rules, reasonable unwritten behavior
expectations, and applicable state and federal law.
I. Prohibited Conduct
Students, staff, and all other persons are prohibited from engaging in the following
conduct on school property, while in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored
activity, or at any time or place that such conduct directly interferes with the operation,
discipline, or general welfare of the school:
A. Possession and/or use of articles used or designed to inflict bodily harm and/or to
threaten, intimidate, coerce or harass another person. Examples of such articles
include but are not limited to firearms, BB guns, pellet guns, any other kind of gun,
ammunition, knives, chains, and clubs.
B. Use of any object, although not necessarily designed to be a weapon, to inflict
bodily harm and/or to threaten, intimidate, coerce or harass another person.
Examples of such articles include but are not limited to bats, belts, picks, pencils,
compasses, objects capable of ignition (e.g. matches, lighters), files, tools of any
sort, and replicas of weapons (including toys).
II. Disciplinary Action
A. Principals may suspend and/or recommend expulsion of students who violate this
policy based upon the facts of each case and in accordance with applicable state
and federal laws.
B. Principals reserve the right to contact local law enforcement.

CRISIS RESPONSE

Great Salt Bay Community School mobilizes its School Emergency Team to provide
direction, support, coordination of earlier resources, and effective communication to
students, staff and community in the event of an incident, which might impact on the
learning environment and student well being. This incident could include but is not
limited to natural disaster, death of a student or faculty member, car or school bus
accident and threats of or actual harm to students or staff from another source.

In the event of such an occurrence, the team will work together to verify circumstances
and develop a plan for handling the situation. The school will inform parents and give
information regarding the situation as it is available and appropriate.

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Each school in AOS 93 has revised its Crisis Response Plan using the template
provided by the Lincoln County Emergency Management Office as its guide. Each plan
has been adopted by the school board, based on Maine school law. The purpose of
this Emergency Management Plan is to provide a framework of policies, procedures,
guidelines, and organizational structure that enables Great Salt Bay Community School
and its community partners to effectively mitigate against, prepare for, respond to, and
recover from all emergencies and disasters involving Great Salt Bay Community
School.

EVACUATIONS AND LOCKDOWNS

GSB has a detailed Crisis Response Plan for major crises demanding evacuation or
lock down. Specific plans for safely evacuating students and staff from the school are in
place and practiced on a regular basis. There are also established procedures for the
securing of the school (“lockdown”) should such a step be necessary to keep our
students safe. By state law, there will be ten (10) evacuation drills and two (2) lockdown
drills held throughout the year. These sessions are designed to help students learn how
to respond when there is any type of emergency at school (fire, etc.) and become
familiarized with the procedures, reducing their fears and anxieties.
Specific directions will be given to students by their teachers early in the year. In
general, it is important that students pay close attention to staff members giving them
directions. It is also important that everyone move quickly and quietly to designated
areas. At all times students are to stay with their class and teacher. If a student is not
with a class at the time of the evacuation he/she should join the nearest adult and notify
that adult of their presence. Every possible step will be taken by staff members to
ensure the wellbeing of all members of our school community during such an event.

BOMB THREATS
Pursuant to Title 20-A MRSA, Section 1001, a student who is involved in a bomb threat
will face suspension from school until the student is no longer deemed a threat to the
safety of the students and staff through a risk assessment. The student will be subject
to criminal action pending an investigation by law enforcement officers. Any days lost
because of a bomb threat will be made up during the school year.

THE SCHOOL’S RIGHT TO SEARCH

Lockers, desks or storage places provided for students are, and remain at all times,
property of the Great Salt Bay Community District Board of Education. These areas and
their contents, therefore, are subject to a random search at any time, pursuant to board
policy. Administrators are authorized to conduct reasonable inspection of school
property or of students and items brought onto school grounds, when there is reason to
believe that a student may be in possession of items that violate school policy.

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 FIRE LANES AND BUILDING ACCESS

It is important that we maintain a clear roadway all around the school at all times. Last
year a fire alarm was accidentally pulled during one of our basketball games. The fire
trucks and emergency vehicles were not able to move to the front door or the fire
hydrant near the cafeteria because of cars parked along the driveway and leading
circle. Needless to say, if a real fire were in progress, the delay in getting equipment
and firefighters to the school would have resulted in increased damage to the school
and possible loss of life.

“NO PARKING / FIRE LANE” signs will be placed along the right side of the driveway,
around the circle, and along the driveway near the hydrant for all major events. It is
important to note that cars parked in fire hydrant zones or fire lanes are subject to
potential towing or ticketing. The circle will still be used for pick up and drop off of
students but DO NOT leave your vehicle unattended. The bus circle and driveway will
never be open for public parking; there are parking spaces behind the school. We will
leave the back door of the school open for people to enter during the evening and for all
special events. Thank you for your help in maintaining a safe school environment.

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 STUDENT DRESS
DRESS CODE

Our goal is to create a positive, safe and orderly learning environment. Students
should be dressed in a safe, healthy and non-discriminatory manner. Student
clothing should also not distract from attention to learning. We expect students
to wear clothing that is neat, appropriate and presentable.

The following guidelines apply:

1. Clothing must not distract others from learning. Clothing should be clean and
conform to standards of decency. GSB does not permit sagging or low-cut pants, low-
cut necklines, halter tops, spaghetti straps, backless blouses or blouses with only ties
in the back, and clothing constructed of see-through materials.

2. Students may not wear clothing with inappropriate language or pictures (i.e.,
obscene, vulgar, sexual) or with advertisements for things that are illegal for
students to possess/use (i.e., tobacco, alcohol, drugs). Such clothing may not be
worn on school grounds when school is in session or at school functions.

3. Appropriate footwear must be worn in the building and on school grounds.

With safety in mind, certain footwear should be avoided. Platform shoes, high heels,
clogs, backless sneakers, flip-flops and toeless sandals pose a danger to students in
hallways, on stairs and on the playground. Bare feet and stocking feet are not
allowed. During physical education class children are to wear sneakers that fasten
securely.

4. Clothing that is destructive of school property (e.g. cleats) is not permitted.

5. Students should be dressed appropriately for the weather. Students are

required to go outdoors during recesses, weather permitting. In winter, hats, boots,
mittens and coats are necessary. Snow pants and boots are required to play in snow
or to slide.

6. Clothing, footwear, insignia or accessories that are intended to identify the

wearer as a member of a particular gang are prohibited.

7. No head coverings are allowed except for medical, cultural or religious reasons.
Traditional religious dress will be dealt with on an individual basis.

8. Sunglasses may not be worn inside the school building.

9. The dress code applies for concerts and game days.

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 GREAT SALT BAY PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION (GSB PTO)
The Great Salt Bay PTO was started in 1988 (as GSBSA) to provide our school with a
parent-teacher organization that could support our students in their many activities and
provide assistance to staff and our many programs. Membership is automatic for all
parents, teachers and administration.

Our PTO goals are as follows:

1. To provide a forum for open communication and better understanding
between parents, teachers, administration, and School Board members.
Regular meetings allow for the informal exchange of ideas, questions, and
concerns. GSB PTO board members are also available on an individual basis
for parents and teachers. Phone numbers and e-mail addresses are available
through the school office.
2. To organize and hold functions throughout the year to raise funds for
specific school or administrative needs as well as to cover GSB PTO
operating costs.
3. To present informational and educational programs for parents. Programs
are often in direct response to parents’ concerns and interests brought to the
attention of the GSB PTO.
4. To provide assistance to teachers in the classroom and for special
events by assisting the Volunteer Committee.

The GSB PTO warmly welcomes you, however often you can attend. Parents will be
notified of all regular meetings and special programs throughout the year via the
newsletter and e-mail. We will be exploring the initiation of a “Virtual PTO” this fall to
assist those parents for whom attending evening meetings is difficult or impossible.

VOLUNTEERS
Great Salt Bay has many areas in which volunteers are used and are greatly
appreciated. Some of the areas of volunteer involvement include classroom help, field
trips, library assistants, special events such as helping with the Bike Rodeo and field
days, and work at home such as typing and phoning. If you would like to volunteer at
GSB, please call.

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 PROGRAMS and OPPORTUNITIES

LIBRARY SERVICES

The Great Salt Bay Community School library serves 410 students with approximately
5,000 books, 30 magazines, 2 newspapers and audio visual media. The library is
staffed from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Students in grades K-6 will have weekly library sessions for thirty minutes. Students in
grades 7-8 will have regular access to the library to exchange books and utilize
research materials.

Books for grades K-4 must be returned weekly while books for grades 5-8 must be
returned every two weeks. As always, all books may be renewed as necessary. If a
student has a book, which is overdue for more than a month, that student will not be
allowed to sign out any more library books until that book is returned or compensation is
made. Students are responsible for the care of library books. Therefore, the cost of
lost or damaged books must be paid by the student who signed out the book. If a lost
book is found, the money will be returned.

All students, as well as all others, are expected to use the library quietly and in a
respectful way.

Parent and student volunteers help run the library and also assist in library projects,
specifically the Fall Book Fair and Un Plug It Week.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education is a very important part of the total education process for every
child. A child’s physical health and well being directly influences his ability to think
clearly and process information in the classroom. It is a proven fact that exercise and
physical activity contribute to a child’s ability to retain and understand information.
At Great Salt Bay, every student participates in physical education twice weekly. The
physical education curriculum is composed of the following:

K-6 Skill Based Curriculum Including:

individual skill development
cooperative and team building activities
developing fitness awareness
7-8 Skill Based Curriculum Including
lifetime sports and activities
developing and incorporating lifetime fitness habits
skill development in individual and team sports

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In grades K-4, only sneakers are required for participation. Loose fitting clothing is
suggested. Students in grades 5-8 need shorts, a t-shirt, and sneakers for participation.
Since street shoes and boots are both hard on the gym floor and dangerous in physical
education activities, students wearing anything other than sneakers will not be allowed
to participate in class for that period.

MUSIC

The Great Salt Bay music program emphasizes the natural capacity for music. This we
do through working with voice, playing musical games, listening to music composed by
the masters and studying the world’s great folk song literature. Music appreciation is
learned through the musical experience. Chorus is also offered to students in grades 5-
8. Students in grades 5 and 6 must take either band or chorus. Students in grades 7
and 8 may take band and chorus. Students have the opportunity to join the community
chorus, Common Threads.

Band instrument lessons are offered to those interested from grades 5-8. Each student
is given one group lesson per week and, when technically able, joins the band, which
rehearses twice weekly (Advanced Band rehearses three times a week). Students have
the opportunity to participate in the Advanced Band and Spare Change, the community
jazz band, by invitation. In addition, a string instrument program is offered for students
in grades 3-8. Students participating in the Strings Program put on two concerts a year.

Chorus and band members are expected to participate in the Winter and Spring
Concerts, in the local Memorial Day Parade (Advanced Band only), and in the Young
Artist Showcase. Those who excel in instrumental music and/or choral music may try
out for the District Festival, which gives them an opportunity to meet and perform with
the finest young musicians from Brunswick to Belfast in the spring of each year.

ART

The visual art program at GSB is primarily discipline based, the philosophy of which is
that artistic skills and techniques can be taught and improved upon through practice.
Many lessons have an art history component in conjunction with an art-making activity.
Specific skills and techniques are focused upon at developmentally appropriate levels.
Some lessons are quite structured while others allow for more creative experimentation
with media.

There is a natural art-making process that all young children go through. To develop
artistic skills beyond that point requires a knowledge base and continued practice. Our
view of creativity is that it is similar to the water table: for some, it just comes bubbling
out of them, while others might need to dig a bit further. We believe artistic skill,
knowledge, and ability are attainable for everyone, and necessary for artistic growth
regardless of one’s natural talents. We attempt to provide all of this in one class time

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per week for grades K-8. Students in grades 7 and 8 may have an opportunity to
participate in studio art during study hall.

Education in all of the arts is an integral part of a well-rounded education. Our sole
purpose is not just preparing our students for the work force. Our primary goal is to help
our children to be well educated in all subject areas; to be thinking, creative, inquisitive,
and intelligent lifelong learners.

STUDENT SERVICES

SOCIAL WORKER AND COUNSELING PROGRAM

School counseling is an essential component of Great Salt Bay Community School.

The services provided reflect a response to the personal, social, academic, and
vocational needs of students. Some of the social worker’s major responsibilities and
functions are:

Counseling
Counseling is a process in which the counselor uses his skills and training to establish a
trusting and confidential helping relationship. GSB’s social workers provide both
individual and small group counseling. Referrals may be made by parents, teachers,
administrators, or by students themselves. Individual counseling is generally short term
(five sessions). Small groups may meet up to ten times.

Consultation and Parent Education

Consultation is a cooperative process in which the social worker assists others, such as
parents and teachers, to think through problems and to develop skills and strategies
that will make them more effective in solving these problems. All parent or teacher
consultations are confidential.

Parenting classes may be offered during the school year through GSB or outside
organizations. These informal classes are an excellent opportunity for parents to learn
from each other and develop new or more effective parenting skills.

Classroom Guidance
Classroom guidance, offered by school personnel, offers an effective opportunity to
provide guidance to the largest number of students. Some of the topics and issues
taught are: decision making, conflict resolution and peer mediation, self-esteem and
respecting others, and learning styles. The topic of alcohol and drug abuse is taught
through the DARE program in fifth grade and health classes in grades six through eight.

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 Coordination and Referral Resource for Parents
This includes the managing of other services which benefit students and parents and
acting as a liaison between the school and community agencies. It involves organizing
special events, assisting with the Big Brother/Big Sister mentor program, helping
arrange for camp scholarships and providing referral information and resources to
parents. Your school social worker has lists and information on a wide variety of social
service agencies including family counselors, crisis centers, legal assistance, and health
care agencies.

TITLE I COMPENSATORY PROGRAM

Title I is a federally funded program for students who need remedial tutoring in reading.
Classroom teachers, parents/guardians, or students themselves can make referrals to
Title I if they feel there is a need for academic intervention. Parents of Title I students
have the opportunity to make suggestions about their child’s program through the
Parent Compact Process.

Students are tutored by a qualified Ed Tech in small groups or on a one-to-one basis as

needed. Students may move into or out of the program at any time, depending on their
level of success. Through consultation with the Title I coordinator, tutoring programs
are tailored individually; weekly meetings between Title I Ed Techs and classroom
teachers ensure that specific student needs are met.

ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION

In the fall of 2005 School Union #74 (now AOS 93) initiated a new program available to
seventh and eighth graders from all Union 74 (now AOS 93) schools. The Center for
Alternative Learning enrolls students who have been identified by their sending schools
as not realizing the level of academic and social success that they seem capable of
attaining. The center also tends to enroll students whose learning style can better be
addressed in the center’s small group setting and “hands on” environment. All students
enrolled in the program participate in a Community Mentorship whereby they engage in
a real world working situation for a couple of hours each week. In past years students
have worked at such locations as Head Start, Damariscotta River Association, Mexicali
Blues, Fair Harbor Animal Shelter, The Lincoln Home and many others. These
experiences provide our students with a new connection to the world of work and their
local community. All students enrolled in the center also will participate in the
development of a Personalized Learning Plan (PLP) to amplify their academic strengths
and address their weaknesses. All AOS 93 schools work very hard to meet the needs
of their students but what we always recognize is that no school can be all to everyone.
The Center for Alternative Learning becomes an option for those students needing a
new environment to reconnect to their potential as learners. The center provides that
option.

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The Center for Alternative Learning is housed at Nobleboro Central School and
transportation is provided for all students. Students enrolled in the program receive
both P.E. and Art at the Nobleboro Central School and every opportunity is provided so
they can remain connected to their sending school. While students attend school on-
site in Nobleboro, they remain students of their sending school and are eligible to
participate in all co-curricular (Band, Chorus, etc.), extra-curricular (athletics) and social
programs (dances, class projects, class trips).

PHOENIX PROGRAM

The Phoenix Program is Great Salt Bay’s gifted and talented/enrichment program. The
goal is to encourage, motivate and challenge students to develop their particular gifts
and talents to enrich their own lives and in so doing enrich the lives of others. The
program consists of three components that are: school-wide enrichment; special
projects such as small group classes or curriculum extension opportunities; and
individual education plans for eligible students in grades 4-8.

ADVISOR/ADVISEE SYSTEM

The advisor system, implemented for grades 7 and 8, is the link to ensure
communication among students, staff and family concerning the student’s school life. By
meeting in small groups each advisor will be aware of the particular needs and
problems of his/her advisees. The advisor can then take appropriate steps to make
school a successful learning experience. The advisor thus becomes the key person for
each student at our school.

General Goals of the Advisor/Advisee System

1. Increase staff awareness and understanding of the students and their needs
2. Perceive a student’s potential needs and take appropriate action.
3. Assist students in developing an awareness and better understanding of self and
encourage a positive self-image.
4. Assist students in developing an awareness and better understanding of others.
5. Assist students in developing their program of study to meet their needs and
interests.
6. Establish and maintain communication among the family, advisor, and student
regarding the student’s school life.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE TEAM (SAT)

The Student Assistance Team consists of professionals whose function is to identify
and intervene with “at risk” students. The purpose of the S.A.T. is to redirect students
exhibiting “at risk” behaviors before they experience school and social failure.

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The S.A.T. recognizes that a student’s problems do not exist in a vacuum. Parents are
seen as critical interveners in their child’s S.A.T. plan. To this end efforts will be made
to enlist active participation by parents in the S.A.T. process through the following
means:

1. Parents will be informed of S.A.T. involvement at the earliest appropriate time.

2. A liaison for the parents will be appointed from the S.A.T.
3. The liaison will clarify the purpose and function of the S.A.T.
4. Parents may give and receive feedback, express feelings, provide information,
make decisions and/or block decisions of the S.A.T.
5. Parents’/student’s rights to privacy will be assured through compliance with the
Family Educational Right and Privacy Act of 1974.

SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

Introduction
Increasingly schools in Maine are being faced with referrals to 504 of the Rehabilitation
Act. This law imposes obligations on schools to provide Free and Appropriate Public
Education to a small group of students who may not be eligible for special education
under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. (Please note that all students
eligible under IDEA are also protected under 504.)

Under IDEA, a student is not considered disabled unless he or she requires special
education. A handicapped student under the Rehabilitation Act need not require
traditional special education at all. Rather she/he may need supportive services such
as transportation, clean intermittent catheterization, or classroom modifications to
receive a free and appropriate public education.

Procedures

1. Referral to the 504 committee may be made by school staff members, parents or
students.
2. Parents will be notified of the referral and of their rights and the school will complete
an evaluation.
3. When the evaluation is completed, the 504 committee will review the data to
determine if the child is handicapped, the life function that is limited and the extent to
which it is limited.
4. If the student is eligible under Section 504, an accommodation plan will be
developed.
5. The 504 committee will review the plan at least annually.
6. Should the committee consider making a significant change in the student’s program,
another evaluation should be completed.
7. An alternative route to these procedures should be undertaken when a PET has
determined that a student has been evaluated, found to have a disability that adversely
affects the student’s educational performance but does not need special education. In

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this case the team should change hats and decide if the student is eligible under
Section 504 and develop an accommodation plan.

SPECIAL EDUCATION
Special Education is based on the concept that all children are “special” and deserve an
education that will develop their individual needs. Legally, this means all students are
entitled to a “Free Appropriate Public Education” (FAPE).

Children who are having difficulties in school are often referred to the Individual
Educational Program (I.E.P.) Team. This means that school personnel and the child’s
parents meet together to help resolve these problems. These meetings can be initiated
by teachers, parents or by the student himself. When a child is referred to the I.E.P.
Team, parents are contacted and encouraged to join with school personnel in a
discussion of the child’s status at school. The team may recommend that the child be
evaluated to determine his/her strengths and weaknesses. Parental written consent is
required for this evaluation. When the evaluation is completed, the I.E.P. Team will
reconvene to make further recommendations. If the child qualifies for special education
services, an individual educational program (I.E.P.) will be written. Prior to
implementation of this plan and/or placement in a special education program, written
parental consent is again required.

Excerpts from Chapter 101: Maine Unified Special Education Regulation

Policy and Purpose

The Department of Education is designated as the State Educational Agency
responsible for carrying out the State’s obligations under the federal Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 United States Code, Section 1400 et seq., as
amended. The Department and every school administrative unit, intermediate
educational unit, public school, or other public agency that receives federal or State
funds to provide early intervention or free appropriate public education services to
children age birth to twenty with disabilities must comply with the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act, as amended, and all federal regulations adopted thereunder.
[20-A MRSA 7006]

Non-Discrimination
Children in Maine, birth to twenty who have disabilities, may not be excluded from the
benefits of services to which they are entitled under IDEA. The Department of
Education shall ensure the provision of appropriate services regardless of the nature
and severity of the child’s disability or developmental delay. A full range of services that
are needed to meet the early intervention and free appropriate public education needs
of eligible children and their families will be coordinated and delivered in a manner
consistent with the practices set forth in this rule and applicable State and federal law
and regulation.

1.3 Free Appropriate Public Education

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The guarantee of equal educational opportunity entitles each student with a disability
residing in the State, to be provided with a free appropriate public education that
emphasizes special education and supportive services designed to meet their unique
needs and prepare them for employment and independent living.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES

SCHOOL PICTURES
School pictures and group class pictures will be taken in early October and will be
distributed approximately one month after they are taken. Pictures are guaranteed
before Christmas. There will be one date for retakes.

SPECIAL EVENTS
Fall Open House
Parent Nights
Harvest Festival - Fall (eighth grade fund raiser)
Library Book Fair - Fall and Spring
Band and Chorus Concerts - Winter and Spring
Field Days (K-4 and 5-8) - June

There are individual class and school-wide plays as well as special programs brought in
to benefit the entire school.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/PARTICIPATION
The co-curricular programs at Great Salt Bay Community School shall provide
educational experiences not otherwise offered in the curriculum as an integral part of
the total educational program. Co-curricular activities are available to students who
meet eligibility requirements. You should be alert for announcements of meetings for
these activities.

SPORTS
Great Salt Bay offers a variety of after school sports for students in grades 6-8. In all of
these sports, students have the opportunity to develop good sports skills and attitudes
while playing against other schools in our AOS 93 as well as many schools outside the
AOS 93.
Field Hockey Baseball Soccer
Cross Country (5-8) Golf Basketball
Cheerleading Softball Track and Field
Archery Club

ATHLETIC CODE

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The Athletic Code of Conduct has been designed in order to support and promote
healthy, enriching and safe activities for all students/athletes. Compliance with this
document is mandatory for those participating in interscholastic athletics within Great
Salt Bay Community School. For further details refer to the Athletic Code of Conduct
booklet.
STUDENT ACADEMIC PROGRESS

TRACKING ACADEMIC PROGRESS

Grades are reported on a trimester basis at Great Salt Bay Community School. Written
reports are provided to parents during conferences at the end of the first and third
trimesters; they are sent home with students in grades K-4 at the end of the second
trimester.

Report cards for students in grades 5-8 are issued the end of each trimester. Parents of
these students will be able to check on student grades at any time online via
PowerSchool.

Any 5-8 students who fail any subject for the year must make up the course during the
summer; any who fail two or more courses will be retained. Academic achievement for
grades 5-8 is recorded by a letter grade as follows:

Academic Achievement
90-100 A Outstanding
80-89 B Very Good, Above Average
70-79 C Average
60-69 D Poor, Below Average
Below 60 F Not Passing
P Passing

Effort
E- Excellent S – Satisfactory N - Needs Improvement

ACADEMIC INTERVENTION PROCEDURE - SUMMER SCHOOL

Any student who fails (below a 60% average) one or two core subjects during the
school year, will be required to make up the course(s) work during summer school of
that year. For this procedure the core subjects are: language arts, reading, math,
science, social students, and health. A student will be expected to attend a minimum of
four hours a week per subject and will need to pass a final assessment in each subject
with a minimum grade of 60%.

If a student does not pass the final assessment he/she will be placed in the next grade,
but with a modified schedule, and additional support. The student will be required to
continue work in the failed area(s) until the assessment is passed.

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Any student who fails more than two core subjects during the school year, will be
considered a candidate for retention in his/her present grade for the following year.

TESTING

Students in grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 take the New England Common Assessment

Program (NECAP) Tests in reading and math. The Maine Educational Assessment Test
in science will be given to grades 5 and 8 and students in grades 3 through 8 will be
taking the NWEA Test twice annually in math and reading.

HOMEWORK (GSB Policy File I-23)

(adopted January 8, 2003)

The Great Salt Bay School Board believes that homework is an extension of school
learning that can:
• Enhance the school-parent-child connection;
• Reinforce classroom skills;
• Foster responsibility; and
• Encourage the development of time management skills.

Homework assignments are made on a regular basis by teachers at all grade levels,
with such assignments being appropriate to the age and grade level and to the needs
and ability of the learner. Assignments are to be meaningful and should reinforce or
enhance classroom learning activities.

The following are suggested total times for daily homework:

Kindergarten Less than ten (10) minutes
Grades 1 - 3 Up to thirty (30) minutes
Grades 4 - 5 Up to fifty (50) minutes
Grades 6 - 8 Up to eighty (80) minutes

MISSING/INCOMPLETE ASSIGNMENTS
If a student has missing assignments or fails to complete an assignment he/she may
lose his/her privilege to participate in assemblies, field trips, and extra school activities
such as Field Day.

PARENT CONFERENCES
Parent-teacher communication is of the highest priority at Great Salt Bay. Parent
conferences are held twice a year for all parents of students in grades K-4, at the end of
the first and third trimesters. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend both
conferences. Conferences are also held for students in grades 5 through 8.

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Parents are encouraged to request conferences at any time during the year due to
academic or social concerns. If you would like the principal, assistant principal or any
other staff member present during your meeting, please feel free to request their
attendance.
SCHOOL NUTRITION PROGRAM
The school breakfast and lunch programs offer fresh and wholesome foods, with the
student’s appetite in mind. A full lunch is available and students who bring their own
lunches may purchase milk. This year the GSB food services program will be
partnering with the FARMS effort, providing local fresh produce as part of school meals.
Monthly menus are prepared and sent home prior to the start of each new month so that
our customers know what the daily offerings are. Menus are also available on our Web
page.

If you feel that your children qualify under USDA income guidelines for free or reduced
price meals, please complete an application, mailed home before the start of school or
available in the school office, and return it to school. If you have previously qualified
and receive a letter from the State indicating your eligibility, you only need to submit the
letter to the school; no additional paperwork is required.

We utilize a computerized meal payment system, which allows parents to pre-pay

money into each individual child’s account and then access that money when
purchasing meals. It is important to note that this is a debit system, which means that
the money must first be put into the child’s account before any purchases can be made.
We ask that school lunch money be brought on Monday. If this is not possible, all
lunches and milk can be paid for daily. For your convenience we provide envelopes in
which to send meal payments. On the outside of the envelope, please write the
student’s name and the amount enclosed. No money will be accepted unless it is
placed in a marked envelope.

In grades 5 through 8, we offer a limited selection of a la carte items. Please note that
charging of snack items or deducting the cost from a student’s lunch account is not
allowed. Snacks are available on a cash basis only.

Should you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding the School Nutrition
Program, please contact the school’s kitchen manager, Lisa Mondor, at 563-3091.

HEALTH SERVICES
Health services for Great Salt Bay School are provided by the school nurse 5 days per
week. The school nurse focuses on maintaining a maximum level of wellness for all
children. She communicates with both students and staff for the purpose of continually
improving the physical, mental and social environment in which learning takes place.
We encourage parents to give permission for the nurse to contact your family doctor.
This will help her to meet the needs of your child.

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 Requirements for Admission to School
Immunizations: In the absence of disease history or a valid exemption (pursuant to 20-A
MRSA 6355), the following immunizations are required for attendance in Maine schools,
K-12, public and private: 5 DTP/DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), 4 polio, 2 MMR
(measles, mumps, rubella) and 1-2 varicella (chicken pox)* (students under age 13
need only 1 dose; age 13 and over require two doses given 4-8 weeks apart).

*Chicken pox vaccine (varicella) or disease history is required for: K-12.

Parents must present a complete signed record of vaccination history from a health care
provider. A note from the physician’s office stating “all immunization up to date” does
not comply with state requirements and will not be accepted as proof of vaccination. In
order to maintain an accurate health record for your child, please provide the school
nurse with documentation when your child receives any regular or booster
immunizations.

EXEMPTIONS – if a child does not meet vaccination requirements an exemption form is

required if any of the following apply: the physician determines that immunization
against 1 or more of the diseases is medically inadvisable OR a parents opposition to
immunization because of sincere religious or philosophical reason. Exemption forms
must be provided annually and are kept on file in your child’s health record. In the event
of an outbreak of a disease (determined by the state CDC) for which your child is not
immunized, the child will be excluded from school for a period of time determined by
Maine state rules.

Lice Policy: Head lice are small parasitic insects that live on the scalp and neck hairs of
a human host. Head lice are not known to transmit infectious disease and are not
considered a reflection on parenting skills. Head lice are transmitted mainly by head to
head to head contact. As a precaution, please remind your child not to share hats,
combs, and other hair accessories with other children. Children who appear to be
symptomatic (persistent scratching) will be referred to the school nurse by the teacher,
based on findings by the nurse actions will be taken in accordance with school policy.
Emergency Card: Each child, upon admission to school and yearly thereafter, shall
have an emergency health card completed and kept on file in the school office. This
card shall contain a release signed by the parent for the school administration to act in
emergency situations. The card should contain the student’s name, address, phone
(home and work), physician’s and dentist’s names and phone numbers, alternate adult
contact names with appropriate address and phone numbers, and any known allergies
and/or chronic illnesses.

Physical Examinations: Each student entering school (Kindergarten) should provide a

copy of a physical exam, recommended to be completed within the last year. Physical
exam forms are available through the school office and are also part of the packet sent
out prior to the start of school each year. Our school physician recommends that
students have a physical exam minimum of every 2 years. Students participating in

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extracurricular sports are required to have a physical exam every two years. Please
make sure the physical form states that the student is “cleared for sports”.

Vision and Hearing Screening

Currently vision screening is performed on students in grades K, 1, 3, 5, 7, and hearing
screening on students in grades K, 1, 3, and 5. If you feel that your child may be having
difficulty and he/she is not in the above grades, please contact the school nurse.
Screening is not a substitute for complete professional examination and is not intended
to diagnose the nature of defects.

Illness/Communicable Diseases
Parents are asked to keep their children home when showing any signs or symptoms of
illness such as: persistent cough/congestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever,
unexplained skin rashes or inflamed eyes. A student should remain home until all acute
symptoms have subsided. Parents are required to contact the school on the day of
each absence.

In the event of a prolonged absence/illness a physician’s note may be requested.

Students returning from an illness will be expected to participate in all activities. A
physician’s note will be required for any restrictions/limitations of a student’s activity.

Medication
Medication: Medication (both prescription and non-prescription) should be administered
outside school hours. Medication can only be given at school if it is part of a physician
established medical plan of care and is accompanied by a physician’s note. The
medication is to be kept in a centrally located, locked area in the nurse’s office and
labeled with the child’s name, name of medication, dosage and when it is to be given.
No medication is to be kept in the teacher’s desk or in the student’s possession.
Permission: Permission for the school to administer any medication must be
accompanied by the following written information: child’s name, name of medication,
dosage, date prescribed, date of expiration, doctor’s name and possible side effects.

School Insurance
Information regarding the availability of school insurance is sent home during the first
week of school. Insurance is available for during school hours only or on a 24 hour a
day, seven days a week basis. Students participating in athletics need to either buy the
school insurance or sign a waiver of school insurance. If you have questions regarding
insurance, please contact the school office.

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 GREAT SALT BAY CODE OF CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE

MEMBERS OF THE GSB COMMUNITY ARE EXPECTED TO:

1. Be punctual. Arrive at school and class on time.

2. Be prepared and attentive. Bring all materials you need for classes.
Follow directions of the person in charge and complete assigned learning
tasks.

3. Be courteous and respectful. Show consideration for the school staff,

other students, and school property. Be a positive leader. Use
appropriate language and behavior.

4. Be trustworthy. Students who destroy, vandalize, or steal school

and/or personal property will be required to pay for damages.

5. Be careful. Follow basic rules of safety.

6. Be proud. Take pride in our building’s appearance as well as your own;

our school is special and so are you.

7. Dress appropriately. What you wear should keep you comfortable,

safe.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITY

At Great Salt Bay all students have the following rights and each student also has the
responsibility of insuring these rights for others.

The right to a quiet and orderly place to learn

The right to have feelings and ideas respected
The right to personal safety and freedom from intimidation
The right to have personal belongings protected

In order to protect the individual rights of students, we need common expectations and
rules. The following behaviors are not allowed and will result in a Notice of Behavior
Action (NOBA):

* Any behavior or the possession of any items which the teachers or principal
determines to be a safety hazard or disruptive influence.
* Disrespect, failure to obey instructions or insubordination

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 * Disruptive and/or uncooperative behavior
* Throwing objects that could be injurious
* Cheating/Plagiarism
* Use of profanity or obscene language, gestures or materials
* Tardiness to class
* Truancy
* Destruction of property
* Forgery
* Harassment (verbal, physical or sexual)
* Misuse of electronic devices
* Chewing gum, unless specified in a student’s I.E.P.
* Use of racial, ethnic, or sexual remarks
* Threatening behavior (written, verbal, or physical actions)
* General misconduct

BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS IN SCHOOL

When a student misbehaves while in school, the teacher will take informal steps to help
that student change his/her behavior. If the inappropriate behavior persists, a formal
discipline procedure begins, the aim of which is student understanding of appropriate
behavior and how to make better choices in the future.

CAFETERIA RULES

Students are expected to:

1. Treat everyone with respect.
2. Pay for all food and eat it in the cafeteria.
3. Speak quietly at all times.
4. Pick up all trash and put it in the proper container.
5. Ask permission to leave your seat or to leave the cafeteria.
6. Refrain from throwing anything.
7. Keep all food and drink in the cafeteria only. No food or drink is to be taken outside
of the cafeteria for any reason, except with staff permission.

GENERAL DISCIPLINE PLAN FOR PLAYGROUND/RECESS

Minor Offenses (bare feet, unsafe play, unsafe use of equipment, PDA - Public
Display of Affection):

1st Offense - Adult on duty will speak to the student

2nd Offense - Student is removed from activity or equipment
3rd Offense - Student is given an alternative consequence such as sitting on a bench
for the remainder of the recess. Aide notifies teacher/FYI sent home
th
4 Offense - Student is given consequence as in #3 for repeated offense
A student will meet with the principal and/or assistant principal for continuous repetition
of an offense.

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Note: All offenses are recorded on the For Your Information Slips. One copy is sent
home, one to the teacher, one to the office, and one goes into the aides’ folder.

Moderate Offenses (pushing, roughhousing, snowballs, etc):

1st Offense - Adult on duty will speak to the student
2nd Offense - Student is given a consequence such as sitting on a bench for the
remainder of the recess
rd
3 Offense - Student loses recess and/ or receives NOBA

Major Offenses (Fighting, Bullying/Harassment):

Students are sent to the office to talk to the principal or assistant principal. Further
action will be taken as needed.

BULLYING AND HARASSMENT

(a full copy of the Great Salt Bay School Board’s Hazing Policy [File A3] may be
found at the school office or the office of the superintendent of schools)

It is the intent of the Great Salt Bay School Board to provide and maintain an
environment that is supportive of academic progress, personal goals, dignity and the
self-esteem of every employee and student in the system, in an environment in which
students can work free from harassment of a verbal, visual, physical or sexual nature.
Harassment of or by board members, administrators, employees, parents, students,
vendors and their employees, volunteers, and others doing business with the Great Salt
Bay Community School is prohibited. It is the policy of the Board of Education that
harassment will not be tolerated.

"Harassment" is engaging in vexatious comment or conduct that is known or might

reasonably be known to create a hostile, intimidating or offensive environment for the
victim.

Harassment includes, but is not limited to, racial, ethnic, religious, national origin, age,
disability, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, sexual harassment, and conduct
made with the intent to deter the free exercise or enjoyment of any rights or privileges
secured, now or in the future, by the Constitution of Maine or the United State
Constitution. Further, sexual harassment shall include, but not be limited to, sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, and other physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Harassment may include, but not be limited to, suggestive or obscene letters or notes,
invitations, derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, stories, assault, displaying sexual
objects, touching, impeding or blocking movement, leering, gestures, pictures or objects
that are offensive, tend to alarm, annoy, abuse or demean certain individuals and/or
groups.

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Harassment, including sexual harassment, can occur employee to student, student to
employee, student-to-student, employee-to-employee, male-to-female, female-to-male,
male-to-male and female-to-female. Acts of harassment are not only a violation of this
policy but may also constitute unlawful discrimination under state and federal laws.

All employees and students should take special note that retaliation against an
individual who has complained about harassment, including sexual harassment, and
retaliation against individuals for cooperating with an investigation of any complain is
unlawful, in violation of this policy and will also not be tolerated, i.e., retaliation is in and
of itself a form of harassment and will be dealt with accordingly.

PROCEDURES FOR DEALING WITH BULLYING/HARASSMENT

1. Initial minor offenses (i.e. teasing, name calling) will be handled by the adult who
becomes aware of the problem. The adult will have a conversation with the student
involved, making the student aware that such behavior is unacceptable and that
further steps will be taken should this behavior happen again.

2. Second infractions of the nature discussed in #1 or behavior of a more serious

nature (i.e. inappropriate touching, racial or ethnic slurs) will be dealt with by the
principal, assistant principal and/or social worker. Discussion about the Great Salt
Bay Community School Board policy and harassment law will take place as
appropriate to the age level of the student. A log will be kept of the incident.
Parental contact for all students involved will be made and logged. Consequences
appropriate to the individual school's behavior policy will be implemented.

3. Any additional infractions will be dealt with by the building principal. A parental
meeting will be held to establish a plan to help remediate the behavior. If deemed
appropriate, the Great Salt Bay Affirmative Action Coordinator will meet with the
student and/or parents. Disciplinary action will be taken which could include: after-
school detention, in-school suspension and out-of-school suspension. All
information will be logged.

4. Any behavior of a serious nature that violates this policy (i.e. physical assault or
threats to gain sexual favors, physical or verbal intimidation involving racial, ethnic,
religious or sexual orientation harassment) will result in suspension from school until
a plan may be established with parents and appropriate school personnel. The
Damariscotta Police and/or the Attorney General's Office will be contacted if deemed
appropriate.

ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, AND OTHER DRUG USE/ABUSE POLICY

Students of Great Salt Bay School may not be in the possession of, or use alcohol,
tobacco/other drugs, or look-alike drugs at any time when involved in school related
activities. Non-alcohol look-alike beverages are also prohibited on school grounds.

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 STUDENT CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM

Students who copy the work of others instead of completing their own assignments, or
who present information prepared by others as work completed on their own, are failing
to take responsibility for their learning and are not contributing positively to the learning
culture of our schools. Any student found cheating or plagiarizing their work will be
treated in the following manner:

1. Parents will be notified either by phone or letter.

2. The student(s) involved will receive 2 NOBA’s - preferably to be served that same
night and the following night.
3. The test (or other document) involved will be graded with an “F”. This grade will be
later averaged with the make-up grade for this test.
4. Work with one of our social workers and/or the administration to understand the
negative aspects of this behavior will be strongly urged or, in some cases, required.

FORMAL DISCIPLINE STEPS

A formal discipline procedure begins with the first Notice of Behavior Action (NOBA).
Failure to return the signed NOBA slip and/or serve a NOBA will result in an additional
NOBA. The student may erase a NOBA by performing community service. Community
service must be arranged with the administration in advance and be performed either
during recess and/or after school. Forty-five minutes of community service erases a
NOBA. In addition NOBAs can be erased after two-weeks without an infraction.

SPECIAL NOTES

In any and all severe disciplinary problems, action taken may be at the discretion of the
school principal. Therefore, behavior action, suspension, or any other appropriate
consequence may be administered in a manner fitting the violation.

We believe strongly in a full and cooperative partnership with your parents. Therefore,
you are required to return the NOBA and the NOBA process paper, with your parent’s
signature on them, to the office. Failure to do so will result in additional NOBAs.

PROGRESSION OF FORMAL DISCIPLINE STEPS FOR NOBAs

STEP 0 – No Behavior Action assigned by staff

STEP 1 – Formal behavior action assigned by staff.

• A notice (NOBA) will be sent home to parents indicating that the student has a
behavior action plan. The notice must be returned signed the following day. If the
student is retained after school, this has priority over all extra curricular activities.

STEP 2 – Second formal behavior action

• Follows the procedure of STEP 1.

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STEP 3 – Third formal behavior action
• Follows the procedure of STEP 1.
• The student is not allowed to participate in any extra curricular activities,
assemblies, field trips, dances, or other activities for five school days, from the
day of the behavior action.
• The student will be required to perform 45 minutes of community service.
• A letter goes home outlining the consequence of the student being on STEP 3.

STEP 4 – Fourth formal behavior action

• Follows the procedure steps of STEP 3.

STEP 5 – Fifth formal behavior action

• The student will serve an in-school suspension for one day (6.25 hrs) during
which he/she does not participate in any classes or extra curricular activities.
• The student will be expected to work on class work, which will be provided by
his/her classroom teachers.
• Follows the procedure of STEP 3.
• After serving the in-school suspension and completing the community service,
the student will return to STEP 0.
• NOTE: If the student cannot behave in the in-school suspension, his/her parents
will be contacted and will be asked to take him/her home immediately. The
student will be required to serve the remaining hours of the in-school suspension
the follow day.

SUSPENSION POLICY

The School Board delegates to the Principal the authority to suspend disruptive and
disorderly students.

Prior to suspension, except as hereinafter provided:

a. The student shall be given oral or written notice of the charge(s) against him/her;
b. The student shall be given an explanation of the evidence forming the basis for
the charge(s); and
c. The student shall be given an opportunity to present his/her version of the
incident.

The student’s parent/guardian shall be notified of the suspension as soon as practicable

via telephone and/or by written notice sent by mail. The parents/guardians and the
student shall be required to schedule a conference with administration within the
suspension period and prior to re-admittance to school.

The following behaviors are considered serious enough to warrant an automatic

suspension:
• Assault or fighting
• Theft

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 • Deliberately hurting a fellow student through rough “play” or purposeful
aggression
• Use of profanity or obscene gestures towards a staff member
• Possession of any illegal or dangerous substance, or items such as, but no
limited to: knives, laser pointers, tobacco, matches, alcohol, drugs, fireworks, etc.
(See Handbook Section: Weapons and School Safety).

DISCIPLINE STEPS FOR SUSPENSION

The administration may suspend a student from school for a minimum of one day and a
maximum of ten days in a row for any single behavior considered serious enough to
warrant automatic suspension (a day is equal to 6.25 hrs). At the discretion of the
administration the suspension may be either in-school or out-of-school.

• The student will serve a suspension during which he/she does not participate in
any classes or extra curricular activities.
• The student will be expected to work on class work, which will be provided by
his/her classroom teachers.
• The student is not allowed to participate in any extra curricular activities,
assemblies, field trips, dances, or other activities for five school days, from the
day of the behavior action.
• The student will be required to perform 90 minutes of community service.
• A letter goes home outlining the consequence of the suspension.
• After serving the in-school suspension and completing the community service,
the student will return to STEP 0.
• NOTE: If the student cannot behave in the in-school suspension, his/her parents
will be contacted and will be asked to take him/her home immediately. The
student will be required to serve the remaining hours of the in-school suspension
the follow day.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

Transportation is provided for students at Great Salt Bay Community School;

tuition and open-enrollment students must provide their own transportation.
Should there be special transportation problems, please contact the school.
Should a student need to ride a different bus than his own, a lime green BUS
NOTE should be sent in to the teacher. If a child will be consistently riding that
bus on a particular day, a blanket note may be written.

Appropriate conduct is expected while waiting for and riding the bus. A list of
bus rules follows. Please review these with your child. The right of students to
ride the school bus is conditional on their behavior and their ability to observe
these rules.

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 STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

When meeting the bus:

1. All students are to wait outside for the bus.
2. All students must be on time. Please allow plus or minus ten minutes leeway for the
bus.
3. Students walking on the highway to a bus stop should always walk on the left
shoulder of the road facing traffic.
4. Students should walk, not run when crossing the highway.
5. Students should not cross the road until motioned by the bus driver.
6. Students should stand quietly while waiting for the bus.
7. Students should not run alongside the bus when it is moving.

While riding the bus:

1. Students shall obey the driver who has full charge of the bus.
2. Students shall go to assigned seats, without crowding or pushing, and remain
seated while the bus is in motion.
3. Students shall not fight or scuffle in the bus or create any disturbance.
4. Students shall not extend arms, legs, or head out of the bus.
5. Students shall not tamper with the emergency door or any part of the bus
equipment.
6. Students shall not mar or deface the bus. Damage done to seats or other
equipment must be paid for by the student.
7. Students are responsible for the cleanliness of the bus.
8. Students must not shout or wave to pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles, or
throw objects out of or within the bus.
9. Students shall refrain from talking with the driver except in an emergency.
10. Students shall not sit on lunchboxes or books, or place them in the aisle of the bus.
11. Students shall not open windows. This should be done only by the bus driver when
necessary.
12. Students should not eat food on the bus.
13. Students who are bringing such items as a baseball, softball, football, etc., on the
bus must bring them in a container or travel bag.
14. Prior to exiting the bus, students shall remain seated until the bus stops.
15. If a student is the last one in a seat, he should be sure that the window is closed.
16. If a student must cross a street after leaving the bus, he should go to the front of the
bus and wait until the bus driver directs him to cross.

TRANSPORTATION DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

Proper student behavior on a school bus is vital to the safety of everyone. The
distraction of the bus driver can contribute to accidents. The Principal may suspend a
student’s riding privileges when safe operation of the bus is jeopardized. Parents have
a right to appeal a suspension of riding privileges to the superintendent.

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The following procedures are used uniformly to protect the student’s rights and insure
proper conduct while riding a school bus.

1. The bus driver will handle minor infractions on the bus with a warning, conference
with the student or change of seating.
2. In the event that unacceptable behavior continues or a serious incident occurs, the
bus driver will make out a Discipline Report and make a phone call to the parents.
3. The second written offense the student will meet with the principal or assistant
principal and a letter will be sent home.
4. The third written offense the student will be suspended from riding the bus for one
week.

STUDENT COMPUTER AND INTERNET USE (GSB Policy File I-14)

(adopted January 12, 2000)

Great Salt Bay School provides computers, networks and Internet access to support the
educational mission of the school and to enhance the curriculum and learning
opportunities for students and school staff. The board believes that the resources
available through the Internet are of significant value in the learning process and
preparing students for future success. At the same time, the unregulated availability of
information and communication on the Internet requires that schools establish
reasonable controls for lawful, efficient and appropriate use of this technology.
Student use of school computers, networks and Internet services is a privilege not a
right. Students are required to comply with this policy and the accompanying rules.
Students who violate the policy and/or rules may have their computer privileges revoked
and may also be subject to further disciplinary and/or legal action.

All Great Salt Bay School computers remain under the control, custody and supervision
of the school unit. The school unit reserves the right to monitor all computer and
Internet activity by students. Students have no expectation of privacy in their use of
school computers.

While reasonable precautions will be taken to supervise student use of the Internet, the
Great Salt Bay School cannot reasonably prevent all inappropriate uses, including
access to objectionable materials and communication with persons outside of the
school, in violation of board policies/procedures and school rules. The school unit is not
responsible for the accuracy or quality of information that students obtain through the
Internet.

Before a student is allowed to use school computers and Internet services, the student
and the student’s parent/guardian must sign and return the Computer/Internet Access
Acknowledgment. The signed acknowledgment will be retained by the school.

The Superintendent shall be responsible for overseeing the implementation of this

policy and the accompanying rules and for advising the board of the need for any future
amendments or revisions to the policy/rules. The Superintendent may develop

36
additional administrative procedures/rules governing the day-to-day management and
operations of the school unit’s computer system as long as they are consistent with the
board’s policy/rules. The Superintendent may delegate specific responsibilities to
building principals and others as he/she deems appropriate.

STUDENT COMPUTER AND INTERNET RULES

(GSB Policy File I-14)
(adopted January 12, 2000)
These rules implement board policy - Student Computer and Internet Use. The rules
are intended to provide general guidelines and examples of prohibited uses but do not
attempt to state all required or prohibited activities by users. Failure to comply with
board policy and these rules may result in loss of computer and Internet access
privileges, disciplinary action and/or legal action.
A. Computer Use is a Privilege, Not a Right
Student use of the school unit’s computers, networks and Internet services is a
privilege, not a right. Unacceptable use/activity may result in suspension or
cancellation of privileges as well as additional disciplinary and/or legal action. The
building principal shall have final authority to decide whether a student’s privileges
will be denied or revoked.
B. Acceptable Use
Student access to the school unit’s computer, networks and Internet services are
provided for educational purposes and research consistent with the school unit’s
educational mission, curriculum and instructional goals.
The same rules and expectations govern student use of computers as apply to other
student conduct and communications.
Students are further expected to comply with these rules and all specific instructions
from the teacher or other supervising staff member/volunteer when accessing the
school unit’s computers, networks and Internet services.
C. Prohibited Use
The user is responsible for his/her actions and activities involving school unit
computers, networks and Internet services and for his/her computer files, passwords
and accounts. Examples of unacceptable uses that are expressly prohibited include
but are not limited to the following:
Accessing Inappropriate Materials - Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing,
forwarding, downloading, scanning or displaying materials that are defamatory,
abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening,
discriminatory, harassing and/or illegal;
Taking Part in Illegal Activities - Using the school unit’s computers, networks and
Internet services for any illegal activity or activity that violates other board policies,
procedures and/or school rules;

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 Violating Copyrights - Copying or downloading copyrighted materials without the
owner’s permission;
Plagiarizing - Representing as one’s own work any materials obtained on the
Internet (such as term papers, articles, etc.). When Internet sources are used in
student work, the author, publisher and Web site must be identified;
Copying Software - Copying or downloading software without the express
authorization of the system administrator;
Using for Non-School-Related Activities - Using the school unit’s computers,
networks and Internet services for non-school-related purposes such as private
financial gain, commercial, advertising or solicitation purposes, or for any other
personal use;
Misusing Passwords or Gaining Unauthorized Access - Sharing passwords,
using other users’ passwords without permission and/or accessing other users’
accounts;
Making Malicious Use Of or Vandalizing - Any malicious use, disruption, or harm
to the school unit’s computers, networks and Internet services, including but not
limited to hacking activities and creation/downloading of computer viruses; and
Gaining Unauthorized Access to Chat Rooms/News Groups - Accessing chat
rooms or news groups without specific authorization from the supervising teacher.
D. No Expectation of Privacy
The school unit retains control, custody and supervision of all computers, networks
and Internet services owned or leased by the school unit. The school unit reserves
the right to monitor all computer and Internet activity by students. Students have no
expectation of privacy in their use of school computers, including e-mail and stored
files.
E. Compensation for Losses, Costs and/or Damages
The student and/or the student’s parent/guardian shall be responsible for
compensating the school unit for any losses, costs or damages incurred by the
school unit related to violations of policy and/or these rules, including investigation of
violations.
F. School Unit Assumes No Responsibility for Unauthorized Charges, Costs or
Illegal Use
The school unit assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges made by
students including but not limited to credit card charges, long distance telephone
charges, equipment and line costs, or for any illegal use of its computers such as
copyright violations.
G. Student Security
A student shall not reveal his/her full name, address or telephone number on the
Internet without prior permission from a supervising teacher. Students should never
meet people they have contacted through the Internet without parental permission.
Students should inform their supervising teacher if they access information or
messages that are dangerous, inappropriate or make them uncomfortable in any
way.

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H. System Security
The security of the school unit’s computers, networks and Internet services is a high
priority. Any user who identifies a security problem must notify the system
administrator. The user shall not demonstrate the problem to others. Any user who
attempts or causes a breach of system security shall have his/her privileges revoked
and may be subject to additional disciplinary and/or legal action.
I. Parental Permission Required
Students and their parent/guardian are required to sign and return the
Computer/Internet Access Acknowledgement Form before being allowed to use
school computers.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

AOS 93 and Great Salt Bay Community School District are committed to providing
equal education opportunities to all students in both academic and extracurricular areas.
All our students deserve the chance to participate in the entire range of activities offered
regardless of sex, race, color, national origin, religion, marital status, age, or handicap.
A copy of the Affirmative Action Plan is available in our school office and at the
superintendent’s office. Affirmative Action inquiries may be made to:
Ms. Deryl Holt, Director of Special Services
Affirmative Action Coordinator
AOS 93
Superintendent’s Office
767 Main Street
Damariscotta, ME
Telephone: 563-3044 X102

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR
Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law
applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S.
Department of Education.

FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records.
These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a
school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are
"eligible students."

• Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student's
education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide
copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for

39
 parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for
copies.
• Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records that
they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the
record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the
hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible
student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view
about the contested information.

Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in
order to release any information from a student's education record. However, FERPA
allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or
under the following conditions (34 CFR § 99.31):
• School officials with legitimate educational interest;
• Other schools to which a student is transferring;
• Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
• Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student;
• Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school;
• Accrediting organizations;
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena;
• Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and
• State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific
state law.

Schools may disclose, without consent, "directory" information such as a student's

name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and
dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about
directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount of
time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools
must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The
actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a PTA bulletin, student
handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.

For additional information or technical assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 (voice).
Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1-800-877-
8339.

Or you may contact us at the following address:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

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 CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES AND CHILD PROTECTION ACT:

The Child and Family Services and Child Protection Act (Title 22, sees. 4001 – 4071)
establishes a process for protecting children against physical and sexual abuse by
persons responsible for their care (parental figures). The Maine Department of Human
Services (DHS) is given authority and responsibility to remove children from their
families if there is evidence of child abuse and neglect. School personnel play a part in
this effort because they are required by the law to report “reasonable suspicion” of child
abuse or neglect.

Employees of schools and other institutions are required to make such reports as
defined within school policy. Failure to make such reports subjects the person to
prosecution and a fine.

Reports of suspected child abuse or neglect are not public records. They remain
confidential although DHS may, in its discretion, reveal the identity of the reporter to the
accused or suspected person. It is DHS policy not to identify the reporter without the
reporter’s permission.

Excerpt from Maine Law re: FIREARMS

1. Prohibition. A person may not possess a firearm on public school property or
discharge a firearm within 500 feet of school property.

2. Exception. Subsection 1 shall not apply to:

A. Law enforcement officials; or
B. A supervised educational program.

NOTIFICATION OF PESTICIDES USE AT GREAT SALT BAY SCHOOL

Great Salt Bay School has an Integrated Pest Management Plan. The purpose of this IPM plan is to
have an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management. It is the school’s intent to
control the use of pesticides in and around the school to protect the occupants and the environment from
harmful use of chemicals. The focus is on pest prevention, controlling weeds and pests before pesticides
need to be used. In order for this to work everyone has to take a role in the preventative management of
weeds and pests. Staff, students and parents are to be notified about this IPM Plan and how it works.

The IPM Plan is available in the school office if you wish to review it.

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 PUBLIC NOTICE: ASBESTOS-CONTAINING MATERIALS

All AOS 93 Schools

***Bristol Consolidated School***

***Great Salt Bay Community School, CSD***
***Nobleboro Central School***
and
***South Bristol Elementary School***

have been inspected (most recently in June, 2006)

for the presence of Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs). Individual school inspection
reports and records are available for public inspection. Copies may be viewed at any
individual school or at the Superintendent's Office, AOS 93, Damariscotta, Maine.

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