student/ parent handbook a m i t y s c h o o...

STUDENT HANDBOOK Amity School

1 To begin a lifetime of enjoyment in learning

STUDENT/ PARENT HANDBOOK

A M I T Y S C H O O L

A N o n - P u b l i c / I n d e p e n d e n t S c h o o l

2012-2013

3867 Shore Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11235

Phone: 718 891 6100

www.amityschool.org



Mission……………………………………………………………………………………………4 Study habits and preparedness………………………………………………………………..…...5 Student rights and responsibilities…………………………………………………………………5 Uniform and Personal Appearance ……………………………………………………………….6 Lunch………………………………………………………………………………………..…....7 Grading scale ………………………………………………………………………………..........7 Grade promotion policy……………………………………………………………………….......8 Classroom rules and procedures………………………………………………………………......8 Homework policy……………….…………………………………………………………….......8 Inside/outside playground decision: (during gym and recess)………………………………..…….9 Lockers…………………………………………………………………………………….….…..9 Lost and found…………………………………………………………………………..….…….9 Public areas: hallways, stairwells, and lavatories………………………………………..………….10 Student ID cards……………………………………………………………………….……..…. 10 Textbook and supplies………………………………………………………………….….…..…10 Illness, Injury, and Medication Policies……………………………………………………..……11 Parent-teacher meetings…………………………………………………………………….……12 Visitors………………………………………………………………………………………..…13 Emergency procedures…………………………………………………………………………...13 Absence and tardiness…………………………………………………………………………...13 School activities…………………………………………………………………………………18 Withdrawal policy……………………………………………………………………………….19 Internet terms and conditions………………………………………..………………….………..19 Discipline…………………………………………………………………………….………..…21 Demerit point system……………………………………………………………………………. 21 Detention ……………………………………………………………………………….….….....22 Saturday detention ……………………………………………………………………………......23 In school suspension……………………………………………………………………..…..…..24 Out of school suspension…………………………………………………………………......…. 27 Expulsion………………………………………………………………………………….......….27 Fight and arrange fights………………………………………………………….………………. 27 Using beepers, pagers, cellular telephones or other electronic devices …………………………....28 Cheat and/or plagiarism…………………………………………………………………………. 28 Abuse and/or misuse of computers and laboratory equipments ………………..………………....29 Disrupt learning ……………………………………………………………………………….…29 Uniform violations ……………………………………………………………………………….30 Use drugs and/or alcohol and sale or intention to sell drugs and/or alcohol ……………….….....30 Give a false fire alarm ……………………………………………………………………..……...31 Gamble and play cards……………………………………………………………………..….…31 Bring inappropriate materials…………………………………………………………………….32 Harass another student and/or a teacher, administrator, or staff member …………………….…32 Hazing students………………………..…………………………………………………….…. 32 Smoke or use of other tobacco products and/or bring such products to school………………... 33 Steal and/or vandalize private property……………………………………………………….... 33 Be habitually tardy……………………………………………………………………….….…...33 Display threatening behavior ….………………………………………………………….….….33 Be truant………………………..……………………………………………………………… 34



Bring any kind of weapon to school……………………………………………………...…. ….34 Possession or use of fireworks………………………………………………………..…………34 Gang and secret society symbols……………………………………………………………..….35 Possession of stolen property…………………………………………………………….…..… 35 Arson…………………………………………………………..………………………………. 35 Public display of affection……………………………………………………………………….35 Provoking/intimidating behavior encouraging or urging other students to violate school rules …...36 Bullying policies………………………………………………………………………………….. 36 Conspiracy……………………….………………………………………………………………. 36 Failure of identify………………………………………………………………………...……..…36 Leaving campus without permission……………………………………………………….....…... 37 Bus misconduct …………………………………………………………………………………..37 Trespassing …………………………………………………………………………….…………37 Discrimination against others ………………………………………………………….....……….37 Dismissal Policy…………………………………………………………………………………..39



MISSION

The mission of the Amity School is to offer a safe, secure, structured and stimulating college-career preparatory educational environment. Amity School will provide challenges and opportunities for students to instill the necessary skills and knowledge needed for the rest of their lives. The Amity School aims to create a partnership among the triad of student-teacher-parent that will provide our youth with the support necessary to reach their highest potential intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically. Amity School will provide a rigorous and relevant, standards-based curriculum in a dynamic, specialized learning community for students who seek a comprehensive, challenging curriculum with emphasis on science, world languages, and technology.

The vision for the Amity School is based on three tenets: The first is to offer students opportunities to excel in academics in an environment of challenge and support and to prepare them for the demands of a post-secondary education and 21st century global careers. The second tenet is to create a culture of multi-cultural understanding, tolerance, and respect in an atmosphere of mutual support and positive adult-student relationships. The third tenet of the Amity School is the system of support for students which extends from structured transition programming, includes targeted, individualized academic and social support through its advisement program, and culminates with focused support for the college selection and application process.

Because of the nature of its mission, Amity School does not discriminate against any member of its community on the basis of sex, race, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disabilities or handicap in educational programs or activities



STUDY HABITS AND PREPAREDNESS

Come to School Ready to Learn:

Pupils need to come to school well-rested and be equipped with classroom supplies. Pupils are to have their necessary books and any assignments that are due. There should be a quiet study area at home with good lighting, with no distractions, and easily observable by parents/guardians. A definitive bedtime is most helpful. Parents/guardians need to emphasize at an early age and consistently thereafter, that schoolwork has a priority over play and recreation.

Bring Your “Tools for Learning”: teachers in all grades will communicate the specific supplies families should provide prior to the first day of a new school year.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Participation in School Activities

All students have the following rights:

To have the opportunity to take part in all school activities on an equal basis regardless of race, sex, national origin, creed, or disability.

Similarly, all students are bound by the same rules for exclusion from school activities and public address.

Records

The school will not disclose any information from the student's permanent records except as authorized pursuant to The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), or in response to a subpoena, as required by law. The parent(s) or guardian(s) of a student under 18 years of age, or a student 18 years of age or older, is entitled to access to the student's school records by submitting a written request to the director.

FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Students are entitled to express their personal opinions verbally, in writing, or by symbolic speech. The expression of such opinions, however, shall not interfere with the freedom of others to express themselves, and written expression of opinion must be signed by the author. Any form of expression that involves libel, slander, the use of obscenity, or personal attacks, or that otherwise disrupts the educational process, is prohibited. All forms of expression also must be in compliance with the Student Disciplinary Code and the school dress code, violations of which are punishable as stated in the Disciplinary Code.

Student participation in the publication of school sponsored student newsletters, yearbooks, literary magazines and similar publications is encouraged as a learning and educational experience. These publications, if any, shall be supervised by qualified faculty advisors and shall strive to meet high standards of journalism. In order to maintain consistency with the school's basic educational mission, the content of such publications is controlled by school authorities.

No person shall distribute any printed or written materials on school property without the prior permission of the director. The director may regulate the content of materials to be distributed on school property to the extent necessary to avoid material and substantial interference with the



requirements of appropriate discipline in the operation of the school. The director may also regulate the time, place, manner and duration of such distribution.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

A student and/or the student's belongings may be searched by a school official if the official has suspicion to believe that a search of that student will result in evidence that the student violated the law or a school rule. Items which are prohibited on school property, or which may be used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process, may be removed from the student by school authorities.

Student lockers and desks remain the property of the school, though the school is not responsible for books, clothing, or valuables left in lockers or desks. A student shall not place or keep in a locker or desk any article or material which is of a non-school nature and may cause or tend to cause the disruption of the mission of the school.

UNIFORM AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE

Amity School has a dress code policy to help create a safe and orderly environment, instill discipline, and eliminate the competition and distractions caused by varied dress styles. You will be expected to arrive in dress code every day. Please cooperate, display modesty and neatness, and take pride in these clean, neat and attractive uniforms. We rely on your common sense and your parents’ and/or guardians’ support in helping maintain this dress code.

Additional Dress Code Requirements and Limitations

Skirt must be at least two inches below the bottom of the knee.

Sweatshirts must be modest length, and may not be rolled at the waist.

No details (name brand logos or symbols, lace, ruffles, ribbons, or elastic cuffs), except the official school logo, may be visible on any uniform item.

Undergarments may not be visible at any time. However, students may wear plain white T-shirts under shirts.

Pants and slacks must fit properly, may not be baggy or sagged.

Boys may not wear jewelry and accessories such as rings, earrings, and necklaces.

Jewelry and accessories for girls should be appropriate for school and not attract undue attention.

Cosmetics should be appropriate for school and not attract undue attention. Please refer to the student handbook for detailed guidelines.

Facial and body piercing, tattoos, use of hair dyes and bleach are not acceptable.

Boys may not grow a mustache and/ or beard.

Hats, caps, and other headgear (except for religious reasons) may not be worn in the building.

Outerwear, such as windbreakers, jean jackets, or ski jackets, may not be worn in the school building.

Shoes must be solid color, no designs are acceptable.



Uniform for High School Girls

Gray skort (shorts & skirt) and navy or black Stocking (Must be opaque – not see through)

Turquoise blue polo shirt with school logo

Solid black, brown, gray or white colored shoes (no designs)

Navy full zip pullover sweater with school logo

Uniform for Elementary & Middle School Girls

Gray skort (shorts & skirt) and White Stocking (Must be opaque – not see through)

Green polo shirt with logo (K-5)

Turquoise blue polo shirt with logo (6-8th grade)

Solid black, brown, gray or white colored shoes

Navy full zip pullover with logo

Uniform for Elementary Middle School Boys

Gray pants

Brown or black belt: properly fitting

Green polo shirt with logo (K-5)

Turquoise blue polo shirt with logo (6-8th grade)

Navy full zip pullover with logo

Dark-colored tie shoes or loafers.

Uniform for Gym Classes

Navy pants

Long or short sleeve t-shirt with school logo LUNCH

All students will remain at school during the lunch period. You may buy your lunch at school, or you may bring a packed lunch. If you have a special situation, you will need to meet with the principal. During the lunch period, you will be expected to display good manners and courtesy. You must eat your lunch only in the lunch area. You will be expected to clear your place and dispose of all trash appropriately. Teachers on duty during the lunch period will hold you responsible for your behavior. GRADING SCALE

All classes at Amity School will follow this standard scale for assigning letter grades for quarter and semester work. Individual teachers will establish the grading policies and procedures for their classes, and their grades will correspond to this scale. Below 60 (0-59) is considered as a failing score and will receive F.

98 - 100 =A+ A+ 87 - 89 = B+ B+ 77 – 79 = C+ C+ 67 – 69 = D+ D+

93 - 97 = A 83 - 86 = B B 73 - 76 = C- C 63 – 66 = D D

90 - 92 = A- 80 - 82 = B- B- 70 – 72 = C C- 60 = D-



ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE:

The School’s English as a Second Language Program (ESL) has the function of identifying pupils in grades K-12 with limited English speaking ability. This is primarily a pull-out program in a small group instructional setting. GRADE PROMOTION POLICY

Amity School recognizes that the personal, social, emotional, physical, and educational growth of children will vary. Placement in academic settings should be appropriate to student's needs at the various stages of growth.

In general, students shall be placed at the grade level to which they are best suited academically, socially, and developmentally. The educational program shall provide for the continuous progress of the students from grade to grade, with students spending one year in each grade. Retention may be considered when the student is not achieving minimum proficiency levels in basic skills.

Pupils failing two major subjects (Science, Math, Reading, and Social Studies) may be retained. Amity School will not renew the registration for a student who fails one or more major subject. CLASSROOM RULES AND PROCEDURES:

Rules:

1. Be in your assigned seat, ready to work before the bell rings. 2. Bring pencils, pens, paper, books, and all assigned materials to class. 3. Keep your hands, feet, and objects to yourself. 4. Do not engage in behavior that creates classroom distractions. 5. Follow directions the first time they are given. 6. No gum, food, or drinks are allowed in the building except in designated food service areas. 7. Raise your hand before speaking. 8. Students may not be outside of the classroom without a hall pass.

HOMEWORK POLICY

Homework is an essential part of your successful educational program at Amity School. Doing homework will help you develop many valuable skills such as good study habits, time management, responsibility, and perseverance. Teachers will assign homework that will foster individual learning and growth and that is appropriate for the subject area. Homework is part of all students’ regular evaluations. It is your responsibility to complete and turn in homework on time. If you or your parents have questions about homework, immediately contact the teacher who assigned it. INSIDE/OUTSIDE PLAYGROUND DECISION: (DURING GYM AND

RECESS)

Whether pupils remain indoors or out-of-doors often is a difficult judgment call. Generally these factors are taken into consideration:

Temperature usually must be at least 40 degrees for grade 1-3 or 30 degrees for grade 4-8.

Soil conditions are firm and not muddy.

Dryness or lack of ice/snow on black top areas.

No threat of rain or lightning.

Parents are asked to dress their children appropriately for cold and windy weather conditions.



LOCKERS

Each student will be assigned a locker for his/her individual use at Amity School. This locker is for storing books, coats, and personal items necessary for school. Students should not bring valuable items or large amounts of money to school. The lockers should not be used to store valuable items you bring from home. Amity School will not be liable for personal items you leave in your locker or bring to school with you. To keep your school items safe, we strongly advise you to keep your locker private. Do not trade lockers with another student. Do not let another student share your locker. It is your responsibility to see that your locker is kept locked and in order at all times. You should report any damage, vandalism or non/working condition of your locker to the office. If you do not report vandalism, damage or non-working condition of your locker, you will be held responsible for it. Please remember that your locker is school property and remains at all times under the control of the school; however, you have full responsibility for the security of your locker and what is in it. . Lockers are expected to be kept neat at all times. School officials may make inspections at any time. No item considered dangerous by the administration may be kept in the lockers and will be removed if found there. This includes glass or any other object that may be potentially dangerous. Students attending Amity School should not expect privacy of the contents of their lockers, desks, or other school property.

Lockers must be cleaned monthly or more frequently if directed by the teacher. Pupils who fail to keep their lockers clean can lose locker privileges temporarily or for extended periods of time. If this occurs, pupils will need to carry their belongings to each class.

Pupils are to make every reasonable effort to minimize locker noise

No slamming, kicking of lockers

No dropping of books

Normal speaking volume at locker

No shoving, pushing at lockers

Pupils will be held accountable for any damage to lockers and locks.

LOCKER SEARCHES:

In accordance with State law, school principals or other designated school officials have the authority to inspect pupil lockers or other storage facilities provided for use to pupils, so long as pupils are informed in writing at the beginning of each school year that such inspections may occur. This section serves as such notice. Searches may take place periodically throughout the year and will require no advance notice on the part of the administration. Any administrator or his/her designee may conduct the searches.

LOST AND FOUND

If you find books, clothing or personal items on the school grounds, please bring these items to the school office. If you lose something, check the lost and found. The corridors are inspected each evening and unsecured student property is placed in the lost property shelves located in the office. Students should ensure that all their books, uniform and other property are clearly labeled with their name to ensure a prompt return of such items if they become misplaced. Lost and unclaimed items will be given to the charity organizations after 15 days.



PUBLIC AREAS: HALLWAYS, STAIRWELLS, AND LAVATORIES

Hallways, stairwells, and lavatories are areas used by all members of Amity School because

everyone uses these areas, there are rules of conduct that all students must follow.

You may not loiter in the halls, lunchroom or lavatories or on staircases.

You may not eat in halls, lavatories, or on staircases.

You may not run, roughhouse, push, or wrestle in the halls, lunchroom, lavatories, or on

the staircases.

You may not yell, scream, hit lockers or otherwise make excessive noise while in these

areas.

Do not leave belongings on the floor outside your locker.

During class time, students are not to be in the halls, stairwells, or lavatories without a pass from

their teacher or the main office.

STUDENT ID CARDS

Student ID Cards will be issued to each student enrolled at Amity School. It is mandatory

that all Amity School students have in their possession the school ID cards. This card allows

students to attend school-sponsored functions. Suspension from school automatically invalidates

the card for the length of the suspension. If you lose your ID card, go to the main office before

or after school to purchase a new one. Students shall return their Student ID cards in case they

withdraw from the school.

TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLIES

Amity School will provide students with the textbooks for each of their classes. Families

will be asked to make a contribution to the textbook fund to defray costs for books. Amity

School will hold each student responsible for the condition of the textbook issued to him or her.

Each student should take care to see that these books are not lost, stolen, damaged, or defaced.

Students will have to pay to replace any books that are damaged or not returned. Students will

have the opportunity to keep textbooks they used during the year if they wish, provided their

family has made a full payment for the textbooks.

When textbooks are distributed, make sure you write your name in the appropriate place.

Teachers will write down the number of the textbook you have and the condition of the book.

When you return the book, its condition will be checked. If you lose the book or damage it by

writing it in or ripping it so that another student cannot use it, you will have to pay to replace the

book.

Many of the classes will use consumable supplies – from materials to workbooks. Students

will be required to pay for these consumable materials. If there is a special circumstance,

families should meet with the administration.



Procedure for Fire Drill:

Fire drill is a very serious matter for your safety. For that reason our school has a zero tolerance

policy during a fire drill. If you talk, play around, fail to follow directions, or misbehave you will be

reported to the dean of students.

Hall Pass:

According to our school rules you cannot be in the hallway during the class time without a hall pass.

No hall pass will be given during the first 10 and the last 10 minutes, and first and last periods.

Please do not ask for it. Only one student at a time will get a hall pass.

Entering (Please see the dismissal policy)

Our first procedure is about how to enter the classroom. You will wait outside until the teacher

invites you in. You need to walk in quietly to enter the room. Make sure you have all the necessary

materials, including notebook, binder, pencils and paper, with you before you enter the classroom.

Summer School

Amity School reserves the right to provide summer school programming. Decisions as to which

programs will be administered will be made on an annual basis. Notification of the programs and

schedules will be made in a timely manner each spring.

Counseling Services

Amity School does offer counseling services. The school counselor or his/her designee can help you plan and succeed in your high school program and help you look ahead to college. The school counselor can also help with personal issues and concerns. To see the school counselor, make an appointment in advance unless it is an emergency. Your parents may call the office to arrange an appointment with a counselor. If the counselor is not available and you have a problem, make sure you speak with a teacher or administrator. ILLNESS, INJURY, AND MEDICATION POLICIES

Amity School will have a full time school nurse and first-aid-trained-professional available to discuss or assist with medical problems or concerns.

Illness or Injury During the School Day

Please follow these three rules if you become ill or are injured during the school day.

Report to the clinic. If the nurse is not available, you should report to the Main Office.

If you do not inform the office and simply miss class, it is an unexcused absence.

Do not just leave the building. Always report to the main office.

Medication Policy



Medication should not be brought to school unless it is essential to the health of the student. If a student must take medicine at school, these procedures must be followed:

The medication to be administered by designated school personnel must be sent directly from the pharmacy or physician’s office or brought to school by the student’s parent/guardian.

The school must receive a Medication Administration Directions Form signed by the student’s physician and parent/guardian.

On the medication container must be clearly printed the following information:

Student’s Name

Name of the medication

Dosage

Time the medication must be taken.

Bring in only the amount of medication that is needed for a school day.

In the case of prolonged need, send in the amount for a clearly specified period such as one week or one month. Extra medication will not be sent home with a student.

All medication will be kept in a secure location in the clinic.

Students may carry and administer their medication if these two conditions are met:

It is warranted by a potentially life-threatening condition and advised by their physician and

A Medication Self-Administration Form is on file in the office signed by the student’s parent, physician, and the principal.

PHOTOGRAPHS/VIDEO TAPE - PUBLIC RELATIONS

There may be occasions when your child may be photographed or videotaped participating in school functions. If you DO NOT WISH TO HAVE YOUR CHILD PHOTOGRAPHED OR VIDEO TAPED, please advise the school principal in writing.

Students will be photographed on school by a school-contracted photographer sometime in the

fall. Students may purchase the entire package of photos.

PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS

Frequently throughout the school year, informal conferences between parent and teacher can

take place via telephone, conversations, written messages, and scheduled meetings at mutually

agreeable times.

To initiate a conference with a teacher, parents should write an e mail to the teacher indicating

the nature of the request and convenient times for a conference. Upon receipt of the written

request, the teacher will contact the parent by return letter or telephone call whereby the time and

the location of the conference can be mutually agreed upon. Parents are asked not to come to

school expecting to meet with a teacher without an appointment. Injustice to the students and the

teaching learning process, no teacher can be contacted during the teaching hours of the school day.



VISITORS

Visitors for educational reasons are welcome at Amity School. Visitors must register with the office

when they arrive. Parents also must check in at the office and get their visitor ID card. These

procedures are designed to help keep our pupils as safe and secure as reasonably possible during the

day and after school while in the school.

VISITORS ARE NOT PERMITTED BEYOND THE SCHOOL OFFICE TO DROP OFF FOOD, DRINKS, HOMEWORK, PROJECTS, NOTES, OR TO ACCOMPANY LATE PUPILS TO A CLASSROOM. FUND RAISING

No person may solicit contributions or collect funds for any purpose from students or school

personnel on school property, at school-sponsored events, or on school transportation unless he has

the written permission of the school principal.

Advertising may be permitted if approved school-related activities. Such activities may include

school newspapers, yearbooks, and other fund-raising projects. Advertising material that promotes

the use of alcohol and tobacco is strictly prohibited. No person may display, offer to sell, or sell any

item or service to students or school personnel on school property, at school-sponsored events, or

on school transportation unless he/she has the written permission of the school principal.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Fire, lock-down, evacuation, and tornado drill instructions will be discussed in each class during

the first week of the semester. Students need to understand and follow these instructions. This is a

life and death matter. The instructions will be posted on the bulletin board in each teacher's room

and students should be familiar with the assigned drill areas.

State Law mandates that two fire drills be conducted each month in the elementary schools.

When the alarm is sounded for a fire drill or evacuation drill, everyone is required to respond in a

prompt and orderly manner, leaving the school building by a prescribed route as directed by the

teachers. During the winter months, it is recommended that a sweater be provided by the home to

be kept in school.

ABSENCE AND TARDINESS

Amity School recognizes two kinds of absences and tardiness: excused and unexcused. Please read through the definitions of each carefully so that you understand what you and your parents’ or guardians’ responsibilities are. Also, you need to be very aware of your responsibilities regarding homework, quizzes, and tests when you have an excused absence and the consequences for unexcused absences and tardiness.



Excused Absences

Amity School accepts only the following as excusable reasons for absence from school. Under

the compulsory education law, parents or guardians must notify the school any morning their child

is not attending school by 9:00 AM. Otherwise the absence will be recorded as unexcused. The

excuse shall be submitted to the attendance office and filed as part of the student's school record.

An excuse for absence from school may be approved for the following reasons or conditions:

Appointments during school hours: Please schedule non-emergency doctor, dentist, and

other personal appointments before or after school hours. Interruptions in the daily classroom

instruction interfere with the learning experience of your child and the other students in the

classroom. If an appointment is unavoidable, please send a note in advance to the teacher and notify

the main office. Please be sure to sign your child out from the main office.

ATTENDANCE

The success of Amity School educational program is based on the daily presence of the students and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation. In addition, the regular contact of students with one another in the classroom and their participation in well-planned instructional activities under the guidance of a competent teacher are vital to the success of the educational program. For these reasons, the administration, faculty and staff of Amity School will frequently talk about the importance of students being in class and on time.

Promoting and fostering consistent student attendance requires a commitment from the administrators, teachers, parents, and students. No single individual or group can successfully accomplish this task. Members of Amity School professional staff will do all they can to encourage and support student attendance. This ranges from creating a pleasant and safe physical environment to providing meaningful learning experiences and opportunities in every class. In addition, professional staff will

keep accurate attendance records of excused and unexcused absences,

require an admit slip from a student returning from an absence and follow through appropriately if the student does not have one,

incorporate defined, daily participation as part of the teaching/learning process for each grading period, and

Require accountability for students to complete work they missed while absent including homework, projects, quizzes, tests, and other assignments.

We ask that you, as a student, do all you can do to attend school every day. If you have any

problems with attendance, please talk with a teacher, administrator or the registrar.

Absentee notes: Any pupil who is absent must present a note, signed by the parent/guardian,

to the teacher on the 1st day of return. The note shall explain the reason for absence. If an absence

or tardiness is anticipated, please send a note in advance. When sending a note, please include

student’s first and last name and teacher’s name, written clearly, so that when the note reaches the

school office, correct identification can be made. Be sure to phone the office on each day of an



absence, if you did not send a note in advance. If a student is ill, we need to know the nature of the

illness, to watch for symptoms among other pupils and staff.

It is critical that parents call in absentees. Failure to do so can result in our “abducted child”

procedure being implemented, which requires the city police being notified.

Do Not Send Sick Pupils to School: A pupil who has an indication of fever, chills, sore

throat, etc. should not be sent to school. Such symptoms may indicate the beginning of a contagious

disease or serious illness, and it would be neither fairs to the pupil who is ill, nor the other persons

with whom he/she comes in contact, for that pupil to attend school.

Procedures for School Wide Tests

There will be absolutely no talking during a test or quiz. If you talk with any other student it will be

considered cheating, no matter what the subject is. If you caught cheating you will be reported to the

dean and you will receive zero. And remember no wondering eyes.

Unexpected Absences

Personal Illness

Your parent or guardian must call the school each morning that you are absent by 09:00 AM. Otherwise the absence will be recorded as unexcused when you are home ill. If it is known for a fact the number of days that a student will be absent this can be reported on the first call.

When you return to school, you must bring an explanatory note from your parent or guardian, or the absence will be recorded as unexcused. The school may require a doctor's confirmation.

Illness in the Family

Your parent or guardian must call the school by 9:00 AM to explain the situation and estimated days of absence, or the absence will be recorded as unexcused.

When you return to school, you must bring an explanatory note from your parent or guardian, or the absence will be recorded as unexcused.

Death of a Relative

Your parent or guardian must call the school by 9:00 AM to explain the situation and estimated days of absence or the absence will be recorded as unexcused

When you return to school, you must bring an explanatory note from your parent or guardian, or the absence will be recorded as unexcused

Unexcused Absences

An unexcused absence does become part of a student’s school record. You will be marked for

an unexcused absence if you

fail to bring a written note within two school days following an absence,



leave school without signing out of school at the office,

are absent from class without permission - including walking out of class,

are absent from school without parental permission,

get a pass to go to a certain place but do not report there,

are absent for reasons not acceptable to the administration.

If a student accumulates 10 unexcused absences, the student will fail the grade. There will be no exceptions to this rule. It is very important to parents for excuse all absences.

Make-up Work for Excused Absences

An absence from school, even for several days, does not excuse you from responsibilities in the

classroom on the day you return. If you have an excused absence, you will be given the same

number of days that you were absent to make up missed work.

To be eligible for make-up work, you must show each teacher the “excused absence slip.” On

the day you return to school, it is your responsibility to find out what work is required and when the

work needs to be completed. There will be a time limit on turning in make–up work. The teacher

will inform the student when the make-up is due.

If you are absent for school-related reasons or for an anticipated or planned absence, make

arrangements with your teacher(s) for assignments prior to your absence. For students with excused

absences, make-up tests will be scheduled at a time designated by the teacher. It is the students’

responsibility to take the test at that time. If you fail to do this, the teacher is not obligated to set

another time for the make-up. If you fail to make up a test without making other arrangements, the

teacher may decide not to give you the test.

If a student is absent he or she shall check the listing of assignments, tests, or quizzes from the

course website or from a friend. Class-only activities, will not count against students with excused

absences. You will get zero if you miss work because of unexcused absences.

Make-up Work for Unexcused Absences

If you have an unexcused absence, your grade(s) in a class or classes will be affected in one of

these ways.

You may not make up work following an unexcused absence.

Unexcused absence may result in a "F" or "zero" for the day in each class missed.

Teachers are not obligated to allow you to make up quizzes or tests.

Truancy

Truancy means that a student is not excused and absent from his or her assigned location without the knowledge of a parents/guardians.

Truancy shows a deliberate disregard for the educational program and is considered a serious matter that will have immediate consequences. If you are truant,



No credit will be recorded for work you missed as result of truancy.

A record of the truancy will be entered into your attendance record file.

A conference with your parents will be held.

Tardiness:

Tardiness to school and to class – whether the result of oversleeping, missing the bus, car

problems, baby-sitting, athletic workouts, socializing or lingering in the halls - is unacceptable.

When you are tardy to the school after 8:25 am, have your tardy pass which should be taken from

the front desk. If you arrive later than 8:45 am, the tardy pass should be taken from dean of

students.

Excused Tardiness

You must have your parent or guardian call the office or write an explanatory note if you arrive

late to school. Report to the office when you arrive. If you fail to do this, you will receive an

unexcused tardy. Students are allowed ten (10) excused morning tardiness during the school year.

Then it will be counted as unexcused.

Unexcused Tardiness

If you arrive at school late but without a note, report to the office to check in. You will get a

“late slip” for admittance to class. Five unexcused tardiness results one Saturday detention.

Unexcused Class Tardiness

If you are late between classes, report directly to your next class. Administration will record a

tardy detention point on your discipline record.

Homeroom Attendance

Students are expected to attend homeroom as a regular class. Homeroom starts at 8:30AM to

8:37AM. During this time attendance will be taken as regular class.

Consequences

5 times tardiness of Homeroom results one Saturday detention.

Tardy

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion including possible

detention.



3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Principal decision.

Not attending at all

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted.


detention.

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Principal decision.

Early Dismissal of Students from School

Because Amity School is very concerned about your safety and well being, early dismissal from

school is an important issue. In all instances of early dismissal, the following precautions will be

taken to insure students’ safety.

The Assistant principal may release you before the end of a school day only upon presentation of a written or face-to-face (no telephone call) request from your parent or guardian or for emergency reasons.

You may be released only to a parent or guardian whose signature is on file in the school office or to a properly identified person, authorized in writing by the parent or guardian to act on his/her behalf.

You may be released "on his/her own" only with verified parental permission.

No staff member shall permit or cause you to leave school prior to the regular hour of dismissal except with the knowledge and approval of the principal and with the knowledge and approval of your parents or guardian.

You will not be released from school to any government agency without proper warrant or written parental permission except in the event of an emergency as determined by the Assistant principal.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Field Trips

Field trips are a privilege and attendance may be denied for behavioral or academic reasons.

Because the safety of students is very important to us, specific rules will apply to these activities.

Field Trips offer exciting ways to learn. Amity School students will have the opportunity to go on

field trips at various times throughout the school year. For all field trips, you will be expected to

follow these rules;

You must bring to school the Field Trip Permission Slip signed by your parents or guardian by the specified date. No phone calls will be accepted as permission.



You must wear your school uniform unless otherwise specified.

You must abide by Amity School codes of student conduct while on the field trip. 2. Chaperones: Teachers generally give first choice consideration to PTO parents, who

faithfully perform their duties, to serve as trip chaperones. Only teachers and approved chaperones are permitted on field trips. The principal shall approve all chaperones.

3. Return to School: Please plan to meet your child at the scheduled time of return. If a field trip returns prior to dismissal time and school is still in session, pupils will be sent to their appropriate class.

4. Overnight Field Trips: There is a separate set of guidelines for these trips. They will be issued by the building principal if such an event is scheduled.

After-School Activities

There is no better way for students to enrich their education than by taking parts in clubs and after-school activities or working with a teacher. These opportunities will allow you to explore more deeply things you already enjoy and to try other areas that sound interesting. If you stay for an after-school activity, you will be expected to follow these rules:

You must be with a teacher or other staff member at all times.

You must arrange for your own transportation to arrive promptly at the end of the activity.

You must abide by the Amity School code of student conduct while participating in the activity.

You may not stay after school to wait for another student.

A full list and description of after school clubs and activities will be posted to the school website after school starts and students will have an opportunity to explore each one that looks interesting.

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

When a student must withdraw from Amity School during the school term, the students should report to the office at least three days advance stating the reason for withdrawal in writing. The student will receive a withdrawal form that will be taken to each of these teachers and business office for "clearance":

-Has checked in all assigned equipment.

-No make-up work due.

The student needs to get one of the administrators’ signatures after clearance with teachers. The withdrawal form will then be returned to the registrar for official release. The registrar will release student records signed by parents if the student is cleared.

INTERNET TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Acceptable Use: School use must be in support of education and research and consistent

with educational objectives. Attempts to log on to the Internet as a system administrator, or to

obtain unauthorized access to the school system or any other computer system through the School

system, or to go beyond the user's authorized access will result in cancellation of user privileges.



Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes,

but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by

trade secret. Use for commercial activities is generally not acceptable. Use for product advertisement

or lobbying is also prohibited. Use of school accounts for anything other than school business will

be regarded as unacceptable usage and will be grounds for immediate revocation of all Internet

privileges. If any incident violates other school policy, additional penalties may also be imposed

which could include suspension, expulsion, or termination of employment.

Privilege: The use of Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a

cancellation of those privileges.

Netiquette: Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network netiquette.

These include, but are not limited to the following:

Be polite. Messages should not be abusive to others.

Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.

Do not reveal personal information (ie - names, addresses, phone numbers, social security

numbers, etc.).

Illegal activities are strictly forbidden.

Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the

system do have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be

reported to the authorities.

All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be

private property.

Security: Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves

many users. If the user can identify a security problem on the Internet, a system administrator must

be notified. Attempts to login to Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user

privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer

systems may be denied access to Internet.

Computer hardware and software are for the benefit of all students. No student may purposefully

tamper with either the hardware or the software so that it is inaccessible to other students.

Computers are in the school for educational purposes. Abuse and or misuse of computers also

include loading private software, checking personal e-mail, or accessing inappropriate web sites or

web pages using school equipment. Student computer history may be checked randomly.



DISCIPLINE

Some student discipline issues are resolved through one-to-one counseling with a teacher, counselor

or school administrator, and may require no more than an in-school suspension. This means that

students are removed from the classroom for a short period of time for the purposes of redirecting

or resolving misbehavior. Other issues may result in school detention or out-of-school suspensions.

This is a more formal discipline approach, which prohibits students from attending school, and

which requires they have the direct supervision of a parent or other adult.

Teachers are specially authorized to keep students after school to make up work or for disciplinary

reasons for periods up to one hour after the close of school. In such cases, courtesy will be extended

by attempting to contact parents to let them know students will be late in arriving home. No

permission slip is required for detention.

1. Every unwanted behavior has a numerical point. (See Discipline Point Case File)

2. Every teacher is required to mention our DPS system in his/her syllabus and use it.

3. Teachers or staffs are not required to inform students about the points that they assign.

Each student is responsible for their own behavior.

4. A teacher can give points only once for the same incidence for one class period. The teacher

shall fill out a incident report if the same case continues, and contact an Administrator.

5. An accruement of each 20 points or more may result in attending Saturday Detention.

6. Students required to attend Saturday Detention are rewarded 5 points for attending Saturday

Detention and obeying rules of conduct for Saturday Detention. Students may receive more

DPS points, however for an unwilling behavior.

7. Failing to attend a Saturday Detention without any confirmed excuse may result in a 1 day in

school suspension.

8. An accruement of each 40 points or more may result in 1 day in school suspension.

9. An accruement of 180 points or more may result up to 7 days out of school suspension or

expulsion.

10. If a student does not receive any discipline point within a week (Friday-Thursday), the

student’s Discipline points will be reduced by 5 points in the following day.

DEMERIT POINT SYSTEM:

The demerit points system involves the allocation of penalty points (demerits) for a range of

disrespectful manners on the school ground.

Being unprepared to class 1 Chewing gum 2

Not working on assigned tasks 1 Disturbing class 2



Not turning in assigned work or

homework

2 Bullying 4

Disrespectful Manners to Teacher 5 Horse-playing 3

Unexcused tardy to the class 1 Throwing stuff in class/hallway/cafeteria 3

Inappropriate behavior 2 Dress code violation 3

Improper Language 1 Written profanity 3

Verbal profanity 7 Using cell phone, mp3 player, etc. in school 5

Running in hallway 1 Failure to follow a reasonable request 5

Lack of cooperation 1 Threatening verbal or written 7

Not following the cafeteria rules 2 Destruction of school property 7

Eating/drinking out of cafeteria 2 Throwing stuff from window 3

Office referral 5 Leaving the classroom without permission 7

Leaving paper/trash on the floor 5

Drawing/writing in textbooks 2

Parent Call

After School Detention

Lunch Detention

DETENTION

Detention may be held on each day during school for up to seven (7) hours. Students who serve

detention must make arrangements to be picked up from school. Parents may request in person a

delay of the detention; no phone calls or notes will be accepted for this.



SATURDAY DETENTION

Saturday Detention serves as an alternative to out-of-school suspension for violation of school

rules. During the hours of detention, students work to increase academic skills, engage in activities

to improve self-concept, and address the discipline.

The purpose of Saturday Detention is to provide positive, worthwhile, educational experience and a

meaningful misbehavior deterrent for those students who have violated school rules problem area.

Saturday Detention will prevent students from losing instruction time, keeping them in school.

A serious violation or repeated violations of the behavior code is cause for a student to serve a

Saturday detention. Students who attend Saturday Detention may receive academic assistance and

may be given the opportunity to do homework, make-up, or remedial work, under the supervision

of a teacher. Each student will be given an assignment which may help students to understand why

they break school rules; the consequences students will face thorough introspection. Hopefully this

counseling session will guide students toward acceptable alternatives through goal setting exercises

given to students. And also, student may do some physical exercises during detention. Written

notification of a Saturday detention is sent home with the student. This notification lists the cause

for and date of the detention. The only acceptable excuse for not attending a Saturday detention is a

verified (doctor’s note) illness of the student.

Rules and Regulations

1. Saturday Detention will be held 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Dean of Student’s office at

Brooklyn Amity School. The doors will be open at 9:45 am.

2. The students are required to wear their school uniforms.

3. Since the students will be unsupervised 01:00 pm, parents are expected to pick up their child

from detention. Amity School is not responsible for the students who are left after 1:30 pm.

In case of unexpected situations, please call 7188916100-ext 234 to notify us of your

lateness.

4. Should a student arrive late for a Saturday Detention without a note for an "emergency

excusal," he will be assigned 1 day in-school-suspension plus attend the next scheduled

Saturday Detention. A second late arrival to an assigned Saturday Detention will result in

out-of-school suspension beginning on the following Monday, plus attendance at the next

Saturday Detention.

5. Students may be asked to bring appropriate materials with which to work.

6. There are no radios, food, beverage, candy, comic books, etc. allowed in the Saturday

Detention School.

7. Students will be expected to work the entire time while there. Any student not working will

be removed from the detention and referred to the Administrator. Parent will be notified

regarding the infraction immediately.

8. No student is permitted to sleep during Saturday Detention.



9. Any student acting disruptively will be removed from the Saturday Detention and be

referred to the Administrator for further disciplinary action.

10. Lavatory privileges will be at discretion of the Saturday Detention administrator.

11. If an emergency arises and the student cannot attend, the parent must contact the

Administrator at 718 891 6100. If the reasons are acceptable, the detention will be

rescheduled.

12. If a student does not participate in scheduled Saturday detention without any confirmed

excuse, the student will receive 1 day in school suspension plus attendance at the next

scheduled Saturday detention.

13. Failure to follow Saturday Detention rules may result in 1 day out of school suspension plus

attendance at the next scheduled Saturday Detention.

SUSPENSIONS

Notice of Suspension and the reasons for the suspension will be given to the student by the

Administrator after the discipline committee meeting. You and your parent/guardian may appeal a

suspension within two (2) school days of the suspension being issued. This appeal must be in writing

and be made to the Principal. Consequences will not be deferred pending the outcome of an appeal.

Principal will make the decision within 2 school days after the appeal made. Principal’s decision is

final.

Amity School will use two kinds of suspension:

A. In school suspension

B. Out of school suspension.

A. IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION

Rules and regulations

1. Report to the Detention room at 8:20 A.M. If you come after 8:20 you will be count as

absent. In school suspension will be run from 8:20am to 3:30pm.

2. Students will bring materials to work on. Students are to bring IN-SCHOOL

SUSPENSION ASSIGNMENT LIST with teacher’s name, subject, and assignments. It is

the student’s responsibility to go and ask the teachers for assignment.

3. Students must sign the sign in paper when they report to the detention room. They must

sign the paper when the suspension is over. Without Administrator permission, a student

can not go out of detention room. Students are to keep clean the detention room.



4. No talking or conversations. Students must be seated at all times.

5. Students will not be permitted to go their lockers. All materials must be brought to the room

when reporting.

6. Students will not be permitted to go to lunch during the lunch time. They will have their

lunch in the last 30 minutes during the lunch time.

7. Suspension will be assigned within 24 hours of the Administrator meeting with the student.

8. No disruptive behavior will be allowed.

9. Unexcused absences will be referred to the Administrator.

10. No food, drinks, gum or illegal substances allowed.

11. No visits by parents, relatives or other students.

12. Sleeping is prohibited.

13. Students are responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items.

14. Transportation to the in-school suspension site is the responsibly of the students and their

parents/guardians. Transportation arrangements must be made prior to arrival at the site.

15. Student Handbook rules apply.

16. No physical contact of any kind between participants

17. If a student does not attend scheduled In School Suspension without any confirmed excuse,

then the student will have 1 day out of school suspension and attend rescheduled In School

Suspension.

18. If a student does not turn in Parent Notification form on the due date without any

confirmed excuse, he will have 1 day out of school suspension.

19. Failure to comply with the rules will be reported to the Administrator for further action.

This further action may be up to 3 day out of school suspension.

B. OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION

1. Grounds for suspension will include, but not be limited to:

2. Damage or destruction of school property or private property

3. Smoking

4. Profanity or obscene language or materials (These shall include obscene gestures or signs.)



5. Insubordination in refusing to comply with directions of school personnel

6. Truancy from, or repeated tardiness to, class or school

7. Theft of school property or equipment, or personal property of any school personnel,

another student, or visitor

8. Fighting among two or more students on school property (including buses) or at any school

sponsored activity

9. The act of extortion from any person on school property (including buses) or at any school

sponsored activity

10. Repeated or flagrant violation of any school or classroom rules or accepted standards of

school behavior

11. Using a fire exit door in inappropriate time.

12. Selling food or items without an approval form from an administrator.

13. Not being in assigned location. Skipping a class.

Rules and regulations

1. A student who is suspended from the school is not allowed on school property.

(International students will serve 2 days of in-school suspension)

2. A student who is suspended is responsible for all make-up work missed.

3. Parents or guardians of the student will be notified in advance of dates of suspension.

4. If the incidence is severe, then Principal or Administrator may keep the student in detention

room, until parents are notified and pick up the student.

5. Some suspensions may be extended, if further evidence is revealed. In such a case, parents or

guardians will be notified either by phone or by mail.

6. If a student does not turn in Parent Notification form on the due date without any

confirmed excuse, he will have 1 day out-of-school suspension.

Failure to follow School Suspension Rules may result in extra disciplinary action.

ANY STUDENT SUSPENDED 3 TIMES DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR MAY BE

DENIED REGISTRATION TO BROOKLYN AMITY SCHOOL FOR THE

FOLLOWING YEAR.



EXPULSION

The decision to expel any student will be made in writing and will include the reasons for the

expulsion by the Administrator after hearing about the events involved in a situation. In addition,

suspensions may be used for students who have committed a removal or expulsion offense and for

whom a conference or hearing is pending. You and your parent/guardian may appeal an expulsion

within two (2) school days of the expulsion being issued. This appeal will be made to the Board of

Foundation in writing. Consequences will not be deferred pending the outcome of an appeal. All

disciplinary hearings on expulsions will be held within four (4) school days of the appeal being made.

The decision of Board of Foundation is final.

Expulsion Policy

Grounds for expulsion will include, but not be limited to:

1. Assault, assault and battery or threat thereof to any school personnel, other student or visitor

while on school property, including buses, or at any school sponsored activity

2. False alarm, including fire, bomb threats, etc.

3. Use or possession of alcoholic beverages or illegal narcotics or drugs

4. Disruption of school by use of violence, force, coercion, threat, or disorderly conduct (This

shall include the use of same to incite others toward acts of disruption.)

5. Arson or attempted arson to any school building or property

6. Repeated offenses of flagrant violations where suspension is normally considered

appropriate

7. Possession or use of weapons or any object which might be considered a dangerous weapon

or instrument of violence.

8. Receiving a total of 180 or more DPS points within a school year.

AS A STUDENT AT BROOKLYN AMITY SCHOOL, YOU SHALL NOT…

A. Fight and Arrange Fights:

School is not a place to arrange fights, whether those fights take place on or off school grounds.

Fighting is an instance of physical contact in anger, regardless of whether fists or weapons are used.

In all but the rarest of occasions in which one student simply assaults an innocent bystander, any

fight will involve disciplining all students involved in the fight. Students who involve themselves in

fighting will be sent to the discipline room for the remainder of the day and he will be noted as

absent.



Consequences:

1st Offense: Parents/guardian contacted. 2 days of suspension.

2nd Offense: Parents/guardian contacted. 3 days of suspension (Possible expulsion).

B. Using Beepers, Pagers, Cellular Telephones or Other Electronic Devices:

Radios, Tape or CD Players, Electronic Games, and/or similar devices are not allowed at school.

They disrupt classes and distract others from learning. Students may bring a camera to school with a

one-day advance approval notice from the Administrator. Cell phones can only be used for the

purpose of calling parents, after school hours. Students are not allowed to chat or play games with

their cell phones or any other electronic devices at the school premises.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parents/guardian contacted. Device will be confiscated for 3 days and retrieved

only by parents/guardian along with a $10 handling fee. Brooklyn Amity School is not

responsible for the confiscated items which are not received 3 days after confiscation.

2nd Offense: Parents/guardian contacted. Device will be confiscated for 1 week and device

will be given to parent/legal guardian with a $20 handling fee. Brooklyn Amity School is not

responsible for the confiscated items which are not received one week after confiscation.

3rd Offense: Parents/guardian contacted. Device will be confiscated for 2 weeks and device

will be given to parent/legal guardian with a $30 handling fee. Brooklyn Amity School is not

responsible for the confiscated items which are not received two weeks after confiscation

(Possible expulsion).

C. Cheat and/or Plagiarism:

Cheating on tests, plagiarism, and/or any other types of deception to get credit without effort is

unacceptable conduct. Each teacher sets his/her own standards of behavior for the classroom, and

students are expected to know the standards and procedures for each of their classes and the

expectations their teachers have. The administration has reviewed and accepted and will support

individual teacher standards and procedures for cheating and plagiarism.

Consequences:

See individual teachers’ policies.



D. Abuse and/or Misuse of Computers and Laboratory Equipments:

Computer hardware and software, and lab equipments are for the benefit of all students. No

student may purposefully tamper with the hardware, software, or tools and equipment so that it is

inaccessible to other students. Computers and lab equipment are in the school for educational

purposes only. Abuse and or misuse of computers also include loading private software, accessing

inappropriate web sites or web pages using school equipment. All science lab equipment and

materials are to remain in the lab unless otherwise instructed.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parents/guardians contacted. Administrative discretion. Under supervision, you

will repair, undo, reset, delete, replace or whatever needs to be done to undo the tampering.

You may have to pay for computer or lab technicians to undo tampering. Up to two (2) days

of suspension

2nd Offense: Parents/guardians contacted; Administrative discretion. You will repair, undo,

reset, delete, replace or whatever needs to be done to undo the tampering under supervision.

You may have to pay for computer or lab technicians to undo tampering; Up to three (3)

days of suspension

3rd Offense: Parents/guardians contacted. Administrative discretion, student will be banned

from using any computer and science labs at Brooklyn Amity School. Under supervision,

you will repair, undo, reset, delete, replace or whatever needs to be done to undo the

tampering. You may have to pay for computer or lab technicians to undo tampering.

Recommendation for expulsion.

E. Disrupt Learning:

Disrupting learning includes any behavior that prevents other students from learning. It may

include but is not limited to use of inappropriate written and verbal language, eating or drinking

during class, chewing gum, insubordination, making noise, and/or selling or trading personal

possessions to other students.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Written warning with the recommendation of

detention, and/or up to one (1) day of in-school suspension.


detention, and/or up to one (1) day of out-of-school suspension



3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion including up to two (2)

days of out-of-school suspension (Possible expulsion)

F. Uniform Violations:

Students shall come to school in uniform and in line with specific uniform and appearance

limitations described in this handbook. Students will not be allowed to attend class until they are in

proper attire. All missed work must be made up.

Consequences:

1st Offense: You will be sent to the office to fix the violation. If the violation cannot be

corrected, your parent/guardian will be contacted to bring proper attire. Possible detention

2nd Offense: You will be sent to the office to fix the violation. If the violation cannot be

corrected, your parent/guardian will be contacted to bring proper attire to you. Possible one

(1) day of in-school suspension.

3rd Offense: You will be sent to the office to fix the violation. Parent/guardian contacted. If

violation cannot be corrected, parent/guardian will be contacted to bring proper attire to

you. Up to two (2) days of in-school suspension

4th Offense: You will be sent to the office to fix the violation. Parent/Guardian contacted.

If the violation cannot be corrected, your parent/guardian will be contacted to bring proper

attire to you. Up to three (3) days of suspension

G. Use Drugs and/or Alcohol and Sale or Intention to Sell Drugs and/or Alcohol:

Use of drugs or alcohol means to knowingly possess, consume, use, handle, give, store, conceal,

offer to sell, sell, transmit, acquire, buy, represent, make, apply, or be under the influence of any

narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, tranquilizer, non-

prescription or prescription drug (except when under the direction of a physician/parent and within

school procedure), alcoholic beverage, intoxicant, solvent, gas, or any mood-altering chemical, drug

of abuse or any counterfeit-controlled substance of any kind including butane lighters. This

prohibition also applies to any type of drug related paraphernalia. If caught, the student will be

expelled and law enforcement officials may be contacted. The sale, distribution, possession, or use

of drugs, alcohol, fake drugs, steroids, inhalants, and look alike drugs is prohibited anywhere on

school grounds, at any school activity, and on any school transportation. Many drug abuse offenses

are also felonies.

Consequences:

Parent/guardian contacted. Direct expulsion proceedings.



H. Give A False Fire Alarm: Issuing a false fire alarm is a violation of the State law. Any student

who issues a false fire alarm is subject to the legal authorities. The penalties for this, especially if any

injuries result, are immense; a fine of $1,000 or penalty issued to the school by the fire department/

local authorities. Making false 911 calls is also violation of the State Law. Any student who issues a

false call is subject to prosecution by legal authorities. There will be $100 dollars for each false call.

Consequences:

Parent/guardian contacted. Three (3) days of suspension. Restitution for any damage.

Possible prosecution by legal authorities

I. Forgery

Any attempt by a student to sign a teacher’s, administrator’s, parent’s/guardian’s, or student’s name

to any school document is considered forgery.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. One (1) day of suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Two (2) days of suspension.

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. . Three (3) days of suspension. (Possible expulsion)

J. Gamble and Play Cards:

Gambling includes but is not limited to card playing, dice shooting and sports pools and involves

the transfer of money or personal belongings or assistance from one person to another. Bringing,

trading, and playing any cards such as Pokémon cards, Yu-Gi-Oh cards, non-sports cards, and any

other trading cards.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Oral warning and confiscation of the card(s), dice

etc. with retrieval only by parents/guardians along with a $10 handling fee. Brooklyn Amity

School is not responsible for the confiscated items which are not received one week after

confiscation.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Up to one (1) day of suspension. Card(s) will be

confiscated and they will be given to parent only on or after last day of school along with a

$10 handling fee. Brooklyn Amity School is not responsible for the confiscated items which

are not received one week after last day of school.

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Two (2) days of suspension.



K. Bring Inappropriate Materials:

Pornographic, criminal, hate related, etc.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. One (1) day of suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Up to three (3) days of suspension(Possible

expulsion)

L. Harass another Student and/or a Teacher, Administrator, or Staff Member:

Harassment means making unwelcome advances or any form of improper physical contact, gesture

or sexual remark and any speech, written communication or action that creates a hostile,

intimidating or offensive learning environment. Harassment is a violation of Federal Law and is

contrary to the Board of Education’s commitment to provide a physically and psychologically safe

environment in which to learn. If harassment occurs as a “joke” the student will experience

consequence of his behavior.

Parent/Guardian contacted. Administrative discretion with a recommendation for

suspension(Possible expulsion).

M. Disrespect to teachers or staff or using inappropriate language and behavior. Responding in a

rude and/or impertinent manner (i.e., rolling eyes, sucking teeth, not answering when asked a

question, or talking back):

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Up to two (2) days of in school suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Up to three (3) days of suspension

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Four (4) days of suspension. (Possible expulsion)

N. Hazing Students:

Hazing means to plan, encourage or engage in any hazing activity. Hazing is defined as doing any act

or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student or other

organization that causes or creates a substantial risk or causes mental or physical harm to any

person. Permission, consent or assumption of the risk by an individual subjected to hazing does not

lessen the prohibition contained in this policy. Hazing may also carry heavy legal consequences.



Consequences:

Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion with a recommendation for suspension

(Possible expulsion)

O. Smoke or Use of Other Tobacco Products and/or Bring Such Products to School:

This includes cigarettes, cigars, herbs, and smokeless tobacco. Possession of tobacco products in

purses or lockers is prohibited under this policy.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Two (2) days of suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Three (3) days of suspension. (Possible expulsion)

P. Steal and/or Vandalize Private Property:

This means to cause or attempt to cause damage to private property or steal or attempt to steal

private property either on school grounds or during a school activity, function, or event on school

grounds. Students and their parents or guardians will be held responsible for any theft/vandalism

that their student commits on school property.

Please Note: The school may file a police report in cases of theft and vandalism. Either offense

can carry heavy legal penalties.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Restitution if required.

Up to three (3) days of suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Up to four (4) days of

suspension Restitution if required. Police report filed. (Possible expulsion)

Q. Be Habitually Tardy:

This means generally being late for the beginning of school days and/or late for classes.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Four (4) Unexcused Tardy within a week receives

Saturday Detention

R. Display Threatening Behavior:

Threatening behavior can include verbal threats, both face to face, over electronic media (phone

and/or computers), hand written notes, and/or non-verbal threats, including “hard” stares, gestures,



and so on, that cause or attempt to cause any student, teacher, administrator, or staff member to feel

frightened or intimidated.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. 1 day of school

suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Three (3) days of

suspension recommended.

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Four (4) days of suspension. (Possible expulsion)

S. Be Truant:

Truancy means being inexcusably absent from school or class without the knowledge of a parent

and/or school administration. Habitual truancy by law means a student has accumulated five (5)

consecutive days or nine (9) total days of absence in one semester. There are school and legal

penalties that accompany truancy; in all cases a truant officer may be contacted and consulted.

Consequences:

Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion on full range of disciplinary measures

including expulsion from the school.

T. Bring Any Kind of Weapon to School:

A weapon includes, but is not limited to, conventional objects like guns, pellet guns, knives, smoke

bombs, stink bombs, fireworks, or club type implements as well as mace, tear gas, or other

chemicals. It may also include any toy that is presented as a real weapon. It also includes objects

converted from their original use to an object used to threaten or injure another. The Administration

reserves the right to all final decisions regarding the definition of what is a weapon. School

personnel may search lockers, book bags, gym bags, coats, and/or any other containers if they

suspect the presence of a weapon.

Consequences:

Parent/guardian contacted. Three (3) days of suspension with a recommendation for

expulsion. Possible prosecution.

U. Possession or Use of Fireworks:

Using or possessing any amusement device, smoke bomb, etc.



Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Detention

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Up to three (3) days of

suspension(Possible expulsion)

V. Gang and Secret Society Symbols:

Disruption and/or intimidation caused by the wearing of any type of clothing/jewelry or by writing

of any signs identified as or associated with gangs. Students cannot promise to or be members of a

gang, secret society, illegal club, or fraternity.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. One (1) day of in-school suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Up to two (2) days of

suspension

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Up to four (4) days of


W. Possession of Stolen Property:

Having in one’s possession property obtained without permission of the owner

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion. Up to two (2) days of

suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion (recommendation for

expulsion)

X. Arson:

Intentionally starting any fire or combustion on school property,

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion (recommendation for

expulsion)

Y. Public Display of Affection

Inappropriate behaviors of affection, which are not for public places such as kissing, hugging,

physical contact, etc.



1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to 2 days of in school suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to three (3) days of suspension(Possible

expulsion)

Z. Provoking/Intimidating Behavior Encouraging or Urging Other Students to Violate

School Rules:

1st Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Saturday Detention

2nd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Up to three (3) days of suspension

3rd Offense: Parent/guardian contacted. Administrative discretion (Possible expulsion)

1. Bullying Policies

“Harassment, intimidation, and bullying” means any gesture, written or verbal expression, or

physical act that a reasonable person should know will harm another student, damage another

students property, place another student in reasonable fear of harm to the students person or

damage to the student’s property, or insult or demean any student or group of students in such a

way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s educational mission or the education of any student.

“Harassment, intimidation, and bullying” include, but are not limited to, a gesture, written, verbal or

physical act.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parents/Guardian contacted. Up to Three (3) days out of school suspension

2nd Offense: Parents/Guardian contacted. Administrative discretion(Possible expulsion)

2. Conspiracy

Any two (2) or more persons mutually agreeing to do any unlawful act.

1st Offense: Parents/Guardian contacted. Up to two (2) days out of school suspension

2nd Offense: Parents/Guardian contacted. Up to Three (3) days out of school


3. Failure Of Identify

(lying to staff or giving incorrect Information)

Refusal to stop, provide name and/or other information when asked to do so by a staff member.

Consequences:



1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to Two (2) days of suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to Three (3) days of suspension (Possible

expulsion)

4. Leaving Campus Without Permission

Leaving campus without prior consent and authorization from school administration.

1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. One (1) day of in-school suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to two (2) days of suspension

3rd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to three (3) days of suspension(Possible

expulsion)

5. Bus Misconduct

Failure to comply with rules of bus safety or disturbing others.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to Two (2) days of out-school suspension.

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to Three (3) days of out-school suspension.

(Possible expulsion)

6. Trespassing

Entering any school property or into any school facility, getting into the school bus without proper

authority. Includes any entry during a period of suspension.

Consequences:

1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to Two (2) days of suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to Three (3) days of suspension.

7. Discrimination Against Others

Discrimination means any unfavorable/hostile act or treatment against a person or group of people

based on their race, color, ethnicity, religion, disability or any other differences. Such acts include

verbal or written communication as well as any physical contact. Consequences will be assigned even

if such acts are supposed to be a joke or just a mere implication.

Consequences:



1st Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. 1 day out of school suspension

2nd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted.2 days out of school suspension

3rd Offense: Parent/Guardian contacted. Up to3 days out of school suspension. (Possible

expulsion)

Chain of Command for Questions or Concerns

The Amity School Board wishes to emphasize that concerns regarding programs, personnel or other

issues must be handled through a proper chain of command. Using this procedure, a citizen must

first address the concern with the employee directly responsible. If satisfactory results are not

achieved, the citizen may then address that employee’s direct supervisor. As an example, a normal

chain of command regarding a concern with a classroom teacher would begin with the classroom

teacher; continue through the Vice Principal, then on to the Principal and finally the Amity School

Board. Please use this chain of command until your concern is resolved or ask for guidance if you

are not sure where to begin.



DISMISSAL POLICY:

Students should be picked up no later than 15 minutes after dismissal. (Which is no later than 4:15 pm, if students are not joining school sponsored activities.)

Students should not be in the hallways, at their lockers, or in the school building after 10 minutes of the dismissal unless accompanied by a staff member. Students should follow all the school rules while waiting.

For grades K.G. thru 8th, after 4:15 pm, the students who are not picked up will be taken to the after school care and charged $20 (even if the student is picked up before one full hour). There will be a $5 charge for every 5 minutes if a student is not picked up after 5:00 pm.

Dismissal Information Form: Parents must fill out the attached dismissal information form regarding dismissal policy. Unless the student is attending an extracurricular activity organized by the school, the dismissal policy will be in effect.

Amity School is not responsible for students who leave the campus without a written permission from an administrator. Disciplinary action will be taken for those who leave and come back to campus without having a written permission from an administrator.

Students are not allowed to loiter in front of neighboring businesses and residences.

Important: Amity School has a right to call Child Protective Services, Police Department, or related authorities for the students who are on the campus after 5:30 pm. Such incidences will be reported to the Child Protective Services (CPS).

Students will not be able to stay on Amity School campus after 5:30 pm.

For more information, please contact Mrs. Monica Bajraktarevic in the main office.

Early Dismissal of Students from School

Because Amity School is very concerned about students’ safety and well being, early dismissal from

school is an important issue. In all instances of early dismissal, the following precautions will be taken to

ensure students’ safety.

The principal may release a student before the end of a school day only upon presentation of a written or face-to-face (no telephone call) request from the parent or guardian or for emergency reasons.

A student may be released only to a parent or guardian whose signature is on file in the school office or to a properly identified person, authorized in writing by the parent or guardian to act on his/her behalf.

A students may be released "on his/her own" only with verified parental permission.

No staff member shall permit or cause a student to leave school prior to the regular hour of



dismissal except with the knowledge and approval of the principal and with the knowledge and approval of the parents or guardian.

A student may not be released from school to any government agency without proper warrant or written parental permission except in the event of an emergency as determined by the principal.

Please be reminded that regardless of whether it is a regular or an early-dismissal day, the school

building may be locked at 7:00 pm.

Unexpected Closing of School

In case it would be necessary, after students have gone home, to close school the next day because of weather or some other emergency situations, the closing will be posted on the school website or local radio or TV stations will be notified.



STUDENT / PARENT CONTRACT

Amity School is committed to reviewing its policies, practices, and benefits continually. Accordingly,

the policies, practices, and benefits outlines in this student handbook are subject to change at any

time. Amity School reserves the right to make final interpretation of all current or future policies,

and to make the determination, entirely within its discretion, as to whether the facts of a particular

situation warrant action on its part.

I have read and understand the Amity School Parent/Student handbook and agree to adhere to

policies. We recognize the right and responsibility of the school to make rules and enforce them.

Parent or Guardian Name: ____________________________________________________

Parent Signature: ____________________________________Date______________________

Student Name: _______________________________________________________________

Student Signature___________________________________Date_______________________

PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE

student/ parent handbook a m i t y s c h o o...

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