Ludlow High School

SECTION IV - RULES. REGULATIONS AND POLICIES

Attendance: Period One	Dismissal from School	Office Detention
Absence Excuses	Disruption of the School Day	Physical Restraint Policy
Admission to LHS Sponsored/Supervised Events	Dress Code	Rules and Regulations for Ludlow High School Dances
Alcoholic Beverages	Drugs/Controlled Substances	Student Identification Badges
Appeals	Endangered Students	Suspensions and Expulsions
Attendance	Extended Detention	Transporation Rules for Students
Authorized Leave from Directed Learning Time	External Suspension	Truancy
Discipline, Appeals, and Due Process Procedures	Interrogation of Students	Use of Tobacco Products
Disciplinary Action Regarding Special Needs Students	Interscholastic Eligibility Rules	Weapons

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ACCESS TO STUDENT WORK

During the course of the school year, personally identifiable student work may be seen and reviewed by third parties. For example, personally identifiable student work may be displayed on bulletin boards, at fairs/shows, during Open House and Parent/Teacher Conferences, via videotape and audiotape, and, thus will be seen and/or heard by many different people, not just the student, the parent and the teacher. In addition, as an instructional technique, students may be asked to edit, grade, review and/or comment on another student's work. All of this activity is part of a regular education process and serves to benefit students. By signing the Signature Form acknowledging receipt and review of this Handbook, the student and/or the parent and/or the guardian is hereby agreeing to the videotaping, audio taping, and/or disclosure of student work as outlined in this Handbook and hereby waives the right to challenge this instructional technique under FERPA.

SERVICE TEAMS
Ludlow uses the Service Team process to provide each student with the opportunity to receive as much support in the general education curriculum as possible. Service Teams are multidisciplinary collaborations which include general education teachers, specialists, school support staff, community based agency providers of mental health, juvenile justice, medical, and/or social services. In their weekly meetings, Service Team members share expertise and responsibilities for the students being discussed. By necessity, Service Team members are allowed access to a student’s educational and health records and personally identifiable information about each student discussed, whether or not the service team member is working directly with the student. Any parent objecting to Ludlow’s Service Team discussing his/her child must notify the Principal by October 1st of each school year.

ATTENDANCE: Period One

Any student who arrives at Period One after the 7:25 bell will be considered late to school and will be sent to the appropriate house office for a late pass. Those students who are on school grounds or in the school building and do not report to period ONE will be marked as skipping class. For the purpose of clarification, a student must be present for at least half the period in order to be counted as present for that day. Presence for less than half the class will be considered an absence.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian OR student who is absent from a full year full-time course for nineteen (19) days, from a half year full-time course for ten (10) days will not receive any credit for that course. Credit for individual classes on a student’s schedule is dependent on a student’s presence in the class. Tardy to school and early dismissals can affect a student’s absence total for a specific class. For the purpose of clarification, a student must be present for at least half the period in order to be counted as present for that day. Presence for less than half the class will be considered an absence. Students tardy after 8:20 AM, unless accompanied by a doctor's note, will be issued office detention.

Note: If a student enters Ludlow High School after September, the above days will be prorated.

In addition, parents/guardians of students who are absent will receive a courtesy call through the Connect-Ed system on that evening informing them of their child’s absence.

Eleventh (11) and twelfth (12) grade students will be denied credit from physical education if they accumulate eight (8) absences during the course of the school year. Ninth (9) and tenth (10) grade students will be denied physical education credit if they accumulate twelve (12) absences.

Monthly notification will be sent out to all students who are at risk of losing credit due to the attendance policy by the House Administrator.

Loss of credit in individual courses due to violation of the LHS attendance policy will be reflected on the report card.

Denial of course credit because of excessive absence will not affect course grades, which will be awarded as earned. For example, a student may earn a grade of "D" in sophomore English despite accumulating 35 absences. His/her final report card will indicate "DNC"; a grade of D and no credit. The student will have to take an additional English course to meet the four year five credit graduation requirement for English although he/she passed sophomore English with a grade of "D". Please refer to page 30 in regard to summer school guidelines.

ABSENCE EXCUSES

Students absent from school for a period of four consecutive days or more must bring a note from home to their house office upon their return.

If a student is going to be out of school due to a family vacation, parent/ guardian must send in a letter with the dates of absence to the house office. An Administrative Approval form will be given to the student for teacher acknowledgement. Any tests must be made up within one week’s time. NOTE: These dates are not appealable. See page 4.

Once on school property, students are not allowed to leave until the scheduled end of that day.

The following will be exempted from the attendance policy. Teachers should record the absence as exempted and shall not accumulate said absences toward this policy.

-For serving as a delegate or representative of Ludlow High School at local, regional, or state-wide student organizations/conventions
-For court visitations sponsored by government class
-For attending required rehearsals or performances by the Band or Concert Choir
-For attending class meetings and school assemblies including senior class meeting to organize Senior Show and junior class meeting to organize Senior Assembly
-For attending required seminars/workshops, which are directly related to a student's course work or as a representative of the school.
-For working on Thursday dress rehearsal for Senior show
-For taking Advance Placement Exams
-For working with elementary students
-For missing class due to administrative control
-For class trips/field trips
-For optional field trips of an educational or a non-educational nature
-For Bloodmobile
-For Boys' and Girls' State
-For early dismissal for participation in school sports
-For Job Shadow

ATTENDANCE

According to state law, (Chapter 76, Section 1) parents/guardians have the legal responsibility to ensure that their children are in attendance each day school is in session. Please review the LHS attendance policy.

Excessive absences, tardiness, and early dismissals have a negative effect on test scores, class participation, and other criteria used by the classroom teacher to establish satisfactory performance. Parents will receive notice when their child is absent or tardy seven (7) days cumulative. When a student is absent or tardy for a total of twelve (12) days, a meeting may be held with administration. Excessive absences may jeopardize a student's promotion and/or successful course completion. Absences due to circumstances other than illness are considered unexcused. Classroom teachers are under no obligation to provide work for unexcused absences. The school reserves the right to request a doctor's note in the case of excessive absences. Students who are absent are considered ineligible for participation in any after-school activities on the day of the absence.

A note from a parent or guardian must accompany the student upon his/her return from any absence for a period of four or more consecutive days. Arrangements should be made with the classroom teacher to clarify when and how work needs to be completed. It is the responsibility of the student to make up class work missed during any absence. Failure to complete class work will negatively impact a student's grade.

Nonparticipating students of a field trip are required to attend school.

Consult the table below to be sure that your child is on time and in school for a full day.

School Level	Building Entry	School Starts	Last Time of Entry	Dismissal
Elementary	8:30 A.M.	8:50 A.M.	11:15 A.M.	3:00 P.M.
Middle School	7:55 A.M.	8:10 A.M.	11:00 A.M.	2:30 P.M.
High School	7:10 A.M.	7:25 A.M.	10:00 A.M.	1:55 P.M.

APPEALS

There are NO appeals regarding the attendance policy with the exception of documented hospitalization under the care of a physician for three or more consecutive days or long term illness requiring continuing medical treatment, resulting in continual absences (i.e. chemotherapy, dialysis, etc.). In such cases an attendance waiver must be requested through the Assistant Principal in a timely fashion. No attendance waivers will be processed after June 30.

If a student is receiving continuous treatment by a counselor/psychiatrist, and the treatment prevents the student from attending school, the student's counselor/ psychiatrist must submit on his/her office letterhead a diagnosis of the medical condition along with a prognosis and suggested timeline. If the medical condition can be treated with medication and/or appointments after school, no waived days may be granted. (Please note that regular doctor visits for illness are considered part of your 18 allotted sick days.)

Any and all notes requesting a waiver for missed school days must be brought to the house office within five days of the student's original doctor's appointment. These notes will be stamped with the date received and placed into the student's file. Any notes received after the five day requirement will not be valid and cannot be used to waive missed school days. All requests for waivers will be reviewed at the end of each marking term.

ADMISSION TO LHS SPONSORED/SUPERVISED EVENTS

Students must be in school to attend any after school activities.

Students are advised that a Passive Alcohol Screener (PAS) will be used as a requirement for admission to selected school events.

The screener will be administered only by members of the high school staff and is considered non-invasive because it does not use anything that must be placed in the mouth.

Any student or guest accompanying the student who refuses to take the screening will not be allowed to attend. If alcohol is detected, the student will be detained until a parent/guardian comes for him/her and he/she will be subject to disciplinary consequences described in the Ludlow High School Handbook.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

The possession of, serving of, selling of, or consumption of any alcoholic beverages or controlled substance on school property, on school busses or at any school sponsored function is prohibited. Further, students and their guests will not be permitted to attend school or any school sponsored activity regardless of where the activity is held if he/she displays conduct or physical characteristics leading the school's teachers/ administration to believe that he/she has consumed either an alcoholic beverage or a controlled substance. Violation of this policy will result in a five (5) day external suspension from school, plus a five (5) day ED and the police will be notified. Students will be required to meet with the Student Adjustment Counselor upon return. Parents will be notified of the incident. On the second or subsequent offense, the incident(s) may result in a further suspension from school and/or expulsion and a report being filed with the police department. Student athletes may be subject to further disciplinary action through MIAA regulations or specific team policy.

AUTHORIZED LEAVES FROM DIRECTED LEARNING TIME

Under no circumstance will a student be permitted to leave a study hall until such time as the following requirements are met:
A student desiring to meet with his/her guidance counselor or visit the library during an assigned study period must obtain a pass from the counselor or classroom teacher indicating the exact day and time of departure. This is to be done before school, during lunch or after school prior to the school day. The student will report to his/ her assigned study hall and present the pass to the teacher. After attendance has been taken, the teacher will record the time the student leaves the study hall. The counselor/library personnel will countersign the pass indicating the time the student left to return to the study hall. If the block ends, the student has the responsibility of seeing that the pass is returned to the study hall teacher. Failure to comply with these procedures will be treated in the same manner as an unexcused absence from class.

BUILDING AND OUTSIDE FACILITY USE

A fee schedule for outside groups using the auditorium, gymnasium, etc. is as per school committee policy.

BULLYING

Bullying and harassment are major distractions from learning. Fear can lead to chronic absenteeism, poor grades, or even dropping out of school. Most bullying by students starts out as verbal teasing and put-downs and may become progressively worse and assume physical dimensions. Bullying of any type has no place in the school setting and will be prohibited: (i) on school grounds, property immediately adjacent to school grounds, or school-related activity function or program whether on or off school grounds, at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned , leased or used by the school district, or through the use of technology or an electronic device owned, leased or used by the School District (ii) at a location, activity, function or program that is not school related, or through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased or used by the school district or, if the bullying creates a hostile environment at school for the victim, infringes on the rights of the victim at school or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of the school.

Bullying is defined as the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property; (ii) places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or herself or of damage to his/her property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the victim; (iv) infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of the school. Bullying shall include cyber-bullying.

Cyber-bullying is defined as bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. Cyber-bullying shall also include (i) the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or (ii) the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v) inclusive, of the definition of bullying. Cyber-bullying shall also include the distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic media that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying.

A hostile environment is defined as any situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the student’s education.

All members of the school’s staff, including, but not limited to, an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity or paraprofessional, will immediately report any instance of bullying or retaliation the staff member has witnessed or become aware of to the Principal or her designee. Upon receiving such a report, the Principal or her designee shall promptly conduct an investigation. If the school principal or her designee determines that bullying or retaliation has occurred, the Principal or designee shall (i) notify the local law enforcement agency if the school principal or her designee believes that criminal charges may be pursued against a perpetrator; (ii) take appropriate disciplinary action; (iii) notify the parents or guardians of a perpetrator; (iv) notify the parents or guardians of the victim, and to the extent consistent with state and federal law, notify them of the action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation.

Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, provides information during investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying shall be prohibited.

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION/ANTI-HARASSMENT POLICY AND STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

The Ludlow Public Schools (the "District") is committed to maintaining and promoting an educational environment free from all forms of discrimination, including harassment. The civil rights of all school community members are guaranteed by law, and the protection of those rights is of utmost importance and priority to the District. Discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, genetic information or testing, sex, sexual orientation, age or disability (hereinafter "membership in a protected class") will not be tolerated. Retaliation against any student or other individual who has complained of discrimination, including harassment, or individual’s who have cooperated with an investigation of such a complaint, is also unlawful and will not be tolerated. The District will promptly investigate, remedy any harm, seek to prevent recurrence of such conduct, and will also develop procedures to accomplish this end. This policy applies to conduct directed toward a student by all persons associated with the educational community including, but not limited to, students, District employees, the School Committee, school volunteers, and independent contractors.
I. What Is Discrimination, including Harassment?
A. Discrimination: Treating students differently, or interfering with or preventing them from
enjoying the advantages or privileges afforded to other students because of their
membership in a protected class.
B. Harassment: Oral, written, graphic, electronic, or physical conduct relating to a student's
actual or perceived membership in a protected class that is sufficiently severe, pervasive
or persistent so as to interfere with or limit that student's ability to participate in the
District's programs or activities by creating a hostile, humiliating, intimidating, or
offensive educational environment.
Harassing conduct based on a person's protected status may include, but is not limited to:
• Degrading, demeaning, insulting, or abusive verbal or written statements;
• Taking personal belongings, taunting, teasing, name-calling, or spreading
rumors;
• Drawing or writing graffiti, slogans, visual displays, or symbols on school or
another's property;
• Telling degrading or offensive jokes;
• Unwanted physical contact of any kind;
• Physical violence, threats of bodily harm, physical intimidation, or stalking;
• Threatening letter, emails, instant messages, or websites that come within the
scope of the District's disciplinary authority;
• Defacing, damaging, or destroying school or another's property.
II. Sample of Conduct Which May Constitute Specific Types of Harassment
The following is not intended as an inclusive list of conduct that may violate this policy.
Disability Harassment:
? Unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at a person based on his/her disability or perceived disability, including damaging or interfering with use of necessary, equipment, imitating manner of movement, using disability-related slurs, or invading personal space to intimidate.

National Origin Harassment:
> Unwelcome verbal written or physical conduct directed at a person based on his/her
national origin, ancestry, or ethnic background such as negative comments about
surnames, customs, language, accents, immigration status or manner of speaking.

Racial Harassment:
> Unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at a person based on his/her
race or color, including racial slurs or insults based on characteristics of a person's
race or color, racial graffiti or symbols, hostile acts based on race, nicknames based
on racial stereotypes, negative comments about appearance, imitating mannerisms,
taunting, or invading personal space to intimidate.
Religious Harassment:
> Unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct directed at a person based on his/her
religion, including derogatory comments about religious beliefs, traditions, practices
(includes non-belief), or religious clothing.
Sexual Orientation Harassment:
> Unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at a person based on his/her
actual or perceived sexual orientation, such as anti-gay slurs or insults, imitating
mannerisms, taunting, or invading personal space to intimidate.
Sexual Harassment:
> Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when a District employee explicitly or
implicitly conditions participation in a program or activity or bases a decision
concerning the student on the student's submission to unwelcome sexual advances,
request for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature,
whether or not the student submits to the conduct. Quid pro quo sexual harassment,
occurs, for example when a school employee causes a student to believe s(he) must
submit to sexual advances to receive a better grade than deserved, or is threatened
with a loss of a promised college application recommendation unless the student
dates the employee.
> Hostile environment sexual harassment occurs when unwelcome sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal or physical conduct
of a sexual nature by another student, a school employee, or third party on school
property or at a school related activities is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent
so as to interfere with or limit a student's ability to participate in or benefit from the
District's programs or activities by creating a hostile, humiliating, intimidating, or
offensive educational environment. A victim may also be someone affected by
conduct directed toward another individual. Sexual harassment may occur adult to
student, student to student, student to adult, adult to adult, male to female,
female to male, female to female, and male to male.
Depending on the circumstances, sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to:
>Verbal forms of sexual harassment, including repeated unwanted requests for
dates, sexual rumors, sexually explicit jokes, howling, whistles, catcalls, soliciting
conversation regarding sexual activity and experiences, making unwanted gender-
based references to a person's physical characteristics;

> Written forms of sexual harassment, including offensive gestures following or
stalking another, cornering or blocking a person, leering, pressuring for sexual
activities;
> Nonverbal forms of sexual harassment, including offensive gestures, following or
stalking another, concerning or blocking a person, leering, pressuring for sexual
activities;
> Visual forms of sexual harassment, including displaying sexually suggestive or
sexually provocative photographs, pictures, objects, cartoons, or posters; or
> Unwelcome physical touching, including grabbing, groping, squeezing, sexual
fondling, kissing, brushing against another's body, body hugs, and other unwelcome
contact.

Hate Crime: A crime motivated by hatred or bias or where the victim is targeted or selected for the crime at least in part be because the person is a different race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation from the perpetrator or because the targeted person has a disability. A hate crime may involve a physical attack, threat or bodily harm, physical intimidation, or damage to another's property.
Indicators that a crime may constitute a hate crime include:
> Use of racial, ethnicity, religion or anti-gay slurs;
> Use of symbols of hate, such as a swastika or burning cross;
> Similar behavior toward others who are members of the same protected class;
> The perpetrator's protected class is different form the victim's;
> The incident occurs while the victim was promoting a racial, religious, ethnic/national
origin, disability, gender or sexual orientation group, such as attending an advocacy
group meeting, or participating in a students' gay-straight alliance, or a disability
rights demonstration.
III. Responsibilities of all Persons Associated with Educational Community
Each member of the educational community is personally responsible for ensuring that his/her conduct does not in any way harass or discriminate against any other person that he/she has contact with in the performance of his/her duties or studies or while acting as a member of the school community. In addition, each member of the educational community is required to fully cooperate in any investigation of alleged discrimination, including harassment. Further, District employees are obligated to intervene and stop any discrimination, including harassment they witness and to immediately report to the appropriate party instances of discrimination, including harassment that are reported to them or of which they otherwise learn.
IV. Designated Officials for Addressing Discrimination and Harassment Complaints
In each school building, the Principal is responsible for receiving reports and complaints of violations of this Policy at the school level. Parents/guardians or persons other than the student who is the subject of the complaint may file a report or complaint of discrimination, including harassment regarding a student with the Principal. A report or complaint of a violation involving the Principal should be filed with the Superintendent.
V. Procedure for Reporting Discrimination and Harassment
The following complaint procedure has been established to ensure prompt and effective investigation into allegations of discrimination, including harassment.

A student who believes that he or she had been discriminated against, including being harassed may, to the extent that they feel comfortable, immediately:
1. confront the harasser(s) or person believed to be discriminating against him/her;
2. state the conduct that he/she objects to;
3. indicate that he/she finds such conduct offensive, intimidating and/or embarrassing;
4. insist that the person(s) engaging in the conduct stop the conduct immediately; and
5. report the conduct immediately to the Principal/Assistant Principal;
If a student is not comfortable with such a confrontation, or feels that such a confrontation is unsafe and/or otherwise inappropriate, he/she should instead report the situation to the Principal/Assistant Principal. Reports/complaints are to be filed within ninety (90) days after the conduct complained of occurred or within the time the student reasonably becomes aware of the conduct. (Note: this filing period may be extended for good cause.) The report can be written or oral and should consist of the following:
1. the specific conduct objected to,
2. the date(s) and time(s) such conduct took place,
3. the name(s) of the alleged harasser(s) or person believed to be discriminating
against them,
4. the location(s) where the conduct occurred,
5. the name(s) of any witness(es),
6. action sought to remedy the situation, and
7. any other details or information requested by the designated official.
In addition, the person should provide the Principal with any documentation (emails, notes, pictures, etc.) or other information in support of the allegation of discrimination, including harassment.
VI. Investigation of Complaints
Upon receipt of a report or complaint, the Principal should conduct a prompt investigation. The
investigation must allow for the complainant, the subject of the complaint, the alleged harasser,
and any other appropriate party to provide information, including witnesses or other evidence,
relevant to the consideration and resolution of the complaint. The Principal will also endeavor to
promptly interview and obtain detailed written statements from potential witnesses. If further
documentation or information is necessary, the Principal will notify the appropriate party, asking
that the information be provided within ten (10) school/working days.
A written determination regarding the complaint and any resolution will be provided by the
Principal to the complainant within thirty (30) school/working days of the complaint.
The complainant may request reconsideration of the determination and/or resolution of a
complaint by notifying the Superintendent in writing or verbally within seven (7) school/working
days of receipt of the written determination of the Principal. The Superintendent or his/ her
designee will respond to such request within (30) thirty school/working days of receipt of the
request for reconsideration; his/her decision is final.
If a violation is found to have occurred, the District will take steps to prevent recurrence of the
violation and correct its discriminatory effect on the student(s) affected. Such steps may include
appropriate disciplinary action, counseling, development of a safety plan and other remedies, as
appropriate.
VII. Consequences of Violating Policy - Discipline & Discharge
Any employee who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action consistent with the contractual provisions governing his/her employment. In appropriate circumstances, the District may also refer the matter to law enforcement officials for possible prosecution.

Any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action which may range from detention, suspension from schools, or expulsion from school. (Note: students with disabilities will be subject to the applicable disciplinary procedures set forth in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973) In appropriate circumstances, the District may also refer the matter to law enforcement officials for possible prosecution.

VIII. Confidentiality
Investigations of discrimination, including harassment complaints shall be conducted in such a manner as to disclose information only to those with a need to know or those who may have information pertinent to the investigation. Please note, some level of disclosure may be necessary in the course of conducting interviews in connection with investigation of any complaint under this policy. The Ludlow Public Schools shall endeavor to keep such information as confidential as it can without compromising the thoroughness of the investigation.
IX. State and Federal Authorities
In addition to the process described above, the complainant may, at any time, file a complaint with to the Office for Civil Rights, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, or other appropriate federal or state agency charged with enforcement of state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination, including harassment based on membership in a protected class.

U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights
John W. McCormack Building
5 Post Office Square
Boston, MA 02109-3921
Telephone: (617) 289-0111
http://www.ed.gov

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Program Quality Assurance Services
75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906
Telephone: (781) 338-3700
http://www.doe.mass.edu

Bureau of Special Education Appeals
75 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA 02148-4906
Telephone: (781) 338-6400
http://www.doe.mass.edu/bsea

DIRECTORY INFORMATION NOTICE
The Ludlow Public Schools has designated certain information contained in the education records of its students as directory information for purposes of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Student Record Regulations at 603 CMR 23.0 et. seq.

The following information regarding students is considered directory information: (1) name, (2) address, (3) telephone number, (4) date and place of birth, (5) major field of study, (6) participation in officially recognized activities and sports, (7) weight and height of members of athletic teams, (8) dates of attendance, (9) degrees, honors and awards received, (10) post high school plans of the student.

Directory information may be disclosed for any purpose in the discretion of, the school system, without the consent of a parent or an eligible student. Parents of students and eligible students have the right, however, to refuse to permit the designation of any or all of the above information as directory information. In that case, this information will not be disclosed except with the consent of a parent or student, or as otherwise allowed by FERPA and 603 CMR 23.00 et .seq.

Any parent of a student refusing to have any or all of the designated directory information disclosed must file written notification to this effect with the principal on or before the 15th day of each September. Personally identifiable information from the student's education records may be released without students or parent consent in connection with a health or safety emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.

In the event that a refusal is not filed, it is assumed that neither parent nor eligible student objects to the release of the directory information designated.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION
Students will be assigned consequences for inappropriate behavior in accordance with the school handbook. Office Detention, Extended Detention or External Suspension are issued as a consequence, not a convenience; therefore, after school obligations such as jobs, babysitting, etc. are not acceptable excuses for not attending. Doctor’s appointments are excused if a note is brought in from the doctor’s office the next day. Students are responsible for making their own arrangements for transportation home. Only students arriving to office or extended detention after 2 PM with a pass from a staff member will be admitted. All students must exit the building immediately after there are dismissed from the detention room. Permission to postpone detention may only be granted by the assistant principal or his /her designee.

OFFICE DETENTION-2:00 to 2:50 PM-Mondays through Thursday
EXTENDED DETENTION-2:00 to 4:30 PM-Mondays through Thursday

Detention Room Conduct
-Students may not talk or leave their seats for any reason.
-Any student who has a request to make will raise his or her hand and wait until he/she is recognized by the teacher.
-There will be absolutely no food or drink consumption in the suspension room at any time.
-Students must bring the necessary books, paper and writing utensils required to complete their class assignments.
-All large book bags and other paraphernalia must be kept under the student's desk.

Office Detention -2:00 PM – 2:50 PM/MONDAY - THURSDAY
The following offenses constitute sufficient cause for a student being assigned Office Detention:

INFRACTION LENGTH OF TIME

-Disruptive behavior: (student removed from class)
1st offense 2 hours
2nd and subsequent offenses (see extended detention)…………………………………………...up to 3 days

-Excessive Office Detentions (6+ hours-see extended detention) 2 days

-Late to school:
1st-4th tardiness before 8:20 are excused
5th - 14th 1 hour
15th- 19th ……………………………………………………………………………………………..2 hours
20th and subsequent………………………………………………………………………………….. 1 ED
Tardy after 8:20 (unless accompanied by a doctor's note)…………………..…………….................1 hour

-Late to class:
1st-5th offense teacher detention
6th and subsequent offenses 1 hour
-Late to detention………………………………………………………………………………………………1 hour

-Leaving tray/trash in cafeteria 1 hour

-Loitering/unauthorized presence in the school/parking lot after school (2:00 PM-5:00 PM) 2 hours

-Loitering in bathroom/hallways (determined by administrator) 2 hours

-Leaving class early without permission……………………………………………………………………….2 hours

-Skip Office Detention:
1st offence 1 hour
2nd and subsequent offenses (see External Detention) 1 day
-Taking/eating/possessing food/drink outside cafeteria 1 hour

-Unauthorized presence in a corridor or bathroom 2 hours

-Use of any kind of head gear (head gear must be stored in locker) 2 hours

***The above list is not all inclusive. Students may be assigned office detention for committing any other acts that interfere with the learning opportunities of other students or interfere with the operation of the school.***

Extended Detention -2:00 PM -4:30 PM/MONDAY -THURSDAY

The following offenses constitute sufficient cause for a student being assigned Extended Detention:

INFRACTION DAYS OF EXTENDED DETENTION

-Cut Class/Unexcused absence from class/study up to 3 days

-Defacing school property/personal property 3 days

-Disruptive behavior in a classroom……………………………………………………………………...up to 3 days

-Disruptive behavior in detention room…………………………………………………………………..up to 6 days

-Excessive ED’s (more than 6-see external suspension)………………………………………………2 days Ext. Sus.

-Failure to report to the House Office 1 day

-Falsifying signatures and/or altering notes, excuses, or other school documents………………………up to 3 days

-Illegally parked vehicle in school parking areas 1 day ED

-Truancy:
All offenses 3 days

-Leaving school grounds without permission:
1st offense 3 days
2nd and subsequent offense 5 days

- Leaving school building without permission 1 day

-Listening Device/Cell Phone/electronic games, IPOD, MP3player, etc
1st offense…………………………………………………………………………………………….1 day
Confiscation and parents must pick-up the device

-Presence in unauthorized area 3 days
i.e. Faculty restrooms/teacher faculty areas

-Profanity or vulgar language not directed at another person 3 days

-Physically disruptive/confrontational behavior between/among students………………………………up to 5 days

-Possession of Tobacco Products and paraphernalia
(cigarette’s, cigars, chewing tobacco, lighter, etc)……………………………….5 days extended detention
(Students will be required to attend and complete the smoking cessation program during their DLT in the Health Office.)

-Skip Extended Detention
1st offense…………………………………………………………………………………………...….1 ED
2nd and subsequent offense (see external suspension)……………………………………….2 days Ext Sus
-Theft of cafeteria items
1st offense……………………………………………………………………………………….up to 3 days
2nd and subsequent offense (see external suspension)

-Unacceptable behavior..…………………………………………………………………………………up to 3 days

-Willful disobedience to a teacher or staff member …. …………………………….3 days ED up to 5 days External

The above list is not all inclusive. Students may be assigned Days of Extended Detention for committing any other acts that interfere with the learning opportunities of other students or interfere with the operation of the school.

External Suspension

VIOLATION OF STATE OR FEDERAL LAWS CAN RESULT IN PROSECUTION. The following offenses constitute sufficient cause for a student's suspension from school: -Any violation of General Law Chapter 269, Sec. 17, 18, 19, pg. (48-52)

INFRACTION
LENGTH OF SUSPENSION
-Destruction of school property, or personal property …………………………………………………..up to 5 days

-Excessive ED’s (more than 6) 2 days

-Fighting on school grounds
A. Spontaneous (no assault) ………………………………………………………………..…up to 5 days
B. Incident with clear evidence of assault by one person 5 days

-Gestures of sexual inferences……………………………………………………………………………..up to3 days

-Hazing………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5 days

- Inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature up to 5 days

- Inappropriate use of video cell phone up to 5 days

-Indecent exposure 5 days

-Listening Device/ Cell Phone/electronic games, IPOS, MP3 players, etc.
2nd offense………………………………………………………………………………………. 1 day and
Confiscation and parent must pick-up device
3rd and subsequent offenses………………………………………………………………………2 days and
Device will be kept for the remainder of the term.

-Setting off a fire alarm………………………………………………………………10 days and possible expulsion

-Sexual harassment 5 days

-Skip Office Detention
2nd and subsequent offenses 1 day

-Skip Extended Detention
2nd and subsequent offenses 2 days

-Threatening behavior to an administrator, teacher, or staff member 5 days

-Theft of school (including cafeteria items) or personal property. Police will be notified/legal action may be taken…………………………………………………………………………………………………….up to 5 days

-Verbal attack or harassment based on another person's racial, ethnic, religious background, sexual orientation, or physical/mental disability up to ……………………5 days

-Verbal abuse to an administrator, faculty, or staff 5 days

-Verbal attack or harassment/bullying against another person up to 5 days

-Violation of alcohol policy (page 13) 5 days
plus 5 days extended detention

-Violation of drug/controlled substance policy 10 day suspension and possible expulsion

-Willful disobedience to an administrator up to 5 days

The above list of infractions is not all inclusive. A student may be externally suspended when it appears to be in the best interest of the school to do so. All students externally suspended from school will also be suspended from all school related activities during the period of the suspension.

Pursuant to our suspension/expulsion policy, a student is further prohibited from coming onto the property of any Ludlow Public School, including all of the district's elementary, middle and high schools. A student also may not attend or participate in any Ludlow Public Schools extracurricular or athletic event of any kind. If the suspended/expelled student is found on school property or at a school-sponsored event without permission, he/she will be considered a trespasser in violation of Mass. General Laws Chapter 266§ 123 and the Ludlow Police Department will be notified.

DISCIPLINE, APPEALS, AND DUE PROCESS PROCEDURES

Guidelines-short term suspensions of ten (10) days or less
1. Students facing a possible suspension will meet with one or more school administrators or faculty witnesses possessing knowledge of the conduct in question;
2. One or more administrators will inform the student of the allegations or charges against him/her.
3. The student will be provided with an opportunity to respond to the allegations and to present his/her version of the event to a school administrator.
4. The administrator will decide whether to suspend the student, based upon the evidence;
5. If a decision is made to suspend the student, he/she and his/her parents will be notified of the length of the suspension and the reason therefore;
6. If a student's presence in the school presents a danger to himself/herself or to other students and/or staff, an immediate suspension may be imposed prior to instituting the aforementioned steps;
7. A student who has been suspended may appeal the short term suspension to the building principal within two school days.

If a determination is made that the actions of a student will result in a long term suspension of more than ten (10) days or an expulsion.
1. A hearing will be scheduled prior to expiration of the ten days;

2. Written notice of the charges will be provided in advance of the hearing;

3. The student will have the right to be represented by a lawyer or advocate (at the student's expense). The school may also be represented by counsel;

4. The student and /or his/her counsel will have access to any documentary evidence in advance of the hearing;

5. Depending upon the nature of the witnesses, students and counsel may have the right to cross-examine (in some cases, the need to protect witnesses may outweigh a student's right to confront and cross-examine witnesses).

6. A reasonably prompt, written decision, including specific grounds for the action, will be provided to the student and his/her parents;

7. Students and/or their parents may appeal a decision for a long term suspension or expulsion to the Superintendent within 10 days.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION REGARDING SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS

All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior as set forth in this handbook and to abide by Ludlow's Code of Conduct.

The individual with Disabilities Education Act 20 U.S.C. s1400, et seg.,s300.519, et seg., and Massachusetts General Lawac.71B require that additional provisions be made for disciplining students who have been found by an evaluation TEAM to have special needs and whose program is described in an Individual Educational Program (IEP).

The IEP for every special needs student will indicate whether the student can be expected to meet the regular discipline code or if the student’s handicapping conditions require modification. Any such modification will be described in the IEP. The Principal or designee will notify the Director of Student Support Services of the suspendable offense of a special needs student and a record will be kept of such notices. In making a determination to discipline a student with a disability, school personnel may consider any unique circumstances on a case by case basis.

Special needs students who violate the school district’s disciplinary standards may be subject to removal from the current placement for up to ten (10) cumulative school days to the same extent that such removal would be applied to students without disabilities.

For exclusion longer than ten (10) cumulative school days, the TEAM must meet to conduct a manifestation determination (i.e., make a finding as to the relationship between the student’s misconduct and his/her disability). If the TEAM determines that there is no relationship between the misconduct and the disability, the student may be disciplined to the same extent as a student without a disability. (However, the school must continue to provide services that enable the student to continue to participate in the general education curriculum and progress toward the goals contained within the IEP.) If the TEAM determines that the conduct is a manifestation of the student’s disability or resulted from the school’s failure to implement the IEP, the TEAM must conduct a functional behavior assessment, or if one already exists review and modify it as necessary. The student will then return to the original setting unless the TEAM agrees to a new placement.

Under the following special circumstances, school personnel may change the placement of a special needs student to an interim alternative educational setting for up to forty-five (45) days if a student:

1. carries a weapon to school or to a school function;
2. knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs, or sell or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school or at a school function; or
3. inflicts serious bodily injury on another.

If a parent disagrees with the result of a manifest determination hearing, or if school personnel are concerned that the student’s placement may result in injury to others, they may request a hearing with a Bureau of Special Education Appeals hearing officer.

DISMISSAL FROM SCHOOL

Students wishing to be dismissed during the school day must bring in a written note from a parent/guardian stating the time of the requested dismissal. Students will not be dismissed over the phone or by fax. Students who are picked up for early dismissal without a note will only be released to a person named on the contact list. Student who have reached 18 years of age have the legal rights of adults and can sign themselves out of school (attendance policy will apply).

DISRUPTION OF THE SCHOOL DAY

The annual school calendar is adopted by a duly elected school committee in accordance with the General Laws of the State of Massachusetts, Chapter 76, Section 1. All staff members will maintain all classes and activities as usual in the case of school disruption. There will be no exceptions! If any students should leave a class without authorization to engage in any activity disruptive to school operations, they shall be requested verbally by the school officials to return to class immediately. Students who do not comply with this request will be asked to leave the school grounds and parents will be notified. Disciplinary action in accordance with the school handbook will follow.

Any student found guilty of setting off a fire alarm, or forcing evacuation of the building, will result in 10 days external suspension with possible expulsion. Police/fire department will be notified and legal action may be taken.

DRESS CODE

Ludlow strives to provide an environment focused on instruction and learning. Appropriate student dress has a positive impact on student learning, student behavior, and the overall educational environment. All students are required to be dressed in a manner that does not interfere with the health, safety, and welfare of themselves and other students. Dress that distracts from or disrupts the educational process and mission of the school is prohibited.

The following are examples of standards that are designed to prevent disruption of the educational process. In order to prevent such disruption and ensure a safe and healthy learning environment, these standards must be observed at Ludlow High School and while representing Ludlow.

Attire covering the top of the body must be long enough to cover the navel.
No See-through clothing.
No exposed undergarments.
Necklines of shirts must be high enough not to show excessive cleavage.
No backless, strapless, or one shoulder shirts/blouses.
No tops with less one inch strap/ no spaghetti straps.
No clothing containing messages or pictures alluding to alcohol, illegal substances, tobacco, drugs, nudity, violence, gang-related symbolism, offensive language, profanity and the like.
Leggings and/or spandex must be accompanied with an appropriate length top.
Pants must be high enough on the hips so as not to expose underwear or skin.
Shorts, skirt, or dresses should not be shorter than fingertip length when a student stands with arms fully extended downward.
Large/long and/or heavy chains, spikes, or any other hardware worn as jewelry or accessories, including wallet keepers and dog collars, are prohibited.
Sunglasses may not be worn inside other than for medical reasons.
Head apparel, such as hats, hood and bandanas, is prohibited unless worn for religious or medical reasons. All head apparel must be stored away in your locker. Failure to comply will result in “willful disobedience” and 3 extended detentions.
Clothing should not drag on the floor and should be safe for use on stairwells and appropriate for the activities in which the student is involved.
Pajama pants or lounge wear are prohibited. Parents will be contacted to bring in a change of clothes.
Footwear is required and must be safe for use on stairwells and appropriate for the activities in which the student is involved.

Second and subsequent dress code offences may progress up to 5 Extended Detentions.
In addition to the non-exclusive listing above, any other clothing and attire found to be disruptive or distracting to the educational process or which may affect the safety of students will be a violation of the dress code. If a student’s attire is in violation of this code, the students will be required to change attire and may be sent home to do so. Refusal to change attire will subject a student to immediate suspension. Further violations will result in additional disciplinary action.

DRUGS/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

The possession of, selling of, or consumption of any drug and/or controlled substance on school property, on school bus, or at any school function is prohibited. Further, students and their guests will not be permitted to attend school, or any school-sponsored activity, regardless of where the activity is held, if he/she displays characteristics leading the school's teachers/administrators to believe that he/she has consumed a non- prescriptive drug or controlled substance.

ENDANGERED STUDENTS

Reporting a potentially dangerous situation
Students are strongly encouraged to report information which might prevent a dangerous situation from developing. This includes, but is not limited to: talk of hurting oneself or another; talk of having or obtaining a firearm, explosive or other dangerous weapon; any plan which would put someone in jeopardy; any threat to harm an individual in any way.
Any student who is aware of a potentially dangerous situation in school, on school premises, or at a school sponsored event is obligated to inform a school administrator or staff member immediately. Students should also report the presence of any individuals not authorized to be at Ludlow High School. The crisis team will convene to assess any reported potentially dangerous situation.

HAZING

THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS IN THE YEAR ONE THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-EIGHT AN ACT PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE OF HAZING.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:

Chapter 269 of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding the following three sections:

Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing as defined herein shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for no more than one hundred days, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

The term "hazing" is a principal organizer in sections eighteen and nineteen; I shall mean a conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such students or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.

Section 18 Whoever knows that another person is a victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall. to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril himself, or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars.

Section 19 Each secondary school and each public and private school or college shall issue to every group or organization under its authority or operating on or in conjunction with its campus or school, and to every member, plebe, pledges or applicant for membership in such group or organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen. An officer of each such group or organization, and each individual receiving a copy of said sections seventeen and eighteen shall sign an acknowledgment stating that such group, organization or individual has received a copy of said sections seventeen and eighteen.

Each secondary school and each public or private school or college shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary schools, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with the provisions of this section and also certifying that said school has adopted a disciplinary policy with regards to the organizers and participants of hazing. The board of regents and in the case of secondary schools, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make a report.

INTERROGATION OF STUDENTS

Interrogation of students under the age of eighteen (18) in attendance at school shall not be conducted on school premises by outside agencies unless every effort has been made to obtain parental/guardian permission (see MIAA handbook at www.miaa.net or examples of possible violations). If a parent/ guardian cannot be reached to obtain permission, the interrogation will proceed at the discretion of the principal and then only in the principal's presence.

INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

All athletic eligibility and policy is governed by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA). Ludlow High School may institute more stringent policies than that of the MIAA. The violation of any eligibility rule may result in forfeiture of a game won. A mistake could spoil a good season's record (see MIAA handbook at www.miaa.net for examples of possible violations). If, in your opinion, there is any doubt concerning your eligibility, consult the principal or athletic director. The rules apply to all teams.

Student Athletes are not eligible if:
-You were not a member of some secondary school for two (2) months, exclusive of summer vacation months, preceding the contest

-You transferred from one high school to another, unless you qualify for one of the fourteen (14) exceptions provided by the rules and receive MSSPA approval. Your principal must be consulted.

-You have not filled out, signed, and returned all official school forms including, but not limited to, eligibility forms, emergency card, doctor’s physical, etc.

-You transferred to your present school after the season has begun for the sport you wish to play.

-You are taking less than fifteen (15) credits or prepared work.

-Student athletes who do not dress for physical education are not eligible to participate in practice or competition that day.

-You are put out of a game for fighting or flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct you must follow the MIAA guidelines to determine how many games you will be ineligible to play. This includes, but is not limited to the use of threatening, abusive or obscene language. If it is the second time during the same season, you are disqualified from any further participation in the sport for one full year.

-You have one impaired organ that is diseased or missing, you are not eligible for contact sports until approved by the MIAA Sports Medical Committee.

All student athletes will travel to and from all athletic events with the coach and team when transportation is provided by Ludlow High School. Only the principal or athletic director may exempt a student athlete from traveling to or from an event by personal contact with the student athlete's parent or guardian.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER (LMC) USE
Hours
Monday - Wednesday 7:10-2:50
Thursday 7:10-3:30
Friday 7:10-2:10

Access
Pre-sign program
• A student who wants to use the library during a DLT should sign up at the Circulation Desk for that period and get a pass in advance: before school, between periods (but not immediately before the intended period), or the day before
• The student should report to his/her DLT and sign out with the DLT teacher
• When he/she arrives at the library, the student should present the pass at the Circulation Desk and sign in
• Attendance will be taken, students are expected to remain in the library for the entire period
• A student may only pre-sign for one period per day

Other Passes
• Class Passes: a student may come to the library during class time with a pass from their subject teacher for that period
• Plastic Passes: a student may use the school’s “plastic pass” for quick visits to the library (less than 5 min) during a class or DLT
• 15 Minute Passes: one student at a time may come to the library from a DLT on a 15 minute pass to find a book, use a computer, etc.
• National Honor Society Passes: members of the NHS are entitled to unlimited library privileges as a benefit of membership.

Circulation Policies
• A student may borrow up to 3 items at a time
• Most items may be borrowed for 2 weeks, with the option to renew
• Overdue items incur a fine of $.05 per day
• Students are responsible for paying the replacement cost of lost or damaged books
Copies
• A student may request copies by filling out a copy request form and paying $.10 per page
• During busy times, copies may not be ready immediately
Computers
• Computer use in the library is governed by the LPS Acceptable Use Policy
• Students are not permitted to play games or download software, music or other content on library computers
Behavior Expectations
• Be considerate of others – keep conversation and noise to a reasonable level
• Food and drink are not allowed in the library
• If you move furniture, put it back when you leave

The LHS Student Handbook contains the district's Technology Acceptable Use Policy. By default, the Ludlow Public Schools provide content-filtered Internet access to all students. Parents may choose to withdraw their child's Internet access permission by annually filing a written request with the school's principal. (--Adapted from the Lion's Pride, October 2001, p. 2) The LMC's student Internet connection is available for student research; all other uses, including game playing, listening to music, and viewing non-educational materials, are not permitted and will result in the suspension of LMC computer and pre-sign privileges and possibly other disciplinary measures.

LHS Library Media Center Web Site
You will find useful links on the Ludlow High School Library Media Center Web site at http://www.samnet.net/ludlowhs/lmc. Ludlow High School LMC's membership in the Western Massachusetts Regional Library System entitles LHS students to valuable Internet resources at home as well as at school. You may access from home the so designated links on the LMC Web site by following directions available either on the Web site or at the LMC.

Students will be held responsible for materials checked out in their names. A student has not officially returned an item until an adult LMC staff member processes it in. When returning borrowed materials, do not leave the LMC until you witness the adult staff member clearing you; otherwise, someone else might take your item while it is still in your name. Students owing money to the LMC will lose library media center borrowing privileges until debts are removed.

Students should assume their first due date notice is the one stamped on the date due card inserted into the borrowed item. Any outstanding debts for overdue, lost, or damaged materials, including fines and copy fees, will preclude a student's participation in extracurricular activities until cleared by the LMC and/or the office.

Individual and Group Studies
The LMC is primarily a workroom for students and respects each student's right to a relatively quiet place in which to concentrate. Therefore, it is not to be used solely as a leisure-time discussion room. Quiet student conferencing for collaborative and group work is permitted in the library. However, with large numbers of students using the library, the noise level can quickly rise to unacceptable levels. Please be considerate of your fellow students, since everyone deserves a reasonably quiet atmosphere in which to do their work. Loud, disruptive conversation is not permitted. There are two tables in Al 05 reserved for silent work. The other tables will accommodate quiet student conferencing for collaborative and group work. Small-group study rooms may be used by a limited number of students with library staff permission.

Library Media Center rules will be strictly enforced and infractions will be addressed immediately.

PHYSICAL RESTRAINT POLICY

The Massachusetts Legislature has enacted a Physical Restraint Policy codified at 603 CMR 46.00, effective April 2, 2001. Parents and students are hereby notified that the Ludlow Public Schools will comply with the state Physical Restraint Policy in all of its schools.

Physical restraint is defined as the use of bodily force to limit a student's freedom of movement. It will only be used in emergency situations when other less intrusive alternatives have failed or been deemed inappropriate, when needed to protect a student and/or member of the school community from imminent, serious, physical harm. In the event that physical restraint is required, Ludlow has enacted policies and procedures to ensure the proper use of restraint and to prevent or minimize any harm to the student as a result of the use of restraint. Ludlow's procedures will be reviewed annually, provided to school staff, and made available to parents of enrolled students.

All staff/faculty will review Ludlow's Physical Restraint Policy, including interventions which may preclude the need for restraint, such as de-escalation of problematic behaviors. Certain staff members will be designated to participate in in-depth training on the use of physical restraint with students.

Physical restraint will not be used as a means of punishment and will be limited to the use of such reasonable force as is necessary to protect a student or others from assault or imminent, serious, physical harm. The principal or his/her designee will inform the student's parents/guardians of the use of physical restraint pursuant to this policy as soon as possible and by written report postmarked no later than three school working days following the use of the restraint.

RULES AND REGULATIONS AT SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS

All students attending or participating in a school sponsored event such as but no limited to athletic events, field trips, performances, or social functions are subject to all school policies and regulations. A student must be in school on the day of the event in order to participate or attend. Students wishing to participate in any after school activity must be in school for a minimum of four full class periods on the day of the event. Any student dismissed from school due to illness, regardless of the time, may not participate in any after school activity scheduled for that day. An administrator or teacher may deny a student presence at any school-sponsored event for violation of school rules. In addition, a student who violates, a school rule while attending or participating in the event may be denied access to any or all-future school sponsored events.

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR LUDLOW HIGH SCHOOL DANCES

All students attending school dances must be present in school during the day the dance is held.
-Ludlow high School dances are for currently enrolled LHS students only.

-The homecoming dance is open to currently enrolled Ludlow High students and any Ludlow High graduates (with administrative approval).

-The prom is open to currently enrolled Ludlow High students and their guests. The guest must be accompanied by a Ludlow High student. Limit—one guest per student.
-All school dances will close at 10:30 P.M. Students arriving more than one hour late will not be admitted unless prior arrangements have been approved.

-Anyone leaving the building after the dance has started will not be permitted to return. He/she must leave the school grounds immediately.

-Smoking in the building or on the school grounds is forbidden at all times. School discipline policy regarding smoking will apply at all school functions.

-Students are expected to refrain from conduct which is not in good taste. Improper conduct may result in the loss of all extracurricular privileges.
-Anyone who does not conduct himself/herself in an orderly manner will be asked to leave by a faculty member in charge of the dance.

-All school dances must be approved by the student council and the assistant principal.

-No tickets will be sold at the door.

SEX EDUCATION

In accordance with General Laws Chapter 71, Section 32A. the Ludlow School Committee has adopted this policy on the rights of parents and guardians of our students in relation to curriculum that primarily involves human sexual education or human sexuality issues.

At the beginning of each school year, all parents/guardians of students in our schools will be notified in writing of the courses and curriculum we offer that primarily involve human sexual education or human sexuality issues. The Superintendent of Schools will determine the administrator(s) responsible for sending the notice(s). Parent/guardians of students who enroll in school after the start of the school year will be given the written notice at the time of enrollment. If the planned curriculum changes during the school year, to the extent practicable, parents/guardians will be notified of this fact in a timely manner before implementation.

Each such notice to parents/guardians will include a brief description of the curriculum covered by this policy, and will inform parents/guardians that they may:

(1) exempt their child from any portion of the curriculum that primarily involved human sexual education or human sexuality issues, without penalty to the student, by sending a letter to the school principal requesting an exemption. Any student who is exempted by request of the parent/guardian under this policy may be given an alternative assignment.

(2) inspect and review program instruction materials for these curricula, which will be made reasonably accessible to parents/guardians and others to the extent practicable. Parents/guardians may arrange with the principal to review the materials at the school, and may also review them at other locations that may be determined by the Superintendent of Schools.

A parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with a decision of the principal concerning notice, access to instructional materials, or exemption for the student under this policy may send a written request to the Superintendent for review of the issue. The Superintendent or designee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian a timely written decision, preferable within two weeks of the request. A parent/guardian who is dissatisfied with the Superintendent's decision may send a written request to the School Committee for review of the issue. The School Committee will review the issue and give the parent/guardian a timely written decision, preferably within four weeks of the request. A parent/guardian who is still dissatisfied after this process may send a written request to the Commissioner of Education for review of the issue in dispute.

The Superintendent of Schools will distribute a copy of this policy to each principal by September 1 of each year.
Adopted: 7/15/97

STUDENT IDENTIFICATION BADGES

Due to safety issues all students will be issued identification badges. Student ID’s are issued for student use and considered school property. Students who lose or deface their ID’s must pay for the cost of producing a new one. Students must carry their ID’s and show their ID’s if asked to do so by any staff member.

STUDENT RECORDS
The Student Record Regulations adopted by the Massachusetts Board of Education are The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and regulations afford parents and students certain rights with respect to students’ education records. The regulations are designed to insure parents’ and students’ rights of confidentiality, inspection, amendment, and destruction of student records, and to assist school authorities in carrying out their responsibilities under state and federal law. The following is a summary of the major provisions concerning the rights of parents and eligible students. Under the regulations, “eligible students” are at least 14 years old or have entered the ninth grade; they may exercise these rights just as their parents may.
Confidentiality and Access to Records
Except where the regulations specifically authorize access by third parties, no individuals or organizations other than the parent, eligible student (14 years old) and school personnel working directly with the student are allowed to have access to information in the student record without the specific, informed, written consent of the parent or eligible student. Students who have reached the age of 18 years old have the legal right as an adult to regulate whether or not their parent(s)/legal guardian(s) see their student records.

A non-custodial parent has the right to access his/her child’s school records unless the custodial parent provides court paperwork limiting or restricting the non-custodial parent’s access.

In addition, the regulations permit the release the following directory information without the consent of the eligible student or parent: a student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, weight and height of members of athletic teams, class, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, degrees, honors and awards, and post-high school plans. Accordingly, pursuant to 603 CMR 23.07(g), notice is hereby given that the school may release this directory information unless eligible students and parents specifically request that this information not be released without their prior consent.

Inspection/Amendment of Records
A parent or an eligible student has the right to inspect all portions of the student record upon request. The record must be made available within ten days after the request, unless the parent or student consents to a delay. The parent and eligible student have the right to receive a copy of any part of the record, although the school may charge a reasonable fee for the cost of duplicating the materials. The parent and eligible student may request to have parts of the record interpreted by a qualified professional from the school, or may invite anyone else of their choice to inspect or interpret the record with them.

A parent and eligible student may also move to amend or delete material with the approval of the principal. The parent and eligible student may not, however, require a school to remove reports of disciplinary incidents involving suspension or violation of the school’s code of conduct, including criminal acts with which the student was charged or conduct for which the student was suspended pursuant to Mass. General Laws Chapter 71 §§ 37H and 37 H1/2.

If the principal denies a request to amend or delete material, the reasons for the denial will be provided in writing. The principal’s decision may then be appealed to the Superintendent, followed by the School Committee, should the Superintendent also deny the amendment or deletion to the student’s records.

Transfer of Records
Pursuant to Mass. General Laws Chapter 71 §37L, any student transferring into the Ludlow Public Schools must provide the district with a complete school record. Such record shall include, but not be limited to, any incidents involving suspension or violation of criminal acts or any incident reports in which such student was charged with any suspended act. The student who is transferring may either get the records from the former school and present them to Ludlow, or may request that the former school send the records directly to Ludlow.

Pursuant to 603 CMR 23.07(g), notice is hereby given to parents and eligible students that the Ludlow Public Schools forwards the complete school records of a transferring student to the school in which the student seeks or intends to enroll. Such transfer of records takes place without consent of the parent or eligible student.

Additionally, under Mass. General Laws Chapter 71 §37H(e) when a student has been expelled for conduct resulting in serious bodily harm, possession of a dangerous weapon or a controlled substance, or assaulting school staff, and the student applies for admission to another school, Ludlow will notify the superintendent of the receiving school of the reasons for the student’s expulsion.

Destruction of Records
Parents and eligible students are hereby notified that the student’s transcript, a document containing the student’s name, address, phone number, date of birth, course titles, grades, grade level completed and the year of completion, as well as the parent’s name(s), address(es), and phone number(s) will be maintained for 60 years following the student’s transfer, graduation or withdrawal from the system. Regulations require school authorities to destroy a student’s temporary record no later than seven years after the student transfers, graduates or withdraws from the school system. School authorities are also allowed to destroy misleading, outdated, or irrelevant information in the record from time to time while the student is enrolled in the school system.

Provision of Transcripts
The Ludlow High School guidance department will furnish at no charge official transcripts for currently enrolled students. Requests by graduates for additional/duplicate transcripts will require a $5.00 charge for each entire transcript.
The above is only a summary of some of the regulations that relate to the rights of parents and eligible students. For more detailed information, please review the regulations at 603 CMR 23.00 (copies of which are available in every public school). The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education may, pursuant to a request by an eligible student or parent or on its own initiative, conduct reviews to insure compliance with 603 CMR 23.00. Parents and eligible students also have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS

All students, whether identified as having special needs or not, may be removed from school for up to 45 days if the student is involved with causing serious bodily injury, bringing in and/or possessing and/or using a dangerous weapon at Ludlow High School and/or knowingly possessing, using, selling, or soliciting drugs or other controlled substances at Ludlow High School, on school premises, or at school sponsored activities, including athletic or extracurricular events.

Incidents involving violations of the law may be referred to the Ludlow Police Department for investigation and prosecution. A formal complaint may also be filed with the Hampden County Juvenile Court or Hampden County District Attorney's office.

A student's conduct after hours and/or off school grounds, which directly or indirectly impacts on fellow students or school personnel, or is disruptive to the educational process or environment may be subject to disciplinary action.

A student may be removed from school immediately if his/her conduct disrupts the educational process, causes serious bodily injury, endangers fellow students, teachers, school officials, or damages property. Suspension may also be delayed until the next school day following the conduct. Parents will be notified of a suspension or expulsion by written notice within 24 hours of the decision to suspend. Suspension/ Expulsion hearings will be conducted pursuant to state and federal law.

Expulsion is defined in this Handbook as a permanent exclusion from the school and school district. The following conduct may carry the penalty of expulsion by the principal, subject to appeal to the Superintendent:

1. Any student who causes serious bodily injury or who is found on school premises, or at any school sponsored or school related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous, weapon, including but not limited to, a gun or knife, or a controlled substance, including, but not limited to marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion.

2. Any student who assaults the principal, associate or assistant principal, Dean of Students, teacher, teacher's aide, or other staff on school premises or at school sponsored, or school related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion. An assault may include a threat to injure another by force, under such circumstances as to create a fear of imminent harm, coupled with an apparent ability to injure or harm.

3. Any student who has been convicted, adjudicated, or admitted guilt with respect to a felony or felony delinquency, whether committed on or off school premises, may be subject to suspension or expulsion, if the principal determines that the student's continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school.

In all of the above situations, the conduct will be reported in writing to the Ludlow Police Department. The expulsion is imposed by the principal, subject to an appeal to the Superintendent within ten (10) days from the date of the expulsion (the date of receipt of the principal's decision). An appeal to the Superintendent does not stay the exclusion of the student from school or the school district.

You are hereby notified that the Massachusetts Drug Free Zone Statute, set forth at Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 94C Section 32J, prohibits possession with intent to distribute or distribution of drugs within 1000 feet of a school. Any individual, 17 years or older, convicted under this statute will be subjected to a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of two years and a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of two years and a mandatory minimum fine of $1,000.

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

The Ludlow Public Schools (a/k/a the District) shall provide access for employees and students to the system/network, including access to external networks, for limited educational purposes. The purpose of the system/network is to assist in preparing students for success in life and work by providing access to a wide range of information and the ability to communicate with others. The system/network will be used to increase communication (staff. parent. and student), enhance productivity and assist staff in upgrading existing skills and acquiring new skills through a broader exchange of information.

The Internet, telecommunications, and other new technologies shift the ways that information may be accessed, communicated, and transferred by people. These changes may also alter instruction and student learning. Online electronic resources provide an exceptional opportunity for the promotion of intellectual inquiry, comprehensive information gathering, and awareness of global diversity through worldwide communication and exploration.

Telecommunications, electronic sources, and networked services significantly alter the information landscape for schools by opening classrooms to a broader array of resources. In the past, educators applying reasonable selection criteria could usually select appropriate instructional materials prior to using them. School Committee policy requires that all such materials be consistent with District-adopted guidelines, supporting and enriching the curriculum while taking into account the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students. Telecommunications, because they may lead to any publicly available file server in the world, will open classrooms to electronic information resources that have not been selected by educators for use by students of various ages.

Electronic information research skills are now fundamental to preparation of citizens and future employees during the Information Age. The School Committee expects that staff will blend thoughtful use of such information throughout the curriculum and that the staff will provide guidance and instruction to students in the appropriate use of such resources. Staff will consult the guidelines for instructional materials contained therein.

Access to telecommunications will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, and bulletin boards while exchanging messages with people throughout the world. Making the Internet available to students carries with it the potential that some students might encounter information that others have identified as controversial or potentially harmful. Because the Internet is globally accessible and changes daily; it is not always possible to predict what students my encounter in some areas of the Internet. Some students may locate information that they or others consider inappropriate.

The District does not condone the use of inappropriate materials nor does it encourage students to seek out inappropriate material. Concern about Internet information will be handled in the same manner as concerns about other educational materials are handled. The School Committee believes that the benefits to students from access in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. To that end, the Ludlow Public Schools support and respect each family's right to decide whether or not to apply for Internet access for its children.

Availability
Access to the system/network, including external networks, shall be made available to employees and students for instructional and administrative purposes and in accordance with administrative regulations and procedures.

Access to the system/network is a privilege, not a right. All users shall be required to acknowledge receipt and understanding of all administrative regulations and procedures governing use of the system and shall agree in writing to comply with such regulations and procedures. The Ludlow Public Schools administration reserves the right to change these rules at any time without notice. Noncompliance with applicable regulations and procedures may result in suspension or termination of user privileges and other disciplinary actions up to and including termination of employees, consistent with the policies of the Ludlow Public Schools. Violations of law may result in criminal prosecution as well as disciplinary action by the Ludlow Public Schools up to and including termination of employees.

Access to the system/network is authorized by each user's submission of a completed Ludlow Public School Acceptable Use Agreement. Users are required to submit a new Acceptable Use Agreement with each change of school within the District. Parents of students under 18 years of age may withdraw their permission at any time by notifying the school principal in writing.

In schools where ID's have been issued, users must present valid, current school ID's upon request in order to use the District's technology, system/ network.

A. Staff Access to Technology and Networked Information Resources With the spread of telecommunications throughout the modern work place, the School Committee recognizes that employees will shift the ways they share ideas, transmit information, and contact others. As staff members are connected to the global community, their use of new tools and systems brings new responsibilities as well as opportunities.

In general, employees are expected to communicate in a professional manner consistent with state laws governing the behavior of school employees and with federal laws governing copyrights. Electronic mail and telecommunications are not to be utilized to share confidential information about students or other employees or for personal or non-educational or non-business use.

B. Student Access to Technology and Networked Information Resources In order to match electronic resources as closely as possible to the approved District curriculum, District personnel are strongly encouraged to review and evaluate resources in order to offer menus of materials that comply with School Committee guidelines listed in School Committee policy governing the selection of instructional materials. In this manner, staff can provide developmentally appropriate guidance to students as they make use of telecommunications and electronic information resources to conduct research and other studies related to the District curriculum.

As much as possible, access to District information resources should be designed in ways that point students to those that have been reviewed and evaluated prior to use. While students may be able to move beyond those resources to others that have not been evaluated by staff, they should be provided with guidelines and lists of resources particularly suited to the learning objectives. Students may pursue electronic research only if they have been granted parental permission and have submitted all required forms. Permission is not transferable and may not be shared.

Monitored Use
Communication over networks should not be considered private. The District system cannot ensure the privacy of users' personal files.

As the system is routinely maintained and monitored, discoveries may arise that the user has violated or is violating the district Acceptable Use Policy, School Committee or building policies, or the law.

Use of the District's technology and system/network is considered consent to this policy and the District's right to engage in monitoring activities.

Electronic mail transmission will be stored in the computers back up files. Please be aware that the District's technology and system/network continuously stores records information transmitted via electronic mail, and that pressing the "delete" button will not affect this back up storage mechanism.

Electronic mail transmissions and other use of electronic resources by students and employees shall not be considered confidential or private and may be monitored at any time by designated staff to ensure appropriate use for instructional and administrative purposes.

No Liability
The Ludlow Public Schools shall not be liable for users' inappropriate use of electronic resources or violations of copyright restrictions, users' mistakes or negligence, costs or financial liabilities incurred by users, or damages sustained by users, including but no limited to service interruptions or data loss. The Ludlow Public Schools shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy or usability of any information found on external networks.

Technology, Network, and Internet Acceptable Use
The technology and system/network is the property of the Ludlow Public Schools and is intended exclusively for District business and educational use only.
Acceptable uses of technology and the system/network support the educational principles and purposes consistent with the content hereof.

As access entails responsibility, access to network services and technology will be provided to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Students are responsible for good behavior on school computers and networks just as they are in a classroom or other school environment. Since communications on the network are often public in nature, general School Committee policies, codes, and school rules for behavior and communications apply.

Notification to an employee's immediate supervisor and to a student’s teacher shall be made forth with by any employee or student who observes a violation of this policy.

Unacceptable uses of technology and the system/network include, but are not limited to the following:

A. Personal Safety (Restrictions are for students only)
Users will not post personal pictures or contact information about themselves or other people without proper permission as contained herein. Personal contact information includes address, telephone, school address, work address, photographs, portraits, etc.

B. Illegal Activities Users will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to the District system or to any other computer system throughout the District System, or go beyond their authorized access. This includes attempting to log in through another person's account or access another person's files. These actions are illegal even if only for the purposes of "browsing",

Users will not make deliberate attempts to disrupt the computer system performance or destroy data by spreading computer viruses or by any other means. These actions are illegal.

Users will not use the District system to engage in any other illegal act, such as arranging for a drug sale or the purchase of alcohol, engaging in criminal gang activity, threatening the safety of a person. etc.
Unauthorized users will not manipulate, attempt to manipulate, or distribute the District's or Town of Ludlow's computer systems, programs, or data.

C. System Security
Users are responsible for the use of their individual account and should take all reasonable precautions to prevent others from being able to use their account. Under no conditions should a user provide his password to another person.

Users will immediately notify a supervisor or their teacher if they have identified a possible security problem. Users will not go looking for security problems because this may be construed as an illegal attempt to gain access. The supervisor or teacher will immediately inform the system/network administrator.

Users will avoid the inadvertent spread of computer viruses by following the
District virus protection procedures if they download software or use floppy disks or other storage media potentially capable of harboring viruses.

Users will not remove computer equipment (hardware, software, data. etc.) I without authorization, nor will they damage computer hardware or software. This rule applies also to parts of computers, mice, keyboards, monitors, or any other peripherals, which are also Town of Ludlow property.

Users will not copy or attempt to copy data or software without authorization.

D. Inappropriate Language, Graphics, Video, Audio
Restrictions against inappropriate language, graphics, video, audio apply to public messages, private messages, screen savers and wallpaper, material posted on Web pages, and any use of the District's technology or system/network.

Users will not use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, or disrespectful language, graphics, video or audio.
Users will not post information that, if acted upon, could cause damage or a danger of disruption.

Users will not engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks.

Users will not harass another person. Harassment is persistently acting in a manner that distresses or annoys another person. If a user is told by a person to stop sending him messages or harassing him, the user must stop.

Users will not knowingly or recklessly post false or defamatory information about a person or organization.

E. Respect for Privacy
Users will not respect a message that was sent to them privately without permission of the person who sent them the message.

Users will not post private information about another person.

F. Respecting Resource Limits
Users will use the system only for educational and professional or career development activities.

Students will not download files, graphics, video, audio or music without the supervisor's permission. If necessary, users will download the file at a time when the system is not being heavily used and immediately remove the file from the system computer to their personal computer. Employees will obtain permission from the system/network administrator before downloading any large files, graphics, etc.

Users will not post chain letters or engage in "spamming". Spamming is sending an annoying or unnecessary message to a large number of people.

Users will check their e-mail frequently, delete unwanted messages promptly, and stay within their e-mail quota.

Users will subscribe only to high quality discussion group mail lists that are relevant to their education or professional/career development. Students will subscribe only with the supervisor's and a parent's permission.

Users will not participate in "chat pages", which is considered an abuse of privileges in an educational setting.

Users will not install games or engage in unauthorized and time consuming recreational game playing. Games have become highly graphics oriented and therefore consume large amounts of disk space on computers and networks.

Users will not use computer accounts for work not authorized for that account.

Users may not use technology or the network for personal advertisements, solicitations of products or services, or for commercial purposes or financial gain. Clubs and school organizations may submit advertisements or solicitations to the Director of Technology for use on an Intranet or to be posted on the school's home page on the Internet. Submission does not guarantee posting.

G. Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement
Users will not plagiarize works that they find on the Internet. Plagiarism is taking the ideas or writings of others and presenting them as if they were original to the user.

Users will respect the rights of copyright owners. While the District encourages its staff to enrich their learning programs by making proper use of supplementary materials, it is the responsibility of District staff to abide by the District's copying and Web publishing procedures and obey the requirements of the law. The District cannot be responsible for any violations of the copyright law by its staff or other persons. Copyright infringement occurs when an individual inappropriately reproduces a work that is protected by a copyright: If a work contains language that specifies acceptable use of that work, he should request permission from the copyright owner. Individuals who fail to adhere to copyright law and procedures may be held personally liable for copyright infringement.

H. Inappropriate Access to Material Users will not use the District system to access material that is profane or obscene (pornography), that advocates illegal acts, or that advocates violence or discrimination towards other people (hate literature). For students, a special exception may be made for hat literature if both the teacher and the parent approve the purpose of such access to conduct research. District employees may access the above material only in the context of legitimate research.

If a user inadvertently accesses such information, he should immediately disclose in writing the inadvertent access to his supervisor or teacher. The use should complete the inappropriate Access Report that follows. This will protect ~against an allegation that they have intentionally violated the Acceptable Use Policy. Adopted August 8, 2000

TITLE IX
I. Any student or employee who has a grievance under Chapter 622 of the
Acts of 1971 or Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 should submit that grievance in writing to his/her building principal.

II. The principal shall respond in writing and if the matter is not resolved within 10 school days, the complainant may appeal in writing to (one of) the Ch. 622/Title IX coordinator(s).

III. The Ch. 622/Title IX coordinator shall respond in writing and if the matter is not resolved within 15 school days, the complainant may appeal in writing to the superintendent of schools.

IV. The superintendent shall respond in writing if the matter is not resolved within 20 school days.

A. If the matter is related to Ch. 622, the complainant has the right to involve the complaint procedure for Chapter 622 of the Acts of 1971. The complaint procedure for Ch. 622 has been excerpted in its entirety from the official Ch. 622 regulations as adopted by the Massachusetts Board of Education and follows immediately.

1. A parent/guardian or other person or group who believes that c. 76 s. 5 of the General Laws or these regulations has been or is being violated, may request a written statement of the reasons therefore from the responsible school committee through the superintendent and may submit a copy of such request at the Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity of the Department of Education. If such request is made, a copy of such request shall be sent by the school committee to the Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity.

2. The school committee shall respond promptly, but no later than 30 days, in writing to the complaining party. The school committee shall also send a copy of its response to a Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity.

3. The Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity shall act as the representative of the Board of Education for the purpose of receiving complaints pursuant to these regulations.

4. The Bureau of Equal Educational Opportunity shall, pursuant to a complaint received under section 9.01 or on its own initiative, conduct reviews to insure compliance with c. 76 s. 5 and these regulations. The school committee and the specific school(s) involved shall cooperate to the fullest extent with such review.

5. In the event of non-compliance with Chapter 76, s. 5 regulations, the Board of Education may take such action as it sees fit, including, but not limited to, withholding of funds or referral of the matter to the Office of the Attorney General for appropriate legal) action.

B. 1. If the matter relates to Title IX, the complainant may appeal in writing to the school committee. The school committee shall respond in writing within 20 school days.

2. If the matter relates to Title IX and remains unresolved, the complainant may appeal to the U.S. Office of Civil Rights.

V. Nothing in these procedures shall abridge or in any way limit the right of a parent, guardian or person affected to seek enforcement of Chapter 622 of the Acts of 1971 or Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 in any court or administrative agency of competent jurisdiction.

TRANSPORTATION RULES FOR STUDENTS

Students living one and a half miles or more from Ludlow High School will be provided transportation as measured on a traveled bus way. No exception will be made.

-The bus stop is considered school property, and students are subject to any and all school rules while waiting for the school bus.

-Students are under the authority of the bus driver when being transported to and from school or school activities. Refusal to obey the bus driver and/or the rules listed below will make them liable to be reported to school officials to be disciplined accordingly:

1st offense	written warning
2nd offense	2 week suspension of bus privileges
3rd offense	refusal of bus transportation for remainder of year

-Students must be on time for the bus both morning and evening. This rule will be enforced within reason.

-Students must make sure that the road is clear before they cross to or from the bus.

-Students must occupy the seats assigned to them by school officials or the bus driver.

-Students must not extend their hands, arms, heads or bodies through the bus windows or doors. Students must not leave the bus on the way to or from the school or an activity without permission of the driver. The driver will not give such permission except in case of personal emergency on the part of the pupil, or upon the request of the pupil's parent, teacher, or principal.

-Students will be permitted to converse in a normal tone, but loud, profane, and obscene language will be prohibited. Unnecessary conversation with the bus driver will be frowned upon especially when the bus is in motion.

-Students will not be permitted to smoke on the bus at any time.

-Students must not open or close bus windows without the permission of the driver, nor shall they regulate or operate any part of the bus.

-Students must cooperate in keeping the bus clean, and must abstain from damaging it. They shall not throw articles in or out of the bus, not spit on it, and not mar or deface it.

-With the exception of their books, musical instruments, and other school equipment, Students shall not transport anything without the permission of the bus driver.

-Students must be courteous to the drive, to fellow students, and to all other persons.

-Positively no extra riders without explicit permission from school officials. Transportation in Ludlow is provided for public and private school children alike.

-No preferential treatment is afforded one group over the other. In like manner, rules of behavior apply to both. There will be absolutely no standing while the bus is in motion.

TRUANCY

Truancy is defined as any unexcused absence from school as per State Law.

A school committee appointed attendance officer shall make every effort to call each absent student's home to validate his/her absence.

Parents will be contacted and a letter will be sent home.

USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

Possession of Tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco etc.) on school busses, on school grounds, in the school building and at school functions is prohibited at all times by Massachusetts state law and Ludlow School committee policy. Those students reported using and/or in possession of tobacco products will be subject to the disciplinary actions listed on page 19 of this handbook and the student will be mandated to attend and complete the smoking cessation program during his/her DLT in the Health Office.

Possession of tobacco-related paraphernalia such as cigarette lighters, matches, pipes, paper, cigarette holders, etc. on school property will result in the confiscation of these items and will be returned only to the parents of the students.

WEAPONS

Violence, especially in connection with any weapons, will not be tolerated. In accordance with Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993, any student found on school premises or at a school sponsored event in possession of a weapon may be expelled by the principal.

In addition to guns, knives, and other commonly known weapons, please be advised that Massachusetts Laws Chapter 269,Section 10 further defines a weapon as any stiletto, dagger or a device or case which enables a knife with a locking blade to be drawn at a locked position, any ballistic knife, or any knife with a detachable blade capable of being propelled by any mechanism, dirk knife, any knife having a double-edged blade, or a switch knife, or any knife having an automatic spring release device by which the blade is released from the handle, having a blade over one and one-half inches, or a slung shot, blowgun, blackjack, metallic knuckles, nunchaku, zoobaw, also known as klackers or kung fu sticks, or any similar weapon consisting of two sticks of wood, plastic or metal connected at one end by a length of rope, chain, wire or leather, a suriken or any similar pointed star like object intended to injure a person when thrown or any armband, made with leather which has metallic spikes, points or studs or any similar device made from any other substance or a cestus or similar material weighted with metal or other substance and worn on the hand, or a manrikigusari or similar length of chain having weighted ends.