GUILDERLAND HIGH SCHOOL

Student Handbook 2019-20

Marie Wiles
District Superintendent
Michael Piscitelli
Principal
Amy Hawrylchak Brian Mazza
Assistant Principal Assistant Principal
Ann-Marie Springsteen Mehgan Rivers
Assistant Principal IA for Secondary
Special Education

8 School Road
Guilderland Center, New York 12085
Phone: 518/861-8591
FAX: 518/861-5874
http://www.guilderlandschools.net

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 Mission Statement
The Guilderland High School community is dedicated to fostering
an equal opportunity to attain academic excellence in an atmosphere of
mutual respect. Guilderland students will recognize the importance of
life-long learning and be prepared to take their places as responsible cit-
izens of the world. To this end the Guilderland High School community
strives to empower students to:
Accept the responsibility for their future learning.
Possess a positive self-image that will enable them to be confident
about their potential to contribute to society.
Acquire appropriate skills to enable them to cope in a constantly
changing world emphasizing decision making, communiction,
and interpersonal skills.
Recognize the importance of global awareness and each individu-
al's role in the preservation of the environment and internation-
al coexistence.

DISCRIMINATION
Guilderland High School does not discriminate on the basis of age,
color, weight, religion, creed, handicap, marital status, veteran status,
national origin, race or gender. Any student or employee in the district
who wishes to file a complaint regarding alleged discrimination based
on sex or handicap will find forms available in any school office. Forms
will be forwarded to the District Title IX and Section 504 Compliance
Officer.
Administrators
Principal...................................................................... Michael Piscitelli
Assistant Principal...................................................... Amy Hawrylchak
Assistant Principal...................................................... Brian Mazza
Assistant Principal...................................................... A-M Springsteen
IA for Secondary Special Education........................... Mehgan Rivers
Counselors Social Worker
Lynne Baumgartner Gwen Buckley
Thomas Dvorscak Heidi Cutler
Candace Galarneau Sally Loughrey
Ashley Kaplan
Amy Knapp
Karen Murphy
Rene Sheehan

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 HARASSMENT POLICY
It is the policy of Guilderland High School that harassment is un-
acceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. This is in keeping with
efforts to establish an environment in which the dignity and worth of all
members of the school community are respected. The goal of GHS is to
provide a community in which all students are accepted and judged as
individuals.
The Dignity for All Students Act (§§10-18 of Education Law) defines
harassment as the creation of a hostile environment by conduct or by
verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that has or would have the effect of
unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student's educational
performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical
well-being; or conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that reason-
ably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a student to fear for
his or her physical safety. The harassing behavior may be based on any
characteristic, including but not limited to a person's actual or perceived:
race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, reli-
gion, religious practice, disability, sex, sexual orienta-
tion, or gender (including gender identity and expression).
For more information on the Dignity for All Students Act, please
see our Board of Education Policy 0115, and this link to New York State
Department of Education, http://www.p12.nysed.gov/dignityact/.
Any person committing any form of harassment will be subject to
disciplinary action if:
1. the gestures, comments, epithets or behaviors are
commonly considered by members of the group
demeaned to be disparaging to that group, and
2. such conduct either
a. interferes with the comfort, safety, work, study
or performance of the person(s) to whom the
conduct is addressed or directed, or
b. makes the work, study, or social environment hostile
or intimidating to members of average sensibilities of
the group demeaned.
Any instances which can be perceived as harassment should be
reported immediately to a faculty member or an administrator.
A copy of the detailed Harassment Policy and Reporting Procedures
is available upon request from any Administrator or Social Worker.

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 SEXUAL HARASSMENT PREVENTION POLICY
The Board of Education is committed to safeguarding the rights of all
employees and students within the Guilderland Central School District to
a working and learning environment that is free from all forms of sexual
harassment. Sexual harassment is a violation of federal and state law,
and School District policy, and will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment is generally defined as unwelcome sexual ad-
vances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct
of a sexual nature.
Sexual harassment does not only depend upon the offender's inten-
tion but also upon how the target perceives the behavior or is affected
by it. The Board recognizes that sexual harassment can originate from
a person of either sex against a person of the opposite or same sex, and
from peers as well as supervisors.
Sexual harassment can take many forms and occurs in a variety of
situations where there is an interaction in which one person is subjected
to:
1. Unwanted sexual, abusive, or lewd language and/or sugges-
tive jokes of a sexual nature
2. Demands for sexual favors in exchange for other consideration
3. Unwanted physical or verbal pursuit with a sexual theme
4. Leering, suggestive, or insulting sounds and gestures
5. Unwanted touching, brushing, patting, pinching, or attention
to one's body
6. Threats of, or deliberate sexual assault or molestation
The Board of Education condemns all unwelcome behavior of a
sexual nature which is either designed to extort sexual favors from an
employee or student as a term or condition of employment or academic
standing or which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating,
hostile, or offensive working or learning environment. The Board also
condemns retaliatory behavior against complainants or any witnesses.
Students or employees of the Guilderland Central School District
who feel they have been sexually harassed may speak in confidence to a
teacher, social worker, counselor, supervisor or administrator who will
provide information and explanation. A student or an employee may
bring a person of his/her own choosing along for support. People will
have the option of bringing the complaint under the informal or formal
complaint procedures.

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 INTEGRITY POLICY

The purpose of this Integrity Policy is to foster those values and
practices that help to promote personal and academic integrity in all
Guilderland High School students.
An essential component to any Integrity Policy is to recognize that
cheating is a violation of both personal and academic integrity.
What follows is a summary of the Integrity Policy generated by the
Guilderland High School Building Cabinet.
It is the policy of Guilderland High School that cheating of any kind
is contrary to the principles of this Integrity Policy.
Cheating is defined as any act of either giving or receiving informa-
tion through which any student gains an unfair or unsanctioned advantage
in any situation that is being used for grading or evaluation.
Examples of cheating include, but are not limited to the following:
Plagiarism
Parents producing student work
Overt cheating on tests and/or quizzes
Unsanctioned sharing of homework
Unsanctioned downloading of internet information
Unsanctioned use of translators and/or calculators

GUIDELINES
Each department has a consistent set of subject specific guidelines
regarding cheating. These guidelines include articulation on the following
items:
Identification of what specific activities are considered acts of
cheating
Responses to cheating infractions
Reporting and documentation processes
A copy of these guidelines will be distributed at the beginning of
the year to students and parents.
A copy of these guidelines must be on file in the Building Princi-
pal's office.

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Integrity Policy (cont.)
ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSES TO CHEATING
While it is recognized by this policy that teachers and Instructional
Administrators have some discretion in addressing the issue of cheating,
teachers are expected to file a report on each incident of cheating with the
appropriate Assistant Principal. Any incident of cheating may affect the
student's status in National Honor Society or college recommendations.
This policy encompasses all academic years of high school.
All incidents reported promptly to the building administration will
incorporate the following measures:
1st Offense-Student will be addressed by the teacher and Instruc-
tional Administrator in accordance with established department
regulations and the teacher will call the parent. An incident report
will be filed in the student's Discipline file. A copy of the incident
report will be sent to the student's school counselor.
2nd Offense-A parent conference may be held with the AP and
school counselor. The student will be subject to disciplinary conse
quences. The student may lose other privileges; i.e. Honor Pass,
driving privileges.
3rd Offense-(and any subsequent offense)-A letter of reprimand
will be placed in the student's permanent file informing the stu-
dent and the parent. The student will be subject to additional
disciplinary consequences and additional loss of privileges.

While the provisions of this policy will serve as general operating
guidelines, some cases of cheating may result in more severe con-
sequences.

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES

The district website, www.guilderlandschools.org, provides a manual

of those policies approved by the Board of Education. Included in the
manual are such policies relating to Student Privacy, Title IX Student
Complaints, Bullying Prevention, Instructional Goals, Computer Accept-
able Use, Textbook Adoption, and much, much more.

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 STUDENTS' RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Free Education
You have the right to an education free of payment of tuition through
graduation or until the age of 21, whichever occurs first.
Rules and Regulations
You have the right to equal protection under the law and the respon-
sibility to live by that rule of law, in school and in the larger society.
Trespassing
School officials have the duty to provide for the protection and safety
of students and of school property. Any person in the building without
permission from an administrator is trespassing.
Flag Salute and Pledge of Allegiance
If you are conscientiously opposed to the pledge or salute, you may
abstain from these ceremonies, but you must be respectful of the flag and
the others participating in the ceremonies. Objections to our morning
flag salute must be shared with your administrator PRIOR to refusing
to follow your Homeroom teacher's directions.

Fire Drills
Schools must conduct 8 evacuation drills and 4 lockdown drills each
year, as mandated by the state.
All students are expected to cooperate with staff members during
emergency drills, and to leave the building in a silent, orderly manner.
The exit route is posted in each room.

Student Responsibilities During Evacuation Procedures and Drills

During Assigned Times:
Students must remain silent throughout the entire procedure and
remain with teacher in the designated area.
Move silently with class to designated area where attendance will
be taken.
No electronic devices are to be used or visible during evacuations.
During Unassigned Times:
Students must remain silent throughout the entire procedure.
Students must find the nearest Fire Exit out of the building.
In order to be accounted for, students must find and remain with a
school staff member after exiting the building.
No electronic devices are to be used or visible during evacuations.

Students not following these procedures or who are disruptive will

be considered insubordinate and shall be subject to discipline.

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STUDENTS' RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES (cont.)

School District Records

Parents and students and other community members may want to have
specific information about the schools in this district. Interested persons should
direct requests for such information to the District Office.
Student Records
A student, parent or legal guardian is entitled by appointment to inspect
the student's cumulative record in the presence of an authorized member of the
school staff.
Police in School
When police are permitted to interview students in the school, the students
must be afforded the same rights they have outside the school. They must be
informed of their legal rights and must be protected from coercion and illegal
restraint.
Search and Seizure
New York State law grants School Authorities with the right of Search and
Seizure when there is reasonable suspicion. Lockers, bookbags, outer clothing
and cars may be searched at the discretion of School Authorities.
Suspension and Expulsion
A student must be given due process including an opportunity for an informal
conference with the Principal. However, after due process of law, a student over
16 years of age may be excluded and the Board of Education need provide no
further instructional program.
Release of student information to the media
From time to time, school district officials may release student information
(name, grade, address, photograph, academic interest, artwork, participation in
officially recognized activities and sports, terms of school attendance and grad-
uation, awards received, and future educational plans) for use in school district
publications and within district Web sites, or to the media for public relations
purposes. Parents who object to the release of their child's information and/or
photograph should notify both their child's building principal and the district's
communications office in writing on or before September 15 of the upcoming
school year.
Responsibility to One's Self
Attend classes regularly and on time and engage in conscientious classroom
work to gain maximum benefit from the educational program. Assume the re-
sponsibility to one's self to develop employment skills.
Utilize all available human, material, and physical resources provided by
the school to further one's education.
Dress and appear in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health,
cleanliness and safety, and is not distracting from the educational process.

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STUDENTS' RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES (cont.)
Responsibility to the School
Conduct one's self in an appropriate manner while in attendance
at all school or school-related functions held on or off school grounds.
Be aware of and use established processes, avenues, and procedures for
questioning school rules and regulations or attempting to bring about
change in school programs, services, or operations.
Be informed of and adhere to rules and regulations established by
the Board of Education and/or the high school staff and implemented
by high school administrators and teachers for the welfare and safety
of students.
Cooperate with school and civil authorities in cases involving vio-
lence to persons and/or property when one has knowledge of incidents
or offenders.

Responsibility to Others
Observe the constitutional rights of other individuals, whether they
are students, parents, teachers, school administrators, or other participants
in the educational process. Observe and adhere to the laws of New York
State and the United States. Develop and undertake a commitment to
assume some responsibility to and for school and society. Cooperate with
the faculty, administration, and community to establish a productive and
beneficial climate in which all can learn.
As a student of Guilderland High School, it is your responsibility
to create a better environment for learning and living, for yourself and
for others. If you see that one of your peers has a drug, alcohol or other
problem that is interfering with his/her health and well-being, you should
seek help from the appropriate authorities. You will have full confiden-
tiality if you so choose.
To get help for a peer with a drug, alcohol or other problem, retrieve
a questionnaire from the Social Worker's Office. Complete the form and
return it to the Social Worker's Office. After you turn in this form, you
will be asked to attend a meeting with the Social Worker in order to de-
termine how to best help the peer at risk. From this point on the peer will
receive treatment for his/her problem while appropriate confidentiality
is maintained.

Library
Your Library Media Center contains thousands of varied materials
for your use from 7:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. While in the Library, you are
expected to work quietly or you will lose Library privileges. You will
need your I.D. to sign out materials. Feel free to make special requests
for materials from the Librarians.

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 COMPUTER NETWORK & TECHNOLOGY
EQUIPMENT ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (AUP)
REGULATION
Staff and students are expected to follow these guidelines when using
computers at school:
District Computer System (DCS) includes computers, network hubs,
cabling, servers, printers, and all other technology related devices owned
by the District.

1. District Computer System (DCS) is for curricular and school use.

Commercial use is prohibited. Personal use should be limited.
2. Use of the DCS which violates any aspect of School District Poli-
cies, the Student Discipline Code of Conduct, and any Federal,
State or Local laws or regulations is strictly prohibited.
3. No personal software may be downloaded or installed anywhere
on the DCS.
4. No personal computers and/or equipment or peripherals may be at-
tached to or configured on the DCS.
5. Do not alter or change the settings or system configurations of the
DCS hardware or software in any way. Do not remove/move, un-
plug, alter or add equipment or software to the DCS. No damag-
ing, disabling or otherwise interfering with the operation of any
part of the DCS through physical action or by electronic means.
6. No intentional bypassing of security of the DCS for viewing inap-
propriate Internet sites. Do not attempt to gain access to restricted
areas of the DCS, or go beyond authorized access by entering
another person's password or accessing another person's files or
E-Mail. No changing, copying, renaming, deleting, reading or
otherwise accessing files or software not created by the owner of
the file.
7. Do not violate copyright laws. Materials accessed through the
Internet must be properly cited when referenced in a student re-
search assignment.
8. No disclosing an individual password to others or using others'
passwords. Do not attempt to gain unauthorized access to any
level of the DCS by attempting to log in through another person's
account, or use computer accounts, access codes or network identi
fication other than those assigned to the user.

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AUP REGULATION (cont.)
9. Do not waste school resources by printing excessively or consum-
ing limited hard drive space anywhere on the DCS.
10. Do not download software or programs from the Internet to the DCS.
11. Do not create or willfully disseminate computer viruses. Staff and
students should be sensitive to the ease of spreading viruses and
should take steps to ensure that flash drives and files are virus free.
12. Do not violate licensing agreements, including the downloading or
exchanging of pirated software or copying software to or from any
part of the DCS.
13. Information stored on the DCS is not private and may be viewed
or traced by authorized personnel.

Staff and students must understand that if they violate these rules,
their computer privileges may be suspended. Violations of these
guidelines will result in a referral to school administration for further
disciplinary action.

The Computer Lab

Use of the facilities in the Computer Lab is open to all students at
the following times:
1. When accompanied by a teacher
2. During Study Hall with a pass pre-signed by
the Computer Lab Supervisor
3. 2:30 p.m.-3:10 p.m. in the West Lab
4. During Extended Detention from 3:15-4:50 in
the West Lab while supervised
The district prohibits the use of any computer hardware/software in
any inappropriate, fraudulent or destructive manner, including, but not
limited to:
1. Sending out unauthorized messages
2. Entering a code-protected file
3. Plagiarism
4. Altering a software program
5. Vandalizing hardware or software components
6. Bringing food or drink into the Computer Lab
Any misuse of Computer Lab equipment or privileges will be dealt with as
incidents of vandalism or insubordination. Violations may result in loss of
access to the Computer Lab and/or other Behavior Policy consequences.

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 GENERAL GUIDELINES
_____________________________________________

Verbal Abuse and Profanity

All Staff members, regardless of title, have a job responsibility at
GHS that contributes to the total operation of the school. A student must
show respect to all staff members, regardless of title. Verbal abuse,
profanity, or any conduct that is disruptive or threatening is unac-
ceptable and will not be tolerated. In addition, courtesy and respect
for peers is expected. Detention or suspension may result for failure to
follow these guidelines.

Fighting
Fighting creates a potentially dangerous situation and will result in
automatic, immediate Out of School Suspension for all parties actively
involved. The length of time will be determined by the particular case.
A parent conference may also be required.

Smoking and Other Devices

Smoking is defined as having a lighted cigarette or smokeless/elec-
tronic cigarette in one's hand or mouth. In addition, being in a confined
area in which smoke is seen by a staff member will constitute smoking
on the part of students in the area. Smoking on school grounds or a
school bus during the school day or at a school function will result in
disciplinary action.
Electronic vaporizers or other devices which use liquid or other
substances that may contain nicotine, chemicals, and other potentially
hazardous material are illegal and are not permitted on school property.
These devices, and their contents, violate our drug and tobacco free school
zones. Vaporizers and their contents are considered paraphernalia used
to inhale unsafe chemicals, and they pose a health risk for all students.
Being in possession and/or use of this paraphernalia, liquid, and other
related materials will result in disciplinary action which can include
school suspension. Any device/substance that is not permitted in school
is considered contraband that will be confiscated.

Alcohol and Drugs
No one may possess or use alcoholic beverages or controlled sub-
stances on school property. Students found to be under the influence of
alcohol or drugs while on school grounds will be subject to discipline.

12
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
Alcohol and Drugs, continued
Any offense (use, possession or sale) will result in a five day Out
of School Suspension, parent conference, counseling recommendations,
notification of law enforcement authorities and a Principal's Hearing or
Superintendent's Hearing. Students who refuse to fully cooperate with a
Drug or Alcohol investigation will be considered insubordinate and may
face up to a five day Out of School Suspension.
Additional occurrences (use, possession or sale) will result in a
five day Out of School Suspension pending a Superintendent's Hearing
to consider the continuance of schooling and/or legal prosecution as
applicable.
All medications which students might be required to take during
school hours must be left with or under the control of the school nurse
and taken under the nurse's supervision. Failure to do so can be considered
use/possession and result in an Out of School Suspension.

Public Displays of Affection

Public Displays of Affection may be considered disruptive behavior.
Students being asked to refrain from Public Displays of Affection by any
staff member should comply with the request willingly.

Weapons
Dangerous weapons, firecrackers, smoke bombs, incendiary devices
or instruments of any sort may not be brought to school by students.
Any such articles will immediately be confiscated by a member of the
staff or law enforcement officer, the incident reported to the parents and
significant disciplinary action taken.

Vandalism and Theft

Destruction, theft or abuse of school or personal property is a very
serious issue. Suspension from school, a parent conference and criminal
charges may result.
If you are assigned a piece of school property, you are responsible
for that item. Property and items belonging to Guilderland High School
should be treated and used as intended. Causing or attempting to cause
damage to school property, or stealing or attempting to steal property will
result in billing the student for the cost to replace or repair the property.
Any item belonging to another individual at Guilderland High School
is considered private property. Damaging or attempting to cause damage
to private property or stealing or attempting to steal private property will
result in billing the student for the cost to replace or repair the property.

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GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
Cell Phones, I-pods and other Electronic Devices
Electronic communication and entertainment devices are not to be
used during class, assemblies, or in any other instructional setting. They
may however be used before and after school, during passing time, during
your assigned lunch, and when specifically deemed appropriate for an
instructional purpose or authorized by a staff member during study hall.
These electronic devices include but are not limited to cell phones, i-pods,
mp3 players, CD players and DVD players. Also, students may not use
motion video or still photographic devices in the building unless given
specific authorization by a staff member. The use of these devices in
classrooms or in other parts of the building is disruptive to the educational
environment and a risk to academic integrity and personal privacy. If an
electronic device is seen during instructional time or photographic or
video equipment is used without authorization, it may be confiscated and
will be returned to the student by an administrator at the conclusion of
the school day. Any subsequent offenses may result in further disciplinary
action and/or the device only being returned to a parent or guardian.

After School Activity Period

The GHS Activity Period runs from 2:25 - 3:10 every Monday,
Tuesday and Thursday. This affords students another block of time to
work with their teacher(s).
All students remaining for the Activity Period are required to
be under the supervision of an adult throughout the Activity Period.
Students who are not with a specific teacher or coach are expected
to report to the Cafeteria where detention is held.

Late Bus Pass Policy

Students will not be allowed to ride the 3:10 bus without a pass
signed by a member of the GHS Staff. In accordance with the After School
Activity Period procedures, students are required to be in a supervised
location from 2:25-3:10. Students will be allowed to ride the 3:10 bus
only if they can produce a pass which can verify that they were engaged
in a supervised activity.

Bus Procedures
Buses are provided for students living beyond an established mini-
mum distance from school. Since a bus is school property, all rules that
apply to school also apply to the bus. Proper behavior and actions must
be displayed in order to continue receiving transportation.

14
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
STUDENT DRESS CODE

All students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanli-

ness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions. Students
and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student
dress and appearance. Teachers and all other District personnel should
exemplify, and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students de-
velop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting.
A student's dress, grooming and appearance, including hair style/
color, jewelry, make-up and nails, shall:

1. Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educa-

tional process.
2. Be free of items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous or denigrate oth-
ers on account of race, color, weight, religion, creed, national ori-
gin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.
3. Be free of the promotion and/or endorsement of the use of alco-
hol, tobacco or illegal drugs and/or encouragement of other illegal
or violent activities.
4. Be free of denoting or representing gang affiliation, including but
not limited to garments, jewelry and other forms of symbolism.

Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to

modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item
and, if necessary or practical, replace it with an acceptable item. It
may be necessary to counsel students and notify their families as to the
inappropriateness of chosen dress and/or item. Any student who refuses
to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including In-School De-
tention. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code
shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including Out of School
Suspension.
If, in the judgment of any teacher, monitor or staff person, a student's
appearance is not in compliance with the Student Dress Code, that student
may be referred to the appropriate Administrator.
Examples of noncompliance with the Student Dress Code may include:
Exposed undergarments
Barefeet
Extremely brief or scanty garments

15
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
Athletics
A student is eligible for high school athletic competition in a sport
for each of four consecutive seasons of that sport beginning with the
student's entry into Grade 9. Participation in interscholastic athletics is
an elective activity and therefore a privilege. Each student-athlete must
accept the responsibility that goes with being a member of a team.
Generally speaking, participation in athletics has a positive effect
on the athlete's performance in the classroom. It is the responsibility
of parents to determine whether the student-athlete will continue par-
ticipation if marks are below what they feel to be acceptable.

Dances and Social Events

All school sponsored social activities are provided for GHS students.
All GHS students are expected to be able to produce a school ID at any
school sponsored event. If a GHS student wishes to bring a non-GHS
guest to any social event, they should obtain an approved permission
form from the East or West Office prior to the event. All school rules
apply during the event. Once inside the activity, students must remain
or else leave school property. Failure to abide by these rules will result
in dismissal from the event and/or additional discipline. Students may
be asked to submit to a breathalyzer prior to entry.

Social Workers' Office

Social Workers are available at the high school to help students
cope with stress and feel better about themselves. Learning how to
work things out or get help when you need it will help you be more
successful in school and in life. Confidentiality is always maintained
unless the situation is dangerous or life-threatening. Referring a friend
or scheduling an appointment for yourself can be done in the Guidance
and Counseling Center.
School Store
A school store is located next to the small cafeteria. Assorted school
supplies and snacks may be purchased. It is open from 7:30 a.m.-1:30
p.m.

Lost and Found

A lost and found box is maintained in the Health Office and the
East Office. Lost/Stolen Article Report Forms are in the East and West
Offices. Items not claimed within the month will be donated to charity.

16
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
Announcements
Announcements are given every day in conjunction with the TV
broadcast. If an organization wishes to submit material for an announce-
ment it must be submitted to the Media Department by 3:00 p.m. one
school day before broadcast (except for emergency announcements).

Identification Cards
Each student is issued a plastic coated ID card which includes the
student's photograph and special bar code. It serves as identification
during school functions and for checking out library materials.

Student Publications
Students have the right to express their views in speech, writing, or
through any other medium or form, limited solely by those restrictions
imposed on all citizens generally and those specifically applicable to
children and youths in a school setting.
All student publications must comply with the rules for responsible
journalism. Libelous statements, unfounded charges and accusations,
obscenity, false statements, materials advocating racial or religious prej-
udice, hatred, violence, the breaking of laws and school policies and/or
regulations, or materials designed to disrupt the education process will
not be permitted.
The Building Principal, or designee, reserves the right to establish
the time and location during which any student publication may be dis-
tributed. No literature may be distributed unless a copy is submitted in
advance to the Superintendent of Schools and the Building Principal.

Cafeteria
All students are assigned one lunch period. During lunch time, stu-
dents must eat in one of the cafeterias. Students must clear their table and
floor area before leaving. When in the cafeteria, students are to manage
themselves without misusing the food or utensils and comply with the
reasonable requests of the monitors/teachers on duty. Students assigned
to the Senior Lounge during Block 3 should spend only one lunch mod
in one of the three Cafeterias.

Card Playing
Gambling is prohibited on school property.

17
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont)
Visitors
Student visitors are permitted in the building after school hours start-
ing at 2:45 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays for academic reasons
or to attend previously scheduled appointments with staff. A full day
student or guest visitation may occur if it is sponsored and facilitated
by a Guilderland High School staff member for academic reasons only
with prior approval submitted to the Instructional Administrator who will
notify the front lobby. All visitors must sign in and out with the front
lobby upon arrival and departure and are expected to carry a visitor's
badge while in the building.

Health/Nurses' Office
The Health/Nurses' Office is available to help students who are ill,
have a school related accident or wish to sign up for a school sport. A
student desiring to see the nurse must secure a pass from his/her classroom
teacher and sign in at the Health/Nurses' Office, except in the case of
emergency. If it is necessary for a student to go home because of illness,
the student must be released by the nurse who will get permission to do
so from a parent or guardian.

Medication Policy
Students are not allowed to carry prescription or over-the-counter
medications (including cold medications, aspirin, etc.) while in school. In
the event that you should need medication during the school day, please
follow these guidelines:
1. The student should deliver the medication directly to the school
nurse upon arriving;
2. The nurse must have written instructions from the student's doctor
for both prescription and over-the-counter medications which indi-
cate the frequency and dosage to be dispensed. Medication orders
must be reviewed at the beginning of each school year;
3. The nurse must also have written permission from the parent to
dispense the medication as prescribed by the physician;
4. Prescription medications must be in the original container and
should include the student's name, name of the medication, dosage
and frequency. Please ask your pharmacist to dispense the medica-
tion in two containers - one for school and one for home;
5. Medication permission forms are available on the website:
http://www.guilderlandschools.org

18
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
Sport Sign-up Policy
Students who wish to participate in a high school sport are required to sign
up in the Health/Nurses' Office. Students will be given a sport packet to complete
and return before being cleared by the nursing staff prior to participating in try-
outs for a particular sport. Students need:
1. A physical within 12 months of the beginning of the sport season he/
she wishes to play. A student can go to his/her own physician for a
physical or have one done by the school physician;
2. A Health History form signed by parent/guardian for each sport sea-
son; and
3. A Department of Athletics form for each sport season. Forms are
available on the school website.
Students who have not completed the above process and have not been
approved by the Health/Nurses' Office will be considered ineligible for sports
until they are cleared by the nursing staff.
If a student is seen by a doctor for any injury, accident or serious illness, the
parent/guardian must notfy the school nurse. This is required whether or not the
injury/illness occurred on school grounds. Upon the student's return to school,
the student must present to the school nurse either a written release or restriction
filled out by the doctor. If a student is out of PE for more than three weeks, their
doctor should fill out a PE Modification Form which can be obtained from the
Health/Nurses' Office or on-line. The school nurse will review all medical notes
and then copy same for the appropriate staff (PE and coaches). The original note
is kept on file in the Health/Nurses' Office.

State Required Physicals Policy

State Education Law requires that all students entering 10th grade,
and new students transferring to our school district are to have a
physical examination. These students should have their own physician
complete the physical and bring it to the Health/Nurses' Office or have
it faxed or mailed directly to the High School Health/Nurses' Office.
Health/Nurses' Office fax is 861-5151.

Lockers
Students are assigned a hall locker for the school year and are respon-
sible for that locker. Lockers are a privilege and remain the sole property
of the school and can be searched by school officials. The school is not
responsible for lost or stolen articles. For your own protection, keep
a lock on the locker at all times. Each student is provided a locker for
PE classes as well. Those should be locked during use. School officials
may open and inspect a locker if there is reasonable suspicion that it: 1)
contains contraband or an illegal substance; 2) is not being maintained;
3) is not being used as intended.
19
GENERAL GUIDELINES (cont.)
Unauthorized Area
An UNSUPERVISED area on campus will be considered an area
UNAUTHORIZED for student use. ANY student in an unauthorized
area will be subject to referral to the appropriate Administrator's Office
and may be subject to discipline.

Rules of Driving and Parking

Students are required to register their car through the Assistant Prin-
cipal's Office in the West Building. No student vehicle may be parked
on campus (between the hours of 6:45 am and 3:15 pm) without a legal
GHS Parking Permit. Registration must be completed for both the Fall
and Spring semesters.
 
Driving Restrictions:
1) Keep speed to 10 MPH (or 5 MPH when classes are chang-
ing or when buses are loading or unloading).
2) No item which is illegal or in violation of school regulations or
which endangers the health, safety or welfare of persons, shall
be stored in or on a vehicle parked on school property.
3) Student vehicles that are parked on district property may be
searched by school officials in the event reasonable suspicion
exists with respect to student conduct violating the handbook
or code of conduct.
4) Cars should be kept locked. If it is necessary to go to your car
during the day, you must secure a pass from an administrator.
5) All Motor Vehicle rules apply on school property (i.e., not
passing a stopped school bus with its lights flashing).
6) Park only in areas designated as "Student Parking." No Student
vehicles may be parked in a Staff lot before 3:30 pm Mon, Tues,
Thurs & Fri and before 4:00 pm onWednesday.

VIOLATIONS OF THESE RULES OR INJURIOUS OR ILLEGAL USE

OF A MOTOR VEHICLE MAY RESULT IN THE SUSPENSION OF
PARKING PRIVILEGES, DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES AND
POSSIBLE POLICE REFERRAL.

Student Parking on campus is a privilege and a choice left to each

individual student. Thus, it becomes the decision of the individual
student to assume all risks and responsibilities associated with parking
on school property. Therefore, neither Guilderland High School nor the
Guilderland School District will be held responsible for any damages,
theft or destruction of students' personal property or possessions while
parked on GHS property.
20
 DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES
After School Detention
REGULAR DETENTION may be assigned by a classroom teacher
and will be held 2:25 p.m.-3:10 p.m. in the teacher's room unless other-
wise instructed or in a Detention room if assigned by an Administrator.
EXTENDED DETENTION (3:15 p.m.-4:50 p.m.) can be assigned by
an Administrator, Instructional Administrator or Attendance Officer.
Extended Detention is considered a serious disciplinary measure and is
treated as such. Students must remain on school grounds on afternoons
when they have after school detention. If seniors do not have a Block
4 class, they must report to the Senior Lounge until 2:23 p.m. (NOTE:
Good use of the Extended Detention time could result in a reduction of
assigned days, if so recommended.) Failure to attend scheduled Extended
Detention may result in Out of School Suspension.

In School Detention
In School Detention occurs when the Principal denies a student
the opportunity to attend regular classes. The student and parents are
informed of the behavior that resulted in the detention. The student
reports to the In School Detention room prior to first block. Students
will be dismissed from In School Detention at 3:10 p.m.(2:23 p.m. on
Wednesdays and Fridays), at which time they must promptly leave
school grounds. Students may not participate in any extracurricular
activity after that time. Assignments during the day will be provided
by teachers and the student will be required to work silently on class
work, which will be returned to the teacher and graded. Students will
be allowed to purchase lunch from a limited list of options. Violation
of In School Detention rules will result in an Out of School Suspension
and could also result in a Principal's or Superintendent's Hearing.

Out of School Suspension

Out of School Suspension occurs when the Principal denies atten-
dance at school to a student for up to five days. (If a longer suspension is
recommended, it must be acted upon by the Superintendent of Schools.)
The student and parents are informed of the behavior and the resulting
consequence. Additionally the parent and student are given the oppor-
tunity to request an informal conference. Once suspended, you may not
participate in any school activities or be on school property. You may
return to school when instructed to do so by the Principal.

21
 ATTENDANCE POLICIES
Daily Attendance Policy
As a New York State Public High School, we here at GHS all share
the responsibility of accounting for Student Attendance both in school
and individual classes. Accounting for classroom attendance is the re-
sponsibility of the classroom teacher and will be conducted each Block,
every day.
As a result of New York State Education Department mandates,
GHS has established a comprehensive Attendance Policy that will impact
student attendance on a period-by-period basis. Students and parents
should be aware of the following guidelines with regard to both school
and class attendance.

EXCUSED AND UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

The following will be considered EXCUSED absences, tardies
and early dismissals from class or school provided that the incident is
accompanied by parent (or administrative) confirmation:
Medical Appointment Personal Illness
Religious Observance College Visitations
Death in the family Death of a friend
Impassable roads Music Lessons
Field Trips Military Obligations
Court Appearance or Appointments with School Counse-
Legal Proceedings lor, Social Work or Administrator
Approved Co-op experiences

The following will be considered UNEXCUSED absences, tardiness

and early departures from school or class:
Vacations Oversleeping
Truancy Jobs
Fire Calls Babysitting (Child Care)
Hunting, Fishing or Missed School Bus, Car Trouble
Recreation or Traffic Problems
Any absence, tardy or early dis-
missal without parent confirmation

Students may forfeit the opportunity to make up any class work, test
or quiz missed as a result of any TRUANCY from class.
If an absence remains UNEXCUSED for more than three weeks,
the student may forfeit the opportunity to make up any class work, tests
or quiz missed as a result of that UNEXCUSED absence from class.

22
ATTENDANCE POLICIES (cont.)

In the case of an UNEXCUSED absence due to a vacation, the

student will be required to make up any class work, test or quiz missed
within five days of their return to school.

Attendance
We believe that class attendance and participation are vital to suc-
cessful learning. Skipping any school day, class block, or part of a block
will be considered reason for disciplinary action. (See Class Cutting.)
The legal school day is from 7:30 a.m.-3:10 p.m. Though formal
classes end at 2:23p.m., a student may be required to stay with a teacher
until 3:10 p.m. for that day. Our Block 5 is considered an extension of
the school day and a student must stay if assigned.

Excused Absences From School

NYS Education law requires a written excuse for each and every
absence upon the student's return to school. Students are to bring a note
written and signed by a parent or guardian to either their Block 2 teach-
er or the Attendance Office. Any student failing to meet this obligation
within two school days may be subject to Detention or other disciplinary
consequences. Whenever possible, students should notify their teachers
in advance of their absences and get assignments. Even excused absences
impact a student's attendance.

Truancy From School

Absences from school for personal reasons are illegal. Class partici-
pation, class discussion and the classroom atmosphere are all an essential
part of the educational experience. Truancy from school is defined as
absence from school without parental permission. The first truancy will
result in three Extended Detentions. Additional infractions may result
in suspension.

Class Cutting
Every absence from class without permission will result in disci-
plinary action. First offense results in Extended Detention and a referral
sent home. Additional class cuts may result in the assignment of multiple
Extended Detentions, In School Detention or Out of School Suspension.
Any class missed as a result of an illegal tardy to school is also considered
a class cut. Class cutting may result in a loss of makeup privileges.

23
ATTENDANCE POLICIES (cont)
Entering School After 7:30 a.m.
All classes begin promptly at 7:30 a.m. Unexcused tardiness to
class is considered late to class and consequences may be imposed by
the classroom teacher.
Entering School After 7:30 a.m.
Students entering school after 7:30 a.m. must first report to the
Attendance Office. Students entering after 7:30 a.m. will be considered
an unexcused tardy unless medical office documentation is provided.
Students may be subject to consequences by their teacher and/or admin-
istrator.
After seven (7) unexcused lates (per semester), a regular detention
will be assigned. Additional late arrivals will result in extended detentions.
Any student who finds that some EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUM-
STANCES are causing unavoidable recurring tardiness to school should
discuss the problem with the appropriate administrator BEFORE the
student reaches six (6) tardies. These will be dealt with at the discretion
of the administrator.
Tardiness to Class
Teachers may assign detention for unexcused tardiness to class.
Continued tardiness may result in referral to an Administrator.
Leaving School Without Permission
Board of Education policy prohibits students from leaving the school
grounds during their scheduled school day. Leaving campus without
permission will result in Extended Detentions being assigned. Repeat
offenders may be suspended from school. Students who leave campus
and return may have their bus or parking privileges suspended or revoked.
Students who have after school obligations including practices, club
activities, detention, etc., may not leave school grounds prior to those
obligations.
Dismissal During the School Day
No student may leave school grounds before the student's normal
dismissal time without an early dismissal slip. Dental and physician
appointments should be made for after school hours except in cases of
emergency. Requests for early dismissal must be written by a parent
or guardian and submitted to the Attendance Office prior to Block 1.
Students who have early dismissal requests will be given a special pass
which is shown to the teacher prior to leaving. Students returning to
school must sign in at the Attendance Office.

24
 CURRICULUM INFORMATION
Grade Reporting
Interim Report Dates
Students and parents may check a student's in-progress average and
individual assignment grades in eSchoolData. Interim reports will be
available online on:
October 11, 2019
December 20, 2019
March 19, 2020
May 29, 2020
Report Card Dates
Report cards will be available on eSchoolData approximately every
45 days at the end of the 10th, 20th, 30th and 40th week.
End of Marking Period: Report cards available:
November 8, 2019 November 15, 2019
January 31, 2020 February 6, 2020
April 9, 2020 April 23, 2020
June 26, 2020 June 30, 2020

Weighted/Unweighted GPA
GHS will display a weighted GPA along with the unweighted GPA
on transcripts only under the following parameters:
1. All school related activities and decisions will use the unweighted
GPA. This includes honor roll, awards and all situations that use a GPA
as a factor. In essence, GHS will continue to use GPA as it has in the
past. The weighted GPA will be for parent and student use.
2. Courses that terminate with college credit will be weighted at 1.04
percent. Some examples of these classes are AP, SUPA and UHS.
3. Honors Courses will be weighted at 1.02 percent.
Cumulative Average
A cumulative average will be computed for all students based on
final averages of all numerically graded high school courses as follows:
In September following grade 11
In June of the Senior year
Computing Marks
The passing mark in all numerically graded courses in grades 9-12
is 65.
Please refer to individual course grading policies for specific criteria.
This can be found in each course syllabus.

25
GRADE REPORTING (cont.)

Incomplete As a Grade
If students are absent just prior to the end of the marking period and
miss tests, quizzes, and/or assignments, the teacher may record "INC"
(incomplete) with appropriate comments on the report card for that quar-
ter. The students will have five weeks in which to make up the necessary
work with the exception of 3rd Quarter grades which must be made up

within four weeks.
Work not made up may be averaged in as zero to determine the av-
erage for the quarter which will be reflected in eSchoolData by the end
of five weeks.

Minimum Grade Policy

In order to allow students an opportunity to earn an overall passing
average in a class, the minimum grade policy will be as follows:
Grades 9 and 10 - 45 for all four quarters
Grades 11 and 12 - 40 for all four quarters
Students must have an attendance rate of at least 50% in order to
qualify for the minimum grade. Otherwise, the grade will be the true
grade earned.

"Med" - Medical
"Med" may be used to denote medical when a student is absent due
to illness or accident. In June, teachers will average the marking period
marks and substitute a grade for the "Med" to compute the final grade.
A Medical must be approved by the principal.

Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Remedial Skill courses, CEIP, Work Experience and some Inde-
pendent Study courses are graded on a SATISFACTORY/UNSATIS-
FACTORY grading system. Students taking some courses including
band, orchestra, choir, keyboarding, word processing, some technology
education courses, or other specific electives may choose to receive
SATISFACTORY/UNSATISFACTORY in lieu of numeric grades.
The student files a REQUEST FOR SATISFACTORY/UNSAT-
ISFACTORY GRADE with approval of parent, counselor, teacher and
department supervisor. Students should apply before the fifth week of
the course to receive S or U. The appropriate grade (S/U) is assigned
according to the time line set by the department. The teacher maintains
numeric grades in the grade book but records S/U for quarterly marks
and the final grade.

26
GRADE REPORTING (cont.)

Academic Intervention Services

The district shall provide Academic Intervention Services to students
who have been identified as being at risk of falling below the state learning
standards in English/language arts, mathematics, social studies, and/or
science. Such services may include additional instruction services and/or
student support services such as guidance, counseling, and study skills.
A student's eligibility for Academic Intervention Services will be
determined based on his or her performance on state assessment exam-
inations and/or in accordance with district assessment procedures.
When it has been determined that a student needs Academic Inter-
vention Services, the parents will be notified in writing, by the Building
Principal or Instructional Administrator. The notice will outline the rea-
son the student needs such services, the type of services to be provided
and the consequences of not achieving the performance standards. In
addition, the district will provide the parents with opportunities to consult
with teachers and other professional staff, regular reports on the student's
progress and information on ways to monitor and work with teachers to
improve the student's performance.

Course Drop/Add Policy

All students may drop a course only if it is replaced by another course
before the class meets for the fourth time. It is not always possible to
change a class. Therefore, it is essential that students and parents select
the most appropriate classes at course request time.

Minimum Schedule
All students grades 9-11 must be enrolled in a minimum of seven
courses each semester. Seniors are required to be enrolled in a minimum
of five courses each semester.

Diploma Requirements
All students will qualify for a School Diploma if they meet the criteria
for graduation. All students who receive a diploma must meet the testing
standards as prescribed by the New York State Education Department.

27
 Class of 2005 and thereafter
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
REGENTS ADVANCED
SUBJECT DIPLOMA REGENTS
DIPLOMA
(must pass all applicable (must pass all applicable
Regents exams) Regents exams)**
English 4 units 4 units
Social Studies 4 units 4 units
Math 3 units*+ 3 units**++
Science 3 units*+ 3 units**++
Second Language 1 unit 1-4 units**+++
Fine Arts 1 unit 1 unit
Health 1/2 unit 1/2 unit
Physical Educ. 2 units 2 units
Occupational Educ.
Electives 4 1/2 units or more 1 1/2 +

Total Units Required 23 units 23 units

*+ 1 Regents exam in Math and Science required for graduation

**++ 3 Regents exams in Math and 2 Regents exams in Science are required for an Ad-
vanced Regents diploma.
** Students who earn 5 units in occupational studies or the arts may be exempted from
the 3-4 unit requirement in second language and the Regents exam. However, they would
have to earn at least one unit in second language either by passing a high school second
language course or passing a proficiency exam.
**+++ Students must additionally pass a Checkpoint B exam.

Honorary High School Average Notation:

To earn an Honorary High School Average Notation, students must
meet the following criteria after 3 3/4 years:
Highest Honors - unweighted average at or above 95.00
High Honors - unweighted average at or above 90.00
Honors - unweighted average at or above 85.00

Promotion Policy:
In order to be advanced to the next grade level, students must earn
the appropriate number of credits listed below:
10th Grade - 4.5
11th Grade - 10.0
12th Grade - 15.0
28
 COURSE LEVELS

Advanced Placement and College Level Courses

College-level courses prepared by the College Entrance Examination
Board and local colleges (SUNY, HVCC, SCCC, Syracuse and RIT)
are offered at the high school. Successful completion of the course and
appropriate exams, in addition to payment of tuition fees by the student,
entitle the student to credit for the course at the participating college.
Advanced Placement tests are given in mid-May. These AP tests are
open to any college-bound student for a nominal fee. Seniors are en-
couraged to discuss taking these AP courses with their school counselor.
Many colleges give credit toward graduation to students who achieve
high scores on AP or college written tests. Complete information on the
AP program and on the college courses offered is available through the
school counselor.

Honors Courses (H)

Honors level courses are designed to challenge academically strong
students by providing enrichment through in-depth study. Emphasis is
placed on the quality of achievement.

Regents Courses (R)

Courses at this level meet the New York State Regents standards.
Average to above average students successfully completing these courses
are well prepared to pursue higher education.

Core Courses (C)

Core level courses meet the needs of students who want to study the
material included in the Regents level courses, but who need instruction
at a slower pace, from a less theoretical approach, or with more emphasis
on specific skills so as to strengthen them for further study.

Please note: Not all academic courses are approved by NCAA.

If you plan to play a Division I or Division II sport in college,
please check the course catalog on-line for approved courses.

29
 CHOOSING A LEVEL
Most students are enrolled in Regents level courses. Assignment to
Advanced Placement, Honors and Core courses is based on abilities and
skills evidenced by standardized tests, achievement in previous courses,
and Teacher/Counselor recommendations.
Student evaluation is a continuous process. Due to the differences of
abilities, interests, and needs within individuals, students may be placed
in different levels for different subject areas. The instruction level of the
course is noted on both the report card and the permanent record card.
Requests for a change of level in any area in which a student, parent
or teacher sees a need for relocating the student must be done through
an application. Information regarding the process is available from the
School Counselor or Instructional Administrator.

EXAMINATIONS

Advanced Placement Examinations

These college-level tests are given in May and are open to all
students; however, there are special classes for most students who take
these tests. Test results are generally received by the school in July and
therefore are not computed into a student's final class average. Depend-
ing on the respective college policy, students may receive college credit
based on their score on the test.
There is a student fee, due in February, payable to the College En-
trance Examination Board of approximately $90 per examination.

Regents and Checkpoint B Examinations

All students take these tests which are prepared and/or authorized
by the New York State Department of Education. It is Guilderland High
School's practice to include all Regents exams and Checkpoint B exams
on a student's transcript.

Local Examinations
These tests are locally prepared examinations which are approved
by the Instructional Administrators in their respective departments.

30
 POLICIES
Auditing a Course
A course audited is listed on the permanent record card as an "Au-
dit" with no credit issued. Students may audit courses under special
circumstances. The "Audit Course Request" form is available from the
counselor and must be signed by the student, parent and Instructional
Administrator prior to the beginning of the course.

Doubling
In grades 9-11, students may not take two courses simultaneously in
the same academic area where one is the prerequisite for the other. An
exception is made for the "bona fide" accelerated student and for physical
education make up.

Early Graduation
The Board of Education, in certain instances, shall grant students
who wish to graduate from high school in less time than the ordinary
four-year sequence permission to complete graduation requirements on
an alternative schedule. To this end, all normal graduation requirements
must be completed for early graduation. Furthermore, if a student wishes
to complete the usual four-year course of studies in three years, then the
student will be ranked with that graduating class.
In regard to individual student requests, the following factors may
be considered: the student's grades, performance in school, the student's
future plans, and benefits that would accrue to the student if the request for
early graduation were to be approved. The High School Principal shall
make the final decision on whether to grant permission after consultation
with the individual student's Counselor, the student and parent(s).

Participation in Commencement Ceremony

The Board of Education recognizes that participation in a commence-
ment ceremony differs from the issuance and receipt of a diploma. The
issuance of a diploma indicates that a student has successfully met all
local and state requirements to graduate from high school. The com-
mencement ceremony is a public celebration which is traditionally held
in June.

31
POLICIES (cont.)
Participation in Commencement Ceremony (cont.)
The Board of Education authorizes the extension of an invitation
to participate in the District's annual commencement ceremony to all
students who, by the graduation date in June, are in good standing and
who have successfully completed all requirements for the receipt of a
diploma.
In addition, the Board of Education authorizes the extension of an
invitation to participate in the District's annual commencement ceremony
to all students who are in good standing and who have no more than two
classes to complete by August of that school year.
The Superintendent, in collaboration with the High School Principal
and the High School Building Cabinet, is charged with the development
of regulations necessary to implement this policy.
"Good standing" refers to the student's disciplinary record and applies
to participation in the commencement ceremony.

Repeating a Course
Students who fail certain full-year courses may take the course in
summer school, if offered. The other option is to retake the course for
an entire year during the next school year.
In order to enter summer school, a student must have remained in
the course during the previous school year for the full year and have
maintained at least a 50 unweighted average or have passed two quarters.
Any exceptions to this rule must be reviewed by a Teacher-Counselor-Ad-
ministrative panel.
After a student fails a course and retakes it according to the above
mentioned policy, the higher grade will be recognized. For students
choosing to retake the Regents exam to improve their grade, the higher
of the two Regents grades will be official.

Transcript Request
Transcripts may be requested by completing the "Authorization for
Release of Records" form. This form should be returned to the Counseling
Center.

32
POLICIES (cont.)

Cumulative Average
At the end of the Junior Year, cumulative averages are computed.
These averages are reported on college applications. Final averages will
also be calculated in June of the Senior year.

Withdrawal Procedures
Students who withdraw must see their School Counselor to obtain a
"Parental Permission Withdrawal" form and a "Parent/Student Consent
for Release of Information to Third Parties" form. These forms must be
signed by the Parent/Guardian and returned to the Counselor.
The student must next obtain a "Sign Out" form to be signed by
designated classroom teachers and offices. All books and materials must
be returned before students may obtain signatures.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND SUPPORT

Career and Tech Education (CTE)
CTE is an occupational education program available to students.
There is a stringent attendance policy enforced in order to allow students
to remain in the program. Information is available through the School
Counselors and the North Office. If you are enrolled in this program,
you are considered a student at both CTE and Guilderland High School
and must follow the rules and procedures of both schools.
Students interested in receiving vocational training must apply
through their School Counselors for one of a number of CTE programs
offered at BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services). Students
with certain special educational needs may also receive their education
through a CTE program. There is a listing of all CTE offerings in the
Counseling Center.

Focus
The Focus program is for students in grades 9-12. It is the mission of
the program to foster personal responsibility for students who struggle in
a traditional school environment by providing community support in an
alternative setting. This is done in order to improve academic achieve-
ment, attitude and attendance.

Academic Tutorial/Resource Room

Academic Tutorial/Resource Room programs are for the purpose of
supplementing the regular or special classroom instruction of students
with disabilities. The Committee on Special Education identifies students
who qualify for this program.

33
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND SUPPORT (cont.)

Study Halls - The purpose of study hall is to provide a quiet work

place for students to focus on academics. The following guidelines
are to assist in creating such an environment.

1. Attendance will be taken at the start of the period.

2. Study halls will be quiet environments focused on aca-
demic work.
3. Students will comply with the GHS electronic device policy.
4. Students will sign out of the study hall whenever they need
to leave the room.
5. Passes to the bathroom or lockers will be limited to two
students at a time.
6. Passes to the library or computer labs will be limited based
on availability of the space and staffing at the time.
7. Teachers are able to impose more restrictive rules (such
as moving seats, etc.) as needed to maintain a quiet, aca-
demic environment within the room.

Learning Centers - The purpose of learning centers is to provide

students with additional academic support in Math. Students will
work with teachers in the particular subject area in small groups
or one-on-one to improve their understanding of the subject.

- The Math Learning Center is located in room 202.

-Passes are given in the Computer lab.

- Space is limited and is based on available staffing each

block.

- Each block will be divided into two halves. Students may

stay for one half of the block, or-if space allows-for the
entire block.

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 SPECIAL GROUPS

National Honor Society

Honor Society is the only organization in school whose members
are chosen by the faculty. Students need to demonstrate that they have
completed 20 hours of community service and have maintained at
least a 90.0 unweighted average in traditional academic classes. The
third and fourth criteria for membership are character and leadership.
Leadership can be demonstrated by the taking of responsibility and the
making of decisions. Leadership in the classroom is an important part
of a well-rounded person. Taken into consideration are many aspects of
character including honesty, responsibility, fairness, courtesy, tolerance
and cooperation. Juniors will be admitted in the Spring of their Junior
Year. Seniors will be admitted in October of their Senior Year. Students
must also have a clean disciplinary record.
National Honor Society may be able to connect peer tutors with
students who would benefit from additional academic assistance. Please
see the National Honor Society advisors for more information.

Fall Sports Winter Sports Spring Sports

Cheerleading Basketball Baseball
Cross Country Bowling Softball
Golf Cheerleading Lacrosse
Football Cross Country Skiing Tennis (Boys)
Soccer Gymnastics (Girls) Track & Field
Tennis (Girls) Indoor Track
Swimming (Girls) Swimming (Boys)
Volleyball Wrestling
Field Hockey Ice Hockey

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 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Guilderland has a multitude of student clubs and activities which
will help to make your high school experience enjoyable. The
complete list of Clubs can be found on the District website.

Class of 2020 Key Club

Class of 2021 Masterminds
Class of 2022 Math League
Class of 2023 Med Cross Club
Alliance Media Club
Amnesty International Men's Choir (The Singing Dutch-
Art Club men)
Badminton Club Model UN
Best Buddies Muslim Student Association
Building Enhancement Club National Honor Society
CBS Bowling Peer Network
Chamber Choir Pep Band
Chamber Strings (Select) Photography Club
Chemistry Club Political Debate & Discussion
Chess Club Pulse (formerly STATIC)
Civil Conversation SADD
Dance Squad SCAM (Students Creating a Musical)
E4G^2 Engineering Club Science Olympiad
Environmental Club Shakespeare Society
Fall Play Ski Club
Film Club Speech & Debate
Gender Equity Collaborative STAR (Students/Teachers Against
Guilderland Players Racism)
Harry Potter Club Student Government
International Club/Cultural Fair Tri-M Music Honor Society
Invest In Your Future UNICEF
Italian Club Vex Robotics
JAVA Programming Yearbook
Jazz Ensemble Youth Activation Committee
Jewish Student Association
The Journal Newspaper

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 STUDENT RECOGNITION AT GCHS

Graduation Recognition
Recognition for exemplary academic achievement will be awarded
to all members of the Senior class who achieve a 5.0 unweighted average
at the end of three and three-quarter years of high school. They will be
recognized for their achievement at the commencement ceremony.

Student Recognition Program

The Recognition Program is a way of rewarding students for their
efforts while enrolled at GHS.
Scholar Award is given to any student who has a 90 or above un-
weighted average for the preceding marking period.
Department Award is based upon nominations that your teachers
make for students who are performing well within a given subject area.
Deserving Dutchman is given to any student nominated by anyone
else. If you think that someone has completed a particularly noteworthy
activity either in school or the community you can nominate this person
for this award. The Deserving Dutchman can be given at any time during
the school year, whereas other awards are received by students at the
beginning of the marking periods for efforts made during the preceding
marking period. Catch somebody doing something good and nominate
him/her for the award. Nomination forms are available in each of the
offices at GHS.

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STUDENT RECOGNITION (cont.)

Honor Passes
The Guilderland High School Honor Pass is awarded to students
who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement during the
previous grading period. To qualify for the pass, students must have ob-
tained a 90.0 unweighted average or above and have a clean disciplinary
record. These passes need to be revalidated at the beginning of each
marking period. An Honor Pass entitles a student to certain privileges
and discounts at the school store and athletic events.

Community Service Recognition

Students in grades 9-12 are invited to participate in a Community
Service program to recognize student commitment to their school and
their community. Students may count volunteer hours from pre-fresh-
man summer forward. Documentation of hours must be turned in to the
Counseling Center by May 1st of their Senior year.
Students may accumulate as many hours as possible above the 200-
hour minimum. Each participant will receive an award certificate and a
pin to wear on his/her graduation gown. Official forms and a complete
list of qualifying Community Service sources are available from the
College & Career Center, Honor Society Advisor or Key Club Advisor.

Name: ____________________________________________________________ Graduation Year: 20______

RECORD OF COMMUNITY SERVICE - You must have a verifying signature for all activities.
Date(s) Verification Name, Committee
Hours Activity Description (school use only)
Signature, Phone #

Total Hours:___________ **Submit hours each May 1.

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