School Hours:

Brentwood maintains a district website that can be accessed at http://www.bb-sd.com.  Please visit the website for building and district information and resources. 

School Board meetings are open to the public and are generally held on the second and third Monday of the month.  A full listing of meeting dates can be found on the district website under the School Board tab.  All meetings are governed by the rules outlined in Board Policy 006.

Annually the Board of Directors conducts a formal written performance assessment of the Superintendent as required by law and described in policy 312.

Mission of the Brentwood School District

It is the mission of the Brentwood Borough School District to develop in all students the skills to think critically by reasoning, creating, connecting, and transforming in order to meet the challenges of the 21st century and achieve to their fullest potential as ethical citizens.

Vision of the Brentwood School District

It is the vision of the Brentwood Borough School District for all students to graduate prepared to meet the challenges of a complex society through lifelong learning skills that will allow them to be successful in college, career, and their individual life goals.

Central Office Administration

Nondiscrimination

The Brentwood Borough School District provides and equal opportunity for all students to achieve the maximum potential through the programs offered in the schools without discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, or handicap/ disability. If you believe you or others have been discriminated against please report such incidents to designated employees. For additional information please see Board Policies 103, 103.1, and 104.

Enrollment in the District

School age students, those 5 on or before September 1^st of the school year, will be enrolled in the district when the parent/ guardian has submitted proof of the student’s age, residence, immunizations, and completed a Parent Registration Statement.  Students may be enrolled the following school day but no later than five school days, after submitting all required paperwork (Policy 200).  Only district residents are permitted to enroll in the district and the office must be notified of all changes of address.

Financial Operations

The Brentwood Borough School District annually develops a budget for the operations of the schools and district.  Preliminary and final budgets are available for review per Board Policy 604.  The district also employees an independent, certified public account to conduct district audits in conformance with prescribed and legal standards (see policy 619).  The school district is funded in part though local tax payers.  All local tax payers are entitled to the Local Taxpayers Bill of Rights as outlined in Board Policy 621.  

Public Complaint Procedures

The Board welcomes inquiries, suggestions, and constructive criticism from families, district residents, or community groups regarding the district’s programs, personnel, operations, and facilities.  It is the intent that complaints, concerns, and suggestions be addressed or resolved at the lowest appropriate level starting with teacher or staff member then through building administrators and district administrators per Boar Policy 906. 

Title IX  

Attendance

Arrival and Dismissal

Tardiness

Early Dismissals

Absences

Regular and punctual attendance is essential for a successful educational experience (Board Policy 204). Consistent attendance fosters a sense of responsibility, discipline and good work habits.  The public school code lists the following reasons for which a student may be excused from school for all or part of a school day:

1.      Illness or other urgent reasons including sickness, recovery from accident, death in immediate family, court appearance, and unavoidable family emergency.       

2.      Observance of a recognized religious holiday.

3.      Religious instruction, not to exceed 36 hours per school year.

4.      Educational trips that are not school sponsored, but are of an educational nature. Requests will be approved on an individual basis, and will be contingent upon the student completing all assignments made during his or her absence.  It is strongly recommended that only one trip be taken each year, and that it be only one week (5 school days) in length.

5.      Health care - Absence for a portion of the school day may be approved for medical or dental appointments that cannot be arranged after school hours.  Such requests must be made in writing by a parent or legal guardian and taken to the Attendance Office before 8:00 a.m. The dismissal time requested, the reason for dismissal, and a parent signature must be included on all early dismissal requests. 

Absence for a portion of the school day for medical or dental appointments that cannot be arranged after school hours.  Early dismissal requests must be made in writing by a parent or legal guardian and taken to the office before 8:30 a.m.  The note should state:

A). the dismissal time requested

B). the reason for dismissal

C). the parent's/guardian's signature

Excuses

Any time a student is absent from school, he or she MUST provide a written note from a parent or guardian explaining the reason for the absence. The legal reasons for absences are located in the Absences Section but include situations such as illness, doctor’s appointments, or family emergencies. 

All absences will be entered as unexcused and unlawful until the school receives a written excuse explaining the absence. Written excuses must be submitted within three (3) school days after the absence.  If a written excuse is not received within the three (3) day period the absence will remain as unexcused.  Excuses will be accepted from parents/ guardians in the form of an email to the building secretary or a written note upon return. 

All absences beyond ten (10) cumulative days shall require an excuse from a licensed practitioner of the healing arts.  Students will be considered truant if they have three (3) or more unexcused absences during the school year.  Students who have six (6) or more unexcused absences will be considered habitually truant. As such, the student may be referred to the SAP team and the family may be asked to complete an attendance improvement plan in addition the following actions may occur: a citation with the Magistrate for violation of the compulsory attendance regulations, referral to Children, Youth, and Families, and/ or referral to other attendance agencies.

Absence for any reason not defined in the official school district policy is not excused and constitutes truancy.  Unexcused absences may result in course failure, suspension, or court action. 

It is our goal for all students to maximize their academic potential and we feel that good attendance habits can go a long way in helping students achieve that goal.  We thank you in advance for your support in encouraging your son or daughter to understand and abide by this attendance policy.

Truancy (Policy – 204) 

• After 3 unexcused absences a student is considered truant. A letter will be sent home. 
• After 6 unexcused Absences a student is considered habitually truant.  A letter will be sent home, a Parent Attendance Improvement Conference will be scheduled as well possible referral to a community-based attendance improvement program, possible citation with the local magistrate, or child protective services. 
• After 10 unexcused absences, a student will be referred to CYS or the local magistrate 
• After 15 unexcused absences, a student will be added to the Restricted List for 45 days and cannot participate in school-sponsored events, clubs, or activities

Make-Up Work

A student who has missed school for an approved reason is required to make-up all work assigned during his/her absence.  It is the responsibility of the student to see his/her teachers for the missed work, and to obtain help, if needed, in order to make up the work.  Work must be made up immediately upon returning from a normal absence, unless other arrangements have been approved by the teacher.  All make-up work due to absence must be completed within ten (10) days of the close of the grading period, or the student will receive a failing grade. Students may not be permitted to make-up work or assessments from unexcused absences.

Flexible Instruction Day/ Emergency Closing / Delay

Educational Programs

Every six years the education program of the district is examined an a written plan is developed for a comprehensive and integrated k-12 program.  Components of that program include guidance  counseling, psychological services and health services that support student development academically, socially, and behaviorally (Board Policy 146).

Students are given both rights and responsibilities that include regular attendance, a conscientious effort in school work, the following of Board Policies and school rules, and respect for others (Board Policy 235).  When students are responsible learners they are able to access educational programs and engage in the learning process.  Parents can request to view curricular materials including assessment techniques, standards to be achieved, and instructional materials (Board Policy 105.1). Requests to review materials should be made to the building principal in writing.

Assemblies and Field Trips

Assemblies and field trips are considered an important part of the educational/extracurricular program at Brentwood.  It is in this manner that children see firsthand items and places of educational significance that could enrich classroom teaching and enhance social maturation.

While taking part in these activities, students are expected to demonstrate appropriate behavior and maintain proper standards of personal hygiene, dress, and grooming.  Please note that while on school buses video and audio recordings may occur (Board Policy 810.2).

The cost of transportation for field trips is provided by the Parent Teacher Associations.  Parental consent forms for those trips requiring bus transportation are sent home with the students and must be returned with the signed consent of a parent or guardian.  Teachers will have one (1) chaperone for every five students, not to exceed the number of students in attendance.

Child Find and Annual Notice to Parents (CFR 300.125)

Identification Activity

Confidentiality (CFR 300.127)

• PSSA, Keystone Exam, and PASA test booklets will be destroyed one year after student reports are delivered for the administration associated with the test booklets. 
• PSSA and Keystone Exam answer booklets and PASA media recordings will be destroyed three years after completion of the assessment. 

Early Intervention Identification

Factors Considered When Determining Mental Giftedness      

1. The child performs a year or more above grade achievement level in one or more subjects as measured by a nationally normed and validated achievement test.
2. The child demonstrates rates of acquisition/retention of content and skills reflecting gifted ability.
3. The child demonstrates achievement, performance, or expertise in one or more academic areas as evidenced by products, portfolios or research, as well as criterion-referenced team judgment.
4. The child demonstrates early and measured use of high level thinking skills, academic creativity, leadership skills, intense academic interest, communication skills, foreign language aptitude, or technology expertise.
5. The child demonstrates that intervening factors such as English as a second language, disabilities, gender or race bias, or socio/cultural deprivation are masking gifted abilities. 

Interscholastic Athletics

At this time there are no interscholastic events for students at the elementary level as there no competitions between schools within or outside of the district (Board Policy 123).  There are intramurals that are held in the winter for students in fourth and fifth grade.  Appropriate student behavior is expected during intramurals students can be dismissed from the program due to repeated disciplinary infractions.

English as a Second Language Services

Mandated Reporters

Physical Education

The Department of Education requires that all students in grades first through fifth participate in physical education classes at least twice weekly. Any student who is unable to participate in regular classes must submit a written excuse from a licensed practitioner of the healing arts to the Physical Education teacher, health office, and main office prior to class.

No standard uniform is required.  However, students must wear suitable attire (girls are not permitted to wear tops which reveal midriffs) and gym shoes acceptable for athletic use (no platform tennis shoes or flip flops).

Pictures For Local Publications 

Safety Drills

Student Assistance Program (SAP)

Title I Services

Student Records

Report Cards and Progress Reports

Report cards are issued at nine-week intervals for grades kindergarten through five and they are accessed through Skyward.  Paper copies of report cards will not be sent home unless there is a written request submitted to the office.  Report cards, in addition to attendance and discipline records, become part of a student’s record per Board Policy 216. 

Progress reports are issued for students who are not attaining the level of achievement expected in a given subject area; they may be emailed midway during the nine-week grading period.  The intent of the progress report is to alert parents that a problem exists, and that a conference with the instructor is needed.  Conferences may be scheduled before or after school.

All students shall be graded according to the following table:

Skyward Family Access

Skyward Family Access (SFA) allows parents and guardians to use the Internet to keep track of important information that impacts your child’s education.  This is a free service to you and is intended to make it easier for you to be involved in your child’s daily educational activities.  The information that will be available includes the following:

A). Attendance information, shown by day or month

B). Food Service information, including purchases and account balance

C). Grading information

D). Emergency contact information

If you registered for Family Access previously, the system will automatically be available to you with your existing login name and password.  If you did not register or you are new to the Brentwood Borough School District, you must complete and return the Family Access Registration Form to take advantage of this free service. If you need your login information, please contact the main office.

Food Services

The schools food service program is designed to reinforce the district’s commitment to nutrition and student wellness.  Food served in schools shall be selected to meet the nutritional needs of students and follow the guidelines outlined in Board Policy 808.

Classroom Treats

The Board of Directors recognizes the need for student wellness and health. As such, students are not permitted to bring food as classroom treats.  Board Policy 246.  We are suggesting nonfood items to share with the class birthdays or to mark other events. Here are a few suggestions:

A). Items such as decorative pencils, erasers or trinkets from the Dollar Store. 

B). A board game or other item for use during recess.

Though we have made changes to the school cafeteria menu regarding peanut and tree nut foods, students may still bring peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and other nut related foods in their bagged lunches from home.  Students with food allergies should notify the health office for an allergy plan.

Lunch Service

Both elementary schools serve breakfast and hot lunches each day.  The cost of breakfast is $1.55.  The cost of lunch is $2.65.  The cost of milk is .75¢.  Information about the food service program can be found on the Food Service portion of the website.  

The breakfast period runs from 7:45 a.m. - 8:15 a.m. daily.  

The lunch periods for Moore Elementary are:

11:10 a.m. – 11:40 a.m.   Kindergarten and First Grade

11:50 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.  Second and Third Grade

PLEASE NOTE there will be no lunch service on half-days.

Free or reduced price meals are available to pupils whose families meet certain federal guidelines. Please note that the application forms must be completed annually.

The Brentwood Borough School District has implemented a point of sale program for school lunches.  With this program you are able to deposit money into your child’s account using School Cafe.  This school year we are only able to accept checks in person, cash cannot be processed.

Health Services

Medications and Allergies

Required Vaccines and Examinations

A). 4 doses of tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis* or more properly spaced doses of diphtheria/tetanus vaccine (1 dose on or after the 4^th birthday)*

B). 4 doses of polio (4^th dose on or after 4^th birthday ad at least 6 months after previous dose given)**

C). 2 doses of measles, mumps, rubella***

D). 3 doses of hepatitis B

E). 2 doses of varicella (chickenpox) or evidence of immunity

* Usually given as DTP or DTaP or if medically advisable, DT or Td

** A fourth dose is not necessary if the third dose was administered at age 4 years or older and at least 6 months after previous dose

*** Usually given as MMR

Communicable Diseases

In order to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, the County of Allegheny has set forth the following guidelines for control:

School Insurance

Student accident insurance is available for all children at a nominal fee.  This insurance covers medical, dental, and hospital expenses resulting from accidental injury which may occur at school.

Student Insurance

Those students who participate in interscholastic sports MUST have insurance or an appropriate waiver from their parents.

School insurance is available to all students at minimum cost.  Forms may be obtained in the office at the beginning of the school year.  Students without health insurance may qualify for the Child Health Insurance Program, or C.H.I.P.  For more information please contact the building nurse at  412-881-7776.

Integrated Pest Management

The school district utilizes and integrated pest management procedures. If you would like to be notified of the application of pesticides in accordance with applicable laws please notify the office to be added to the list (Boar Policy 816).

Parent Teacher Association

The Moore School PTA annually sponsors cultural and recreational activities designed to enrich the educational life in the elementary school.  Their efforts are aimed at bringing the home and school into a closer relationship by involving parents and teachers in programs of benefit to children.  Your cooperation and participation in the activities of the PTA will be in the best educational interest of your son or daughter. The school building and grounds is can be used by the PTA and other groups for educational, social, recreational, or other purposes as defined by Board Policy 707.

Visitors

To ensure the safety and security of our students and staff and the orderly operation of the Brentwood School District educational programs, all parents and guardians and other individuals planning to visit our schools during the school day are required to follow the district registration and check-in/check-out procedures. Please take time to review the visitation procedures below.

A). When planning to visit a classroom or another area of the school building, during the school day, please call the main office and pre-register for an appointment prior to the date of the visit.  Absent an emergency, requests to meet with a classroom teacher or other staff member should be made at least 48 hours in advance to allow the school sufficient time to make arrangements for substitute coverage.

B). School policy does not permit children (students from other schools, friends, relatives) to visit the classroom for the day.

As part of the registration process at the office window, all visitors will be asked to provide their driver’s license or other state-issued photo-identification prior to you entering the school for any reason. The secretary, will scan the ID through the Raptor Visitor System. A visitor pass will be printed and will include a picture of the visitor, name, date, and time of entrance to the building.

A). Visitor pass must be worn in a visible place.

B). All visitors must have a pass before proceeding to any other part of the building.

C). Visitors must remain in approved areas only and at all times and act in a manner appropriate to the safe functioning of the school environment.  Any individual who engages in uncooperative or disruptive behavior will be required to leave the premises.

D). Upon conclusion of the visit, the visitor must return to the building office, and sign-out by returning your visitor badge. Once the visitor has signed-out, they must leave the school building immediately.

These procedures are implemented pursuant to Board Policy 907, which is available for review on the district’s website. These procedures apply to all Brentwood School District buildings. Please note that parents and guardians dropping off items for a student may do so at the window without going into the office.

For the safety of your child and in order to maintain the proper learning environment, no person will be permitted in the building without a visitor's pass.  Upon arriving at either elementary school, all visitors must register with the secretary and receive a visitor's pass before proceeding to their destination.  Those without previously scheduled visits may be asked to schedule a visit and return at a later date.

The district reserves the right to deny an individual entry to any school building, when there is reason to believe that such individual’s presence would be detrimental to the operation of the school and the learning environment. The Board prohibits gambling, the possession and use of controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, and weapons on school premises (policy 904).

No Smoking

Smoking is prohibited on all school grounds and within fifty feet of school buildings, stadiums and bleachers.  This includes tobacco, nicotine, and nicotine delivery products.  See policy 904.

No Animals

Students are not permitted to bring animals to school for visitation without authorization from the principal’s office.  Animals are not permitted on the school property during school hours which include arrival and dismissal times.  Service animals are permitted on property for events that are open to the general public in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations.

No Solicitation

Unless authorized by the Elementary Principal or Superintendent, no advertisement of any material containing advertising, whether free or otherwise, is to be distributed to students in the school.  There will be no selling of promotional items to staff and/or students unless directly related to the Parent Teacher Association fund raising activities.

Under no circumstances should an individual or outside agency be given the names, addresses, or telephone numbers of students, their parents, or staff this includes the surveying of students or collection of information for marketing purposes (policy 235.1).

• No student shall wear clothing that that permits the exposure of undergarments, bare midriffs, or private body parts 
• No student shall wear sunglasses, hats, hoods raised, or other headwear within the school building. (An exception to the wearing of headwear maybe granted to an individual student by the administration for medical or religious reasons.)
• No student shall wear coats, jackets, or other forms of outerwear within a classroom.
• No student shall wear any clothing or jewelry that by words, signs, pictures, colors, or any combination thereof appearing on said clothing or jewelry, advocates or promotes gang activity, profanity, sexual activity or violence, or the use of alcohol or drugs, or demeans or degrades another because of race, sex, religious persuasion, national origin, handicap, or disability. The third prohibition shall be in effect not only during school hours but also at any school-sponsored event whether on or off school premises.
• No student is permitted to wear wallet or biker chains.

Rules governing student conduct have been developed per Board policy 218.  All students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that promotes a safe and orderly educational environment. The codes and procedures related to student discipline apply both in school and at school sponsored events.

School officials have the authority to lawfully search students or their belongings, including lockers, backpacks, clothing, etc. if there is a reasonable suspicion per Board policy 226.  It is the expectation that students volunteer information relating to matters of health, safety, and welfare of the school community and protection of school property. 

Students who are victims of violent crimes that occur on school property as defined by Board policy 144 are entitled to transfer schools within the district.  

Demerit Procedures

The school has the authority to take corrective action against any behavior, whether covered specifically in this written code or not, which is found to be disruptive to the educational process of school.

In addition to the code, 1 to 15 demerits may be assigned by the Principal, as judged necessary, in handling discipline problems in the school which have not been addressed in the discipline code.

The Principal has the authority to make age appropriate adjustments to any of the above corrective actions when deemed necessary. 

The Principal, at his/her discretion, may award merits to students who have shown good citizenship and/or attendance for an extended period of time. The Principal may determine to use earned merits in conjunction with the demerit system.

Level I Offenses

Level I offenses are violations of school rules and regulations that minimally hinder or disrupt the operation of the school and the delivery of the educational program.

Disruption of School and/or Class

Dress Code

Wearing any attire that is in violation of the dress code. The administration reserves the right to take corrective action against students dressed inappropriately including sending the offender home to change clothes. (1 to 5 demerits)

Use of Electronic Devices, Including Cell Phones

Public Display of Affection

Engaging in display of affection in school, on school grounds, or at a school event. (1 to 5 demerits)

Physical Altercation

A physical altercation is one in which a student engages another in physical aggression but does not throw punches/ and or excessive violence has not occurred.  This is the judgement of the teacher or administration.  If deemed an altercation up to 10 demerits can be assigned.  If deemed a fight, it is considered a Level II offense.

Skipping or Cutting Class

Skipping or cutting class is defined as not being in the assigned classroom, study hall, lunch period, etc., but not leaving the school building/grounds. Excessive class cutting may result in a citation and hearing with the magistrate.

First offense - 5 demerits

Second offense - 10 demerits

Subsequent offenses - 15 demerits

Unexcused Tardiness to School

Third unexcused tardy - Warning letter sent home

Fifth unexcused tardy - After school detention

Seventh unexcused tardy- Saturday detention

Tenth unexcused tardy - In-school suspension (1 day)

Fifteenth unexcused tardy - In-school suspension (3 days)

Twentieth unexcused tardy - Citation and hearing with the magistrate

Saturday detention will be assigned for every 3rd tardy after 20

The Principal has the authority to make age appropriate adjustments to the above when deemed necessary.

Level II Offenses

Level II offenses call for the assignment of up to 15 demerits. Depending on the incident, suspension and a citation may be involved.  In some cases, expulsion may also be recommended.

Academic Integrity Regulations

Students’ grades reflect their individual efforts and achievements. It is the responsibility of each student to act in an ethical and responsible manner on all assignments. Therefore, cheating, plagiarism, and assisting others to do so are all violations of academic integrity. This includes the following:

Cheating, defined as using another individual’s work as your own. This includes copying homework and assignments, sharing test information, using “cheat sheets”, or prohibited texts or materials. Plagiarism, defined as representing the words, ideas, or creations of another person as one’s own.  This includes copying another person’s work or ideas without giving proper credit, cutting and pasting from the Internet or other database sources, copying from texts, or paraphrasing without giving credit to the original source.  Violating federal copyright laws by using images downloaded from the Internet or other sources for personal use, except for classroom assignments.

Consequences for the above include an automatic failure on the assignment, test, project, etc. In addition, demerits may be accumulated at the Principal’s discretion.

Damage to Private or School Property

A student shall not steal, cause damage to, or destroy school property or private property during school, on school grounds, or at a school function. (Up to 15 demerits)

Disruption of School and/or Class

A student shall not engage in any conduct that may cause or create a substantial disruption or material interference with any school function or activity, or that creates a reasonable likelihood that it will interfere with the health, safety, well-being, or rights of other students. (Up to 15 demerits)

Fighting

15 demerits for each offense, 3 day suspension, and citation issued

Harassing, Intimidating, Threatening, Bullying, Degrading, or Disgraceful Acts

A student shall not engage in any act which harasses, intimidates, threatens, bullies, degrades or disgraces a teacher, fellow student, visitor, administrator, school employee, or member of the Board of School Directors by written, verbal, or gestural means. Board policy 247 and 249 (15 demerits and 1 – 3 day suspension)

Insubordination

A student shall not fail to comply with the directions of teachers, student teachers, aides, bus drivers, principals, or other authorized school personnel. He/she shall not fail to comply with the rules and regulations of the school. (Up to 15 demerits)

Leaving School Grounds without Permission

First offense - 10 demerits

Subsequent offenses - 15 demerits

Possession of Tobacco

Students should not bring tobacco products to school. Tobacco products are not to be carried on a student nor stored in lockers. (5 demerits, citation, and fine)

Profanity

A student shall not use any form of profanity, written or verbal. Included in this prohibition would be the use of obscene gestures, signs, pictures or publications, obscene language, phrases, or partial phrases. (5 demerits)

Profanity Directed Toward Faculty

First offense - 15 demerits and 1 – 3 day suspension

Second offense - 30 demerits and 3 – 5 day suspension

Tobacco/ Nicotine Products

Students shall not be permitted to possess, use or sell tobacco, nicotine and nicotine delivery products in the school building or on school property, including on school buses, at school sponsored functions, during field trips, and other scheduled activities of the school.

First offense - 15 demerits, 1 – 3 day suspension, citation and fine

Second offense - 15 demerits, 3 – 5 day suspension, citation and fine

Third offense - 15 demerits, 10 day suspension, citation and fine

Technology Code

Engaging in any activity prohibited by the technology code.  See Board Policy 815. (Up to 15 demerits)

Truancy

An act of truancy shall consist of a student being unexcused for a minimum of 4 periods of a full day.

First offense - 10 demerits

Second offense - 10 demerits

Third offense - 15 demerits, citation and fine depending on age of student

Level III Offenses

Level III offenses consist of acts that threaten the health, welfare, safety, and security of the Brentwood Borough School District community.  Level III offenses call for an immediate suspension of 10 days and the assignment of 60 demerits.  A hearing with the Superintendent of Schools and a possible expulsion hearing will result in cases involving Level III offenses.  In addition, Level III offenses require a parental conference with the school administration and may result in legal action.

Assault

A student shall not cause physical injury to any student, teacher, or other school employee or visitor on school grounds or during a school function or event. (10 day suspension plus 60 demerits)

Breaking and Entering

Illegal or unauthorized entry into school facilities. (10 day suspension plus 60 demerits)

Dangerous Weapons or Instruments

A student shall not possess, use, transmit, or conceal any object that might be considered a dangerous weapon or instrument of violence.  This list is not totally inclusive, but some examples are: sharp instruments, cutting instruments, cutting tools, knives, pipes, guns, ice picks, switchblades, brass knuckles, nuchakus, handguns, BB guns, pellet guns, shotguns, rifles, firecrackers, explosive devices, chemicals, and gases including mace. Students found to be in violation of Board policy 218.1 are subject to an expulsion hearing before the Board of Directors.

Drugs, Alcoholic Beverages, Drug Paraphernalia and Look-a-Like Drugs

A student shall not possess, use, transmit, distribute, or sell drug paraphernalia. 

A student shall not possess, use, transmit, distribute, sell, or be under the influence of any drug or alcoholic beverage of any kind with the exception of the student who is taking prescription medication under the direction of a physician. The office and teachers must be informed in regard to prescription medication.

A student shall not knowingly possess, sell, make, offer to sell, give, package, or deliver a counterfeit controlled substance; nor shall he/she represent a counterfeit controlled substance by describing it as being the same physical or mental effect associated with use of a controlled substance; nor shall a student falsely represent a counterfeit controlled substance as a controlled substance

The restrictions noted above shall refer to:

A). The school grounds during, before, or after school hours

B). Off school grounds at a school activity

C). On school buses or rented carriers

D). Use prior to attending a school activity, function, or event

10 day suspension plus 60 demerits

Institutional Vandalism

Intentionally defacing or destroying school property. (10 day suspension plus 60 demerits)

Terroristic Threats and Acts

A terroristic threat is a threat to commit violence communicated with the intent to terrorize another, cause evacuation of a building, or cause serious public inconvenience, in reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror or inconvenience.  A terroristic act is an offense against property or involving danger to another.  See Board Policy 218.2. (10 day suspension plus 60 demerits)

Violations of PA Crimes Code

Any violation of the Pennsylvania crimes code not covered specifically in the disciplinary code.

School or local police may also be involved with any situations that are a violation of the crimes code.(10 day suspension plus 60 demerits)

Disciplinary Measures

Should a student behave in the unacceptable ways indicated in this discipline code, the school district administration may enforce any of the following disciplinary measures:

1.       Student conference

2.       Parent phone call/parent conference

Prior to a problem becoming quite serious, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will often be asked to come to the school to work with school officials.  Many times a student will begin to show progress upon the involvement of the parent(s)/guardian(s) in the problem.

3.       Assignment to detention

This may be assigned before school, after school, or on Saturday.  The parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified in advance when detention is assigned.

4.       Work assignments beyond the regular course load when determined to be appropriate and practical

5.       In-school suspension

When an adequate place is available within the building, the Principal may assign students to in-school suspension, which allows a student to remain in school, but isolates the student from the rest of the students in attendance.

6.       Suspension from school

Serious violations and continued offenses may lead to a suspension from school. Unless it involves an emergency removal, the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified in advance that the student is being suspended from school.

7.       Referral to juvenile authorities or police

When a serious offense is involved, outside authorities may be called for assistance.

8.       Removal from school by the parent(s)/guardian(s) on a temporary basis

For the protection of the children involved, pending investigation of a situation that may be disruptive to the school program.  This allows school officials to solve a potentially serious problem with the least amount of confusion.

9.       Hearing with the Superintendent of Schools and possible expulsion

Expulsion must be taken very seriously by the student and by the parent(s)/guardian(s).  Students cannot remain in the school if they are a continuous threat to the health, safety, and well-being of the other students and staff.

Consequences Associated With the Accumulation of Demerits

1 to 14 Demerits - Students will be counseled; Parent/guardian will be contacted after 8 demerits.

15 Demerits - 1 to 3 day suspension; Letter to parent/guardian; Parent/guardian conference prior to student returning to school.

30 Demerits - 3 to 5 day suspension; Letter to parent/guardian; Parent/guardian conference prior to student returning to school.

35 Demerits - Phone call to parent/guardian.

40 Demerits - Letter to parent/guardian.

45 Demerits - 10 day suspension; Letter to parent/guardian; Parent/guardian conference prior to student returning to school; Psychological referral.

55 Demerits - Letter to parent/guardian explaining the consequences of 60 demerits.

60 Demerits - 10 day suspension; Hearing with Superintendent of Schools; Possible exclusion from extracurricular activities; Possible action with the magistrate and recommendation for expulsion.

Threats / Bullying

Ethnic intimidation, terroristic threats, terroristic acts, and bullying will not be tolerated.  Bullying includes systematic name-calling, teasing, extortion, physical abuse, and purposefully excluding individuals from social opportunities through cliques.

The Brentwood Borough School District strives to provide a safe, positive learning climate for students in the schools.  Therefore, it shall be the policy of the district to maintain an educational environment in which harassment in any form is not tolerated.

Harassment of a student consists of verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race, color, national origin/ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religion when such conduct:

      A). Is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it affects an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity or creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment.

      B). Has the purpose or effect or substantially or unreasonable interfering with an individual’s academic performance.

      C). Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s learning opportunities.

Sexual harassment of a student shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Each student shall be responsible to respect the rights of their fellow students and to ensure an atmosphere free from all forms of unlawful harassment.

Students shall be informed that they may choose to report harassment complaints to any building principals, teachers, counselors, nurses and administrators.

When a student believes that she or he is being harassed, the student should immediately inform the harasser that his/her behavior is unwelcome, offensive or inappropriate.  If the behavior continues, the student shall follow the established complaint procedure.

A substantiated charge against a district student shall subject such student to disciplinary action, consistent with the Student Code of Conduct, and may include educational activities and/or counseling services related to unlawful harassment.

If it is concluded that a student has made false accusations, such student shall be subject to disciplinary actions, consistent with the Student Code of Conduct.

Additional information regarding the bullying policy can be found in the policy manual number 249.

Technology Policy / Code of Conduct

Introduction

We are pleased to offer students of the Brentwood Borough Public Schools access to the district computer network resources and the Internet.  To use these resources, all students must sign and return the form, and those under age 18 must obtain parental permission.  Parents, please read and complete the document carefully, review its contents with your son/daughter, and sign and initial where appropriate.  Any questions or concerns about the permission form or any aspect of the computer network should be referred to your school’s Technology Specialist.

General Computer Use

The computers are provided for students to do computer-based learning, conduct research and complete assignments.  Access to computers is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Access is a privilege - not a right. As such, general school rules for behavior and communications apply and users must comply with district standards and honor the agreements they have signed.  

Students are prohibited from using or installing software purchased or downloaded for home use.  The use of this software violates copyright laws. 

General Network Use

The network is provided for students to conduct research, complete assignments, and store data. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Access is a privilege - not a right.  As such, general school rules for behavior and communications apply and users must comply with district standards and honor the agreements they have signed. Beyond the clarification of such standards, the district is not responsible for monitoring or controlling the communications of individuals utilizing the network.

Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers.  Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly.  Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will always be private.  Unapproved or inappropriate material will be removed by the technology staff.

Internet / World Wide Web

Access to the Internet will enable students to use thousands of libraries and databases.  Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored.  Families should be warned that some material accessible via the Internet might contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive to some people. While our intent is to make Internet access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access other materials as well. Filtering software is in use, but no filtering system is capable of blocking 100% of the inappropriate material available on the Internet. We believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed any disadvantages. Ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. To that end, the Brentwood Borough Public Schools support and respect each family's right to decide whether or not to apply for access.

Policy Violations

Violations of this policy by students will be handled within the guidelines of the elementary discipline policy.  Multiple offenses may result in the loss of all district computer privileges, and or, school suspension.