Nobleboro Central School

Student Handbook
2009-2010

NCS is dedicated to creating & supporting a challenging,

respectful, and safe learning environment where the uniqueness
of each individual is honored.
 Nobleboro Central School
194 Center Street, Nobleboro ME 04555
Phone/Fax: (207) 563-3437

NCS Webpage http://lincoln.midcoast.com/~ncs Powerschool http://169.244.116.230/public

Table of Contents
Letter from the Principal ------------------------------------------------------------3 Student Assistance Team ------------------------------------ 17, 18

AOS #93 Standards & Core Values ---------------------------------------------4 Textbooks--------------------------------------------------------------- 18

Board Members, Staff, Administration ----------------------------------------5 Parent & Teacher Conferences --------------------------------- 18

Visitor Information --------------------------------------------------------------------6 School Photos -------------------------------------------------------- 19

Daily Schedule -------------------------------------------------------------------------6 Assemblies ------------------------------------------------------------- 19

Attendance-------------------------------------------------------------------------------7 Electronic Devices, Audio, Cell & Phone Use ------------ 19

Maine Law -----------------------------------------------------------------7 Backpacks, Trading Cards --------------------------------------- 20

Excused Absences ----------------------------------------------------7 Dress Code ------------------------------------------------------------- 20

Truancy --------------------------------------------------------------------8 Beverages -------------------------------------------------------------- 21

NCS Attendance Procedure ----------------------------------------8 Newsletter -------------------------------------------------------------- 21

Academics -------------------------------------------------------------------------------8 PowerSchool & PowerGrade ------------------------------------ 22

Academic Goals --------------------------------------------------------8 Nobleboro Reads!---------------------------------------------------- 22

Reports/Honor Roll/Retention -------------------------------------9 Playground ------------------------------------------------------------- 23

Academic Eligibility --------------------------------------------- 9, 10 Sports -------------------------------------------------------------------- 23

Academic Testing ---------------------------------------------------- 10 Fire Drills, Crisis Plans--------------------------------------------- 24

Academic Assistance, Homework ------------------------ 10-13 School Cancellations ----------------------------------------------- 24

Special Academic Programs ---------------------------------------------------- 13 Community Use of Building -------------------------------------- 24

Band/Chorus/Music ------------------------------------------------- 13 Support NCS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25

Art -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 Organizations------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26

Technology & Media, Library ------------------------------------ 14 Health Information ------------------------------------------------------------- 27, 28

Phys Education ------------------------------------------------------- 15 Transportation ------------------------------------------------------------------ 29, 30

Title 1A ------------------------------------------------------------------- 15 Bike Policy -------------------------------------------------------------- 29

Special Ed --------------------------------------------------------------- 15 Bus Information ------------------------------------------------- 29, 30

Child Find --------------------------------------------------------------- 16 Rules for Behavior/Code of Conduct ----------------------------------- 31, 32

NCS MISSION ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16 Discipline Procedures -------------------------------------------------------- 33, 34

Services, Activities, Procedures ----------------------------------------------- 17 Legal Information -------------------------------------------------------------- 35, 36

School Nutrition ------------------------------------------------------ 17 School Calendar --------------------------------------------------------------------- 37

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 Nobleboro Central School
194 Center Street
Nobleboro ME 04555
Mark W. Deblois mdeblois@aos93.org
Principal (207) 563-3437phone/fax
NCS – Acting Upon Our Beliefs and Values Each Day

August 2009

Dear NCS Students and Parents:

As August begins to slip by, the beginning of a new school year dawns at NCS. Just prior to school closing last June
I wrote an article in our school newsletter reviewing the “state of the school.” It highlighted many student and staff accom-
plishments and set a vision for the future at NCS. The 2009-2010 school year will be a time to build on the positive momen-
tum of the past and see students and staff reach new heights of growth and aspiration. It will be the year for all the NCS com-
munity to set lofty goals, both individually and in groups, and to build solid plans to realize those goals.

The student and staff population at NCS is in a very stable position. We will start the school year with a student
population that is slightly larger than last year. After the retirement of Mr. Dixon, we will have one familiar face in a different
location with Mrs. Kaler as the new fifth grade teacher. While NCS might be small in numbers, we are not small in our deeds,
as NCS is now looked at within AOS 93 as a leader in innovative, responsive student educational programming. Our K-8
Literacy Teams are seen as “cutting edge” in providing all students with dynamic leveled literacy instruction. We are leading
the way in multi-age mathematics instruction for students in grades 5-8, and NCS is readying itself to meet the demands of a
new federal initiative called Response to Intervention (RTI) that will guarantee that any child who isn’t progressing appropri-
ately has a clear set of plans built to foster growth and school success. NCS has a clear vision for how it wants its students to
develop academically, socially, emotionally and physically; and the dedicated staff is committed to seeing that vision reach
fruition.

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year! NCS is an exciting and vital institution but the most important component
within this school is its students. It is their energy, their desire to learn and grow, and their determination to fully realize their
potential that keeps the staff so eager to work with them. It is equally important to recognize the need for a positive bond be-
tween the school and all our NCS parents. Within that pivotal relationship is the glue that holds all educational plans and all
student aspirations together. I, along with the entire NCS staff, relish the opportunity to build that plan together and see 2009-
2010 as a banner year for this school and all its students.
Sincerely,

Mark W; Deblois, Principal

Dedicated to creating and supporting a challenging, respectful and safe learning environment
where the uniqueness of each individual is honored.

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 AOS #93
Standards for Civility
All students and staff will help achieve and maintain the following standards in Union #74 schools:
An environment that is free of aggression and violence.
An environment that is free of harassment, bullying, teasing, and discrimination.
An environment that is free of inappropriate and disrespectful language.
An environment that is clean, orderly, safe, and inviting.
An environment that promotes learning through challenge, kindness, clarity, and respect.

AOS #93 Core Values

RESPECT . . . Respectful people show consideration for persons, places and things.

RESPONSIBILITY . . . Responsible people fulfill their obligations and are accountable for their actions.
SELF DISCIPLINE . . . Self-disciplined people control their behavior and feelings.
CARING . . . Caring people feel and demonstrate concern for others.
HONESTY . . . Honest people respond in a sincere and truthful manner to people and events.
INVOLVEMENT . . . Involved people participate in school and community activities.
COMPASSION . . . Compassionate people understand the suffering of others and want to do something
to help.

COURAGE . . . Courageous people face their fears with confidence.

TRUSTWORTHINESS . . . Trustworthy people are reliable and dependable in all they do.

This handbook provides useful information for the coming school year.
Items outlined in text boxes are provided as a handy reference and/or to
inform you of new, important policies within the NCS community.
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We Proudly Serve Our NCS Community
School Board Members:
Josh Hatch, Chairperson
Michelle Cameron
Larry Keith
Hilary Petersen
Tom Wriggins

School Administration & Coordinators

Robert Bouchard, Superintendent of Schools
Deryl Holt, Director of Special Education
Candice Abruzese, Human Resources
Donna Williams, Executive Secretary & Office Manager
Sherry Forstrom, Secretary—Special Services
Linda Davis, Accounts Payable
Adam Hanson, Business Manager
Mark Deblois, NCS Principal
Nancy Courville, Secretary

Staff

Al Butler Custodian
Gayle Gifford Head Cook
John Gosselin Physical Education/Math
Daryl Hahn Gr. 7& 8 (8th Homeroom)
Carol Preston Music
Susan Healey Library & Office Assistant
Cynthia Sabina Gr. 6-8 (6th Homeroom)
Robyn Henry Grade 1
Paula Schuster Grade 2
Avis Ingalls Grade 3
Michelle Slack Kindergarten
Jennifer Jones Guidance
Darrell Spears Bus Driver/Classroom Assistant,
Tamara Kaler Grade 5
Center for Alternative Learning
Doug Parcher Classroom Assistant, Center
Linda Taylor Media Coordinator
for Alternative Learning
Maureen Trial Head Teacher, AOS93 Center
Debra Poland Special Education
for Alternative Learning
Barbara Powell Grade 4
Tim Weeks Head Custodian
Deborah Pratt Classroom Aide
Nancy Whitney Title 1A, Teacher Assistant
Kenneth Williams Gr. 6-8 (7th Homeroom)
Barbara Woodward Reading Intervention Specialist
Lisa Workman Art

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VISITOR and
PARENT INFORMATION
We value your presence and involvement in this school. The safety of our students is of para-
mount importance and procedures for monitoring those who enter the building is a major component in
ensuring the daily safety of all NCS students. Exterior doorways in the school are kept locked except for
the main entrance. We request that all parents/visitors enter and exit at the main entrance.
Parents and visitors are asked to check-in at the reception window in the front lobby. Visitors
coming into school during the day are asked to sign in and obtain an identification badge. This, along
with signing out, helps to monitor the flow of individuals into and out of the building, assisting in providing
genuine safety for all. We appreciate your cooperation as we strive to maintain the greatest degree of
security possible for NCS students and staff.

2009-2010 SCHEDULES

Arrival
7:50-8:10am Bus arrival
8:10-8:25am Breakfast
8:25am Tardy Bell/Classes Begin

Lunch Schedule Recess Schedule

11:00-11:20 Gr. 5-8 11:10-11:25 Gr. K-2
11:30-12:00 Gr. K-2 11:10-11:40 Gr. 3-4
11:40-12:00 Gr. 3-4 11:30-12:00 Gr. 5

Dismissal Daily Dismissal: All students are re-

2:33pm Bus Departure quired to go home when school is dismissed.
2:35pm Walkers & Bikers Exceptions: (1) Academic Assistance
(2) Required Detention
(3) Participation in school-
sponsored activity.

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 Attendance Expectations
One of the largest positive factors leading to school success is regular attendance. The loss of a
school day cannot be replaced with a homework assignment or extra after-school work. NCS encourages
all students and parents to make every attempt to have students in school when it is in session. If stu-
dents only miss school on rare, unavoidable occasions, they will be in a far more positive position to ac-
cess all that NCS education has to offer. We implore all parents to strive to keep absences to an abso-
lute minimum.

Compulsory Attendance—Maine School Law

Maine students not only have the right to attend school, but persons between 7 years and under 17
years of age must attend a public day school during the time it is in regular session. The purpose of hav-
ing compulsory education laws has been stated by the Maine Legislature:
Compulsory education is essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the
people and the continued prosperity of our society and our nation. Maintaining regular
school attendance is necessary to achieve the goal of an educated citizenry. Public
schools should enjoy the rights of access for all school–age persons to
an appropriated educational opportunity, and when necessary, should
develop alternatives to regular school curricula for those children and
youth at risk of becoming dropouts and those who may have left
school.
State law recognizes a number of exceptions to the general compulsory at-
tendance requirement, which include:
A person who graduates from high school before age 17.
A person who is 15 years old or older and whose attendance requirement
has been waived by the school board after a truancy hearing, and
A person who is receiving equivalent instruction from a private school or
approved home instruction.

Excusable Absences Maine law recognizes that a person‟s absence from school is justi-

fied in certain situations. The following circumstances constitute “excusable absence”:

Personal illness

An appointment with a health professional that must be made during a regular school day

Observance of a recognized religious holiday when the observance is required during a regular
school day.

A family emergency; or

A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose that has been approved.

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Truancy
Under Maine law, a student age 7-Grade 6 is habitually truant if (s)he meets the equivalent of
either 7 unexcused absences or 5 consecutive absences. At Grade 7, the law states that a student is
habitually truant upon reaching 10 unexcused absences or 7 consecutive days of absence.
If a student is habitually truant, as a first step, the superintendent is required to try to correct the
problem informally, but if that fails, the superintendent should then refer the matter to the School Board.

NCS Attendance Procedures

If your child is absent from school, parents are asked to call in to school by 9am on
the morning of the absence, indicating the reason for the absence, or your child
should bring a written note of explanation on the day he/she returns to school.

Students are recorded absent from school on any day or half-day they are not present.
Students are tardy if they arrive after 8:25am. Parents must sign in their child upon arrival.
Students who are habitually tardy (tardy 5 or more times/trimester) will be issued an office detention.
Parents knowing their child is approaching this number of tardies may request a meeting with the princi-
pal to resolve the situation.

Academics
:Academic Goals Each student will be provided a strong academic program to help ensure

that his/her scholastic potential may be reached. Our objectives are:

To enable students to attain their highest level of performance with

the best possible grades for their endeavors.

To prepare for future courses with a feeling of accomplishment and

self-esteem.

To recognize and accommodate the uniqueness of each individual.

To help become independent and able to take charge in the devel-

opment of their own character.

To help gain the satisfaction of a job well done.

To become lifelong learners.

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Report Cards are issued tri-annually:
The Kindergarten report card reflects areas of language development as well as mathematical and literacy
understanding. Social skill development is also addressed.
Grades 1, 2, 3 utilize a system that reflects programs in academic skills, social skills, and work habits.
Grades 4-8 Report: 90-100 A Outstanding
80-89 B Very good, above average
70-79 C Average
60-69 D Poor, below average
Below 60 F Failing

Honor Roll
Students are eligible for the Honor Roll if they earn a “B” or higher in every subject. Honor Roll is an-
nounced at the end of each trimester.

Interim Reports
Progress reports are completed for grades 5-8 at the middle of each trimester. They are used to help
parents and students recognize problems in certain subjects. Progress reports are useful in providing an
impetus for improvement, and also indicate progress in subject areas. These reports are to be signed by
the parents and returned to the homeroom teacher.

Retentions
By March teachers will notify parents as to the possibility of retention. Parents will have direct involve-
ment in decisions concerning grade placement of their children.

Academic Eligibility
This procedure is enforced in grades 5-8 for all students participating in school-sponsored activities.
To be eligible to participate a student must:

Maintain a “C” academic average in his/her overall academic schedule.

Maintain a minimum grade of “D” in any individual subject.

Not earn an “F” in any academic subject.

Not earn any incompletes. (Incompletes are considered as “F” if not made up within two
weeks from the reporting of the grade.)
The parent(s) of an ineligible student will be contacted to review procedures.
(continued. . .)

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Academic Eligibility, continued:
An ineligible student is unavailable to participate in an athletic contest, competition or public
presentation for a 2-week period. If the student brings grades up to a “C” average (without any “F‟s”),
then the privilege of participating is regained. During the ineligibility period, after consultation between
parent(s) and the specific coach/director/activity leader, a student may continue a limited practice sched-
ule to maintain enough level of participation so that connections to the activity are not entirely lost. This
is specific to the 2-week period. If eligibility is not regained in that time, the student will lose the privilege
to participate—at any level—unless an Alternative Eligibility Contract is completed and the plan
adopted. These plans are specific to each student and allow for potential of individual circumstances to
be considered. Once an Alternative Eligibility Contract is adopted, the plan must be followed to the com-
pletion of the activity or until the next formal evaluation period is reached. This decision would be
reached collaboratively between the principal, activity teacher and parent.

Academic Testing
The New England Common Assessment Program (NECAP) is administered in October to stu-
dents in Grades 3-8. This test is used to provide parents and teachers with standardized achievement
information. These exams are required by the Federal No Child Left Behind Act. All NCS students in
grades K-3 are assessed using the Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA). Starting in fall
2006, NCS students in Grades 3-8 have been assessed with the Northwest Evaluation Association‟s
Measure of Academic Progress (MAP). At all grade levels, NCS students are also assessed in core
academic areas using required assessments from the AOS #93 Local Assessment System (LAS).
These assessments take place throughout the school year.

Academic Assistance
Independent homework assignments are a very important component
for students during the learning process. After a concept has been pre-
sented and guided practice has been completed during class time, suc-
cessfully completing an independent assignment demonstrates that the
student has grasped the concept presented in class.
Jr. High teachers are available for after-school academic assistance. We view this practice as being
very positive in that:

It assures students who are capable of completing homework assignments are charged with that
responsibility.

It assures that students who have difficulty in completing assignments are able to get extra help so
that they do not fall behind.

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Guidelines are as follows:
Teachers, students and parents may request academic support. The teacher has discretion to re-
quire academic assistance in the event that students are not progressing satisfactorily in specific areas.
The academic assistance practice is not associated with the school‟s formal discipline policy and
does not affect a student‟s standing in that system. However, if a student refuses to fulfill his/her obliga-
tion for academic assistance, action will be taken which could include a disciplinary detention.
If you have a question regarding a homework assignment, please contact the teacher who has as-
signed the work.

Homework Practices and Procedures

Homework is provided to enhance the learning skills and information lead-
ing to student success. It should be meaningful. Homework is a component
of the development of proper and useful study skills.

Grade Level Homework Expectations

The Nobleboro School Board supports the use of homework as a learning tool that is instrumental
the long-term acquisition of required academic skills. The Board also has set guiding recommendations
for „at home‟ time expectations for NCS students based on their age and grade placement. The NCS
Homework Guidelines follow nationally-accepted time limits. „At home” time committed to homework
should be approximately 10 minutes per day X the student‟s grade level. For example a 3rd grade stu-
dent‟s homework expectation should be approximately 30 minutes per average day.

Each student has the responsibility to develop good work and study habits. These
habits are best developed when students:
1. Understand and write down the assignment.
2. Ask the teacher questions regarding the assignment if it is not clearly understood.
3. Take necessary text and materials home.
4. Do assignments carefully, neatly, and thoroughly.
5. Submit assignments on time.
6. Make up home work missed due to absence.

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7. Assume responsibility for completion of individual assignments without dependence upon others for help.
8. Utilize available resource materials.
9. Use study time efficiently; long-term assignments require special attention in this regard

Cooperation by parents is a necessary factor in meaningful home-

work experiences. We ask that parents:
1. Give only the kind of assistance that enables your child to learn how to do the assignment; do not do the
assignment for your child.
2. Provide a distraction-free environment, encourage a regular study time, encourage independent daily
reading, and help your child develop a positive attitude toward homework.
3. Show an interest in the nature of the homework assignment and communicate to your child that assign-
ments are expected to be completed without constant dependence upon others for help.
4. Teach your child to balance his/her outside activities to allow time for completion of homework assign-
ments.
5. Monitor and ensure that homework is being brought home, completed and returned to school.
6. Communicate with the teacher when homework problems arise.
7. Make arrangements to get homework missed due to absences.
8.

In order to reinforce school learning, provide practice, and expand

application of knowledge and skills, the teacher will:
1. Communicate the directions and the purpose of the assignment clearly.
2. Inform student of the impact of homework on the student‟s grade.
3. Use homework as a learning tool, not as a disciplinary measure.
4. Communicate with parents when homework problems arise.
5. Determine time frame for completion of assignments missed during an absence.
6. Make sure student has all necessary tools and information to complete homework independently.
7. Return graded assignments within a reasonable time frame.

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Assignments are to be made-up:
Making up missed work caused by absences and tardiness is crucial to success. It is important for the
work to be completed as quickly as possible so that it has relevancy to the subject
matter being taught. The student and teacher should develop a schedule of com-
pletion. Parents may obtain homework by contacting the school by 9 am. Re-
quests for homework due to travel/vacation must be made in advance, and it is
expected that the work will be turned in to the appropriate teacher upon return to
school. Special circumstances may allow the teacher to modify the time permitted
for homework make-up.

Special Academic Programs

Band & Senior Chorus
: ”Music is a universal language,” according to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Music has existed in cul-
tures for hundreds of years and is an essential part of our growth and development. Participating in an en-
semble helps to create team and individual skills.
Students in Gr. 4-8 are eligible to participate in Beginner and Junior High Bands. Both bands have op-
portunities to perform throughout the year. Students who excel on an instrument or in the chorus have an
opportunity to participate in district-wide honors festivals.
Goals for instrumental/choral program:

Meeting individual musical and band/chorus challenges.

Developing musical potential to its fullest.

Appreciating many different styles of music.

Experiencing the satisfaction of good performances.

Once a student begins Band or Senior Chorus they are required to continue their commitment through
the performance period. While a student can join a musical performance group (Band/Senior Chorus) at
any time with the music teacher‟s permission, once they have joined they must maintain the commitment
until after the next formal performance. The performance periods are September-Winter Concert
(December) and December-Spring Concert.

Music
The general music program at NCS is a progression of basic music, singing, and music appreciation. The
students sing, play, compose, listen and move to music. All NCS students have music classes.

13
 Art
The art program is designed as a developmental, hands-on experience
which incorporates, on a building block basis, skills of art (Drawing,
Painting, Sculpting, etc.) It is designed to encourage the creative proc-
ess through a disciplined approach to learning techniques. Art history is
related to the program in an integrated way so children will develop an
appreciation for the format used, not only visually, but also through do-
ing. It attempts to give a basis for further study and explore such work
opportunities in art and related fields.

Technology & Media

NCS provides computer instruction to grades K-8. We use Apple for instructional purposes. The school
has Apple and IBM compatible equipment. Students using NCS computers will be required to read and sign
an appropriate computer use contract.
Seventh and 8th grade students who are a part of the Maine Laptop Initiative (MLTI) will be required to
complete both the standard appropriate computer use contract as well as a Parent/Student MLTI Acknowl-
edgement Form. This form will outline the expectations for parents and students. A special information meet-
ing for all 7th grade parents and students will be scheduled early in the school year to explain these expecta-
tions and complete the necessary paperwork.
Recent offers from the State of Maine Department of Education have allowed NCS to acquire substantial
numbers of used laptop computers. We now have enough so that students in grades 2-6 will have laptops
assigned to them for classroom/school use. These computers will not be available to be taken home at any
time. With this wonderful access for our students also comes considerable responsibility for the careful and
appropriate usage of these educational tools. As has always been the case, all students who utilize school
computers will only be allowed to do so after students/parents sign the contact specifying that the computer
will only be used for appropriate, school-related activities. Teachers in all grades where computers are as-
signed to students will review the NCS expectations for computer care and use. In cases where deliberate
damage is done to computers by students, NCS will
seek reimbursement for damages from parents. NCS,
since the beginning of the individual student laptop pro-
gram in Maine, has had a solid history of appropriate
student use and responsible care. There is no reason
to believe this will change as more and more students
access one-to-one student/computer use.

Library
Students meet in the library at least once a week. Activities focus on the development of library and re-
search skills. Students who have group and individual projects are provided extended time in the library.

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Physical Education
The primary goal in physical education is to produce moving, thinking, feeling people who will engage in
active lifestyles. The skills learned in physical education classes will help establish the foundation for
future health practices, leisure pursuits and social skills.
In Grades K-8 sneakers and shorts /loose fitting clothing are required. Charts are kept on effort, fitness
and skill improvement for Grades K-4. Students in Grades 5-8 are graded with sports skills tests and
written tests on rules and on class participation.
The physical education curriculum is composed of the following units:
K-4: Games of low organization; movement exploration; rhythm and dance; track & field.
5-8: Team games; lifetime sports; rhythm & dance; track & field.

Title 1a
Title 1A is a federally-funded program which provides support in the
area of literacy to students in Grades 1-4 who qualify for services. The
Title 1A staff reinforces the material that is taught in the classroom and
provides extra practice with the skills in one-to-one or small group setting.

Special Ed
Special Education is based on the concept that all students, regard-
less of their physical, emotional or intellectual issues, have the right to
access a free public education. Children who are having difficulties in
school may be referred to the Individual Educational Plan Team (IEP
Team). These meetings can be initiated by teachers, parents or the stu-
dent.
When a child is referred to the IEP Team, parents are contacted and encouraged to join with school
personnel in the discussion of the child. The team may recommend that the student be evaluated to de-
termine his/her strengths and weaknesses. Written parental consent is required for this evaluation.
When the evaluation is completed, the IEP Team will reconvene to make further recommendations. If
the child qualifies for special education services, an Individual Educational Program (IEP) will be written.
Prior to implementation of this plan and/or placement in a special education program, written parental
consent is again required.

15
Child Find
Nobleboro Central School seeks to ensure that all students within its jurisdiction are identified, lo-
cated and evaluated who are school age (age 5 through the school year in which they turn 20) and who
are in need of special education and supportive assistance, including State wards, State agency clients,
students who have been suspended or expelled, children attending private schools and home schools,
institutional residents, highly mobile children with disabilities, and children who are suspected of being
disabled and in need of special education and supportive assistance even though they are advancing
from grade to grade.
The Child Find responsibility is accomplished through a district-wide proc-
ess that gathers appropriate data on each student through direct assessment
or by indirect means of a student‟s academic performance, gross motor skills,
receptive and expressive language skills, vision, hearing or cognitive skills.
NCS shall identify, locate and evaluate all students enrolled in public school,
private school, or home schools, including all entering kindergarten students
and transfer students of any grade. Final identification of students with disabili-
ties occurs only after an appropriate evaluation and a determination is made by
the IEP Team.

NCS Mission
The Nobleboro Central School is dedicated to involving all community members in creating and sup-
porting a challenging, respectful, and safe learning environment where the uniqueness of each individ-
ual is honored. The combined energy of all our members will focus on developing:
Self-directed and life-long learners
Clear and effective communicators
Creative and practical problem solvers
Responsible and involved citizens
Integrative and informed thinkers
Collaborative and quality workers

16
 Services, Activities & Procedures
School Nutrition
The school lunch menu appears on the NCS website: http://lincoln.midcoast.com/
~ncs.
NCS serves breakfast and lunch daily during the school year. Lunches are paid for
in advance. Your child‟s lunch balance is accessible through our Powerschool pro-
gram: http://169.244.116.230/public. This is a convenient tool for families. Your
lunch balance—like other Powerschool information—is protected with a username
and password which is set up by the school. This information is only available to the student & family.
If you lose your username or password, please call the NCS office for assistance.
NCS encourages families to monitor the balance in student lunch accounts. Students whose debt
reaches $10.00 will not be able to obtain a standard school lunch until a positive balance is reached. No
student will ever be denied lunch, but students with a $10.00 or more debt will be served a more limited
offering.
Applications for free/reduced lunches will be mailed home prior to the start of school, but you may apply
at any time during the school year if there is a financial need. Students qualifying for reduced price
meals are eligible for free breakfast.

Breakfast 2nd Breakfast Lunch 2nd Lunch Milk Only

Student 1.00 1.00 1.75 1.75 .50

Free -0- 1.00 -0- 1.75 .50

Reduced .30 .30 .40 .40 .50

Adult Guest 2.00 2.00 3.00 3.00 .50

Student Assistance Team

The Student Assistance Team (SAT) process is an opportunity for teachers to explore new strategies
for meeting student needs. Members of the SAT may include:

The referring teacher

Another staff member selected by the referring teacher

A parent and/or guardian

The principal

The SAT Team (2 teachers) and the guidance counselor (chairperson).

17
SAT Procedures
1. The teacher completes an SAT Request and submits it to the SAT chairperson. The referring
teacher contacts the parents/guardian to discuss the SAT process and let them know a letter will be
sent home.
2. The chairperson schedules an initial meeting and mails a letter to the parent/guardian, which in-
cludes a copy of the Request form.
3. The SAT meets and discusses alternative strategies for a successful learning program.
4. The team completes a plan that includes a long-range goal, objectives, intervention strategies,
measurement procedures, the person who will be responsible, a timeline, and the time at which a
follow-up meeting will be held.
5. The classroom teacher carries out the plan and uses the same form to indicate the extent to which
the strategies were effective.
6. The chairperson convenes the follow-up meeting to review the student‟s progress and the effective-
ness of the plan. At this time, the SAT decides what additional interventions may be appropriate and
whether or not the student should be referred to the Special Education Program.
7. Copies of all forms and minutes from meetings are sent to the parents/guardians and kept in the
student‟s cumulative file.

Textbooks
Textbooks are very expensive. They are provided to assist in the student-learning process. They are
the student‟s responsibility. Take good care of them; return them in good condition. Cover all textbooks.
Students will be billed for lost or damaged books. Prompt payment is expected.

Parent & Teacher Conferences

Conferences play an important role in maintaining a clear line of communication between home and
school. For this reason, conferences for all parents are formally scheduled in the fall. In addition, they
may be scheduled on an „as needed‟ basis throughout the remainder of the year. Parents should expect
clear information concerning their child‟s growth in each subject area. Parents are encouraged to re-
quest a conference at any time during the year when questions arise. You are welcome to visit their
child‟s classroom. Please contact your child‟s teacher to make arrangements.

18
School Pictures
School photos are taken in the early fall. Pictures are guaranteed before December vacation. There
will be one date for retakes during the fall.

Assemblies
Assemblies are held at different times during the school year for a variety of purposes. Presenters
deserve attentive and courteous behavior. Students should walk to the assembly area in a quiet and
orderly manner and give their undivided attention to the program
.

Audio/Electronic Devices, Cell Phones

Radios, cell phones, pagers, skateboards, video games and other personal items not relevant to
school activities are to be left at home. If such items are brought to school, they will be stored in the of-
fice and picked up at the end of the day. Students who violate this expectation will be subject to discipli-
nary consequences.
Personal listening devices (CD, MP3, IPOD‟s) with headphones may be utilized during transporta-
tion to and from school, field trips and athletic contests. They must be stored safely during school hours
with the student‟s personal belongings. Students bring these devices to school at their own risk as NCS
will not replace/repair damaged or lost devices.

Student Phone Use

Students do not use phones during school hours (8:25am-2:35pm). Of-
fice personnel will communicate with a parent or send a message to a stu-
dent.
Cell phones are not permitted at school unless parents have pre-
approved it with the NCS office. In such cases, the phone would be turned
in to the office immediately upon arrival to school and returned at the close
of the school day.

19
 Backpacks
All backpacks must be stored in lockers or cubbies during school
hours. They may not be in hallways or walkways.

Trading Cards
Periodically various types of trading/game cards become popular,
and there Is a natural inclination to bring them to school. Experience has
shown us that these items are a tremendous distraction and there have been instances where valuable
cards have been lost/damaged/stolen. Please make sure that no cards are brought to school.

Student Dress
Appropriate student dress is primarily the responsibility of the student and parents. Clothing should not
reveal midriff, cleavage or undergarments throughout normal daily activity. The following guidelines will
help to determine the appropriateness of a student‟s apparel choices:

No clothing should be worn to school that advertises or promotes tobacco, alcohol or any illegal/illicit
drugs. Clothing with suggestive sexual messages, innuendoes or clothing that promotes disrespectful,
violent or hate-filled messages should not be worn.

Footwear must be worn at all times.

The length of clothing (shorts, skirts, dresses) must be moderate and appropriate. If in question, the
guideline that will be utilized will be that the article of clothing should not be above the ends of a stu-
dent‟s fingertips when standing with arms straight to their sides. Tops that are backless, halters, spa-
ghetti straps, or single shouldered are not considered moderate and appropriate for the school envi-
ronment.

Students should come to school dressed appropriately for the weather conditions. Specifically stu-
dents in K-5 will be going out for recess in a variety of weather conditions and will be denied recess
privileges if not clothed properly.

Students in all grades will be attending Physical Education classes twice/week and will need footwear
and clothing recommended by the teacher. If you have questions, please contact Mr. Gosselin.

Sunglasses are not to be worn inside the school building.

Hats are not to be worn inside the school building.

Any item of clothing/accessory that has the potential to be utilized as a weapon is unacceptable at
NCS.
Staff members who determine that a student is in violation of the NCS Dress Code will either make a
plan with the student or refer the student to the office for appropriate action.

20
 Beverages in School
Each NCS teacher has the right to set limits and restrictions on when beverages
may be consumed within the classroom. The most simple standard to be utilized is
that the consumption of beverages cannot be an interruption of the educational
process. Students should check with their teacher(s) if there is a question regarding
when beverage consumption is appropriate.

With student health at the forefront of our concern, NCS does not allow coffee, tea,
soda or energy drinks to be brought to school for student consumption. We are ask-
ing for parent support in only providing water, juice and non-enhanced sport drinks
for students to bring to school.

The NCS Newsletter

The school produces a newsletter to communicate information about school events, programs and
activities. A copy of the newsletter is published on the school webpage. A monthly calendar also ap-
pears online, as well as lunch menus, sports information and events.

The NCS Newsletter is available by accessing the NCS website:

http://lincoln.midcoast.com/~ncs
and/or by including yourself in the automatic NCS newsletter email contact
list. To do this you simply need to provide the office with your email address.
Printed copies will only be provided to families making a special request.

21
 Parent Access to PowerSchool/PowerGrade
http://169.244.116.230/public
All parents receive a set of instructions and a password in order to access Power-
School/PowerGrade. This access can be used 24 hours a day over an Internet connection.
Through PowerSchool parents can access attendance information and complete information
regarding a child‟s School Lunch debit account. Moving into and around the Power School
website is fairly simple and, if problems arise, please call the NCS Office for assistance.
Parents with students in Grades 5-8 will also want to use their username and password
to access PowerGrade. This system offers parents the opportunity to see where a child‟s
grades may be at any time within a Teacher‟s grade book. Again, the instructions are rela-
tively simple and there is an easy access to teachers‟ email should a parent have a ques-
tion. We encourage that line of communication as the most efficient manner of answering all
grading questions.

Nobleboro Reads!
In recent years NCS has encouraged students and adults to set a reading goal for summer vacation.
In June information is distributed to help motivate students, parents and the staff to become a part of this
incentive program.

Consider the rewards of signing up for Nobleboro Reads!

Discounts at the Fall NPTO Book Fair
Invitation to the NCS September
Reading Celebration
A smooth transition to school in the fall
Discover new books!

22
Playground
Food and drinks are permitted at the picnic table only.
Students remain outside during recess. Permission is required to
use the bathroom (lower lobby).
Rough and/or harmful play will not be permitted.
Students line up for recess and also for re-entering the building.
Grades K-5 are permitted to use the new playground equipment.
All grades are permitted to use the swings.
Grades 4-8 are permitted to use the monkey bars.
If students consistently display inappropriate outdoor behavior, the formal discipline policy will be
implement.

Sports Activities
The following activities are generally available for 5-8th grade students:

Rules Regarding After-School Home Games & Events

Grades 5-8
Students in Grades 5-8 students may stay after school for a sports or academic event,

PROVIDED the following arrangements have been made IN ADVANCE:

1. Parent has signed a permission slip (See First Day Pack).
2. Prior to the day, student shall make arrangements with a staff member
for academic assistance or as a helper from 2:30 until the time of the
event.
3. Students are not permitted to leave school grounds or to wander the
halls.
4. A ride must be pre-arranged, and students must be picked up immedi-
ately after the game/event.
5. Students are not allowed to call home during the day to make arrangements. Bring a note the day
of the event, the note should be delivered to the office in the morning.
Attending home games without parental supervision is a privilege. It is expected that students demon-
strate good behavior at all times as a spectator. If appropriate behavior is not maintained, students will
not be able to attend events without their parents‟ supervision.

23
Fire Drills
When the alarm sounds, please move in a single file toward the appropriate exit in a quiet, orderly man-
ner. Stay with your assigned groups. Re-enter the building when instructed.

Crisis Plans
The Nobleboro Central School Committee annually reviews and approves a plan developed by the NCS
administration, working with local public safety, mental health and law enforcement officials, to deal with cri-
sis and potential crisis situations involving violent acts by or against students. This plan has provisions for
building lockdown and evacuation, alternate communication strategies and the monitoring and accounting
for all students.
Each school in AOS #93 has revised its Crisis Response Plan using the template provided by the Lin-
coln County Emergency Management Office as its guide. Each plan has been adopted by the School Board,
based on Maine school law. The purpose of this Emergency Management Plan is to provide a framework of
policies, procedures, guidelines, and organizational structure that enables Nobleboro Central School and its
community partners to effectively mitigate against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from, emergencies
or disasters involving the Nobleboro Central School.

School Cancellation
School may be called off because of snowstorms, adverse road conditions, or equipment failure in the
building. Announcements are made over COAST 102.5FM, BAY 105.5FM, WPOR 101.9FM, WBLM
102.9FM, WMGX 93.1FM, WYNZ 100.9FM radio stations. Announcements will
be made on Channels 6, 8 and 13 television by 7am. Television stations also
post cancellation notices online:

www.wcsh6.com
www.wmtw.com/closings

Community Use of the Building & Grounds

Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on school property.

Smoking is not allowed on school property

A person may not possess a firearm on public school property.

Organizations interested in reserving space should contact the school office for a copy of the poli-
cies and to complete a request form.

24
 Opportunities to Support NCS
The NPTO (Nobleboro Parent/Teacher Organization) generously provides extra funding and specials
programs for NCS students. (See Organizations.) NPTO offers a friendly atmosphere to support en-
richment opportunities at our school. The NCS newsletter lists dates and times of monthly meetings.
You can help NCS in a variety of ways from your home. The NPTO facilitates the collection of box tops
and soup labels.

Box Tops for Education

Make a contribution to NCS every time you shop for groceries! Simply clip and save the box top for edu-
cation logo from packages. Send them to the NCS office at any time during the school year.

You may also turn soup labels into the school office.

H.E.L.P. SCHOOLS Look for a display at Hannaford in Damariscotta and leave your cash register
receipt in the NCS slot.. This link provides more information about the H.E.L.P. Schools program::
http://www.hannaford.com/Contents/Our_Company/Community/programs/hhs.shtml

The NCS Bottle Shed

Money raised by „the Shed‟ helps the 8th grade class. All end-of-the year profits are donated to the next
class in line at NCS. Consider leaving your returnable bottles and cans at the shed located at the en-
trance to the school.

NCS School
Organized by the 5th grade, the NCS School Store op-
Store erates weekly, giving students an opportunity to buy
school supplies and other interesting items. Profits
from the store are used to make a donation to the
school, community and the world! Recent year-end
„gifts‟ have included the NCS trophy cabinet, lobby art-
work, a gift as far-reaching as Africa, and our local food
pantry.

25
 Organizations
Nobleboro Parent Teacher Organization
The purpose of the NPTO is to develop open communication among parents, teachers and
students at NCS. We support the teaching staff, both in school policy and by assisting with school
functions. Our focus it to provide enrichment for Nobleboro students and to sponsor community
events. We invite all parents, teachers, the staff at NCS, and interested community members to join
us. The NPTO has monthly meetings throughout the school year.

NCS School Committee

This is an elected five-member board that determines the policies for the school. Public meetings
are held the second Monday of each month at 6 pm at NCS. Parent, student, staff and community
participation is welcomed.

26
 Health Information
Health Services
Health services for NCS are provided by the school nurse and guidance
department. The activities of the school nurse focus on maintaining a maxi-
mum level of wellness for all children in the school setting. The school nurse
and guidance staff are in the position to communicate with students, parents
and staff for the purpose of continually improving the physical, mental and
social environment in which learning takes place.

Emergency Card
Each child, upon admission to school (and yearly thereafter) is required to have an emergency infor-
mation card completed and kept on file in the school office. The card contains the student‟s name, home
address, contact information (home and work), student‟s physician and dentist names/phone numbers,
alternate adult names and contact information, any known allergies and/or chronic illnesses. This card
also contains a release signed by the parent for the school administration to act in emergency situations.

Physicals
Each student, upon entering school (Kindergarten) should provide NCS with a copy of a physical
exam recommended to be completed within the last year. Physical exam forms are available through the
school office and are also part of the packet sent out prior to the start of school each year. Our school
physician recommends that students have a physical exam every two years. Students participating in
extracurricular sports are required to have a physical exam every two years. Please make sure the
physical form states that the student is “cleared for sports.”

Vision and Hearing Screening

Vision screening is performed on students in Grades K, 1, 3, 5 and 7. Hearing screening is per-
formed on students in Grades K, 1, 3 and 5. If you feel that your child may be having difficulty and is not
in the grades mentioned here, please contact the school nurse. Screening is not a suitable substitute for
a complete professional examination and is not intended to diagnose the nature of defects.

Illness/Communicable Diseases
Parents are asked to keep their children home when showing any signs or symptoms
of illness such as persistent cough/congestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, un-
explained skin rashes or inflamed eyes. A student should remain home until all acute
symptoms have subsided. Parents are required to contact the school on the day of
each absence.
In the event of a prolonged absence/illness, a physician‟s note may be requested.
Students returning from an illness will be expected to participate in all activities. A
physician‟s note will be required for any restrictions/limitations of a student‟s activity.

27
School Insurance
Information regarding the availability of school insurance is usually sent home at the beginning of the school
year. Insurance is available during school hours only or it can be obtained on a 24 hour/day, 7 days/week
basis. If you need more information, please contact the office.

Immunizations
In the absence of disease history or a valid exemption pursuant to 20-A MRSA 6355, the following immu-
nizations are required for attendance in Maine schools, K-12, public and private:
5 DTP/DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
4 Polio
2 MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
1-2 Varicella (chicken pox) Chickenpox vaccine (varicella) or disease history is required for stu-
dents in Grades K-12. Students under age 13 need only 1 dose, age 13 and over require two
doses given 4-8 weeks apart.
Parents must present a complete, signed record of vaccination history from a healthcare provider. A note
from the physician‟s office stating “all immunization up to date” does not comply with State requirements and
will not be accepted as proof of vaccination. In order to maintain an accurate health record for your child,
please provide the school nurse with documentation when your child receives any regular or booster immuni-
zations.

EXEMPTIONS: If a child does not meet vaccination requirements, an exemption form is required if any of the
following apply: The physician determines that immunization against one or more of the diseases is medi-
cally inadvisable OR a parent‟s opposition to immunization because of sincere religious or philosophical rea-
son. Exemption forms must be provided annually and are kept on file in your child‟s health record. In the
event of an outbreak of a disease determined by the State CDC) for which your child is not immunized, the
child will be excluded from school for a period of time determined by State of Maine rules.

Lice Policy
Head lice are small parasitic insects that live on the scalp and neck hairs of a human host. Head lice are
not known to transmit infectious disease and are not considered a reflection on parenting skills. Head lice are
transmitted mainly by head to heat to head contact. As a precaution, please remind your child not to share
hats, combs, and other hair accessories with other children. Children who appear to be symptomatic
(persistent scratching) will be referred to the school nurse by the teacher. Based on findings by the nurse,
actions will be taken in accordance with the school‟s policy.

Medication
Medication—both prescription and nonprescription—should be administered outside school hours. Medi-
cation can only be given at school if it is part of a physician‟s established medical plan of care and is accom-
panied by a physician‟s note. Medication is kept in a centrally located locked area and is labeled with child‟s
name, name of medication, dosage and when it is to be administered. No medication is to be kept in a
teacher‟s desk or in student‟s possession with the exception of inhalers, epi-pens and diabetic medications IF
the physician, parent and school nurse agree the child may carry and self administer. Permission must be
accompanied by the following written information: child‟s name, name of medication, dosage, date pre-
scribed, date of expiration, doctor‟s name and possible side effects.

28
 Transportation

Bus transportation is provided for students residing in the Town of Nobleboro. Appropriate conduct
is expected while waiting for and riding the bus. The bus rules that follow should be reviewed with your
child. The right of students to ride the bus is conditional on their behavior and their ability to follow these
rules.
Families of students who are driven to/from school are urged to use the lower parking lot. The circle
drive is reserved for buses and emergency vehicles. Walkers or bike riders should arrive no earlier than
8:10 am.
If the entire student body must be sent home early due to deteriorating conditions, etc. the school
will make every effort to notify parents. Parents will be notified of any schedule change.

Bike Riders
Students must be in 5th grade or higher to ride a bike to school. The Maine Legislature has passed
the Bicycle Safety Act mandating helmet use for bicyclists under age 16 and encouraging bicycle safety
training. A helmet is required when riding to/from school. These links provide useful biking informa-
tion:
http://www.bikemaine.org/pdfs/BCMSafety.pdf
http://www.bikemaine.org/pdfs/RulesMotoristsBicyclists.pdf

Bus Procedures
Should a student need to ride a different bus, a permission note must be sent to school. Please in-
clude the date, student‟s name, new location, signature of parent, and a telephone number. If a child will
consistently ride that bus on a particular day, a blanket note may be written. Changes can be made; but
please understand that space is sometimes limited.
The School Board has approved out-of-town stops due to daycare issues. They are CLC-YMCA and
Y-CARE. No student is allowed to use the NCS bus for transportation to the CLC-YMCA unless
they are participating in a sanctioned after-school activity. Transportation to the CLC-YMCA is only
available to students in Grades K-5. Should there be a question whether or not the activity meets our
expectations, please contact the NCS office.

Transportation Disciplinary Procedures

Proper student behavior is vital. The distraction of the bus driver can contribute to accidents. The
school disciplinary policy will be implemented in the event that a problem occurs. If the inappropriate
behavior continues, students may lose their bus-riding privilege for extended periods of time. Parents
have the right to appeal a loss of riding privilege to the Superintendent of Schools.

29
Meeting the Bus
All students are to wait outside for the bus.
1. All students must be on time. Please allow 5 minutes (+) leeway for the bus.
2. Students walking on the highway to a bus stop should always walk on the left shoulder of the road
facing traffic.
3. Students should walk—not run—when crossing the highway.
4. Students should not cross the road until motioned by the bus driver.
5. Students should stand quietly while waiting for the bus.
6. Do not run alongside the bus when it is moving.

On the bus:
1. Students shall obey the driver who has full charge of the bus.
2. Students shall go to assigned seats—without crowding or pushing—and remain seated while the
bus is in motion.
3. Students shall not fight or scuffle in the bus or create any disturbance.
4. Students shall not mar or deface the bus. Payment for damage to seats or other equipment will be
the student‟s responsibility.
5. Students are responsible for the cleanliness of the bus.
6. Students must not shout or wave to pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles, or throw objects out
of or within the bus.
7. Students shall refrain from talking with the driver except in an emergency.
8. Students shall not sit on lunchboxes, backpacks or books, or place them in the aisle.
9. Students shall not open windows; the bus driver should do this.
10. Students should not eat food on the bus.
11. Prior to alighting from the bus, students shall remain seated until the bus stops.
12. If a student is the last one in a seat, (s)he should be sure that the window is closed.
13. If a student must cross a street after leaving the bus, (s)he should go to the front of the bus and wait
until the bus driver directs him/her to cross.

A copy of the estimated bus schedule is printed in the Lincoln County News near the end of the summer.

30
 Rules for Behavior
DISCIPLINE PROCEDURE
Nobleboro Central School Code of Conduct
At NCS each student has the following rights and has the responsibility of ensuring these rights for
others.
The right to a quiet and orderly place to learn;
The right to have feelings and ideas respected;
The right to personal safety and freedom from intimidation:
The right to have personal belongings protected.
The following lists are specific examples that reflect our expectations that all students and adults will
behave in a manner that is helpful, kind, safe and polite.

Classroom
Each class will develop rules for behavior with their teacher at
the beginning of each year. Class rules will be posted and a copy
will be sent home.
Examples of the expectations are:

Follow directions when given—the first time.

Speak respectfully to all at all times.

Care for school and personal property.

Keep hands and feet to yourself.

Exhibit proper manners at all times.

Halls/Bathrooms
Walk at all times

Students will have passes whenever they leave the classroom.

Gr. 5-8 will use the Jr. High bathrooms.

Gr. 3-4 will use the lower lobby bathrooms.

Artwork and displays are to be viewed, not touched.

Lunchroom
Use quiet voices and polite language.

Keep hands and feet to yourself.

Sit on the seat on your bottom.

Eat your own food.

Stay seated until the duty teacher gives permission for you to get up for scraping or dismissal.
31
 NCS Discipline Procedure
We need rules to protect the rights of each student. The purpose of a discipline procedure is to estab-
lish standards of desired or expected behavior, to foster appropriate behavior, to define undesirable or dis-
ruptive conduct, and to specify reasonable procedures and disciplinary options for correcting misbehavior.
Provisions of this policy apply on school property, at school-sponsored events, while students are enroute
to or from school, and while students are being transported on a school bus.
This procedure separates misbehavior into three types of interventions that will be addressed, at vary-
ing levels, some of the types of misbehavior are listed below. Depending on the severity of the event and/or
the repetition of an offense, higher impact interventions may be implemented.

Types of Misbehavior
Minor
Any form of distractive behavior
Cheating
Class Tardiness
Defacing school and/or people‟s prop-
erty
More Serious
Disrespective or abusive speech or
actions Continuation of minor offenses
Failure to follow a teacher‟s directions Cutting class
Failure to submit required note(s) Disruptive behavior on bus or at bus stop
Gum Chewing Fighting
Pushing, shoving or roughhousing Harassment of other persons
Littering Defiant behavior
Throwing objects Leaving school grounds or an assigned
Unauthorized use of school equipment area without permission
(phone, copier, computer, etc.) Obscene language and/or gestures
Possession of illegal or dangerous sub-
stances or items such as (but not limited
to) knives, fireworks, guns, drugs, to-
bacco, matches, lighters, laser pointers,
etc. (All illegal behaviors will be ad-
dressed through adopted policies.)
Repeated school tardiness
Threat to others
Truancy
Using and/or supplying forged notes or
illegal excuses
Vandalism (willful or malicious damage
to school property or the property of oth-
ers)

32
1st Stage
Informal Teacher Intervention (ITI)
The stage represents 90% of all the discipline interventions conducted at school. It is an interaction
between a staff member and a student to address some type of behavior correction.

Disciplinary Options
Student/teacher conference
Parental Contact
Classroom Detention (loss of that day‟s after-school activities)
Withdrawal of privileges within the classroom
Work detail consistent with infraction.

2nd Stage
Formal Teacher Action (FTA)
The intervention in this stage is carried out by the staff member and is reflective of either a repeat
offense (where the informal procedure was not effective) or an offense deemed serious enough by the
staff member that a greater consequence and action is required. Once the misbehavior is addressed,
the staff member will complete a Formal Teacher Action (FTA) that will list the specifics of the offense
along with consequences. The FTA is sent home with the student to be signed by the parents. These
forms must be returned to the staff member the following day or the student will be automatically sent to
the office for an Administrative Disciplinary Referral (ADR).
Any time an FTA is sent home, please discuss the event with your child and support appropriate
behavior in school. Your signature does not mean that you agree with the consequences. (You may
want to speak with the staff member issuing the FTA, and they to you.) The signature, however, does
acknowledge that you have seen the FTA and have spoken to your child.

Disciplinar y Options
Any of the options from Stage One
Conference/phone conversation with parent(s)
Referral to Student Assistance Team (SAT)
Temporary removal from class into custody of Principal

33
3rd Stage

Administrative Disciplinary Referral (ADR)

This intervention is reserved for either repeated noncompliance with school expectations or offenses
whose nature is so serious that a decision is made to supersede the other two stages. At this stage, the
student is in the presence of either the principal or one of the Lead Teachers (should the principal be
away). A phone call is made immediately to the parent(s) to alert them to the offense and the administrator
will complete an ADR form. This form will be sent home with the child and will also require a parent‟s sig-
nature and return to school the following day. Any student failing to comply with this expectation will face
increased consequences.

Disciplinary Options
Any appropriate options from Stages One or Two
Conference with the parent(s)
*In-school suspension
*Office Detention
Social Probation (conditional participation in school activities)
Suspension from student activities
Withdrawal of privileges
*Student will lose the privilege to attend or participate in any school-sponsored after-school activities for
the duration of the consequence.

Special Notes
In any and all severe disciplinary events, actions taken may be at the discretion of the school princi-
pal. Therefore, detention, suspension, or any other appropriate consequences may be administered in a
manner fitting the violation.
We believe strongly in a full and cooperative partnership with students and their parents. We pledge to
meet with students and parents as often as it is necessary to achieve the desired behavioral change. Par-
ents are always encouraged to communicate directly with the staff member involved in a disciplinary
event, to receive a complete report of the nature of the event.

Other
Bomb threats constitute not only a violation of school policy, but also a violation of civil and criminal
law. Law enforcement officers, with strong cooperation of the NCS administration and staff, will pursue an
investigation and subsequent prosecution of all perpetrators with strong sanctions made in cases where
students are involved in making the threat. Time lost to bomb threats shall be made up in accordance with
a plan presented by the NCS Principal and AOS #93 Superintendent and approved by the Nobleboro
School Committee.

34
 Legal Information
Harassment—Students
The Board recognizes the right of each student to perform in an atmosphere that is free of intimidation, hostil-
ity and offensiveness. In order to ensure such an atmosphere, employees of School Union #74 should not en-
gage in harassment of students, and students are not to harass other students. Acts of harassment based upon
race, color sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, national origin or handicap are not only a violation of this policy,
but also constitute illegal discrimination under state and federal laws.

Examples of prohibited harassment

Unwelcomed sexual advances, gestures, comments or contact
Threats
Offensive jokes
Ridicule, slurs, derogatory action or remarks
Students should also be advised of the importance of informing the harasser that his/her behavior is unwel-
come, offensive, in poor taste, or highly inappropriate. Students who believe that they are victims of harassment
should report such occurrences to the School Counselor, Principal or Affirmative Action Coordinator, or utilize the
grievance procedure. The Affirmative Action Coordinator shall advise the person who has allegedly been har-
assed of the various options available to the person: Human Rights Commission Complaint: Title IX Civil Action;
or formal request for discipline by the Superintendent and/or Board.
Appropriate information regarding harassment and recourse shall be posted in a prominent and accessible
location in each work place in the unit. Education and training shall take place as required by law for students.

Legal Reference:
Title IX of 1972 Educational Amendments Act
Title VII of 1964 Civil Rights Act
Guidelines of Equal Employment Opportunity Comm. PL 1991, Chapter 474 5 MRSA Section
4613.2.26 MRSA Section 806, 807.

Notification of Rights under FERPA

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age
(“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student‟s education records.
A. The right to inspect and review the student‟s education records within 46 days of the date the Nobleboro Cen-
tral School receives a request of access. Parents of eligible students should submit to the school principal, or
his designee, a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make ar-
rangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may
be inspected.
B. The right to request the amendment of the student‟s education records that the parent or eligible student be-
lieves are inaccurate or misleading. They should write to the school principal, clearly identify the part of the
record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
C. The right to consent to disclose personally identifiable information contained in the student‟s education re-
cords, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits
disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school offi-
cial has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill
his/her professional responsibility. Upon request the Nobleboro Central School discloses education records
without consent to officials of another school district which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
35
D. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by No-
bleboro Central School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the of-
fice that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20202-4605
E. The Nobleboro Central School may make public, at its discretion, personally identifiable information
from the education records of a student without parental consent, if the information has been desig-
nated as directory information by the school. This school unit has designated the following information
as directory information: student‟s name; participation in officially recognized activities and sports,
weight and height of athletes, honors and awards received and other information that would not gener-
ally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.
F. Such information will be disclosed if the parent of the student informs the school unit, in writing, by
July 1 for the upcoming school year and within 30 days after enrollment, whichever is later, that such
information is not to be designated as directory information with respect to that student. Any such no-
tice should be sent to the Superintendent of Schools at the following address:
Superintendent of Schools
767 Main Street 1A
Damariscotta, ME 04543

Under Maine Law, Nobleboro Central School shall not publish on the Internet without written parental con-
sent any information, whether the directory or otherwise, that identifies a student, including but not limited
to, the student‟s full name, photograph, personal biography, email address, home address, date of birth,
social security number and parents‟ names.

Policy Statement
A. It is the policy of School Union #74 to ensure equal employment and educational opportunities and
affirmative action regardless of race, sex, color, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, age,
handicap or religion in accordance with all federal and state legislation relative to discrimination.
B. Inquiries can be made to Affirmative Action/Title I Section
, 504 Coordinator
AOS #93,
Damariscotta, ME 04543
(207) 563-3044
or to: or to
Director, US Department of Education Maine Human Rights Commission
Office for Civil Rights, John W. McCormack, State House Station #51
Post Office & Court Building Augusta, ME 04220
Office Square, Boston, MA 02109 (207) 289.2326.
(617) 223-9667

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