General Information	Programs & Activities	Academic Information	Guidance Services	Student Code of Conduct	School Attendance	School Rules
Title IX

Purpose of the Orono High School Student/Parent Handbook and Planner:

This book is provided to each Orono High School student and is to be reviewed by the student's parent(s) to provide clarity about the expectations for students behavior at school and school related functions; to provide information about the school year; and to provide a planning tool to help students become more successful in their school studies. Orono High School faculty and administration expect OHS students to regularly use the planner/handbook as an organizing tool and as a reference about the school's expectations for students.

Accreditation Statement

Orono High School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., a nationally recognized organization. An accredited school or college is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated purposes through appropriate educational programs.

GENERAL INFORMATION

E-mail

The general email address for all OHS faculty is the person's first initial, last name, followed by @orono.u87.k12.me.us. For example: jdoe@orono.u87.k12.me.us. If you are uncertain of the email address, you may email Rosemarie Clark, school secretary, and she will forward your message.

TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Main office	866-4916		Special Ed	866-7110
FAX	866-7116		Service Learning	866-7117
Guidance Office	866-2319		Superintendent	866-5521
Voice/TDD	1-955-3323		Food Service	866-2098
Adult Ed	866-4119		Middle School	866-2350

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL
The school encourages the active interest and involvement of parents and citizens at Orono High School. In order to avoid interruption of the instructional program and to promote the safety of students and staff, the following procedures have been adopted.

The term "visitor" applies to any person on school grounds or in school buildings who is not an employee or student of the school department. All visitors are to report to the main office upon arrival at the school.

All visitors who wish to visit classrooms, observe aspects of the instructional program or meet with staff members are expected to schedule those visits in advance. Teachers or other staff may not use instructional time to discuss individual matters with visitors.

The building administrators have the authority to refuse entry to school grounds or buildings to persons who do not have legitimate school related business or who may disrupt the operations of the school.

Student visitors: Students who wish to visit OHS are asked to have their parent(s) contact the guidance office to arrange the visit at 866-2319.

Volunteer Program
OHS benefits from the gifts of time and talent of many volunteers in our school programs. Volunteers expand what is available at our school by helping with co-curricular activities, participating in the Booster Club, being guest speakers, mentors, or site supervisors for Service Learning. Frequently students from the high school serve as volunteers at Asa Adams School. If you encounter a volunteer in any of your classes or co-curricular activities please extend a pleasant "hello" and appreciation for the gift of the person's time at our school.

TERMINOLOGY USED IN THE STUDENT-PARENT PLANNER HANDBOOK
In this planner handbook the word "parent" also means guardian; "principal" also includes his designee; the term "school facilities" includes all school sponsored or approved activities whether they are held on or off school grounds.

In the event that there is a conflict between this handbook and school policies, the policies will govern decisions.
Everything in this handbook that applies to students 17 years of age and younger also applies to students who are age 18 and over. There are no special immunities dispensed upon a student's eighteenth birthday.

WORKSHOP DAYS–Teacher Days/ No School for Students

August 25 & 26	October 24	November 7
March 27	April 17	June 15

STUDENT–LED CONFERENCES (Formerly called Parent/Teacher Conferences)
November 6, 7

MINI-DAYS: GRADES 6-12 are dismissed at 12:00

September 30	November 6
December 23	January 16
March 26	April 16
May 15	June 12

COLLEGE FAIR AT UMAINE
September 22 & 23. Guidance office can provide additional information.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Labor Day	September3
Columbus Day	October 13
Veterans Day	November 11
Thanksgiving Vacation	November 26-28
December Vacation	December 24-January 2
Martin Luther King's Birthday	January 19
Winter Vacation	February 16-20
Spring Vacation	April 20-24
Memorial Day	May 25

NO SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Whenever school is canceled due to weather conditions, announcements will be made through local radio and television stations. Students are encouraged to listen to these announcements. Notice will also be given on the school homepage

ENDS OF QUARTERS
The academic quarters of the year will end as follows:

First—October 29

Mid-terms—January 21-23

Second—January 23

Third—April 3

Fourth—June 12

INTERIM REPORTS
Students' progress reports may be sent at the midpoint of a marking period. These reports do not necessarily mean that a student is failing but that the level of work is below what is expected. All freshman students will receive a progress report the first two quarters. Parent conferences can be arranged through the guidance office. Many reports indicating satisfactory or excellent performance are sent at this time as well.

BELL SCHEDULE

Round Table	7:55-8:00
Block 1	8:00-9:24
Block 2	9:32-10:55
Block 3	A Lunch 10:55-11:18	11:22-12:44
Block 3	10:58-12:19	B Lunch 12:19-12:44
Block 4	12:45-2:05

LUNCH
Students are to be in the cafeteria during lunch. Students are not to be in the middle school area and are not permitted to be in the parking area except the seniors who are leaving for early dismissal.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION
The Orono High School Course Descriptions Booklet provides greater detail about academic programs and is available from the front office and the guidance office.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In order to meet minimum graduation requirements for Orono High School, students in the class of 2009 must earn at least 23 credits. The class of 2010 must earn 23.5 credits. Beginning with the class of 2011, students must earn 24 credits to graduate. One credit equals one year of a subject which meets for a full block every other day.

GRADUATION HONORS
Senior class standings are determined at the end of the third quarter of the senior year. The top ten students will be named in alphabetical order rather than in numerical order. Students who achieve an 85 average or above for their four high school years will be awarded a blue cord to be worn at graduation. The top ten students are awarded a gold stole to be worn at graduation. Students who attend UTC and are named as outstanding students by their teachers there will be awarded a yellow cord.

ADD-DROP
Schedule changes are usually not necessary once school has started. In the unusual situation that a schedule change is needed, however, an add-drop form must be picked up in the guidance office. The change must have the approval of the teachers, parents, guidance counselor, and the administration. The grade at the time of dropping the course will be recorded on the permanent record book. This add-drop procedure must be initiated in the guidance office. No student is to make the actual change of class until the form has been returned to the guidance office and signed by the guidance counselors. Students will not be granted permission to drop courses during the second or fourth quarters.

GRADING AND CLASS RANK

A= 93-100	C=77-84
B= 85-92	D=70-76
	F= Below 70
WP= Withdraw passing	WF=Withdraw failing

PROGRAMS & ACTIVITIES

United Technology Center
Orono High School's regional technical center is open to all juniors and seniors. Students have an opportunity to enroll in any one of fourteen courses, for which they earn three credits per year. Students attending UTC attend classes at Orono High School half the school day and the regional center for a half school day. All students are bused to and from the regional center.
Students returning from UTC are to enter the building in a quiet manner and go to their assigned class, study period, or designated waiting area to avoid disruptions to other learners.

Co-curricular activities
Activities offered to students are: drama, musicals, stage band, student council, yearbook, school newspaper, school literary magazine, Key Club, A.F.S., math team, diversity team, art club, history club, speech, debate, student leadership and chess club.
Check with the main office if you want more information about these activities or meeting times and names of advisors. Students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities.

National Honor Society
This is an honor group for juniors & seniors who are elected by the faculty. To be elected, a student must have demonstrated outstanding qualities in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service and character. A full description of these qualities is available from the front office. Election to the National Honor Society occurs in the fall and an induction ceremony is open to the public.

Dances
School groups sponsor dances for grades 9-12 using the following guidelines:

ATHLETIC INFORMATION
For more information, ask for a copy of the athletic handbook from Mr. Archer, the athletic director.
Orono offers the following interscholastic athletic teams:

Fall	Winter	Spring
football	basketball	baseball
soccer	ice hockey	softball
field hockey	track	track
cross country	swimming	tennis
golf	cheering

 

 

 

 

 

ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION
In order to be eligible for interscholastic athletics, students must meet all the requirements set by the Maine Principals Association as well as those of Orono High School. Orono High School adheres to all eligibility requirements of the Maine Principals Association. Students may participate for eight consecutive semesters. Students may participate until they reach their 20th birthday.
Students must earn passing grades in at least four subjects in order to maintain eligibility in athletics and other co-curricular activities.
Students participating in interscholastic athletics and co-curricular activities must sign a compliance form that indicates that they will abide by the rules and procedures governing the program. In addition, students participating in interscholastic athletics must provide the athletic director with a medical certificate, insurance information and emergency data prior to participation.

CONFLICTING SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Any time a student finds him/herself in a time conflict with school activities, he/she should talk with the teachers, coaches and directors involved for advice. If the conflict cannot be resolved, the student must make the decision as to which activity to participate in and is not to be penalized in the activity not chosen.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY FOR ATHLETICS
It is expected that students participating in interscholastic athletics and co-curricular activities will be working to their capacity in each of their academic courses.
A student not passing at least five full time courses at the end of a ranking period will have his/her athletic eligibility suspended for the rest of the next ranking period unless he/she initiates a process called ELIGIBILITY ACTION PLAN (EAP). This process provides the student/athlete with a set of concrete actions (conditions) designed to improve academic performance while allowing the student to continue participation in co-curricular activities.
This process contains the following steps:

Grades will be checked on the day that posting is completed with any suspensions occurring immediately thereafter.

Students who do not meet the minimum standard during the fourth quarter need to consult school administration regarding summer school options.

GUIDANCE SERVICES

GUIDANCE APPOINTMENTS
In an attempt to most effectively meet the needs of our students, the following guidance office procedures have been established:

TESTING PROGRAM
PSAT's are given to sophomores and juniors. SAT's are given to all juniors. There are various interest and skills inventories avialable for students to take in the Guidance Office.

IMPORTANT TEST DATES, 2008–09
The PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test for sophomores and juniors will be given at Orono High School on October 17. Application must be made well in advance of test date. Students are urged to check with the guidance office for information as to how to best plan their testing program.

SAT Dates—all beginning at 7:30 am. Check with guidance for locations:

Date	Tests Available	Registration Deadline
October 4	SAT & Subject Test
November 1	SAT & Subject Test
December 6	SAT & Subject Test
January 24	SAT & Subject Test
March 14	SAT
May 3*	SAT & Subject Test
* Required SAT for all Juniors

Advanced Placement Exams for 2008-09

May 6	Calculus AB
May 7	English Literature
May 8	U.S. History
May 11	Biology
May 15	Human Geography

ASSISTANCE FOR STUDENTS
School Nurse
The school nurse is generally in the building at 8:00 a.m. The nurse's hours will be posted on the nurse's office door. Students waiting to see the nurse should wait in the guidance office or near the bench outside the nurse's door. She can be reached at any time in case of emergency by contacting the front office.
The administration of prescribed medication to a student during school hours is permitted only when failure to take such medicine would jeopardize the health of the student or the student would not be able to attend school if the medicine were not made available during school hours.
When a student must take medications during school hours, written authorization and instructions must come from both the parent and the prescribing physician. Medicine must be delivered to the school in its original container by the pupil's parent/guardian. The written order of the physician or dentist must include the dosage, time and special circumstances under which the medicine is to be administered, the length of time for which the medicine is prescribed, and any possible side effects of the medication.

Student Assistance Team
The Orono High School Student Assistance Team is a group of concerned educators assisting students who are having problems that cause disruption in their lives. The team assists students who are experiencing such concerns as academic decline, frequent absences or tardiness; health problems; out of school issues affecting school performance; or drug and alcohol involvement. There are two kinds of referrals, self referral and concerned person referral. Referrals are held in absolute confidence.
Ask any teacher, administrator, coach, or counselor for information. The guidance office can give you a copy of a brochure that further describes the Student Assistance Team.

Special Education Services
Orono High School offers a wide range of services to any student who is identified as having a disability. Parent(s) who suspect that their child has difficulty learning should, first, discuss their concerns with the student's teachers. If the concerns are not resolved, parents or the student may discuss referral for special education services with the classroom teachers. Students may also refer themselves through these procedures. Information about referral procedures and programs may also be obtained from Sharon Brady, Director of Special Services, at 866-7110.

HIGH SCHOOL STAFF AND FACULTY

Bruce Bailey–Principal

Bob Sinclair–Assistant Principal

Michael Archer–Athletic Director

Leeann Marin–Guidance Counselor

Deta Pearce–Guidance Counselor, grade 9

Roland Gilbert–Mathematics

Marge Innis–Mathematics

Chris Libby–Mathematics

Heather Holmes–Mathematics

Jaclyn Tourtelotte—Health

Jim Bulteel–English

Donald Joseph–English & Social Studies

Christopher Luthin–English

Alexander McLean–English

Claire Moriarty–English

Shana Goodall–Social Studies

Daniel Baker –Social Studies

William Cowan–Social Studies

Leslie Winchester–Physical Education

Michael Archer–Physical Education

Chad Kirkpatrick–Physical Education

Steve Hodgdon–Band Director

Waldo Caballero–Orchestra Director

Terry Henry–Choral Director

Christine Boyd–Business Education

Karen Frye–Special Education

Andrew Bayer–Special Education

Rose Scheidt–Special Education

Jessica Andresen–Art

Jeff Owen–Science

Lesley Boyd–Science

John Norris–Science

Cynthia Clay–Science

Larry Berthiaume–Technology Education

Christine Crocker–Spanish

Jessica Umel-Spanish

Jae Hubbard–French

Jing Zhang-Chinese

Matt Tardy –Director of Adult Education

Deta Pearce–Guidance/Service Learning Coordinator

Jane Van Arsdale–Librarian

Seth Burnes–School Resource Officer

Rosemarie Clark–Office Secretary

Lynn Gray–Office Secretary

Sally Nevells–Guidance Secretary

Nancy Bauer–Library Assistant

Kerry Garland–Adult Ed Secretary

Emily Wesson–School Nurse

Kevin Mansfield–Educational Technician

Millie Pangburn–Educational Technician

Christine Allen–Educational Technician

Brian Herseymchuck–Educational Technician

Jane Josselyn–Educational Technician

Eli Merrill–Educational Technician

Debbie Quinney–Educational Technician

Teal Rancourt–Educational Technician

Rachel Ringuette–Educational Technician

Kelsi Billingham–Educational Technician

Amanda Johnston–Educational Technician

Molly Najum–Educational Technician

Erin Tripp–Educational Technician

Joshua Hallsey–Educational Technician

Patricia England–Educational Technician

Jessica Libby–Educational Technician

Stacy Rudnicki–Educational Technician

Roger Cole–Head Custodian

Gerry Martin–Grounds

Bill MacDonald–Custodian

Sam Miller–Custodian

Mike Babcock–Custodian

Barbara Damboise–Food Service

Rosemary Nadeau-Food Service

Tracie Samiya–Food Service

Sarah Trask–Food Service

NOTICE TO PARENTS, STUDENTS, AND EMPLOYEES AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

The Orono School Department provides a free appropriate public education to all eligible students with disabilities of school age for whom the School Department has a legal responsibility.

TITLE IX GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

FEDERAL EDUCATIONAL AMENDMENTS OF 1972

The Orono School Department is in compliance with the rules and regulations pertaining to nondiscrimination on the basis of sex established under Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972. This grievance procedure applies to real or alleged complaints, violations, interpretations, or the application of Title IX rules and regulations, and is intended to allow for the quick and smooth resolution of issues.
Students and employees of the Orono School Department are eligible to participate in the grievance procedure. The resolution of real or alleged violations shall be motivated toward a solution that is satisfactory to the student or employee, the administration, and the school committee.

Level One Procedure
The student or employee who has a complaint may address the complaint, in writing, to the Affirmative Action Coordinator who shall:

The complainant may accept the decision in writing addressed to the Affirmative Action Coordinator, or disagree with the decision, in writing, addressed to the Affirmative Action Coordinator. If there is disagreement, a level two procedure will be initiated.

Level Two Procedure

The Affirmative Action Coordinator for the Orono School Department is:

Superintendent of Schools
18 Goodridge Dr., Orono, Me. 04473
207-866-5521 TDD 1-955-3323

Grievance forms may be obtained from the Principal of each school or from the Affirmative Action Coordinator.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY

General Policy Statement:
It is the policy of the Orono School Department to insure equal employment/educational opportunities/affirmative action regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, marital status, religion, age or handicap in accordance with all federal and state legislation.
Inquiries and/or grievances can be made to Affirmative Action/TitleIX/504 Coordinator, Guidance Office, Orono High School, Orono, Maine 04473, telephone (207) 866-2319, or to the Director, Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education, Washington, D.C.
A portion of this policy on access to course offering is included for your information:

Integrated Pest Management Notification
Within the first two weeks of every school year, notice shall be given by all schools to all school staff and parents or legal guardians of students advising them that a school integrated pest management policy exists and that it can be reviewed at the office of the superintendent of schools.
Pesticides may periodically be applied in school buildings and on school grounds. Applications will be noticed in accordance with sections 4 (B-D) hereof. This notice shall also state that a report of prior pesticide applications and information about the pesticides used and a copy of the pesticides in schools regulation (CMR 01-026 chapter 27) are available for review.

SCHOOL RULES and OTHER INFORMATION

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Statement of Philosophy
A primary task of the school is to create a stimulating learning climate for all students. Such a climate includes broad exposure to the rights and responsibilities of citizens in a democratic society. The school environment should afford opportunities for students to exercise their rights and assume their responsibilities for citizenship.
The rights of an individual are preserved only by the protection and preservation of the rights of others. Students are responsible for the manner in which their rights are exercised and must accept the consequences of actions that extend beyond the legitimate boundaries of those rights.
The school believes that the best discipline is self-discipline and that the school environment should allow students, as far as practical, to make responsible decisions about their behavior. The school believes that giving students the opportunity to practice self-discipline in school will lead to their making more responsible choices when not in school.

Students Rights and Responsibilities
Students have the right to a free public education in a safe environment and the responsibility to attend school regularly and not to interfere with or threaten the education of others.
Every student has the right to express opinions either verbally or symbolically as long as that expression does not infringe upon the rights of others.
Students have the right to determine their patterns of dress and grooming provided that such dress and grooming conform to the Orono high school dress code policy and does not interfere with the health and safety of themselves or others and do not interfere with the educational process of the school.
Except in extraordinary circumstances, no suspension shall be enforced against any student until that student has been afforded due process.

Core Values
The Orono School Committee is committed to maintaining a supportive and orderly school environment in which students may receive and staff may deliver a quality education without disruption or interference and in which students may develop as ethical, responsible, and involved citizens.
To achieve this goal, the Orono School Department has established a set of expectations for student conduct. These expectations are based on the values identified by the community as essential to ethical and responsible behavior.

COURAGE

RESPECT

FAIRNESS

RESPONSIBILITY

CARING

HONESTY

The Orono School Committee believes that each member of the school community should take responsibility for his/her own behavior. To that end, the Orono School Committee recognizes the need to define unacceptable student conduct, identify the possible consequences for unacceptable conduct, and ensure that discipline is administered fairly, promptly, and appropriately.
The Code applies to students who are on school property, who are in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school.

STANDARDS FOR ETHICAL AND RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOR-OUR VALUES IN ACTION
With rights come responsibilities. Students and staff are expected to demonstrate ethical and responsible behavior consistent with the school community's values. Such conduct is fundamental to a supportive, safe, and orderly school environment and a civil society.

COURAGE
A courageous person

A courageous person does not

RESPECT
A respectful person

FAIRNESS

A fair person

A fair person does not

RESPONSIBILITY

A responsible person

A responsible person does not

CARING

A caring person

HONESTY

An honest person

An honest person does not

General Rules of Conduct
This code establishes rules of student conduct that have been deemed necessary by the school committee for the successful accomplishment of the mission of the schools. All school committee policies included in the Code of Conduct are available through the principalÕs office. General rules of student conduct and administrative procedures for use in the schools shall be based upon but not limited to the following:

Discipline and Behavior Related Offenses and Consequences
Good discipline in the schools is essential for the school program so that students can realize their greatest opportunities for growth. Good discipline is fair, dignified, and in good temper. Discipline should not be used to deprive students of any academic materials.

When behavior-related offenses do occur, the following range of consequences should apply in most circumstances. In unusual or extreme cases, this range may not be appropriate. For cases involving absence, truancy, class cutting, tardiness to school or class, the intention is not to remove the student from the school or the classroom setting except in extreme circumstances. All attendance related offenses must be dealt with in accordance with the Orono School Department's attendance policy.

 

I Staff/Administrative Response	II Parent/Guardian Involvement	III Reallocation of Student's Time	IV Temp. Exclusion form Normal School Activities	V Long–term Expulsion
Options	Options	Options	Options	Options
Verbal Reprimand Time-out or out of classroom Loss of privileges Teacher/administrator, conference with student Contact with Counselor Contact with parent Required mediation	Phone call to parent/guardian Written notification Conference with parent/guardian

Restitution for loss or damage to property may be requested in addition to any of the above consequences. In some cases, academic credit may be withdrawn. Where appropriate, law enforcement will be involved.

Offense	Definition	Range
Unexcused Absence	An absence for a day or any portion of a day for any reason other than those cited as excused in school policy or absence without parental permission.	I to IV
Alcohol Violation	Possession or use of any alcoholic substance; including possession with intent to sell, give, deliver, or distribute.	IV to V
Arson/Fire	Attempting to, aiding in, or setting fire to a building or other property.	IV to V
Bus Misbehavior	Any violation of school system policy or bus driver rules or policy occurring on a school bus.	I to V
Cheating/Academic Dishonesty	Copying, plagiarizing, altering records, or assisting another in such actions.	I to IV
Computer/Electronic Communication	Any unauthorized use of computers, software, or internet/internet, accessing inappropriate websites, misuse of a website, internet/internet account or internet/internet resource.	I to V
Cutting Class	Unexcused absence from a class or school activity	II to IV
Destruction of Property/Vandalism	Damage, destruction, or defacement of property belongings to the school or others.	I to IV
Discrimination	Use of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, age, gender, marital status, physical traits, or sexual orientation as a basis for treating another in a negative manner.	II to V
Disrespect Toward Adults	Inappropriate comments or physical gestures to teachers, staff members, or other adults in the school community	I to IV
Disruption, classroom	Behavior that interferes with the learning of others in any learning environment.	I to IV
Disruption, school	Behavior that interferes with the safe and orderly environment of the school or school activity.	I to IV
Drug Violation	Possession or use of (including possession with the intent to sell, give, deliver, ordistribute) any inhalants or other intoxicants, controlled dangerous substances including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, look-alikes, and substances represented as controlled dangerous substances, or drug paraphernalia.	IV to V
Extortion/Strong-arming/Blackmail	The process of obtaining property from another, with or without that person's consent, by wrongful use of force, fear, or threat.	IV to V
Failure to Serve Assigned Consequences	Failure to serve detention, Saturday school, suspension, or other assignedconsequences	I to IV
Bomb Threats/False Alarms	Initiating a report warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misuse of 911, or discharging a fire extinguisher.	IV to V
Fighting	A hostile confrontation with physical contact involving two or more students.	III to V
Fireworks or Explosives	Possession, use and/or threat to use firecrackers, smoke bombs, flares, combustible or explosive substances, or combination of substances or articles.	IV to V
Forgery	To use, make, or reproduce another's signature for deceptive purposes.	I to IV
Gambling	Wagering money or property	I to IV
Harassment	A sufficiently severe action or persistent, pervasive pattern of actions or statements directed at an identifiable individual or group which is intended to be or which a reasonable person would perceive as ridiculing or demeaning.	II to V
Hazing	Intentional or reckless act directed against another for the purpose of initiation into, affiliating with, or maintaining member-ship in any school-sponsored activity, organization, club or team.	III to V
Indecent Exposure	Exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or indecent manner.	II to V
Disobedience	Refusing to follow reasonable directions of teachers, staff, administration, including failure to identify self.	III to V
Intimidation	Engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in fear of bodily harm.	I to IV
Leaving School Grounds Without Permission	Leaving school grounds during regular school hours without written or verbal permission from parent/guardian or some-one listed on the emergency procedure card.	III to IV
Pager/cell phone	Carrying, wearing, or using an unauthorized portable electronic communications device	II to IV
Physical Attack on Staff	Aggressive action with physical contact directed at school staff while on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event, including a situation where a staff member is intervening in a fight or another disruptive activity.	IV to V
Physical Attack on Students or Others	Aggressive action, with physical contact, directed at another person, student, or non-student on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event.	IV to V
Profanity	Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing, or swearing.	I to IV
Refusal to Obey School Rules	Failure to comply with school rules, regulations, policies, and/or procedures.	I to V
Sexual Activity	Behavior of a sexual nature including consensual sexual activity; possession of pornographic materials.	II to IV
Sexual Harassment	Unwanted and inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward others.	II to V
Stalking	A malicious course of conduct that includes approaching or pursuing another person with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear of serious bodily injury or death; or that a third person will likely suffer serious bodily injury or death.	IV to V
Unexcused Tardiness	Unexcused lateness to school or class	I to IV
Theft	Taking or obtaining property of another without permission or knowledge of the owner.	II to V
Threat to Staff, Physical or Verbal	Expression, conveyed by word or action, of intent to do physical harm to a staff member.	IV to V
Threat to Student, Physical or Verbal	Expression, conveyed by word or action, of intent to do physical harm to another student.	IV to V
Tobacco Use/Possession	Possession or use of any tobacco or tobacco products, including possession with the intent to sell, give, deliver, or distribute.	IV to V
Trespassing	Unauthorized presence on school property including duringsuspension, or after expulsion.	II to V
Unacceptable Use of Vehicle	Unsafe driving practices or violation of school rules relating to vehicles.	I to IV
Uncooperative Behavior	Intentional failure to follow reasonable directions of a staff member or to participate cooperatively in a school or class activity.	I to IV
Weapons	Possession of an object or implement capable of causing harm or used in such a way as to cause harm to another. This includes all guns, including pellet and BB guns, knives, and any implement, visible or concealed, possessed under a circumstance which would reasonably lead a person to believe it was a weapon.	IV to V

DETENTION
Detention may be assigned by individual teachers or the administration. Detention is to be served on the day assigned unless other arrangements have been approved. Detention starts at 2:15 and students are required to bring study materials. Failure to bring sufficient work or disruptive behavior by a student while in detention will result in the student being assigned another detention. Any student who fails to attend or to complete the assigned detention will be assigned 2 hours of Friday detention. The administration will contact the parents in cases where students are chronically being assigned detention. If an assigned detention has not been served, the student will not be eligible to participate in co-curricular/athletic practices or events.

SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS
The following rules and policies apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school.
Due process consists of giving the student oral or written notice of the charge(s) against him or her, giving an explanation of the evidence forming the basis for those charges, and giving the student an opportunity to present his/her side of the case. Students whose presence pose a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process may be immediately removed from school. In those cases the notice of charges, explanation of evidence and the student's opportunity to explain his/her side of the story shall be arranged as soon as practical after the student's removal from school.
A suspended student may not be present on school property or attend school activities during the period of suspension. After a suspension students and parents must meet with an administrator before being readmitted to school.
The principal is authorized to make exceptions to rules when justice so requires.

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Consistent and regular school attendance is essential for students to make satisfactory academic progress. Whenever a student misses class, he or she has lost an important aspect of education that can not be duplicated. In order to promote good school attendance and maximize learning opportunities, OHS adheres to the following attendance guidelines:

Since class/school attendance is a key to learning, the Student Attendance Committee is authorized to make recommendations to the principal for further action including possible loss of credit for excessive absence.

Individual teachers have attendance guidelines for their classes that are described on the course syllabi.

Students absent from school will not be permitted to participate or practice in any cocurricular event that day.

TARDINESS TO SCHOOL
Accurate records of tardiness to school will be kept. Unexcused tardiness will result in the following action.

DISMISSAL PROCEDURE
Once a student arrives at school he/she is expected to stay on school grounds until dismissal. This also applies during lunch period.

Any student leaving school before the regular dismissal time must obtain permission from the main office and a parent or guardian. The student must provide the office with a note from a parent or guardian indicating the reason for early departure. This note must be brought to the office before school on the day of the dismissal. Any dismissal which has not been arranged in advance will require approval of the school administration.

Seniors who have permission for early dismissal and leave early are to not return during the remainder of the school day.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE
Whenever a student is absent from school and the reason does not meet the approved criteria for an excused absence, parents will be notified and Friday detention assigned. Students with unexcused absences will not recieve credit for work missed during that time. Teachers may request, however, that the work be completed and turned in.

CLASS ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are required to attend all classes and teachers are asked to keep accurate attendance records for all classes. The following procedures are used in matters relating to unexcused absences from a class:

First offense- Parents will be contacted and the student will be assigned detention or a Friday detention.

A student who exhibits a pattern of behavior concerning unexcused absence from class will be held accountable through the schools discipline policy. Unexcused absence from class is a serious misbehavior and will not be tolerated.

MAKE–UP WORK
After any absence from school, a student is expected to make up all missed work. It is the student's responsibility to contact the teacher the day he or she returns to get the missed assignments. If the student fails to make these arrangements upon return to school, no credit will be given for that work. Teachers' office hours are listed on each class syllabus. If a student is absent for one to three days, it is advisable to call a classmate for assignments. If a student is absent for three or more days due to illness, it is advisable to call guidance to obtain homework assignments.

LIBRARY REGULATIONS
Students are encouraged to use the library to access research materials and information. The librarians are prepared to help you find reference material. The library is not a study hall or social meeting place. Students must be prepared to use the library for research purposes or report writing. Students will be asked to return to their study hall if they are not being productive and library privileges may be restricted.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students are expected to take proper care of all school property including the building, school grounds, athletic fields, equipment and books. Students are responsible for returning all books, materials, equipment and uniforms issued to them in usable conditions. Students are held financially responsible for any lost or damaged property.

LOST BOOKS AND SUPPLIES
School books and supplies issued to students become the student's responsibility. Students will be charged if school equipment or books are not returned or if they are not in reasonable condition at the close of the year.

GIFT POLICY
Students and their parents are asked not to present gifts to school department employees.

TELEPHONE
Access to telephones is limited at OHS. Students use of office telephones, therefore, is restricted to calling parents to discuss dismissal from school due to illness. All other calls by students are to be made from the pay phone in the lobby before or after school or during lunch.

CLASS DUES
Members of the senior class are assessed class dues to help pay for the cost of some graduation expenses.

FUND RAISING
Fund raising by school-sponsored organizations shall be carried out with the approval of the principal. Groups or teams intending to fund raise must complete a fund raising form available from the front office and receive the written approval of the principal. The full fund raising policy is attached to the fund raising form.

LOCKERS
School lockers are school property and are assigned to students at the beginning of the school year for the safe keeping of books, clothing and other school supplies. Students are expected to keep their locker locked at all times and to not share their combinations with others. For convenience, students should record their locker combination in a notebook or other safe place.

Students may not bring, possess, or store at school any items or substances which are prohibited by law, School Committee policies, school rules, or that interfere with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school.

School officials retain the right to inspect and have access to student lockers. School administrators are authorized to search students and personal property in the student's immediate possession when in their judgment there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a student has violated or is violating school committee policies, school rules, or federal/state laws.

BACKPACKS
Students are not to take their backpacks into the cafeteria during lunch due to the limited space in the room.

CARE OF PERSONAL ITEMS
The school cannot safeguard the personal belongings of students. Students should not bring valuables and sums of money to school or to school sponsored events. If bringing a valuable item to school is unavoidable, please bring it to the office for safe keeping. P.E. students and athletic participants are required to secure personal valuables in their lockers or to leave them with their teacher or coach

SKATEBOARDS, IN-LINE SKATES AND SCOOTERS
Students who bring skateboards, scooters, or in-line skates to school are expected to keep them in their lockers until the end of the school day when they leave. If they are used during the day, they will be kept by the administration and returned at a later date.

STUDENT USE OF THE BUILDING
There are many activities offered at Orono High that students are encouraged to take part in. Students are not to remain in the building at the end of the school day unless they are involved in an organized activity. When it is necessary to wait for a ride after a practice or event, students are expected to remain in the school lobby.

The teachers' room is off limits to students at all times.

STUDENT GUESTS
Students may not bring guests to school unless they have received administrative permission at least three days in advance of the visit and the guest is considering enrollment at Orono High School. Student visitorÕs arrangements are to be made through the guidance office.

DRESS CODE
The Orono School Committee recognizes that the responsibility for the dress and appearance of students rests primarily with individual students and their parent(s) or guardian(s). The Committee will not interfere with this responsibility unless the personal choices of students create a disruptive influence on the school program, cause a serious distraction to the learning environment, or affect the health and safety of students. It is also expected that clothes meet a reasonable standard of cleanliness. Students are encouraged to use sound judgment and reflect respect for themselves and others in dress and grooming. In keeping with the goal of the school to provide a safe. healthy, and non-discriminatory environment, the following restrictions on dress will be enforced on school grounds, at school functions or on school sponsored transportation:

The school administration may require special clothing for health and safety reasons for students participating in physical education, certain extra curricular activities, and specific academic activities.

RADIO, WALKMAN, BEEPER, CELL PHONE, LASER LIGHT
Radios, walkmen, cell phones, head phones, laser lights, and beepers are not to be used during the school day. If such an item is used during the school day, it will be confiscated and returned to the parent upon reassurance that it will not be used at school.

HARASSMENT OF STUDENTS
The Orono School Department recognizes the right of all pupils to a learning environment that is free of intimidation, ridicule and offensive statements or behaviors. Discrimination against and harassment of students because of race, color, sex, religion, ancestry or national origin, or disability are prohibited. In addition, in accordance with Orono Town Ordinances, discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation is prohibited. Examples of prohibited harassment include:

Some of the above acts may also constitute illegal discrimination under state and federal laws.

Students who believe that they are victims of harassment should report such occurrences to a teacher, counselor, or administrator who will in turn report it to the complaint manager, Curriculum Coordinator, Meredith Higgins. The confidentiality of both the complainant and the accused will be respected consistent with the Orono School Department's legal obligations to investigate allegations and to discipline perpetrators when misconduct has occurred. A full copy of the reporting procedures is available from the principal, Mrs. Knox; the assistant principal, Mr. Sinclair; or the guidance director, Mrs. Lechner.

HAZING
Maine statute defines injurious hazing as "any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student enrolled in a public school."

It is the policy of the Orono School Committee that injurious hazing activities of any type, either on or off school property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with the Orono schools, are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times.

No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the Orono Schools shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate injurious hazing activities. No student, including leaders of student organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities.

Persons not associated with the Orono Schools who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to ejection from school property and/or other measures as may be available under the law.

Administrators, faculty members, students and all other employees who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measures.

BEHAVIOR AT SCHOOL FUNCTIONS AND ASSEMBLIES
Students are expected to behave in an appropriate manner at all school functions. Courtesy, respect and good sportsmanship should guide behavior.

BEHAVIOR ON SCHOOL-SPONSORED TRIPS
Students are subject to Orono High School rules at all times on school-sponsored trips. Any student violating school rules will be subject to disciplinary action upon return to school. All students will follow the chaperones’ instructions. Any student who disregards either school rules or a chaperone’s directive may be sent home at the family’s expense.

FOOD AND DRINK
Teachers may prohibit gum, food and drinks from their classrooms. Selections from a juice machine and snack machine are available before and after school and between classes. Students must arrive at their classes by the time the tone rings. Between Blocks 1 and 2, students may purchase a snack from the food service stand. Students are not to leave class to go to the vending machines or the kitchen.

CAR PRIVILEGES
Bringing a car to school is a privilege that carries with it some important responsibilities. All student cars must be parked in the lot behind the building. OHS registration stickers are required and are issued by the assistant principal, Mr. Ingraham. Once on school property, students are expected to park their cars and enter the building immediately. Cars are off limits during the school day including lunch time. School administrators retain the authority to patrol parking lots. An assigned parking space may be required if a student has had restrictions placed on his/her driving privileges.

Students must drive cautiously and be especially aware of pedestrians. Car privileges will be revoked for reasons of reckless or discourteous driving and violations of the off limits regulation.

If school administrators have a reasonable suspicion that a vehicle, which a student has parked at school, contains evidence that the student has or is violating a federal/state law, or there is a substantial threat to the welfare and safety of the schools, law enforcement authorities will be asked for assistance in compliance with school committee policy.

STUDENTS WHO ARRIVE EARLY
Students arriving at school before 8:00 A.M. are to enter the building by the bus entrance and report to the cafeteria. Students are expected to abide by all bus rules.

OFFICE REFERRAL
If a teacher asks a student to leave a classroom because of inappropriate behavior, the student must report directly to the office. To be reinstated in the class, the student must confer with an administrator and detention will be assigned. Parents will be informed.

If a second referral occurs from the same class, a conference involving student, parent, teacher and administrator may be held.

If a third referral occurs in the same class, the student will be suspended from school until a decision is made regarding the student's continuing in the class.

CHEATING POLICY
Honesty is the foundation of a good reputation. If you tell the truth and take full responsibility for your actions, you will be consistently respected as a strong individual. If, on the other hand, you lie and try to avoid responsibility, your weakness will place doubts in the mind of everyone you deal with. It is a harsh fact of life that, once you damage your good reputation, it is hard to regain people's confidence.

A reputation based on honesty is of great importance. Accordingly, the school will do its best to help you protect it. If you should act dishonestly, the school, through disciplinary action and counseling, will work with you to try to repair the damage you have done to your relationships with the community.

All forms of cheating and plagiarism are prohibited. Behavior that is unacceptable includes but is not limited to:

Violators of this policy will be disciplined on a case–by–case basis depending upon the seriousness of the violation, prior violations, and other factors. Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, redoing assignment/retaking test, receiving a failing grade on a project/test, receiving a lower overall grade in the class, detention, suspension, or expulsion.

ELECTRONICS COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK/ACCEPTABLE USE
Orono High School seeks to maximize the use and benefits of the electronic communications network for students and staff while acknowledging the potential risks that exist. The school department promotes a proactive role in informing and educating students and staff on the educational and ethical use of the network.

The Orono School System supports and respects the family's right to deny access. Students and staff are required to adhere to the following rules and responsibilities for computer and network use.

•Etiquette

•Security

•Responsible Use

STUDENT DISTRIBUTION OF LEAFLETS, BROCHURES, OR OTHER WRITTEN FORMS OF EXPRESSION

OHS policy permits students to distribute leaflets, pamphlets, brochures and other written forms of expression on school grounds provided that neither the content nor the means of distribution violates the standards of this policy.

No paper is to be distributed on school grounds unless each copy bears the names of the publishing organization and principal officers and unless a copy of the paper together with notice of where it is to be distributed, and by whom, is furnished to the school principal or designee.

The distributors are to be guided by the following standards:

A. Content

B. Distribution

Students may engage in the distribution of material in accordance with the following principles:

Violations of these terms will be handled on an individual basis by the administration and could result in disciplinary action including possible suspension and/or expulsion.

STUDENT PRODUCED AUDIO-VISUAL MATERIALS
Students at Orono High School frequently produce videos or Power-Point presentations for classes or co-curricular events. Any such material must bear the names of individuals responsible for the production. The producers and distributors are to be guided by the following standards:

Violations of these terms will be handled on an individual basis by the administration and could result in disciplinary action including possible suspension and/or expulsion.

STUDY HALLS
The following rules and regulations will be in effect in all study halls:

TOBACCO USE OR POSSESSION
The use of tobacco products is prohibited in school buildings, on school property and adjacent town property which is under the supervision of the Orono School Department. This prohibition applies to students, employees, and members of the public. Students in school or at school sponsored activities may not use, possess, sell, buy, or give tobacco products.

TOBACCO USE
First offense tobacco use during school or school related event-three day suspension and student must meet with substance abuse counselor, guidance counselor, or support group as directed by administrator.

Second offense tobacco use-five day suspension and student must meet with substance abuse counselor, guidance counselor, or support group as directed by administrator.

Third offense tobacco use-five day suspension and student must meet with substance abuse counselor, guidance counselor, or support group as directed by administrator. The police will also be notified.

POSSESSION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS
The following penalties are for any student regardless of age when possession of tobacco products occurs on school property or at school related activities:

SUBSTANCE USE AND ABUSE BY STUDENTS
The Orono School Department recognizes that the use of chemical substances is a significant health problem for students that often results in negative effects on behavior, learning, and the total development of each individual. While student health problems are primarily the responsibility of the home, the school shares in the responsibility because chemical health problems often are associated with learning and development. As a result, the Orono School Committee is committed to offer a comprehensive chemical health program that addresses both primary and secondary prevention.

The Orono School Committee recognizes the need to seek a balance between aid to students with substance abuse problems and the protection of other students, property, and the school learning environment. This substance abuse policy includes firm standards and prohibitions. At the same time, students are to be assured that the school will assist them in confronting and overcoming chemical abuse problems.

It is the policy of the Orono School Committee that a student on school property or at a school related activity shall not use, have in possession, buy, sell, or give a beverage containing alcohol (regardless of the quantity); or use, have in possession, buy,sell, or give marijuana or other substance defined by law as a drug or a look-alike drug; or be under the influence of any chemical substance, or possess drug paraphernalia.

Disciplinary Action
Any employee who has a reasonable basis to suspect any student of the possession, use, or sale of a prohibited substance shall:

Administrative Procedure
The administrator shall:

Voluntary Referral
All staff members should be aware of the distinction between those who are violating the law (disciplinary action) and those who are seeking help (voluntary).

Any staff member who is approached by a student who is seeking help is expected to offer assistance by:

Administrative Procedure

The administrator shall:

INVOLVEMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
School administrators have the discretion to request the assistance of law enforcement authorities in accordance with school committee policy.

WEAPONS IN THE SCHOOL
In an effort to ensure a safe environment for students and employees, all persons are prohibited from the following conduct at all times on school premises, in any school vehicle, or at any school sponsored activity:

Administrators will confiscate any article described in this policy and, if appropriate, submit it to the appropriate local law enforcement agency. As required by the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1994, students who are found to have brought a firearm to school shall be expelled by the school board for a period of not less than one year and referred to the appropriate local law enforcement agency.

SEARCHES OF STUDENTS AND PERSONAL PROPERTY IN STUDENTS’ IMMEDIATE POSSESSION
Student use of all school storage facilities, including but not limited to lockers, desks, and parking lots, is a privilege granted by the school. All storage facilities are school property and remain under the control and supervision of the school. School administrators have the authority to inspect and search storage facilities and their contents on a random basis, with or without reasonable suspicion, and without notice or consent.

If a search produces evidence that a student has violated or is violating the law, School Committee policies or school rules, the evidence may be seized and impounded by school administrators and appropriate disciplinary action may be taken. Evidence may be forwarded to law enforcement authorities as required by law or as deemed appropriate by school administrators.

School administrators are authorized to search the students and personal property in the students' immediate possessions when, in their judgment, there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a student has violated or is violating the School Committee Policies, school rules, or federal/state laws.

Searches which disclose evidence that a student has violated school committee policies or school rules will be addressed through school disciplinary procedures. Evidence of violation of federal/state laws may result in school disciplinary action and will be forwarded to law enforcement authorities for possible investigation/prosecution.

Updated 9–19–2008
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