Students should get permission from a staff member and put their name and time on a sign-out sheet before leaving the classroom to use the bathroom. Students should not use the restrooms while passing between classes or without a pass. Sign the time of return on the sign-out sheet when you return to class.
Cubbies
Students in grades 3-5 will be assigned a cubby. Cubbies do not have locks, so items of value should not be brought to school. Backpacks, coats/jackets, and other bulky material should be stored in cubbies during the school day.
The storage of contraband items (weapons, drugs, alcohol, lighters, electronic items, stolen property, etc.) in cubbies is not permissible.
Cubbies are only provided for use that is consistent with legitimate school functions and are subject to periodic inspection to insure compliance with these policies. The administration has the right to search cubbies if there is reasonable suspicion of something illegal, dangerous, or disruptive to students or the school.
Vacations
The school administration discourages students from taking vacations other than those that are regularly scheduled. If students are going to be out of school for reasons other than sickness, the students should bring a parent/guardian note to every teacher and notify the Main Office.
Please contact your child's teacher(s) regarding work to be made up. The decision about assignments will be based on whether or not the work can be assigned in advance and done without previous instruction from the teacher.
Visitors
Parents and visitors are required to enter the Miller School through the front entrance. All exterior doors are locked after the students arrive in the morning. When visiting the school for any reason, visitors must first be “Buzzed” into the building. The “Buzzer” is located to the right of the front right hand side doors. All visitors need to be prepared to show a photo identification and obtain a Visitor’s Badge when signing into the Main Office. Anyone not wearing a Visitor’s Badge will be stopped immediately and redirected to the office to obtain a badge. Visitors should return to the office after visiting to sign out. Parents are always welcome to visit our school, but need to follow the protocol for visitors. All visitors are encouraged to make an appointment prior to visiting a teacher or administrator. We do not allow students from other schools to visit while school is in session.
Guidance Office
There are two guidance counselors as well as a part-time school psychologist who work with Miller School students. Their job is to guide your learning so that you are comfortable during your three years here. If you have a problem or just want to talk about yourself, a student, or a teacher, they are available to help you. A counselor provides support and encouragement for academic, personal, or social problems. Classroom observations and student records also help them to assist you. Contact the Guidance Office if you would like to schedule an appointment to meet with a guidance counselor.
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Nurse/Health Office
The school nurse is here every day during school hours to help keep students healthy. The school nurse
is a liaison to the school. Parents are encouraged to communicate any health, illness or injury related concerns to the school nurse by calling or coming in during school hours. Please inform the nurse of any medical information or medication that the student is on that may affect the school day. Students are encouraged to see the school nurse when they are ill or injured or with any other related concerns. It is very important for the nurse, as well as the Main Office, to receive a copy of the Student Emergency Information Form in the event a parent needs to be contacted.
Student Health Regulations
A record will be kept of all visits to the Health Office. Parents will be notified if a health problem seems to be developing.
The school nurse provides advisory and emergency care only. The school health office is not a diagnostic clinic. Once first aid has been administered, it is the responsibility of the family and the family physician to carry out treatment and after care. Only those injuries or illnesses occurring in the school, on the school bus or on the school grounds are the responsibility of school personnel.
If a student becomes ill or injured in school and must be sent home, parents must make provisions for transportation. If parents are unavailable, students may be dismissed to one of the emergency contacts listed on the Student Information Form. In case of
extreme emergency, where it is impossible to reach the parents and the nurse is not available, the principal acts as parent in absentia and will take whatever steps deemed appropriate.
A copy of the Student Emergency Information Form, signed by the parent or guardian must be on file in the school health office and in the Main Office for each student. The form is supplied to each student at the beginning of the school year. The information is essential in time of illness or injury and must be updated as necessary. Information on both parents (if addresses differ) should be included. If there are any custody issues or concerns, the school needs appropriate documentation.
We encourage parents to notify the school nurse, preferably in writing, of any health condition pertinent to the child's well being: food allergies, tendency to nosebleed, allergic reaction to bee stings, diabetes, asthma, bone and joint problems, difficulties with speech, vision or hearing and religious stipulations regarding medical care. We also encourage parents to make an appointment for a conference with the nurse to develop an Individual Health Care Plan.
Medication Procedures: Signed consent by the parent/guardian is required to dispense any medication.
All medication requires a signed medication order. This includes non-prescription medication. The written medication order form should be taken to your child's licensed prescriber (physician, nurse practitioner, etc.) for completion and returned to the school nurse. This order must be renewed as needed and at the beginning of each academic year.
Special medication situations: For short-term prescription medication, i.e., those requiring administration for ten (10) school days or less, the pharmacy labeled container may be used in lieu of a licensed prescriber's order.
Medicine should be delivered to the school in a pharmacy or manufacturer labeled container by the parent/guardian or responsible adult whom you designate. Do not have your child transport medicine on the school bus. Please ask your pharmacy to provide separate bottles for school and home. No more than a thirty (30) day supply should be delivered to the school. When your child needs medicine to be given during the school day, please act quickly to follow these policies so we may begin to give the medicine as soon as possible.
Please pick up all medications on the last day of school. The school nurse will dispose of any medication left in the Health Office.
Please note: The school nurse must administer all medication taken during the school day.
The School Immunization Law is fully implemented in Holliston. No student will be admitted unless immunization requirements are met. All students entering school must present a physician's or Board of Health Certificate showing complete immunization as required by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
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The law also requires Physical Examinations for students in grades PK, K, 4, 7 and 10. The examinations must be conducted within 6 months prior to entering or anytime within the school year. Results must be on file by June 1. These exams should be completed by your child's primary care physician. If a student is without a PCP he/she will be referred to the school physician.
If a student does not have health insurance he/she will be referred to state programs such as Mass Health or the Children's Medical Security Plan. Hearing (grade 3); vision (all grades); growth, including body mass index, (grade 4); and postural screening (grade 5) are mandated by state law and are conducted each year by the school nurse. Students will be referred to their primary care provider if problems are identified at the time of screening. Any parent not wishing their child to participate in the above screenings must present a physician's statement that the child has been tested and must send the results to the school nurse.
Head Lice (pediculosis) may be a problem among school children. We request that all parents check their own children at least once a week. All cases must be reported to the school nurse in an effort to control an outbreak.
Students contracting a disease noted below shall be excluded from school for the following minimum times:
Scarlet Fever: May return in 24 hours after treatment has begun and the child is fever free for
24 hours.
Chicken Pox: One week with certificate from Board of Health located at the Town Hall
(429-0605) or a doctor's certificate.
Strep Throat: Strep throat is highly contagious among school age children. A child must be on
medication for 24 hours before returning to school. Symptoms include sore throat, headache, nausea, vomiting. A throat culture should be considered. Strep throat, left untreated, can lead to rheumatic fever or kidney disease.
Students with contagious skin disorders (impetigo, ringworm, etc.) will be excluded from school and re-admitted at the discretion of the school nurse. The Board of Health is located in the Town Hall. The telephone number is (508) 429-0605.
Student Support Services
Student Support Services are available for our entire school population. The Student Services Administrator is available to identify, assess, and, when appropriate, implement support for students who may require specific services to optimize learning opportunities.
Our school provides a rich curriculum, instructional practices and varied programs of services geared to individual needs, including opportunities for strong family involvement and awareness of the educational services in the school.
Special Education Services
Special Education services are offered to Holliston students in accordance with 603 CMR 28.00 of the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (formerly Chapter 766). Special Education is intended to provide services to students who have disabilities and who, because of those disabilities, need help to make progress in the general education program of the school and thus to receive the full educational benefit of the district’s programs.
Our Student Services Administrator works with the classroom teacher, specialists and parents to ensure that, when appropriate, referrals are made to assess a student’s eligibility for special education services. Any questions you may have regarding Special Education services and programs should be referred to the following:
Miller School: Eileen Harvey
508-429-0667 x 1332
District Wide Office: Meg Camire
508-429-0662
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504 Accommodation Plans
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of a handicap and/or disability. The law is designed to protect: "Any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment or is regarded as having such an impairment." The major life activities include walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, working, caring for oneself and performing manual tasks.
Students who fit this definition are entitled to a "free and appropriate" public education comparable to that provided to students without disabilities. This may include regular or special education services. However, students can receive related services under Section 504 with the appropriate documentation, even if they are not provided any special education.
Please contact the Guidance Office if you have questions or would like more information regarding 504 Accommodation Plans. The Coordinator of compliance for the district of Holliston for 504 plans is Superintendent of schools, Bradford L.Jackson, Ed.D., 370 Hollis St., Holliston, MA 01746 . His phone number is 508-429-0654.
Behavioral Safety
Holliston Public Schools are committed to providing quality education to our students while promoting behavioral safety within our schools. Our school has adopted the Safety-Care TM Training Program, developed by Quality Behavior Solutions, Inc., which is a behavioral safety program for our educators and is in compliance with the State of Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regulations.
This program provides our educators with the skills they need to confidently, safely, and respectfully prevent, minimize and manage student behavioral challenges.
Please feel free to contact our building administrators or our district Behavior Inclusion Specialist if you have any questions or would like more information about this program.
Media Center
The Media Center is open Monday through Friday from 7:55 a.m. until 2:33 p.m. Much of what is done in class each day is related to the materials that can be found in the Media Center. Books, magazines, reference materials, etc. can be found in the Media Center. Students are allowed to borrow up to two items at a time from the Media Center. Items are expected to be returned on time and in the same condition they were in when they were borrowed.
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BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
Code of Conduct
The Holliston Public Schools place a high value on each student as an individual. We honor diversity and believe that each and every student is unique.
In order to accomplish and fulfill the Mission of our schools, each of us takes on the responsibility of instilling in students a sense of respect for themselves and others.
You must be respectful toward everyone - fellow students, teachers, and all the employees in the school. You may not use rude, profane or obscene language, or gestures toward anyone. The Code of Conduct embodies the principles of respect and defines the Holliston Schools in its pursuit of excellence.
One way we try to get students to own these rules is by teaching positive behavior traits focusing on these rules. At the Miller School we want students to SHINE!
SHINE
S = Self Control
H= Honesty
I = Independence
N = Nice
E = Effort
These traits will help students learn and grow at the Miller School.
The following is a listing of behavioral expectations and disciplinary sanctions. This list is not and cannot be all-inclusive, but is designed to provide guidance to students and their parents of the behavioral expectations. As stated explicitly below in connection with specific offenses, severe or habitual violations of the code of conduct can result in the denial of school privileges and/or participation in extra-curricular activities.
Buses 
School buses are an extension of the school and students are under the jurisdiction of the school while riding the bus.
Students should behave appropriately while riding the bus. This appropriate behavior includes remaining seated, not eating or drinking, or engaging in any other distracting or disruptive behavior. Gum chewing is not allowed on school buses. The use of cell phones and electronic devices is not allowed. Swearing is not allowed and students must keep hands and heads inside the bus at all times, and refrain from loud talking and horseplay that may divert the driver’s attention, making safe driving difficult. Students are not permitted to leave their seats while the bus is in motion. Students are strictly forbidden from tampering with the emergency door. After each disciplinary notice for inappropriate behavior on the bus, parents will be notified. The student's privilege to ride the bus may be revoked for a period of time if he/she gets a third notice or, if in a single incident, a student’s behavior is considered excessively dangerous. State law prohibits smoking on school buses.
The school department or the transportation company is not responsible for articles left on the bus. Bus rules apply to the regular daily buses to and from school, late buses, field trip and athletic buses, and all bus trips by Holliston Public Schools.
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All students are expected to present their own work for evaluation. A teacher who determines that a student has been guilty of the above offenses shall take all reasonable and necessary steps to address this first with
the student and his/her parents. The teacher may then choose to refer this matter to an administrator after giving a grade zero for the work in question.
Violations may result in loss of privileges and, in some cases, can lead to suspension from school. A student who disagrees with the teacher’s finding that she/he has been guilty of cheating or plagiarism can appeal this claim to the Principal.
In an effort to foster a positive school atmosphere, students are expected to dress in a way that is appropriate for school
and shows respect for themselves and others. These guidelines are not all inclusive, and administrators reserve the right
to make decisions in case of dress that is deemed detrimental to a positive school climate and atmosphere. Students may
not wear any article of clothing that could be considered offensive, disrespectful, discriminatory, unsafe or in any way
disruptive to the learning environment.
Hats are not to be worn inside the school building, exceptions will be made for a documented or known instructional, safety, religious and/or medical reason.
Outdoor coats/hoods may not be worn during the day.
Clothing that displays language or pictures that are considered vulgar or promote violence, tobacco, drug or alcohol use are not permitted.
Shorts that are exceptionally short and/or form fitting are not permitted. Shorts that typically meet the criteria exceed a 3” inseam.
Clothing must provide appropriate coverage. Undergarments and midriffs must be covered at all times. Low-cut shirts/tops are not acceptable.
Proper attire is required for participation in all physical education classes.
Footwear must be worn at all times. Flip flops or sandals without a backstrap should not be worn by students.
If a staff member believes that a student’s attire may be inappropriate based on the above, the student will be discreetly referred to one of the guidance counselors or administrators. If the clothing is deemed inappropriate for school, the parents/guardians will be contacted. We encourage you to consult your parent, guidance counselor and/or administrator if you are concerned about an item of clothing that you are considering wearing to school.
No electronic devices are allowed at school during school hours or on the bus. These devices include: cell phones and iPads. Such devices will be confiscated by school personnel and brought to the main office. Calculators are allowed. Exceptions may be made for field trips.
Students who are in the hallways while classes are in session should pass quietly and not cause any
disruption. You must walk, not run to your classes. You are expected to stay on the right side of stairs and corridors and to hold the swinging doors for the person behind you.
Fidget Spinners should not be brought to school. You cannot buy anything from or sell anything to other students on school property for any reason.
There is absolutely no gum chewing in the Miller School, on school grounds, or on school buses.
If you disobey these rules you will have to face disciplinary action by the office.
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On May 3, 2010 Governor Patrick signed an Act Relative to Bullying in Schools. This law prohibits bullying and retaliation in all public and private schools, and requires schools and school districts to take certain steps to address bullying incidents. The law was updated in July 2013 to expanded the list of possible aggressors/perpetrators to include school staff members. Chapter 86, Section I(3) provides that each bullying plan shall recognize that certain students may be more vulnerable to becoming a target of bullying or harassment based on actual or perceived differentiating characteristics, including race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, socioeconomic status, homelessness, academic status, gender identity or expression, physical appearance, pregnant or parenting status, sexual orientation, mental, physical, developmental or sensory disability or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have 1 or more of these characteristics. Parts of the law (M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O) that are important for students and parents or guardians to know are described below.
Definitions
Perpetrator is a student or a member of a school staff including but not limited to an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity, or a paraprofessional who engages in bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation.
Bullying is the repeated use by one or more students or by a member of a school staff including but not limited to an educator, administrator, school nurse, cafeteria worker, custodian, bus driver, athletic coach, advisor to an extracurricular activity, or a paraprofessional of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof, directed at a victim that: (i) causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage to the victim’s property; (ii) places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself/herself or of damage to his/her property; (iii) creates a hostile environment at school for the victim; (iv) infringes on the rights of the victim at school; or (v) materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. Bullying includes cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying is bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system, including, but not limited to, electronic mail, internet communications, instant messages or facsimile communications. Cyberbullying shall also include:
The creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person or the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages, if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v), inclusive, of the definition of bullying.
The distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of conditions enumerated in clauses (i) to (v) inclusive, of the definition of bullying.
Hostile environment is a situation in which bullying causes the school environment to be permeated with intimidation, ridicule, or insult that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to alter the conditions of the student’s education.
Victim is a student against whom bullying, cyberbullying, or retaliation is directed.
Retaliation is any form of intimidation, reprisal, or harassment directed against a student who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying.
Prohibition
Bullying is prohibited:
• on school grounds,
• on property immediately adjacent to school grounds
• at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, function, or program, whether it takes place on or off
school grounds
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• at a school bus stop, on a school bus or other vehicle owned, leased, or used by a school district or
School
• through the use of technology or an electronic device that is owned, leased or used by a school district
or school (for example, on a computer or over the Internet)
• at any program or location that is not school-related, or through the use of personal technology or
electronic device, if the bullying creates a hostile environment at school for the target, infringes on the
rights of the target at school, or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly
operation of a school
Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying is prohibited.
Reporting
Anyone, including a parent or guardian, student, or school staff member, can report bullying or retaliation. Reports can be made in writing or orally to the assistant principal, principal or another staff member, or incident reports may be made anonymously using the anonymous Incident Reporting Form below.
Erica Linares – Asst. Principal, 508-429-0667 or @ linarese@holliston.k12.ma.us
Anonymous Reporting Form
School staff members must report immediately to the principal or his/her designee if they witness or become aware of bullying or retaliation. Staff members include, but are not limited to, educators, administrators, counselors, school nurses, cafeteria workers, custodians, bus drivers, athletic coaches, advisors to an extracurricular activity, or paraprofessionals.
When the school principal or his/her designee receives a report, he or she shall promptly conduct an investigation. If the school principal or designee determines that bullying or retaliation has occurred, he or she shall (i) notify the parents or guardians of the target, and to the extent consistent with state and federal law, notify them of the action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation; (ii) notify the parents or guardians of an aggressor; (iii) take appropriate disciplinary action; and (iv) notify the local law enforcement agency if the school principal or designee believes that criminal charges may be pursued against the aggressor.
For detailed information regarding Bullying Prevention and Intervention, please refer to the Holliston Public Schools Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan and the Holliston School Committee’s Bullying Prevention Policy (JICFB): http://www.holliston.k12.ma.us/home/about/bullying-prevention
Professional Development for School and District Staff
Schools and districts must provide ongoing professional development to increase the skills of all staff members to prevent, identify, and respond to bullying. Staff must complete the district’s annual Bullying Prevention and Intervention training.
The content of such professional development is to include, but not be limited to: (i) developmentally appropriate strategies to prevent bullying incidents; (ii) developmentally appropriate strategies for immediate, effective interventions to stop bullying incidents; (iii) information regarding the complex interaction and power differential that can take place between and among an aggressor, target, and witnesses to the bullying; (iv) research findings on bullying, including information about specific categories of students who have been shown to be particularly at risk for bullying in the school environment; (v) information on the incidence and nature of cyberbullying; and (vi) Internet safety issues as they relate to cyberbullying.
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Discipline
Dangerous Weapons, Controlled Substances & Assaults on Educational Staff
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, section 37H requires that all student handbooks contain the following provisions:
(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.
(b) Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher’s aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school- related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.
(c) Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (a) or (b) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal. After said hearing, a principal may, in his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (a) or (b).
(d) Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.
(e) Any school district that suspends or expels a student under this section shall continue to provide educational services to the student during the period of suspension or expulsion under section 21 of chapter 76. If the student moves to another district during the period of suspension or expulsion, the new district of residence shall either admit the student to the school or provide educational services to the student in an education service plan, under section 21 of chapter 76.
Students should note that the definition of “assault” includes not only harmful or offensive contact, but also threatening such contact. Additionally, students should be aware that the federal Gun Free Schools Act mandates that any student who brings a firearm to school be expelled for a minimum of one year, with exceptions granted only by the Superintendent. Under this Act, a firearm includes not only a gun but also an explosive device.
Felony Complaints or Convictions
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, section 37H 1/2 provides that:
(1) Upon the issuance of a criminal complaint charging a student with a felony or upon the issuance of a felony delinquency complaint against a student, the principal or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may suspend such student for a period of time determined appropriate by said principal or headmaster if said principal or headmaster determines that the student’s continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school.
The student shall receive written notification of the charges and the reasons for such suspension prior to such suspension taking effect.
The student shall also receive written notification of his right to appeal and the process for appealing such suspension; provided, however, that such suspension shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent.
The student shall have the right to appeal the suspension to the superintendent. The student shall notify the superintendent in writing of his request for an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the suspension. The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student’s parent or guardian within three calendar days of the
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student’s request for an appeal. At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on his behalf, and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or
headmaster, including recommending an alternate educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such decision shall be the final decision of the city, town or regional school district with regard to the suspension.
(2) Upon a student being convicted of a felony or upon an adjudication or admission in court of guilt with respect to such a felony or felony delinquency, the principal or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may expel said student if such principal or headmaster determines that the student’s continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school. The student shall receive written notification of the charges and reasons for such expulsion prior to such expulsion taking effect. The student shall also receive written notification of his right to appeal and the process for appealing such expulsion; provided, however, that the expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent.
The student shall have the right to appeal the expulsion to the superintendent. The student shall notify the superintendent, in writing, of his request for an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the expulsion. The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student’s parent or guardian within three calendar days of the expulsion. At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on his behalf, and shall have the right to counsel. The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or headmaster, including recommending an alternate educational program for the student. The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing. Such decision shall be the final decision of the city, town or regional school district with regard to the expulsion.
(3) Any school district that suspends or expels a student under this section shall continue to provide educational services to the student during the period of suspension or expulsion under section 21 of chapter 76. If the student moves to another district during the period of suspension or expulsion, the new district of residence shall either admit the student to the school or provide educational services to the student in an education service plan, under section 21 of chapter 76.
Procedural Due Process
A student will not be excluded from school without being afforded appropriate due process as set forth below. If, however, a student’s continued presence in school poses a danger to persons or property, or materially and substantially disrupts the order of the school, and, in the administrator’s, judgment there is no alternative available to alleviate the danger or disruption, a student who is charged with a disciplinary offense may be removed temporarily from school before receiving due process pursuant to an Emergency Removal (see below for more information).
I. In-School Suspension. An in-school suspension is a removal of a student from regular classroom activities, but not from the school premises. The procedure for an in-school suspension of no more than (10) school days (consecutive or cumulatively for multiple infractions during the school year) will be as follows:
1. The administrator will inform the student of the disciplinary offense charged, the basis for the charge, and provide the student an opportunity to respond. If the administrator determines that the student committed the disciplinary offense, the administrator will inform the student of the length of the student’s in-school suspension, which may not exceed 10 days, cumulatively or consecutively, in a school year.
2. On the same day as the in-school suspension decision, the administrator will make reasonable efforts to notify the parent orally of the disciplinary offense, the reasons for concluding that the student committed the infraction, and the length of the
in-school suspension. The administrator will also invite the parent to a meeting to discuss the student’s academic performance and behavior, strategies for student engagement, and possible responses to the behavior.
Such meeting will be scheduled on the day of the suspension if possible, and if not, as soon thereafter as possible. If the
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administrator is unable to reach the parent after making and documenting at least (2) attempts to do so, such attempts will constitute reasonable efforts for purposes of orally informing the parent of the in-school suspension.
3. The administrator will send written notice to the student and parent about the in-school suspension, including the reason and the length of the in-school suspension, and inviting the parent to a meeting with the principal for the purpose set forth above, if such meeting has not already occurred. The administrator will deliver such notice on the day of the suspension by hand-delivery, certified mail, first-class mail, email to an address provided by the parent for school communications, or by other method of delivery agreed to by the administrator and the parent.
An in-school suspension of more than 10 cumulative days in a school year will be subject to the procedures for long-term suspension.
The Principal may remove a student from privileges, such as extracurricular activities and attendance at school sponsored events, based on the student’s misconduct. Such a removal is not subject to such due process procedures.
II. Short Term, Out-of-School Suspension. Except in the case of an Emergency Removal (see below), prior to imposing a short term out-of-school suspension (10 days or less in a school year) for conduct not covered by M.G.L. c. 71, §37H and 37H ½, an administrator will provide the student and his/her parent oral and written notice and an opportunity to participate in an informal hearing.
1. Notice: The written notice to the student and the parent will be in English and in the primary language of the home if other than English, or other means of communication where appropriate and will include the following:
a) the disciplinary offense;
b) the basis for the charge;
c) the potential consequences, including the potential length of the student’s suspension;
d) the opportunity for the student to have a hearing with the administrator concerning the proposed suspension, including the opportunity to dispute the charges and to present the student’s explanation of the alleged incident, and for the parent to attend the hearing;
e) the date, time, and location of the hearing;
f) the right of the student and the student’s parent to interpreter services at the hearing if needed to participate;
Written notice to the parent may be made by hand delivery, first-class mail, certified mail, email to an address provided by the parent for school communications, or any other method of delivery agreed to by the school and parent.
2. Efforts to Involve Parent: The administrator will make reasonable efforts to notify the parent of the opportunity to attend the hearing. To conduct a hearing without the parent present, the administrator must be able to document reasonable efforts to include the parent. The administrator is presumed to have made reasonable efforts if the administrator has sent written notice and has documented at least two (2) attempts to contact the parent in the manner specified by the parent for emergency notification.
3. Format of Hearing: The administrator will discuss the disciplinary offense, the basis for the charge, and any other pertinent information. The student also will have an opportunity to present information, including mitigating facts that the administrator should consider in determining whether other remedies and consequences may be appropriate. The administrator will provide the parent, if present, an opportunity to discuss the student’s conduct and offer information, including mitigating circumstances, that the administrator should consider in determining consequences for the student.
4. Decision: The administrator will provide written notice to the student and parent of his/her determination and the reasons for it, and, if the student is suspended, the type and duration of suspension and the opportunity to make up assignments and such other school work as needed to make academic progress during the period of removal.
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The notice of determination may be in the form of an update to the original written notice of hearing.
III. Long Term Suspension Except in the case of an Emergency Removal, prior to imposing a long-term suspension (more than 10 days of suspension, whether in-school or out-of-school, whether consecutive or cumulative for multiple offenses during a school year), an administrator will follow the procedures for short-term suspension plus additional procedures as follows:
1. Notice: The notice will include all of the components for a short-term suspension in Section C above, plus the following: In advance of the hearing, the opportunity to review the student’s record and the documents upon which the administrator may rely in making a determination to suspend the student or not;
a) The right to be represented by counsel or a lay person of the student’s choice, at the student’s/parent’s expense;
b) The right to produce witnesses on his or her behalf and to present the student’s explanation of the alleged incident, but the student may not be compelled to do so;
c) The right to cross-examine witnesses presented by the school district;
d) The right to request that the hearing be recorded by the administrator, and a copy of the audio recording provided to the student or parent upon request; and
e) The right to appeal administrator’s decision to impose long-term suspension to the superintendent.
2. Format of Hearing: The Hearing will afford the rights set forth in the notice above. The administrator will also provide the parent, if present, an opportunity to discuss the student’s conduct and offer information, including mitigating circumstances, that the administrator should consider in determining consequences for the student.
3. Decision: Based on the evidence, the administrator will determine whether the student committed the disciplinary offense, and, if so, after considering mitigating circumstances and alternatives to long-term suspension, what remedy or consequence will be imposed, in place of or in addition to a long-term suspension. The administrator will send the written determination to the student and parent by hand delivery, certified mail, first-class mail, email to an address provided by the parent for school communications, or any other method of delivery agreed to by the school and the parent. If the administrator decides to suspend the student on a long-term basis, the written determination will:
a) Identify the disciplinary offense, the date on which the hearing took place, and the participants at the hearing;
b) Set out the key facts and conclusions reached;
c) Identify the length and effective date of the suspension, as well as a date of return to school;
d) Include notice of the student’s opportunity to receive educational services to make academic progress during the period of removal from school (if more than 10 cumulative days);
e) Inform the student of the right to appeal the administrator’s decision to the superintendent or designee. Notice of the right of appeal will be in English and the primary language of the home if other than English, or other means of communication where appropriate, and will include the following information stated in plain language:
a.the process for appealing the decision, including that the student or parent must file a written notice of appeal with the superintendent within five (5) calendar days of the effective date of the long-term suspension; provided that within the five (5) calendar days, the student or parent may request and receive from the superintendent an extension of time for filing the written notice for up to seven (7) additional calendar days; and that
b.the long-term suspension will remain in effect unless and until the superintendent decides to reverse the administrator’s determination on appeal.
No long-term suspension will extend beyond the end of the school year in which such suspension is imposed.
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IV. Expulsion
Students are subject to expulsion (i.e. permanent exclusion) by the Principal for the conduct listed below. (See also, M.G.L. ch. 71, §§37H )
• Possession of a dangerous weapon*
• Possession of a controlled substance (such as marijuana, cocaine, or prescription drugs not authorized by the school nurse)
• Assault on teachers, administrative staff or other educational personnel
*This includes not only knives and guns, explosive devices and realistic replicas of such weapons/devices, but also other objects used to assault another person or to otherwise create a dangerous situation, such as a baseball bat, a pair of scissors, matches or a lighter. While such objects would not always constitute “dangerous weapons”, administrators and educational professionals will review the circumstances of each case and make a reasonable determination about whether a particular object in a student’s possession constitutes a dangerous weapon in the school setting. Any illegal weapon will be turned over to the Police Department. Any student who brings a firearm to school must be expelled for a minimum of one school year, with exceptions granted only by the superintendent. (The definition of a firearm includes but is not limited to guns (including a starter gun), bombs, grenades, rockets, missiles, mines and similar devices.)
Students are also subject to long term suspension/expulsion by the Principal when charged/convicted of a felony based upon the standards and procedures set forth in M.G.L. c.71, §37H1/2.
Any student who is removed from school for a disciplinary offense under G.L. c. 71, §37H or §37H½ for more than ten consecutive days will have an opportunity to receive educational services and make academic progress during the period of removal under a school-wide education service plan, and will be so informed at the time of the suspension/expulsion.
Procedures Applicable to Conduct Covered by M.G.L. C. 71, §37H AND 37H ½
When considering the exclusion of a student from school for possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of a controlled substance (such as marijuana, cocaine, or prescription drugs not authorized by the school nurse), or assault on teachers, an administrator may place a student on short term suspension (ten days or less) based upon an informal hearing, to be followed by a formal hearing before the Principal within that period of suspension to determine whether to take additional disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from school.
1. The informal hearing will be in the form of a conference between the student and the principal or designee. At this conference, the student (1) shall be informed of the reason for the conference, (2) shall be given the opportunity to present his or her side of the story, and (3) shall be given a decision on the suspension. If the administrator deems delay of the hearing necessary to avoid danger or substantial disruption, this process may occur immediately after, rather than before, the suspension.
2. Prior to putting a suspension into effect, the principal or designee shall make a reasonable effort to telephone and inform the student’s parent or guardian of the impending suspension; this shall include attempts to contact the parents or guardian at home and at work. Parents may contact the school for additional information regarding the suspension.
3. A letter will be mailed to the parent/guardian of the suspended student stating:
a) The reason for the suspension
b) A statement of the effective date and duration of the suspension
c) A statement regarding whether or not the Principal will schedule a formal hearing to consider further discipline, up to and including expulsion from school in accordance with M.G.L. c. 71, §37H
When considering a suspension/expulsion of a student charged with/convicted of felony, the Principal will use the standards and procedures set forth in M.G.L. c.71, §37H1/2. In addition, prior to initiating such procedures, the Principal may meet informally with the student and/or his parents to review the charge and the applicable standards if the Principal deems appropriate.
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Exception for Emergency Removal
Notwithstanding the provisions for short or long-term suspension set forth above, a student who is charged with a disciplinary offense may be removed temporarily from school if the continued presence of the student poses a danger to persons or property, or materially and substantially disrupts the order of the school, and, in the administrator’s judgment, there is no alternative available to alleviate the danger or disruption.
The administrator will immediately notify the superintendent in writing of the removal and the reason for it, and describe the danger [or disruption] by the student.
The temporary removal will not exceed two (2) school days following the day of the emergency removal, during which time the administrator will provide the following, as applicable to the length of suspension:
• Make immediate and reasonable efforts to orally notify the student and the student’s parent of the emergency removal, the reason for the need for emergency removal, and other applicable matters;
• Provide written notice to the student and parent as provided in Section C or D above, as applicable;
• Provide the student an opportunity for a hearing with the administrator, as applicable, and the parent an opportunity to attend the hearing, before the expiration of the two (2) school days, unless an extension of time for hearing is otherwise agreed to by the administrator, student, and parent.
• Render a decision orally on the same day as the hearing, and in writing no later than the following school day. An administrator may not remove a student from school on an emergency basis for a disciplinary offense until adequate provisions have been made for the student’s safety and transportation.
Appeal to the Superintendent
If a decision by an administrator, following the parent meeting, results in suspension of a student for more than 10 cumulative school days for the school year, the student may appeal the decision to the superintendent. In order to do so the student or parent must file a notice of appeal with the superintendent within five (5) calendar days with a seven (7) day postponement option. The superintendent must hold the hearing within three (3) school days of the student’s request, unless the student or parent requests an extension of up to seven (7) additional calendar days. If the appeal is not filed within this time frame, the superintendent may deny the appeal, or may allow the appeal in his or her discretion, for good cause.
The following apply:
• The superintendent will make a good faith effort to include the parent in the hearing. The superintendent will be presumed to have made a good faith effort if he or she has made efforts to find a day and time for the hearing that would allow the parent and superintendent to participate. The superintendent will send written notice to the parent of the date, time, and location of the hearing.
• The superintendent will conduct a hearing to determine whether the student committed the disciplinary offense of which the student is accused, and if so, what the consequence will be. The superintendent will arrange for an audio recording of the hearing, a copy of which will be provided to the student or parent upon request. The superintendent will inform all participants before the hearing that an audio record will be made of the hearing and a copy will be provided to the student and parent upon request.
• The student will have all the rights afforded the student at the administrator’s hearing for long-term suspension as described in Section D above.
• The superintendent will issue a written decision within five (5) calendar days of the hearing which meets the requirements for a long-term suspension as described in Section D above. If the superintendent determines that the student committed the disciplinary offense, the superintendent may impose the same or a lesser consequence than the administrator, but will not impose a suspension greater than that imposed by the administrator’s decision.
The decision of the superintendent constitutes the final decision of the school district.
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Discipline of Students with Special Needs
All students are expected to follow the Holliston’s Code of Conduct, unless otherwise determined by the student’s Individualized Education Plan Team and written in the student’s IEP or 504 Plan. Federal and state laws provide certain procedural rights and protections relating to discipline of students who have been identified under such laws as having special needs based upon a disability.
A brief overview of these rights is provided below.
In general, if your child has violated Holliston’s disciplinary code, the school may suspend or remove your child from his or
her current educational placement for no more than 10 consecutive school days in any school year. If your child
possesses, uses, sells or solicits illegal drugs on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event; carries a weapon to school
or a school function; or inflicts serious bodily injury upon another person at school or a school-sponsored event, the school
may place your child in an interim alternative educational setting for up to 45 school days.
If your child has been placed in an interim alternative education setting as a result of a disciplinary action, your child
may remain in the interim setting for a period not to exceed 45 school days. Thereafter, your child will return to the
previously agreed-upon educational placement unless you or Holliston have initiated a hearing on the disciplinary action that
the district took and a hearing officer orders another placement, or you and Holliston agree to another placement.
Any time Holliston wishes to remove your child from his or her current educational placement for more than 10 consecutive
school days in any school year, or if a student is removed for disciplinary reasons for more than a total of 10 days in any
school year when a pattern of removal is occurring, this is a “change of placement.” A change of placement invokes certain
procedural protections under federal special education law. These include the following:
(a) Prior to any removal that constitutes a change in placement, the school must convene a Team meeting to develop a
plan for conducting a functional behavioral assessment that will be used as the basis for developing specific strategies
to address your child’s problematic behavior. If a behavioral intervention plan has been previously developed, the Team will review it to make sure it is being implemented appropriately, and will modify it if necessary.
(b) Prior to any disciplinary removal that constitutes a change in placement; the school must inform you that the law requires
that the school district consider whether or not the behavior that forms the basis for your child’s disciplinary removal is related
to his or her disability. This is called a “manifestation determination.” Remember that you, as the parent, always have the
right to participate as a member of the group of people making this determination.
Consideration of whether the behavior is a manifestation of the student’s disability:
The law provides that Holliston and the parent, along with relevant Team members, must consider all evaluation information, observational information, the student’s IEP and placement; and must determine whether your child’s behavior that prompted disciplinary removal was a manifestation of his or her disability. The behavior is considered a manifestation of your child’s disability if the conduct in question was caused by, or had a direct and substantial relationship to your child’s disability, or
was a direct result of the school district’s failure to implement his or her IEP.
If the manifestation determination decision is that the disciplinary behavior was related to your child’s disability then your
child may not be removed from the current educational placement (except in the case of weapon or drug possession or use,
or serious bodily injury to another) until the IEP Team develops a new IEP and decides upon a new placement and you
consent to that new IEP and placement, or a Hearing Officer orders a removal from the current educational placement to
another placement.
If the manifestation determination is that the behavior was not related to your child’s disability, then the school may
suspend or otherwise discipline your child according to the school’s code of student conduct, except that for any period
of removal exceeding 10 days the school district must provide your child with educational services that allow your child to continue to make educational progress. Holliston must determine the educational services necessary and the manner and
location for providing those services.
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In the case of a disagreement with the Team’s determination:
If you disagree with the Team’s decision on the “manifestation determination” or with the decision relating to placement of your child in an interim alternative education setting or any other disciplinary action, you have the right to appeal the Team’s decision by requesting an expedited due process hearing from the Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA).
Discipline of Students Whose Eligibility for Special Education is Suspected:
The IDEA protections summarized above also apply to a child who has not yet been found eligible for services under
the statute if the district is “deemed to have knowledge” that the child was eligible for such services before the conduct that precipitated the disciplinary action occurred. The IDEA provides that a school district is “deemed to have knowledge” if:
(1) the child’s parent had expressed concern in writing to district supervisory or administrative personnel or the child’s
teacher that the child needs special education and related services; (2) the child’s parent had requested an evaluation of
the child to determine eligibility for special education services; or (3) the teacher of the child or other school district
personnel had expressed specific concerns about a pattern of behavior by the child directly to the
district’s director of special education or to other supervisory personnel. However, a school district is not “deemed to have
Knowledge” if the district evaluated the student and determined that the child was not eligible for special education
services or the child’s parent refused an evaluation of the child or IDEA services.
If the school district has no knowledge that a student is an eligible student under the IDEA before taking disciplinary
measures against the student, the student may be disciplined just as any other student may be. If, however, a request is
made for an evaluation to determine eligibility while the student is subject to disciplinary measures, the district must
conduct the evaluation in an expedited manner.
Pending the results of the evaluation, the student must remain in the educational placement determined by school
authorities, which may include suspension or expulsion without services. If the student is determined eligible for an IEP as a result of the evaluation, the school district must provide the student with special education and related services in accordance
with the IDEA.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
General Requirements
Attendance - A student must be in school during the day to attend an after-school activity. An administrator must approve extenuating circumstances.
Home Educated Students - Home educated students participating in events sponsored by the Miller School will be subject to all the procedures, rules and regulations set forth in the Student/Parent Handbook.
After School Activities
5th Grade Band
The band is for 5th graders who have participated in the fourth grade beginner instrumental lessons. 5th grade band members attend a practice once a week after school from 2:30-3:30.
Clubs
The Miller School has four after-school clubs: The Newspaper and Math Clubs are for any students in grades 3, 4, and 5 who have not already participated. Participants are chosen at random for the limited number of slots. The Homework Club is for students who wish to get after-school assistance one day a week. A couple of different sessions are held during the year. Slots are limited and students who are interested are chosen at random to participate. The Student Leadership Team is for fifth grade students who are interested in helping to encourage a school climate where students feel confident and safe, build school community, boost school spirit, create service learning opportunities, develop leadership skills, and have fun.
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Fifth grade students may apply in October, and two representatives are chosen from each homeroom to serve on the leadership team. The Leadership team meets twice a month after-school. Information and registration forms for these clubs will be posted on backpack express prior to their beginning in the fall.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
The Holliston Parent Teacher Student Association is a volunteer parents group that works closely with the school administration and teachers to provide Holliston's children in grades PreK-12 with special programs and services during the school year. Each school has a dedicated group of volunteers from the Holliston PTO working to provide information, special programs, and grants. Money raised through dues and several fund raising activities is used to support many different programs at all levels of the system.
Miller School Council
The Miller School Council meets publicly every other month. A copy of the minutes from each meeting is available in the Main Office. The role of the School Council is to serve as an advisory board to the Principal. The Council's work includes setting and monitoring school goals and development of a school improvement plan. Term lengths vary and elections are held annually.
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