Plymouth Whitemarsh High School Families:

On behalf of the staff at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School, I would like to welcome you to PW! it is an honor and a privilege to be the principal of one of the top public high schools in the state of Pennsylvania, noted for its rich tradition of excellence in academics and co-curricular activities.

The Family Handbook has been prepared to help students and parents/guardians become better acquainted with Plymouth Whitemarsh High School: specifically our programs, policies and regulations. Please review the guide and keep it as a reference for procedures and guidelines on the many topics listed.

For example, a student who is planning on participating in athletics should read and refer to Chapter 4 thoroughly. Two chapters that should be reviewed by all families every year are Chapter 5: Attendance and Chapter 8: Student Conduct. Please note that you are required to sign and return the PWHS Handbook Review form in PowerSchool annually, acknowledging your awareness of all of the information contained in this handbook.

While this document is an online resource, you may request a hard copy from the administrative office at any time. If the topic of your concern is not addressed in this handbook, please call the school for clarification.

The high school administrative team is committed to maintaining a safe and positive environment in our school. We are also committed to providing each student an outstanding educational and co-curricular experience. Working together we can achieve both goals while recognizing our many accomplishments. The entire PWHS staff is looking forward to working with you to make this a rewarding school year!

Sincerely,
Dr. Jason Bacani
Principal
Plymouth Whitemarsh High School

PWHS Administration

Phone number for PWHS office: 610-825-1500.

Dr. Jason Bacani, Principal
Maico Azcona, Assistant Principal
Ralph Bretz, Activities and Athletics Director
Heather King, Assistant Principal
Stephen Price, Assistant Principal
Dan Balek, Dean of Students
 

District Administration

Phone number for the District Office: 610-834-1670.

Superintendent of Schools: Dr. Michael Christian
Director of Pupil Services: Mrs. Karen Berk
Supervisor of Special Education, K-5: Dr. Caitlin Gilmartin
Supervisor of Special Education, 6-12: Mr. Timothy Murch
Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment: Mrs. Rosemarie Gregitis
Director of Transportation: Mr. Christopher Brown
Director of Food Services: Mrs. Lori McCoy

11:00 Dismissal for Central Montco Technical High School

• Morning CMTHS students attend as usual and report to Block 5 only upon return to PWHS. 
• Afternoon CMTHS students will report to the cafeteria at the end of Block 3. Students will attend CMTHS as scheduled unless otherwise advised (i.e., holiday). 

Help us keep your children safe:
What you need to know if there is an emergency at your child's school

The safety and security of our students is of the utmost importance to the Colonial Board of School Directors and District Administration. This guide has been updated and printed to advise parents of security measures and procedures in place and inform them regarding how they may help District personnel be proactive in the event an emergency arises.

What you can do to help:

Review this information carefully.

Following the steps provided will help school officials, police officers, firefighters and other first responders do their jobs and focus on the safety of all involved.

Keep your child's emergency contact information up to date.

Inform your child's school immediately if your phone number, address or email address changes. You may be called, emailed, and texted during an emergency. Additionally, children will only be released to adults listed on the emergency information form.

Talk with your child about listening and following directions at all times and especially during an emergency.

Report any safety concerns you may have to your child's school principal.

What parents should do during a school emergency:

Stay at home or work

Parents arriving at the school may interfere with police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel. Your help in allowing these professionals to effectively do their jobs is appreciated. In the event of an evacuation or early dismissal, parents will be notified by the District's rapid messaging system as to where they may pick up their children at an established reunification location.

Wait for information from the District

The latest information will be provided by phone, text, and email via the District's rapid messaging system. The first priority of school and district office personnel is to address the emergency at hand. You will be informed as soon as possible. If it is an ongoing event, updates will be provided as new information is available. Information may also be obtained from the Colonial School District website, social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube) and CITV, Comcast Cable and Verizon FiOS channel 28.

PWHS Vision

PWHS Mission Statement

We Believe:

• The academic achievement of each student is our primary goal.
• Education is a shared responsibility among students, family, school staff, community and government.
• Learning is a lifelong process.
• Every student is a valuable individual able to make positive contributions.
• Students learn at varying rates and in different ways.
• A safe and respectful school environment fosters educational and social growth for all.
• Students develop self-esteem through compassionate, respectful relationships and meaningful experiences.
• A system of ethical values empowers students to make valuable contributions to society.

Alma Mater

School Colors

Colonial School District Mission

For students to learn, grow, and serve in a school community that is welcoming for all.

Colonial School District Vision

To prepare resilient, lifelong learners and leaders who will enrich the world.

Educational Value Statements

• Students will build acceptance and value for all in the school community.
• Teachers and staff will facilitate the growth of students as self-directed learners.
• Administration will provide a supportive and effective environment for both teaching and learning.
• Family members and caregivers will support the school community in the growth and development of lifelong learners.
• The School Board will represent the community and support student-centered decision-making around policies and funding.

All visitors to PWHS must sign in with the Lobby Guard device in the main lobby, which requires a photo ID (driver’s license preferred) where upon a visitor ID is issued. All visitors will be required to wear the visitor ID while in the building and adhere to the CSD Visitor Sign-in procedure listed below. 

Purpose and Rationale

All of the schools and buildings in the Colonial School District are important places. These buildings house our most precious commodity, the children of Conshohocken, Plymouth and Whitemarsh. This procedure is designed to assist in avoiding incidents of consequence by controlling the flow of visitors, parents/guardians, vendors and guests within our classroom buildings and hallways. The secondary but equally important purpose is to document who is in our buildings if there is a catastrophic event. A third purpose is to perform a cross check of visitors against Pennsylvania's Megan’s Law registry.

Procedure

In order to maintain and enhance the level of safety that the school has enjoyed, a visitor management system is installed at all CSD schools to control the flow of visitors to our buildings, document specific locations visited and perform name checks against the Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law Registry. Each building has signs posted at the entrance noting that all visitors, including parents/guardians, school district employees, vendors, and guests must be signed in before entering the building.

The visitor will go to the sign-in kiosk and scan their driver’s license as directed by the visitor management system prompts. After scanning their license, the visitor should present their license to the receptionist for comparison to the entered information, to state their business. If the visitor does not have a driver’s license, they may manually enter their name and date of birth into the visitor management system, however a photo identification must be presented to gain access. If the visitor has no photo ID, an administrator must approve the visit. The administrator’s name shall be entered on the visitor badge signifying approval was received for access. District employees from other buildings must also show ID. Upon leaving the building, the visitor will sign themselves out by scanning the visitor badge with the visitor management system.

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to contact teachers by voice-mail or email when they have a concern about their child’s school performance or wish to share information about the child with the teacher. Click here for the PWHS Staff Directory. Call 610-825-1500 to access teacher phone extensions and leave a voice message with any teacher.

During the Semester 1 and Semester 2 Open House programs, parents/guardians may visit their child’s classrooms and meet the teachers. Using a copy of the child’s schedule, parents/guardians spend approximately 15 minutes in each class where the teacher provides an overview of the course objectives and expectations for student performance. Open House does not provide an opportunity for parents/guardians to discuss specific concerns about their child with teachers. Parents/Guardians wishing to speak with teachers should call 610-825-1500 to leave a voice-mail message with the teacher. Parent/Guardian conferences are also scheduled once a semester.

During the Semester 1 and Semester 2 Open House programs, parents/guardians may visit their child’s classrooms and meet the teachers. Using a copy of the child’s schedule, parents/guardians spend approximately 15 minutes in each class where the teacher provides an overview of the course objectives and expectations for student performance. Open House does not provide an opportunity for parents/guardians to discuss specific concerns about their child with teachers. Parents/Guardians wishing to speak with teachers should call 610-825-1500 to leave a voice-mail message with the teacher. Parent/Guardian conferences are also scheduled once a semester.

The school devotes time in the afternoon and evening each semester for personal contact with teachers. Parents/guardians are also encouraged to request a meeting with a teacher at any time during the year for discussion of specific concerns.

The PWHS community endorses a team approach to education and values parents/guardians as an important part of that team. There is no more important time for parents/guardians to demonstrate care and concern for their child’s academic career than during the teen years. Students whose parents/guardians participate  in  volunteer  opportunities, PTSO, advisory committees, band or other school-related activities tend to perform better academically. Also, studies have shown that students whose parents/guardians are involved in school activities experience fewer social problems such as substance abuse, peer conflicts and inappropriate behavior.

This handbook is provided so that families may be familiar with all aspects of the PWHS program and assist their children in fulfilling their responsibilities as students. Although school personnel communicate pertinent information to students through as many avenues as possible, it remains the responsibility of parents/guardians to review the information in this handbook with their children. To have the maximum positive impact on their children’s education, parents/guardians should:

● Ensure all contact information (including email addresses, phone numbers, emergency contacts and home address) are updated and accurate on PowerSchool each year; contact the main office for assistance

● Read all sections of this handbook; know all school rules and regulations and ensure that their children understand the rules and the reasons for them

● Sign online all applicable student forms including the PWHS Handbook Review Form

● Share in planning their children’s high school curriculum

● Convey to their children that learning is the primary purpose of school and encourage conduct that promotes learning and academic best practices

● Support children in their academic, athletic and/or extracurricular activities

According to the Pennsylvania Board of Education Regulations, parents/guardians have the following rights:

Academic Information

Access to information about the curriculum, including academic standards to be achieved, instructional materials and assessment techniques

Religious Exemptions

The right to have their children excused from specific instruction which conflicts with their religious beliefs, including HIV/AIDS instruction, upon receipt by the school district of a written request from the parents or guardians. Detailed curriculum outlines and curricular materials for HIV/AIDS, used in conjunction with the instruction, are available to parents and guardians during normal school hours or at teacher-parent conferences

Research Exemptions

The right to have their children excluded from research studies or surveys conducted by entities other than the school district, CMTHS, or intermediate unit unless prior written consent has been obtained

State Assessment Review

The right to review the State assessment in the school district two weeks prior to their administration during convenient hours. All necessary security requirements to maintain the validity of the assessment must be taken in accordance with the State assessment administration instructions. If upon inspection of State assessments parents or guardians find the assessments in conflict with their religious belief and wish their student be excused from the assessment, the right of the parents or guardians will not be denied upon following proper protocol which includes written request to the superintendent.

All parents/guardians, students and faculty are encouraged to become members of the Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) of  PWHS. Monthly evening PTSO meetings provide a forum for communication among parents/guardians, school personnel and students on important school topics, and the organization provides a framework for parental support to academic and student life initiatives in the school.

The district website provides extensive information about many high school programs, and many teachers provide informaton about their courses on the Internet. The PWHS website can be accessed through the district website at www.colonialsd.org > SCHOOLS or directly at www.colonialsd.org/plymouth-whitemarsh-high-school. 

Plymouth Whitemarsh High School is committed to graduating citizens who have acquired common societal values. As such, cheating (which includes plagiarism) is a very serious offense. Examples of cheating include, but are not limited to:

•  Use of unauthorized material, notes, or electronic devices for a test or project

•  Giving or receiving tests, test answers, assignments, labs, etc.

•  Any form of plagiarism (including resubmitting one’s own work)

According to the school’s philosophy that grading should be based on learning, a student’s decision to cheat on an assignment is reflective of zero learning. In keeping with this philosophy, the minimum consequence for cheating on an assessment, assignment, or project is a grade of “0” for that specific occurrence with no opportunity to make up the assessment, assignment, or project for credit, removal from the National Honor Society, and possible disciplinary action. Students may, however, be required to make up the assignment for the purpose of learning the required content.

Bonus Block is a 30-minute daily period that occurs after Block 3, and follows a 10-day cycle. Students are assigned to Bonus Block alphabetically by grade and remain with that group and teacher until graduation, with the teacher serving as a mentor to the student for four years. Students report to a scheduled location during Bonus Block daily.

Each Monday and every other Thursday, Bonus Block is a closed period for home-base;  advisory and special assemblies may occur during home-base. During the remaining 7 days in each cycle, students will use the PowerSchool Portal to schedule themselves for Bonus Block session which could include: (1) remedial or enrichment instruction; (2) library, music or content specific teacher sessions to make up work or tests following absences, (3) school club and activity meetings, or (4) study hall to independently work on school assignments. Students should report directly to their assigned/scheduled location and will only be permitted to leave Bonus Block to use the restroom and/or in emergency situations. Students are not permitted to leave Bonus Block during the first and last 5 minutes

Colonial School District provides access to career and technical education at the Central Montgomery Technical High School, which provides a variety of educational programs that prepare students to enter the workforce or continue their education at colleges, universities and technical schools. To ensure that students have the academic proficiencies needed for success in their CMTHS program, their proficiency levels in core academic areas will be considered in determining their eligibility to attend CMTHS. CMTHS sessions for PWHS students occur each afternoon in place of Blocks 4 and 5. In special circumstances, morning options may be available for seniors, per CMTHS program requirements and with PWHS administrative approval.

No numerical class rank is recorded on a student’s educational record or communicated to a student in any manner at PWHS. A student’s decile placement, based on weighted grade point average, is recorded on applications to post-secondary institutions. Information on the PWHS Profile, which accompanies transcripts, is available to inform post-secondary institutions of a student’s relative academic placement in the class. Any institution may request, in writing, the class rank of any student, if class rank is required for admission to the school or for scholarship purposes. In this case a numerical class rank based on the student’s cumulative weighted GPA will be released to the institution by the college counselor. Class rank is based on weighted GPA and includes all students in the class, includes all PW courses, all approved dual enrollment courses, and all transfer credits accumulated at qualifying high schools. Calculation of class rank begins upon a student’s enrollment at PWHS. High school equivalent courses taken by students, while in Middle School or in addition to a full PW course load, are not included in the student’s GPA or class rank. A student must have attended PWHS for all but two semesters of the high school program to be ranked within the class. Students who attend for less time receive an equivalent class rank.

PWHS is a test center for the College Board SAT Program, a program of the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) and Educational Testing Service (ETS) as well as the American  College Test (ACT). The SAT Reasoning Test is administered seven (7) times yearly, and the SAT Subject Tests are administered six (6) times yearly. The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is administered on a Saturday in October to interested sophomores and juniors. The PSAT/NMSQT taken in the junior year serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

The American College Test (ACT) can be taken at PWHS on a few test dates during the year, and on other dates in nearby schools. Check the registration packet for other test center locations for other test dates. The (PLAN) is a practice test for the ACT and is an option for interested sophomores typically offered in the fall.

Registration for all college admissions tests is the responsibility of the individual student. Test dates, sample tests, registration forms and fee information are available in the Counseling Center, and a summary of pertinent information about college entrance tests is mailed to juniors and seniors each August. Test Code Numbers for PWHS are:

CEEB Code Number for PWHS: 394040

SAT Test Center Number for PWHS: 39592

School Code Number for PWHS: 394040

ACT Test Center Code for PWHS: 205210

It is the goal of the Colonial School District that all students pursue a successful and intentional transition following graduation from Plymouth Whitemarsh High School to a post secondary institution of academia or career occupation. You can read more about our Chapter 339 Plan here. 

PWHS utilizes both Naviance for online college and career ready planning. Each student has their own personal account and the portal provide s counselors the ability to communicate with students and families. Students can access Naviance by clicking here.  

Naviance

Students will use Naviance to conduct college planning and access career assessment tools. Both students and parents/guardians access information regarding course planning, college and career planning, scholarships, summer programs, financial aid, test information, complete college searches, build resumes and log hours for school activities, community service and employment. PWHS utilizes the Naviance E-Doc portion of its program to electronically communicate transcripts and recommendations to colleges and universities.

Commencement is the highlight of a successful educational experience. Consequently, it is a dignified ceremony that exemplifies etiquette. It is a celebration for the entire community and a serious academic event. The following guidelines are designed to give our commencement the dignity and respectability it deserves. Students who believe they cannot comply with these conditions do not participate in commencement. Any student who does not meet the standard of conduct and dignity implied in this statement at any time during the ceremony is removed. Finally, we urge parental/guardian support and cooperation in making commencement a happy and meaningful event in the life of their children. The decorum of the audience at commencement is just as dignified as that of the graduates. Students must have fulfilled ALL graduation requirements in order to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Commencement is held on Colonial Field on the high school campus. In case of inclement weather, commencement is held in the PWHS West Gymnasium. Each student receives two (4) tickets for admission to the gymnasium and there will be video viewing in the auditorium if commencement must be held inside. Tickets are not required for the outside ceremony.

A faculty committee panel selects any student graduation speakers/singers based on audition scores and good standing in terms of academics, discipline and attendance.

Appropriate dress includes pants or a dress (no shorts), a dress shirt with collar (white preferred), a tie, and formal shoes (no sneakers or sandals). Traditional caps and gowns are worn at commencement. Gowns are fully zippered. Caps are properly placed on top of the head. No item of any type is worn on the cap or gown other than the approved tassel and stole. Students not properly attired will not participate in the commencement ceremony. Students are assessed a nominal fee to cover the purchase of caps and gowns.

Attendance at commencement rehearsals is mandatory. Those late or absent from rehearsals, without prior approval, do not participate in commencement. A student who must miss rehearsal due to illness must speak with Dr. Bacani or Mr. Price in the administrative office by 7:00 a.m. that day.

If prior to, or during commencement, it is the opinion of the administration that a student is under the influence of a controlled substance or alcohol, the student is removed from the commencement ceremony. Offenders are subject to legal prosecution. The administration has the responsibility and/or prerogative to exclude a student from commencement for academic ineligibility, for serious breaches of discipline, for use of alcohol or other controlled substances, or for other acts deemed serious enough to warrant exclusion. Administration reserves the right to hold the diplomas of any student who is involved in inappropriate behavior until a scheduled meeting can occur with members of the administration

Students must comply with all copyright laws in the production of materials for school assignments and projects. Teachers can provide guidance in this area.

PWHS is a comprehensive high school, which offers a demanding college preparatory program supplemented with strong offerings in several elective areas and technical school education. Students have the opportunity to select courses consistent with their abilities, achievements and interests as described below. Consult the PWHS Course Catalog for course descriptions, minimum grade requirements and prerequisites.

Academic level courses are demanding college preparatory courses. The course materials require average to above-average ability and comprehension, and maintain a balance between the development of basic skills and the application of principles.

Honors level courses are ppropriate for a student who learns well through verbal and abstract methods of instruction, reads thoroughly and insightfully, demonstrates understanding and insight, works well both independently and in groups, understands and follows directions with little or no difficulty, demonstrates a sound grasp of the writing process and can express him/herself well in writing, demonstrates perseverance and motivation, has a genuine commitment to academics and is committed to doing the necessary academic study, submitted in a timely fashion high quality assignments that reflect thought, care and consistent effort, and questions thoughtfully and carefully.

Advanced Placement courses are appropriate for a student who meets and often exceeds expectations in honors level classes, demonstrates the ability to perform independent research and study, performs well at a rapid pace, has achieved at a high level in any prerequisite courses,  understands  that  the  course is college level material, and accepts that they must take the AP course examination and attending AP Seminars when scheduled is mandatory.

Honors and AP courses require teacher recommendations. Departments also set minimum grades that students should earn. In recommending students for honors and AP courses, teachers consider numerous factors in determining if the course level is in the student’s best interest, including the grades earned in prerequisite courses. In the event that a teacher recommends against the placement, parents/guardians should contact the teacher and counselor to discuss the situation. If parents/guardians choose to override a faculty recommendation, they must submit a completed parent/guardian override form to their child’s counselor. Parents/guardians overrides will be honored only if class size permits additional placement of students. No override forms will be honored after the start of the semester.

Students select courses online each March for the following academic year. Course selection verification is required by the parent and submitted online in PowerSchool, and is reviewed by the counselor. Students may change their course selections through the end of the school year, space permitting, by submitting a request to the counselor.

Following receipt of a schedule in August, students may request a schedule change, pending seat availability. Schedule change requests must be submitted via email to the student’s counselor. Counselors will address verified requests upon their return in late August.

• Requests for specific teachers or blocks will not be honored
• Once the semester begins, schedule changes can be made during the first (3) days only
• Schedule changes are dependent upon availability and must be approved by the counselor

Should a student fail a required course, every attempt will be made to reschedule the course for the following semester or school year. In cases where this is not possible, summer credit recovery may be an option.

PWHS provides two different opportunities for qualified students to earn high school and college credit at the same time. (A) Qualified students make arrangements at local colleges to take one on-campus course per semester as approved by the school counselor. For more than one course, permission of the building principal is also required. The student therefore earns one high school credit for each semester college course passed. Students’ transcripts will reflect the grade earned in the college course. Pass/Fail is not an option. The student earns honors level credit for grades of at least C-. Students are responsible for tuition, books and transportation. (B) Dual enrollment is also available in select PWHS courses which have been approved for college credit through an accredited college. Students’ transcripts do not reflect the college credit, and the student earns academic/honors level credit at PWHS. Students are responsible for tuition, books and transportation.

For the senior year, an eligible student may attend college on a full-time basis and earn credit toward graduation from PWHS. The student must request and receive permission from the counselor and the building principal, be accepted on a full-time basis in a program granting credit toward a degree, and provide PWHS a transcript documenting successful completion of the courses. The student may participate in commencement but is not eligible for any senior awards.

Extended Learning Time is in effect for students failing Math or English Language Arts courses. Students falling will below the grade of 70%, are required to report the next available ELT, held after school. Parents/guardians will be notified by the teacher of the grade and ELT assignment and receive at least 24 hours’ notice. Students who do not attend ELT as assigned will be issued discipline consequences (detentions level 1, 2 and/or 3).

Students must take all required courses at PWHS or via a PWHS approved online provider, with the exception of approved dual enrollment college courses. In the event of a failed course, every attempt will be made to reschedule a student to take the course for the following semester/year or enroll in credit recovery courses through their school counselor. Please note that school and/or state assessments may prohibit specific courses from being taken online. (*See Credit Recovery Program in Chapter 9 for additional information)

Students on field trips are expected to behave according to the Code of Student Conduct. If a teacher judges that a student cannot reasonably be expected to abide by the code or special regulations of the trip, he or she refers the situation to the assistant principal who has the right to exclude the student from participation for cause. Additionally, any infractions or misconduct occurring while on a field trip or school sponsored event will result in disciplinary actions assigned by the administration. If, for sound educational reasons, a student elects not to participate in a field trip, the teacher excuses the student from participation and designs a learning experience that achieves similar instructional goals. It is the responsibility of the student to attend PWHS on the day of the field trip and to complete the assignment as directed by the teacher. Students who plan to participate in a field trip activity submit a signed "Parental/Guardian Permission Form" prior to the time of the trip. Students are responsible to make up work missed in other classes and must take tests and fulfill other obligations on the day they return. (*See Code of Conduct, Appendix C)

A final standards-based examination is administered at the end of each semester in almost all core academic courses and some elective courses. The exam score counts as 15-20% of the final course grade. Special schedules for administration of exams are announced in writing and on the Colonial website to students. Schedules for students attending the Central Montgomery Technical High School are adjusted for exams. Students with unexcused or unlawful absences on the days of final exams forfeit the right to make up the exam and receive a “0”. Students arriving late must complete the test within the remaining exam period. Early dismissals are not granted during the testing period; students leaving early must complete the exam within the testing period. Students are expected to remain in the test room for the entire test period. Students removed from the room during the exam period due to inappropriate behavior will be required to make up the exam.

Although students and their parents/guardians receive feedback about student performance on common benchmark and final assessments, to maintain the security of these assessments, they are not sent home. Parents/guardians wishing to view their child’s scored assessments may do so during a conference with the teacher.

Both unweighted and weighted Grade Point Averages (GPA) are maintained for all students. The yearly GPA is based on the course grades earned during the year. The cumulative GPA is based on all courses taken up to the given date.  Only courses taken at PWHS and approved dual enrollment college courses taken while the student is enrolled as a high school student are included in the GPA. Courses taken at PWHS by students in the Colonial Middle School are not included in the student’s GPA.

All PWHS courses and dual enrollment courses are included in the GPA except those for which a pass/fail grade is issued. When a student repeats a failed subject in the regular school schedule or an approved full online version, the original failing grade will become a grade of “N” (no grade) and only the new grade will be calculated in the GPA. When a student repeats a failed subject in an accredited credit recovery program that provides fewer hours of instruction than the regular course (i.e. truncated), the original grade and the make-up grade and credit are both used in computing the GPA.

The unweighted GPA is derived by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of eligible credits attempted. Unweighted GPA is reported on the final report card and is used for National Honor Society, and honor roll eligibility. The weighted GPA, which reflects additional weight for honors and Advanced Placement courses, is used for decile placement, graduation honors and for class rank when it is provided by the college counselor to a requesting university or scholarship fund. See Appendix F for additional information and examples of GPA.

The following percentages are used to determine students’ grades. Each teacher maintains both the percent grade and its equivalent letter grade for each student. Only the letter grades, which correspond to the student’s percent average, appear on the report card and transcript. Additional information about grading is in Appendix F.

The grading scale for PW is as follows:

A     90 - 100%
B+   87 - 89%
B     83 - 86%
B-    80 - 82%
C+   77 - 79%
C     73 - 76%
C-    70 - 72%
D+   67 - 69%
D     63 - 66%
D-    60 - 62%
F       0  - 59%

Graduates earn distinction for academic performance based on their cumulative weighted grade point average as computed at the end of the first semester of grade 12:

Cum Laude – Weighted GPA of 3.5 to 3.7
Magna cum Laude – Weighted GPA of 3.8 to 4.1
Summa cum Laude – Weighted GPA of 4.2 and above

To receive a diploma and participate in the commencement ceremony, a student must satisfactorily complete the graduation requirements stipulated by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania State Board of Education Academic Standards and Assessments and the Colonial Board of Education as set forth below. Special circumstances are addressed in CSD Board Policy 217 and CSD Board Policy 217.1

Graduation Requirements for the class of 2021 and beyond

5     English/Language Arts (non-elective)
4     Mathematics (non-elective)
4     Social Studies (non-elective)
4     Science (non-elective)
2     Health/Physical Education 
3     Arts & Humanities Elective
17   Electives
40   Total Credits

*Students must be enrolled in 5 courses per semester regardless of credit and/or graduation requirement fulfillment. 

In addition to meeting the credit requirements, students must demonstrate proficient or higher performance in reading, writing and mathematics on the State assessment administered prior to grade 12. Students scoring below the proficient level on any of the Keystone Exams must retake the exam and be subject to receive remediation. Students that do not reach proficiency on the Keystone Exam will seek another option to fulfill graduation requirements per PA Senate Bill 1095, passed on October 15, 2018, which amended high school graduation requirements, providing alternate options to demonstrate proficiency on the Keystone Exams.
 

Alternate Options for Demonstrating Proficiency to Meet Graduation Requirement

It is well known that effective homework improves student learning. Teachers at PWHS assign homework for several purposes. One purpose is to practice a skill or to interact with content that is currently being learned. Another is to help the student prepare for a classroom activity that will take place the next day or in the near future. A third purpose is for elaboration on or extension of a lesson topic.

Though parents/guardians are encouraged to support students’ good study habits at home, it is not advisable for parents/guardians to help their children with the actual homework assignment. Do help your child establish a good routine for homework.

The general guideline that PW teachers use in assigning homework is that students should spend 10 times their grade level in minutes on homework daily. For long-term projects, this will be more of an average across several days. Thus, a 9th grader should spend about 90 minutes;  a 10th grader should spend about 100 minutes, etc. Parents/guardians should contact the teacher if their child is spending too much or no time on homework in one subject. Contact the counselor if homework in all courses is taking too much time.

Generally, homework is graded when it involves a real exhibition of students’ learning of important course objectives. Completion of daily homework assignments is necessary for good performance on classroom assessments from which grades are derived. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure the homework assignment is understood, to be aware of the date that it is due, and to clarify any other pertinent details necessary for the successful completion of the assignment. When a student is absent from school due to extended illness (three or more days), the parent or student should request classroom assignments from the teacher(s).

A student earns honor roll status at the end of each academic year. A student whose unweighted grade point average (GPA) for the year is 3.0 or greater with no course grade below a “B” earns scholastic honor roll status. A student whose unweighted GPA for the year is 3.8 or greater with no course grade below a “B” earns distinguished honor roll status. (Note: A student who earns a grade of “B-“ or below, will not qualify for honor roll)

At the end of a semester, with administrative approval, teachers may assign students a grade of “Incomplete” if illness or other extenuating circumstances have resulted in school absence at the end of the period. Students are expected to complete outstanding assignments and assessments within two-three weeks after the end of the semester.

Lab fees, for materials designated as consumable resources, are applicable for elective courses of study only. Lab fees are determined by the department and defined in the class syllabus. Fees may not exceed $15.00 per student, per course

Students are welcome to visit the Library Media Center for concentrated study, recreational and informational reading, course enrichment, assigned Virtual High School courses, research, Makerspace and in-depth exploration of content areas. An atmosphere conducive to learning is maintained through the application of all regular school policies and rules. Per BYOD guidelines, cell phones and other electronic devices are permitted but should be in silent mode and are to be used for educational purposes. Students will sign-in when visiting the library.

Hours

When school is in session, the library is open during the following times:
Monday through Thursday              7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday                                              7:00 AM – 2:20 PM

Passes

During the school day, students will not be admitted to the library-media center without a pass and student ID badge. Students will obtain passes from a teacher, classroom aid, library-media center staff or lunch aid.

Circulating Materials

Late fees will NOT be assigned for circulated materials as students will be held accountable and assigned an obligation for the entire value of the material borrowed, until it is returned.

MakerSpace

Makerspace is a student run space for tinkering and creative output aligned to a STEM philosophy. Materials are available within the LMC and students looking for structured “maker-activities” should sign-up through the Bonus Block portal.

Subscription Databases

The library subscribes to a number of online databases providing students access to these sites from school or home. A password is required for off-site access and may be obtained in the library.

Technology

Computers, copiers and other technology available in the library-media center are for academic use, research and school work only. Recreational games, instant messaging and other inappropriate uses are prohibited.

Excused Absence

Students have the responsibility to make up all work missed during an excused absence from school. Teachers assist students in this regard, using the following time limits. Work or tests scheduled on the day of an absence are due upon return of the student to school.  Assignments are to be made up in a period of time not to exceed twice the number of days absent. When a student is absent from school due to extended illness (three or more days), the parent/guardian or student should request classroom assignments from the teacher(s).

Unexcused Absence

Make-up assignments and assigned deadlines for reasons other than excused absences are at the discretion of the teacher.

PWHS operates the Cardin D. Brown Chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS). The National Association of Secondary School Principals sponsors the NHS to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership and to develop character in secondary school students.

Scholarship:

Students must have and maintain a cumulative unweighted grade point average of 3.75 or above. A student exemplifying scholarship is an active class participant, enrolls in a rigorous course-load, including honors and AP courses, and studies and completes homework and assignments on a regular basis.

Character:

The student of good character upholds principles of morality and ethics, is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, complies with school and classroom rules and regulations, and shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others. Students of good character comply with and abide by PWHS’ academic integrity policy.

Service:

This quality is defined through the voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic spirit. Some examples are food drives, helping the homeless; tutoring or mentoring in the community or schools; work on school related service projects, e.g., car wash, blood drive, dance decorations/clean-up or any sort of organized volunteering through religious, community, social or athletic organizations.

Leadership:

Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, promoters of school activities, idea-contributors, dependable, and persons who exemplify positive attitudes about life. Leadership experiences are drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others. Some examples are successfully holding an office in a student or youth organization; being the captain or co-captain of an athletic team; demonstrating initiative in promoting school activities; holding a management position on the job or inspiring positive behaviors in others.

NHS Selection Process:

Students in grades 11  and 12 who meet the scholarship requirement and who have been in attendance at PW for the equivalent of at least one semester are sent an invitation to apply to NHS in August. Students must complete the application and submit it before the stated deadline, providing evidence of their service and leadership as well as personal recommendations from others regarding their character, service and leadership.

Selection to NHS is by a majority vote of the five-member faculty council which is appointed by the principal. Each faculty council member reviews the completed applications of all candidates, rating their level of service, leadership and character. The committee meets to discuss any student with a questionable rating, and contacts students’ references as needed to obtain more information. Applicants are notified of their selection in October; new members are inducted in November. Once inducted NHS members are expected to maintain their GPA, exemplify other NHS standards and perform 20 to 25 hours of service in the school and community. Senior members in good standing are eligible to be nominated to compete in the NHS Scholarship Program. For additional information, see the PWHS NHS brochure available in school offices or visit the NHS webpage on the Activities link of the PWHS webpage.

Discipline and Dismissal

Section 1

The Faculty Council, in compliance with the rules and regulations of the National Honor Society, shall determine the procedure for dismissal. A written description of the dismissal procedure shall be available to the interested parties. (Note: Faculty Councils can consider disciplinary actions that are less severe than dismissal if the circumstances warrant.)

Section 2 

Members who fall below the standards that were the basis for their selection shall be promptly warned in writing by the chapter adviser and given a reasonable amount of time to correct the deficiency, except that in the case of flagrant violation of school rules or the law, a member does not necessarily have to be warned. Evidence of failure to meet any of the requirements of membership may result in dismissal from NHS. The following are some specific examples of situations which may result in dismissal from the NHS (though other situations not noted here may also result in dismissal from NHS):

• Academic Eligibility - NHS student GPAs will be analyzed at the end of each semester by the faculty advisor. For example, a junior member of the NHS would have their GPA reviewed at the end of their junior year fall semester, junior year spring semester, and senior year fall semester. If a student’s GPA drops below the minimum, the student will be notified in writing and monitored more closely throughout the following semester, with interim checkpoints coinciding with each round of progress reports. If after one semester the student fails to raise his/her GPA to the required minimum, membership in NHS will be revoked.
   
• Discipline - If an NHS student commits a Level 3, 4, 5, or 6 PWHS Code of Conduct violation, the student will be immediately dismissed from NHS (NOTE: Cheating is a Level 3 offense). The student is responsible for notifying the principal and the NHS faculty advisor of his/her code of conduct violation. Additionally, repeated occurrences of Level 1 or 2 violations may result in dismissal from NHS. Violations of community laws may also result in immediate dismissal from NHS. Written notification is not required for removal from the NHS for disciplinary reasons. Exceptions to this policy may be made by the principal and Faculty Council.
   
• Failure to Fulfill Service Obligations – NHS students who fail to serve their school and/or community may face dismissal from NHS after review by the Faculty Council. Students must submit service logs and designated “checkpoints” throughout the year.

Section 3

The Faculty Council, in compliance with the rules and regulations of the National Honor Society, will meet to determine when an individual has exceeded a reasonable number of warnings.

Section 4

In all cases of pending dismissal, a member shall have a right to a “due process” hearing before the Faculty Council.

Section 5 

For purposes of dismissal, a majority vote of the Faculty Council is required.

PWHS’ consolidated printing model encourages students to submit assignments to their teachers digitally when possible and/or plan to have necessary assignments printed and prepared for the day, prior to arriving at PWHS. As an extended convenience, students will be permitted to print/copy/scan in the Library-Media Center (LMC). Students may utilize the printing center ideally before or after school, but may do so during lunch with a pass. Students should plan accordingly when printing resources or assignments for class and are expected to be on time and will not be admitted late for printing.

A report card with the student’s final course grades is provided digitally (PDF), following the end of each semester. Progress reports, which include grade-to-date and clarifying comments to keep parents/guardians apprised of students’ ongoing performance, will be made available for parents/guardians to review in PowerSchool. Parents/guardians will be notified via the district communication portal when progress reports are available to view in PowerSchool. (See Appendix F for more information).

The mission of the School Counseling Department is to provide comprehensive services to address students’ development in four domains: personal, social, academic and career development.

Services include a focus on an understanding of abilities, aptitudes, interests and skills needed for a successful transition from grade to grade and on to post-secondary education. Counselors are assigned to a group of students alphabetically and remain with them until graduation. School counseling services are delivered through large group, small group, and individual meetings. To assist students in evaluating their individual abilities, aptitudes, and interests, counselors supervise the administration of career and aptitude tests. College information programs are scheduled throughout the year to provide access to information for students and their families. Parents and guardians should always feel free to call or email the appropriate counselor. Please allow up to 24 hours (from the time of receipt) for a counselor to return your telephone call. Every effort will be made to return the call sooner; however, during peak times the volume of calls is tremendous. Individual parent/guardian meetings are also welcomed.

Counselor Appointments

Students may make an appointment with their counselor in the counseling office. Students will receive a pass to visit their guidance counselor the morning of an appointment.

Each spring, PWHS conducts a senior award ceremony to acknowledge students who have earned school and community sponsored academic and achievement awards. Students receiving an award are notified by the building administration.

To aid the district in monitoring the achievement of all students, various assessments are administered annually to ascertain tangible data about students’ academic skills. Mandated by the PA State Board of Education, the Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments designed to assess student proficiency in the subject areas of Algebra, Biology and Literature.

Student scores are tabulated for school data in a student’s 11th grade year. Students taking the Keystone Exam in grades 9 and 10 and who score in the proficient range will have their scores banked for their 11th grade year. To monitor the reading and math achievement of students prior to grade 11, the district administers annual reading and math tests to students in grades 9 and 10. Results are used to place students into appropriate courses and remedial programs.

Student performance on the Keystone is scored as Advanced, Proficient, Basic or Below Basic, following the scoring distinctions below:

Students scoring below the proficient level on any of the Keystone Exams must retake the exam and will receive intervention remediation and/or may be assigned a Keystone remediation course. Students that do not reach proficiency after three times may be assigned additional projects, determined by state regulations, to be assessed in order to graduate.

Parents/guardians have the right to have their children excused from the Keystone exam if, upon inspection of the assessments, they find them to be in conflict with their religious beliefs. Parents/guardians must follow protocol which includes a written request for excusal to the superintendent. Parents/guardians have the right to review the state assessments in the school two weeks prior to their administration or as soon thereafter as the district receives the assessments. Please visit the Keystone Exams section of the PWHS website for additional details.

Official records for each student are maintained (with confidentiality) in the Counseling Center. Daily attendance information is also maintained in PowerSchool and available through the Attendance Office. Teachers are required to review IEPs and 504s of students in their classes at the beginning of each semester. Contact personnel in the administrative office or counseling office for assistance.

The testing schedule below is used to reduce the number of tests and/or assessments that a student must take on any given day. This does not apply to short quizzes.

The transcript is a record, beginning with grade 9, of grades earned for each semester to date at PWHS. Also included are grade point average and 11th grade state assessment scores (Keystone Exam). A copy of the transcript is mailed home during the summer prior to senior year. The student and parents/guardians should review the transcript for accuracy and inform the school counselor of any errors or omissions.

An official copy of a student’s transcript must be requested in writing by completing the Transcript Request Form, which is available in the Counseling Center. Official transcripts are those sent directly from PWHS to the receiving institution. Mid-year senior grades are submitted only by request of the student. A final transcript will be mailed to the college that the student plans to attend as noted on the Senior Survey, which students must complete prior to graduation. Graduates must make requests for transcripts in writing and pay $3.00 for each transcript.

When a student transfers to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School, the counselor will work with the administration to determine course credits applicable to the district’s graduation requirements. Course names and grades of the transferred courses will be listed in accordance with the sending school and manually added to the student’s transcript and be included toward class rank. PWHS will recognize weighted grades from a sending school for Honors and AP designated courses only. Students who enroll at PW with less than 45 days remaining in a semester, will earn a grade of Pass/Fail unless incoming courses directly align with PW courses. Credit and grades cannot be assigned without official documentation from the sending school.

Circumstances under which students may be permitted to accelerate their enrollment in Latin, French and Spanish courses include formal study in another structured setting, residence or study abroad, and other immersion experiences. In order to advance to a language level without taking the prerequisite courses(s), a student must demonstrate proficiency on content assessments and obtain approval from the department head.

Students who violate the Colonial School District Activities Code of Ethics will be suspended from extracurricular activities or athletics.  See Appendix A of this handbook.

Elections for class officers are held each spring; the freshman class elections are held in September. Class officers work closely with the class sponsors and steering committees in organizing many important class activities each year.

To run for class officer and to remain in the position for the full term, a student must meet several criteria:

• possess and maintain a current and a cumulative unweighted Grade Point Average of 3.0.
• have only one incident during the current activity year that resulted in a Level 2 detention or Saturday School, and there can be no incident in the activity year that resulted in suspension from school.
• cannot have been cited by the class sponsor for dereliction of duty during the activity year. An activity year begins on the day of an election and ends at the time of the subsequent elections.

If an office holder is removed from office, that student must be approved by the Director of Activities and the class sponsors to run for office in the subsequent election.

All class-sponsored activities are paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. An amount to be paid is set for each class activity by the administration, the class sponsors and the officers in consultation with the class. Students are asked to register for each activity and pay the amount due in advance. The class treasurer keeps accurate records and accounts for all monies.

It is understood that any classes do not enter into the contract commitments until they have accumulated at least $1200 in their account. This money is raised by the class through the various fundraising programs agreed upon by the administration, class sponsors, officers, and the class. Money raised from the fund-raising activities is used by the class to pay class expenses and to supplement the cost of class activities.

Students are encouraged to join one or more of the school sponsored and student-initiated clubs and activities in order to participate in the life of the school and develop important social and leadership skills. A list of clubs and activities is available on the school website and in the office of the Activities Director. Students wishing to initiate a club should contact the Activities Director.

Dances held periodically throughout the year are sponsored by various organizations of the school.

Eligibility

Attending dances is a privilege, not a right. Students with outstanding obligations (financial or otherwise) are not permitted to purchase tickets for the dances or proms. Students attending Alternative School placements will be permitted to attend PWHS dances/proms (per request) at the discretion of the PWHS Administration only.

Guidelines for Attendance

• On the day of a dance or prom, students must minimally attend one half of the scheduled school day in order to participate. All students not meeting the minimum requirements will be ineligible to attend.
   
• All regulations pertaining to school discipline and behavior apply to students and guests attending dances and proms. 
   
• All students and their belongings are subject to search at the discretion of the principal and/or administrative chaperones.
   
• Open containers of liquids will not be permitted into the dance.
   
• At the dance, use of controlled substances and tobacco are prohibited.
   
• Inappropriate or provocative attire is prohibited; students are expected to dress according to the formality of the dance. Students violating rules related to dress and dancing will be ejected.
   
• In dancing, students must refrain from excessive demonstrations of affection, lewd behavior, and dance moves that are considered sexually
  provocative or that simulate sexual activity.
   
• Students are not permitted to return to the dance after leaving.
   
• Dances end no later than 10:00 p.m. with the exception of the proms.
   
• Students serving suspension for Level 2 or 3 offenses (per PWHS Code of Conduct) are not permitted to attend dances/proms if the administered suspension occurs during the time period of the scheduled event
   

Guests

Attendance for the annual Homecoming Dance, Freshman Fling, and Sophomore Hop is open to currently enrolled PWHS students ONLY. Guests of PWHS students WILL BE permitted for the Junior and Senior Proms. All guests of PWHS students attending these dances must submit a Dance Guest Pass at least one week in advance to their assistant principal’s office for approval. The principal, on behalf of the district, reserves the right to deny admission to any guest.

Early Dismissals

Juniors and Seniors are dismissed at 11:00 a.m. on the day of their respective proms. Additionally, all other PWHS students attending these proms will be eligible for an excused early dismissal at 11:00 a.m. if a written request from the parent/guardian is submitted to the Attendance Office before Block 1 on the day of the prom.

All fundraising activities by students or clubs must be authorized by the Activities Director. Academic instruction is not to be disrupted and fundraising items are not to be sold within the confines of the classroom.

Music

A variety of academic/honors level curricular and extracurricular musical experiences are available for PWHS students. Students may elect band, choral and orchestra classes which meet on alternating days with a select number of academic classes for the entire year.

In addition to the numerous performing and competitive opportunities present in the music curriculum, students may also participate in these extra-curricular experiences:

• Chamber Ensemble, open to string players
   
• Indoor Drumline, a competitive percussion ensemble
   
• Indoor Guard, a competitive movement ensemble (spins flags, rifles & sabers)
   
• Jazz Band, a select competitive ensemble (performs a wide variety of jazz styles)
   
• Lab Band, an introductory jazz style ensemble (open to all student musicians)
   
• Marching Colonials, a marching band which performs for PWHS football games, community events and competitions
   
• A-cappella

Theater

Students interested in theater arts may participate in the Colonial Players Fall Production or the PWHS Spring Musical. PWHS theater arts provides opportunities for students interested in set construction, lighting, and sound to serve as Stage Crew for these productions and other auditorium programs. PWHS students with strong instrumental skills are encouraged to audition to play in the pit orchestra for these productions

PLC is a group of students chosen by the high school principal that meets with school administrators several times a year to discuss school concerns. Students must apply to become members of the PLC by writing a letter of interest to the high school principal stating why they would like to participate in this forum.

Various publications offer students opportunities for experience in writing, editing, photography and layout. The Town Crier student newspaper is published several times throughout the year. The Milestone student yearbook documents a full year in the life of PWHS and is published in the spring with a supplement in the summer. Students may also contribute to or help to edit The Continental, the PWHS student literary magazine.

Students develop leadership skills though the PWHS Student Council, which sponsors many school-wide activities to improve the school and promote school spirit.

It is the policy of the Colonial Board of School Directors to have two student representatives serve as non-voting members of the Board for the purposes of enhancing communication with the student body, helping elected Board members to be aware of student views, and working constructively with members of the Board and the Superintendent to provide quality education for the students of the district. In addition, two students serve as non-voting members of the Community Relations & Student Life Committee of the Board.

Students who violate the Colonial School District Activities Code of Ethics will be suspended from extracurricular activities or athletics.  See Appendix A of this handbook.

Located in the main hall across from the Administrative Office, the PWHS Athletic Office is open during school hours. The telephone number is 610.825.1500, ext. 1904. In addition to the seasonal brochures for all athletic competitions available in the Athletic Office, the high school website contains detailed information about the PWHS athletic program.

Every student (grades 9-12) at PWHS has an opportunity to engage in an athletic activity. The following sports and team options (9th, Junior Varsity, Varsity) are offered:

A student attends at least five practice sessions in any sport prior to being eliminated from the squad. The criteria for cutting are based on ability, desire, condition, grades, knowledge of game, cooperation, attitude and service.

Students are dropped for disciplinary reasons at any time, and a conference follows with the coach, athletic director, house administrator, and parents/guardians.

A student, selected as a member of an athletic squad, remains on that squad until the end of the season. Moving from one squad to another or to a following sport season is not permitted unless agreed upon by coaches, athletic director, and house administrator. Students wishing to change sports must obtain permission from the coaches of both teams and their assistant principal.

The varsity letter is the highest athletic award a PW student can earn. The Athletic Department issues certificates to every student who has earned a varsity letter. A varsity letter is given the first year that a student earns it and is not repeated in a given sport.

The senior award winner is given a plaque in all sports, indicating the number of years of participation. Athletic letters are awarded to participants meeting any one of the following requirements:

• Baseball - 50% of all innings played
• Basketball - 50% of all quarters played
• Bowling – 50% of matches played
• Cross Country - Score in 50% of meets
• Football - 50% of all quarters played
• Golf – 50% of all matches
• Lacrosse – 50% of all quarters played
• Hockey - 50% of all quarters played
• Soccer - 50% of all quarters played
• Softball – 50% of all innings played
• Swimming & Diving – 50% of all meets
• Tennis – 50% of all matches
• Track - Score in 50% of all meets
• Volleyball - 50% of all games
• Wrestling - 50% of all matches

A junior varsity letter is given to the student for each sport in which he or she participates. Junior varsity letters are awarded according to the standards which are listed above. Letters are awarded only for those sports that have a junior varsity program.

An established chain of command creates an efficient and transparent avenue to communicate concerns related to your child.

Parents/Guardians:

Any concerns regarding your child's athletic experience should follow the procedures listed below. Issues not appropriate to discuss with coaches are playing time, team strategy, play calling, and other athletes.

Student Athletes:

Playing time issues can be discussed between the athlete and the coach. If this has taken place and the athlete is still unclear or has concerns, then a parent/guardian meeting can be set up with the coach.

Student athletes should follow this process to discuss playing time with a coach:

1. Student athlete contacts the coach to discuss the issue.
   (If this step does not provide a satisfactory resolution, follow protocol for step 2)
    
2. Parents/guardian contacts the coach to set up an appointment.                                                                                                                (If this step does not provide a satisfactory resolution, follow protocol for step 3)
   
   Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the coach and the parent/guardian. Meetings of this nature usually do not promote positive resolutions.
    
3. Contact the Athletic Department for an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation.
   (If this step does not provide a satisfactory resolution, follow protocol for step 4) 
    
4. Contact the school for an appointment with the Principal.

Remember, our coaches are professionals. They make judgment decisions based on what they believe to be in the best interest of the total program. As your children become involved in the athletic programs at Colonial School District they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way you and your child wish. At these times, discussion with the coach is encouraged.

●  All administratively recognized champions, both individual and team, receive an appropriate award for their achievements.

●  League Champions, District Champions, Inter-District or Regional Champions receive an award not to exceed $30 in value.

●  State finalists, both individual and team, receive an award not to exceed $35 in value.

●  A committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the athletic director, the head coach of the sport involved and a student representative determines the type of award to be given.

●  These awards are funded from refreshment stands proceeds. Additional funds, as needed, are made available from athletic gate receipts.

In addition to the Comprehensive Initial Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (CIPPE) form, all students who plan to participate in athletics are required to complete their ImPACT baseline and concussion awareness packet prior to the start of the season.

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) and Colonial School District maintain the following eligibility requirements:

Age Eligibility

A student shall be ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition upon attaining the age of 19 years. If the age of 19 is attained on or after July 1, the student shall be eligible, age wise, to compete through that school year.

Attendance Eligibility

To participate in an interschool practice, scrimmage or contest,  a student must have been regularly enrolled in a secondary school and in full-time attendance thereafter. A student who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of 20 or more school days, shall not be eligible to participate in any inter-school practice, scrimmage or contest until the student has been in attendance for a total of 45 school days following the student’s 20th  day of absence. PIAA rules provide some exceptions to this rule. PWHS requires that students be in attendance for at least half of a school day in order to participate in practice or a competition on that day, unless there is a doctor’s note.

Curriculum and Academic Eligibility

A student must pursue a curriculum defined and  approved by the principal as a full-time curriculum and must maintain an acceptable grade in the curriculum, as certified by the principal. Eligibility is cumulative from the beginning of a grading period, and is reported on a weekly basis. The student must be passing three (3) of his/her current five (5) courses on a Friday to be eligible for the following week. If a student is ineligible for one week, the week goes from Monday to the following Sunday. Practice is at the discretion of the coaches. PWHS teachers report the failing grades of athletes at the end of each week to the athletic director who informs the assistant principal, counselor and coach of any ineligible students. There are no exceptions to this rule.

To be eligible to participate, the student must have passed at least three (3) full-credit subjects during the previous grading period. In cases where a student’s work in any preceding grading period does not meet the standards described above, the student shall be ineligible to participate in interscholastic athletics for the first 15 school days of the next grading period, beginning on the first day report cards are issued. Back work may be made up, providing it is in accordance with the regular rules of the school.

At the end of a school year, the student’s final grades/credits in the student’s subjects rather than the student’s grades/credits for the last grading period shall be used to determine the student’s eligibility for the next grading period. Students who do not pass three (3) subjects at the end of the year but participate in summer credit recovery and correct their deficiencies, shall be eligible.

Students who are enrolled for the first time must comply with the requirements of the curriculum rules. The standing required for the preceding week, the preceding grading period or the preceding year shall be obtained from the records of the last school where the student has attended.

Health Eligibility

Prior to any student participating in practices or inter-school practices, scrimmages, and/or contests in the student’s first sport in a school year, the student is required to submit to the school a completed Comprehensive Initial Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (CIPPE) form. This form is completed by the parent/guardian and an authorized medical examiner. The CIPPE must be performed no earlier than June 1 and shall be effective, regardless of when performed during a school year, until the next May 31.

Following completion of a CIPPE, the same student seeking to participate in subsequent sports in the same school year, must have parents/guardians complete and submit to the school Section 5 of the form. Under certain circumstances, the school will determine the need for a medical re-certification.

In addition to the Comprehensive Initial Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (CIPPE) form, all students who plan to participate in athletics are required to complete their ImPACT baseline and concussion awareness packet prior to the start of the season.

Children who are on time and attend school regularly make the best progress. Regular attendance also assists in developing a sense of responsibility, discipline, and good work habits in the student. 

Required Documentation for Absences

Following any period of absence, the parent/guardian is required to notify the school of the absence via the online absence reporting system and/or by submitting a note to the Attendance Office within 3 days of the returning from the absence. In order for an absence to be medically excused, written medical documentation must be submitted within the required timeframe. 

Click here to complete an absence note online or for access to printable forms.

If a parent/guardian fails to submit the online notification and/or fails to bring an excuse note to the Attendance Office after the absence, the parent/guardian will receive a reminder call to bring the excuse note. If, after the third day a written excuse has not been submitted, the absence is categorized as unlawful for students under 18 and unexcused for students over 18. Even when a parent/guardian has called to inform the school of the student's absence, it remains necessary to provide a written excuse either via the online reporting system or by submitting a written excuse directly to the Attendance Office.

After 10 absences in one school year, state law requires that the parent/guardian provide a physician’s statement for all subsequent absences in the school year. A physician’s statement may also be required for admission to school or to verify absences at any time the school authority deems it necessary. Failure to comply with such a request causes the absence to be recorded as unlawful for students under the age of 18.

Starting on the third consecutive day of an absence, a doctor's note is required.

Absences Excused by State Law

According to state compulsory attendance laws, students must attend school until the age of 18 is reached and absence from school may be excused for only the following reasons:

• Illness of student

• Obtaining professional health care or therapy service rendered by a licensed practitioner

• Quarantine upon approval from the school nurse or administrator and completion of COVID Reporting Form. 

• Family emergency

• Recovery from accident

• Required court attendance

• Death in family

• Participation in a project sponsored by a statewide or countywide 4-H, FFA, or combined 4-H and FFA group upon prior written request

• Observance of religious holiday observed by bonafide religious group upon prior written request

• Non-school sponsored educational tours or trips upon prior approval

• College or post-secondary institution visit upon prior approval

• Other urgent reasons. Urgent reasons shall be strictly construed and do no permit irregular attendance

All absences beyond 10 cumulative days in one school year require a written excuse from a licensed practitioner. 

Religious Holidays

Absences for major religious holidays when school is in session are considered excused absences. While teachers will be encouraged not to schedule tests or required projects on those days, students who are absent will be given time to complete assignments as needed. Make-up days will also be offered for state assessments, such as the Keystone Exams and PSSA tests, that fall on a major religious holiday.

Tardiness

It is important to a student’s overall success to be on time each and every day. Moreover, state law requires tardiness to be recorded. Parents/Guardians of students with excessive tardiness (more than four in a single marking period) will be reported to the Home and School Visitor. It is important that when a child is tardy they are escorted to the main office by a parent/guardian to be signed in.

Unlawful Absences/Truancy

According to Pennsylvania’s compulsory attendance law, parents/guardians of children between the ages of 6 and 18 years must ensure that their children attend school, and their failure to attend school for reasons other than those listed above is deemed unlawful. Following the third unlawful absence, the school sends a first offense notice of the child's unlawful absences and offers the opportunity for the school/family to coordinate a School Attendance Improvement Conference (SAIC) to discuss the cause of the child’s truancy and develop a School Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP). If there are continued unlawful absences, a second offense notice is sent to the parent/guardian, and it is required that a SAIC is scheduled so that a SAIP can be developed to address the ongoing habitual truancy of the student.  If the student continues to have unlawful absences following the development of the School Attendance Improvement Plan, the school district is required to send a truancy citation to the magisterial district judge and/or make a truancy referral to the Montgomery County Office of Children and Youth. Click here for Pennsylvania’s compulsory attendance law.

Students who do not submit the proper documentation in the appropriate timeline will be marked unexcused or unlawful.
 

Repeated unexcused absences for students who are 18 and over result in out of school suspension and referral to the Superintendent. Students 18 years of age and older who miss 10 consecutive days of school can be automatically withdrawn from school by the administration.

On the day that a student is taking an AP examination, students are required to attend school for only the examination.

Students who have unexcused or unlawful absences on the day of a final examination forfeit the right to make up the exam and receive a “0”. Students arriving late will be required to complete the test within the remaining exam period. Early dismissals are not granted on exam days; students leaving early must complete the exam within the testing period. Students are expected to remain in the test room for the duration of the test period. Students removed from the test site during the exam period due to inappropriate behavior forfeit the right to complete the exam and receive a “0”. Schedules for students attending the Central Montgomery Technical High School are adjusted for participation in examinations.

School absences and lateness are included on the student's permanent record and each marking period on the report card.      

Teachers record class attendance daily and check it against the daily attendance sheet. At the end of each school day, the names of students who do not appear on the attendance sheet and cannot be verified for each block as being present are forwarded to the Dean of Students for investigation and/or disciplinary action.

Unexcused absence from class is a serious violation of school rules, and for students under the age of 18 years is considered unlawful. All unexcused absences that are not due to suspension are considered class cuts. Students who are absent, and who are seen in and around the school or in the community, have their absences marked unexcused/unlawful.

An unexcused class absence is defined as an unexcused absence of 32 minutes or more from a 64 minute block or the prorated equivalent (50%) in the event of shortened blocks. Each unexcused absence from class is reported in writing to the Dean of Students. The student forfeits the right to make up the work missed during that class period, and the student's grade may be negatively affected due to non-participation in class. Continued unauthorized absences from class may result in denial of credit as stated in the 15% excessive class absence policy. Disciplinary consequences for class cuts are:

• First offense:  1 day of Level 2 Administrative Detention
• Second offense:  2 days of Level 2 Administrative Detention
• Third offense:  1 day of Saturday School
• Additional offenses: suspension from school; revocation of parking privileges; possible referral to the superintendent.

When a student's class absences for a given course exceed 15% of the class meetings, the teacher denies course credit and issues a grade of CD (credit denied). Near the close of the semester, the teacher submits a Credit Denial Form to the student and the counselor, who notifies the parent/guardian. The student does not receive credit toward graduation, and the attempted credit is used in the calculation of the student’s grade point average. Absences caused by school sponsored activities, approved college visits, out-of-school suspensions, or by appointment(s) initiated by the nurse, counselor, or administrator, are not included. When a student is denied course credit for excessive absences, the student has the right to appeal to an administrative committee which will consider extenuating circumstances. If the course in which the student is denied credit is required, this course or a similar course will be rescheduled for the next semester or year. If the course in which the student has been denied credit is an elective, the student may re-enroll in the course or may select another elective course which meets graduation requirements.

The reasons for excused early dismissal are the same as for excused absences. Students requesting early dismissal are to present a written request from the parent/guardian to the Attendance Office before Block 1 on the early dismissal day. The request must contain a clear description of the reason for the early dismissal. Attendance Office staff confirm the early dismissal through telephone contact with the parent/guardian. When students return from an early dismissal prior to the end of the school day, they sign in at the Attendance Office before returning to class. Students are to provide a written statement confirming the appointment following the early dismissal.

Parents/Guardians picking up their child will need to present a valid form of identification (Driver's License) to be able to pick up their child. (see Visitors section above for details.)

The District will consider parent/guardian requests for school absence for an educational trip (including college visits) for a maximum of five days (5) each year. Educational experiences/trips, including college visits must be approved in advance by the principal or designee. Unless there are unusual circumstances, such requests will not be approved for the first ten (10) school days of the year, during examination periods or during standardized testing periods. Educational trip absences count toward credit denial. Requests must be made in writing to the attendance office 10 days in advance via the Educational Trip/College Visit Request Form. Upon return, the student must submit a note confirming the trip dates. Students are responsible to obtain assignments in advance and submit them on time.

Click here for the forms page to access the PWHS Educational Trip/College Visit Request Form. 

A student who enters school after Block 1 has begun must report to the Attendance Office before reporting to class. The acceptable reasons for excused lateness to school are the same as for excused absences, and a written excuse from the parent/guardian is required at the time of entry (Note: medical documentation from a doctor or a physician can be required after 6 parent/guardian notes). Tardiness is recorded on the student’s transcript, and parents/guardians are notified by phone and mail. In each semester, four (4) instances of unexcused lateness to school will result in Level 1 school detention; eight (8) instances of lateness will result in Level 2 detention; twelve (12) instances will result in Saturday detention. Additional instances of unexcused lateness will result in more severe penalties.

Since transportation is provided for all students, students who drive to school have the same responsibility to be punctual as any other student. Tardiness or absences which result from the student's driving or being driven to school are not excused and result in disciplinary action.

Students must be in attendance by 10:45 a.m. on the day of the activity/event in order to participate in a co-curricular or extra-curricular activity/event after school or in the evening.
 

Students must live in Colonial School District in order to be enrolled in any of our schools. Colonial School District is required by the Pennsylvania Public School Code to keep on file verification of residency on all students. Families who lease or rent property in our District or whomever accepts guardianship for a student must keep a current lease or guardianship affidavit on file with the school building the student is attending for that school year. Parents/Guardians are also required to keep the school informed of any change in a child’s residency throughout the school year.

If you should have any question concerning Colonial School District residency requirements, you can contact Lenore Ciccolone, Residency Investigator, at (610) 834-1670, extension 2150.

Unexcused absence from class is a serious violation of school rules, and for students under the age of 17 years is considered unlawful. All unexcused absences that are not due to suspension are considered class cuts. Students who are absent, and who are seen in and around the school or in the community, have their absences marked unexcused/unlawful.

An unexcused class absence is defined as an unexcused absence of 32 minutes or more from a 64-minute block or the prorated equivalent (50%) in the event of shortened blocks. Each unexcused absence from class is reported in writing to the Dean of Students. The student forfeits the right to make up the work missed during that class period, and the student's grade may be negatively affected due to non-participation in class. Continued unauthorized absences from class may result in denial of credit as stated in the 15% excessive class absence policy. Disciplinary consequences for class cuts are:

●    First offense: 2 days of Level 2 Administrative Detention

●    Second offense: 2 days of Level 2 Administrative Detention

●    Third offense: 1 day of Saturday School

●    Additional offenses: suspension from school; revocation of parking privileges; possible referral to the superintendent.

Repeated unexcused absences for students who are 17 and over result in out of school suspension and referral to the Superintendent. Students 17 years of age and older who miss 10 consecutive days of school can be automatically withdrawn from school by the administration.

Any student who is moving, transferring, taking full-time employment, etc. reports to the School Counseling Center to initiate a request for withdrawal. The student is issued a withdrawal sheet to obtain the parent/guardian signature and the signature of each teacher in whose class the student is enrolled. Teachers note the student's current grade and indicate if there are any outstanding financial obligations. Completed withdrawal forms are submitted to the Counseling Center. 

Click here for the Counseling Center staff page. 

Parents/Guardians should notify the Colonial Central Registration Office (610.834.1670 ext. 2150) and the PWHS Health Office (610.825.1500 ext. 1932) of any change in the home address or home and work telephone numbers. This must also be updated in PowerSchool annually.

The District maintains plans and has programs in place to safely contain, manage and/or remove the relatively small amount of potentially hazardous materials remaining in our schools. In accordance with AHERA guidelines, passed by the federal government in 1986, information pertaining to the inspection and disposition specific to one of these materials is provided in a management plan. A copy of the management plan is available in the custodial office in our school. In addition, a master copy of the management plan for all district schools is available in the Facilities Management Center located at 4118 Franklin Way, Lafayette Hill Pa. Those interested in reviewing the district’s management plan should contact the PWHS Custodial Supervisor or the Facilities Management Office.

Daily announcements are provided via the Morning Music Show from 7:30-7:35 a.m., 2:20 p.m, and at the end of Block 3 (prior to Bonus Block) as needed. Building announcements are also visible daily on any of the 28 hall monitor displays.

Federal law requires that schools provide military recruiters with a student directory of names, addresses and phone numbers of all juniors and seniors. This information is used for recruiting purposes and for informing students of scholarship opportunities. Parents/Guardians have the right to request their child’s information not be included in this directory. Send a written request to the attention of the PWHS College Counseling office by September 30 in order for your child’s name to be deleted from the directory.

When students arrive on school property, they are expected to report directly into the building and may not leave school property without permission. Students who leave school grounds without permission and return the same day will be subject to a search by administration or school security.  Loitering in the parking lot is not permitted.

School administrators and security officials will search an individual student’s bag or backpack when there is reasonable suspicion that the search will turn up contraband or evidence of violation of school policy.

The breakfast program is open to all students beginning at 7:00 a.m. and ending promptly at 7:25 a.m. in the Cafeteria. Students are not permitted to loiter in the lobby, but may remain in the cafeteria, after the purchase of food. It is the responsibility of the student to be in first block class on time at 7:35 a.m.

Students in walking areas are not eligible and will not receive transportation. Students are expected to get on and off buses at the same assigned stops each morning and afternoon. These stops will generally be set at corners within a reasonable walking distance of students’ homes. Students are expected to follow all of the guidelines that are contained in the district’s transportation regulations. Unless a student has a year-long approved, alternate bus stop for childcare or a shared custody situation, they must ride the buses to which they are assigned.

Long-Term Accommodations

Families of students with defined special needs and/or living along PENNDOT-designated hazardous routes will automatically receive the accommodations required by their special circumstances. Other families seeking other accommodations, that often involve joint custody or day-care arrangements, must submit their requests in writing to the Transportation Department on the district form provided for that purpose. This form may be obtained at the attendance office or on our district website by clicking here. Accommodations will not automatically continue from one year to the next. Families must reapply each year. Accommodations will be made only when the request involves a single transition (change) for the student(s) from one service location to another during the week. The district will not honor requests for accommodations that vary day to day or week to week. Requests for accommodations for each new school year must be made by July 1. Requests made after that date will be processed in the order in which they are received. Review and action on late requests will be delayed if the volume of requests is high. Accommodations will be made only  if the requested changes are for existing stops in the students’ home school attendance area and there is room on the bus for the student(s). Routes will not be altered or extended.

Temporary Bus Passes

The assistant principals may approve temporary transportation changes to address emergencies, such as illness in the family, a parent/guardian out of town, etc. by issuing a temporary bus pass for a single day. Passes may not be used to circumvent rules on long-term accommodations. Bus passes will not be issued for dates with friends, scout meetings, music lessons, to work on group projects or similar situations. Requests from parents/guardians for bus passes must be legibly made in writing using the district form provided for that purpose. The application must include the first and last name of the student and the complete address and telephone number of the caregiver. Students within the walking areas will not be issued bus passes. Bus drivers will not accept notes from parents/guardians. Accommodations will be made only if the requested changes are for existing stops in the students’ home school attendance area and there is room on the bus for the student(s). Routes will not be altered or extended.

The bus is an extension of the school and as such, all school rules apply. Students are expected to follow all safety procedures. Misconduct that is determined by the bus driver to be detrimental to the safe operation of the bus is considered a violation. Additionally, misconduct at a bus stop, which violates the property rights of people who reside at or near the stop, or conduct which is hazardous to other students waiting for the bus, is not permitted. Students reported by the bus driver for misconduct face consequences outlined in the student discipline code. In addition, transportation privileges may be suspended.

Video and Audio Recording (Bus Cameras)

Each school bus and school vehicle that is equipped with video and audio recording equipment contains a clearly posted notice informing drivers and passengers of the potential for video and audio recording. The use of video and audio recording equipment supports efforts to maintain discipline and to ensure the safety and security of all students, staff, contractors and others being transported on district-owned, operated, or contracted school buses or school vehicles. The district shall comply with the provisions of federal and state law and regulations regarding student record requirements as applicable to the district’s use and disclosure of recordings. Recordings considered part of a student’s educational record shall be maintained in accordance with established student record procedures governing access, review and disclosure of student records. Parents/Guardians and students will be informed annually of the policy authorizing video and audio recording on school buses and school vehicles. (Please refer to this handbook's section on Video Recordings and possible disciplinary action)

Students are permitted to bring their own electronic devices (cell phones, tablets or laptop computers) to school. Students may utilize these devices in the classroom AT THE DISCRETION OF THE TEACHER and/or in technology safe zones which include the hallways during transition in between classes and in the cafeteria. Students agree to utilize the district Wi-Fi network and are not permitted to utilize 3G or personal networks during school hours. Students MAY NOT utilize personal devices to make phone calls at any time, in any location, during the school day unless directed otherwise by the teacher, administration or designated staff member.

Appropriate Uses of Personal Devices

Students who opt to bring in personal devices will agree to utilize their devices appropriately and for educational purposes only, to enhance and manage their individual learning experiences.  Personal devices provide students opportunities to:

• organize and monitor assignments and projects
   
• manage daily agendas, due dates and set reminders for long-term assignments
   
• access digital tools/applications for collaboration, sharing and communication
   
• formulate mathematical and scientific calculations
   
• document events and record in-class artifacts for reference
   
• access online textbooks, databases and online resources
   
• access learning management systems, online courses and class resources
   
• proofread and self-edit working documents
   
• conduct meaningful research and take notes
   
• capture and edit images and video
   
• participate in surveys and polls for instantaneous analysis
   
• create digital publications, presentations and portfolios

Learning and Instruction

Students are not required to bring in personal devices to school, as will remain the case as PWHS implements BYOD. All students will continue to be able to utilize PWHS equipment when appropriate as NO student will be left out of the instructional process. Devices may be utilized during class time at the discretion of the classroom teacher ONLY. Teachers are not required to implement personal devices into instruction. Students who do not follow the discretion of the classroom teacher will be subject to disciplinary action.

• 1st Violation: Confiscation of device until the end of the day, administrative warning
• 2nd Violation: Confiscation of the device, mandatory parent/guardian meeting to retrieve the device, and a Saturday detention will be assigned
• 3rd Violation: Confiscation of the device, mandatory parent/guardian meeting to retrieve the device, and a 1-day OSS will be assigned

It should be recognized that BYOD at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School is a privilege for students, not a right. As mentioned above, students will be required to follow all classroom procedures and the PWHS Code of Conduct, or forfeit this privilege and be subject to additional disciplinary consequences as listed in Chapter 8 and Appendix C. Student devices may be collected by building administration during disciplinary investigation and/or actions.

Respectful and courteous behavior toward staff and other students is mandatory. The following procedures are required for our cafeteria to operate efficiently:

• Students are assigned to A, B or C Lunch in accordance with when their 4th block teacher is assigned lunch. There are no exceptions. Students are permitted in the cafeteria during assigned lunch only.
   
• Students are to eat in the cafeteria with the exception of students who obtain a pass to work with a teacher during their lunch. Privilege to eat and drink in a supervised classroom will be at the discretion of the teacher. Food, snacks, and beverages may not be taken out of the cafeteria without authorization.
   
• Picnicking and having lunch outside of the building is prohibited for students at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School.
   
• Students must remain on campus during their lunch period and are not permitted to order food from outside vendors for delivery to campus.
   
• Students must remain in the cafeteria until the end of the lunch period or until dismissed by administration/security. Students may not loiter in restrooms or areas adjacent to the cafeteria.
   
• Students are responsible for disposing of trash in the trash containers.
   
• Due to the potential for injury to other students, fighting or other disturbances in the cafeteria will result in 3 days of out of school suspension and a citation for disorderly conduct issued by the local police.

PWHS has a closed school day. Students are not permitted on the student parking lot between 7:35 a.m. and 2:20 a.m. unless approval for early dismissal is received from the assistant principal or they are participating in an approved off campus educational program. Students who fail to comply are subject to disciplinary action. Students who leave school grounds without permission and return the same day will be subject to a search by administration or school security.

TruMark Financial Credit Union partners with PWHS to run a student-operated credit union branch in the school. This is a full-service financial institution where students, faculty, and staff can deposit funds, open savings and checking accounts, and apply for loans. Hours of operation are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The student-operated branch, an extension of the credit union’s financial literacy program, provides students with real-life personal finance skills, job training, and increased opportunities for financial education.

MUSIC, AVID, ELL (MAE) schedules alternate during Block 2 daily throughout the year and are designated as Red and Blue days.

• 9th and 10th Grade MAE courses meet on RED days
   
• 11th and 12th Grade MAE courses meet on BLUE days

Academic/Honors core courses alternate with MUSIC, AVID and ELL classes and will meet on the alternating day. In the event school is canceled, students will resume the missed scheduled Red/Blue day upon return. Red and Blue day schedules are posted weekly on the digital hall monitors and in the student Google Classroom page.

The district’s school closing number is 305.

In the event that schools must be closed because of an emergency such as bad weather, an announcement of school closing is made via the districts communication portal by phone and email. The message is also posted on the school website. If no announcement is made, assume school is in session. Students should not drive to school on those days for which snow and/or sleet are predicted. Students who risk driving on such days will not be excused before the entire student body is dismissed and will be permitted to leave their cars at school and take district transportation home instead of driving in dangerous conditions.

Students are assessed for obligations, which include money owed for damaged or lost books, for equipment and materials that have not been returned, for the willful destruction of school property, parking fines, cafeteria fees, state mandated health physicals and other miscellaneous fees. If the material(s) cannot be found, students will be assessed the full cost of the material. Failure to clear obligations will result in exclusion from activities, and/or denial of parking privileges. Obligations may be cleared or inquired about in the administrative offices.

The sounding of the fire drill bell is the fire alarm signal. Fire drill instructions posted in each room are thoroughly explained by the teacher in charge, and the students are required to familiarize themselves with the fire drill regulations for each room they occupy. All pupils are expected to follow these general regulations:

• Exit the building in a quiet, orderly fashion
   
• Close all room windows and doors and turn off lights 
   
• Follow the directions of all staff members without question
   
• Upon leaving the building, move to the area designated by a  teacher and remain there until the return to the building is announced

Families may qualify for free or reduced price school breakfast and lunch. Applications are provided at the beginning of each school year.

Students must obtain a hall pass from the teacher, administrator or staff member to be excused from any class or assigned location. Students in the hall at any time may be asked to present a pass upon request of a school staff member or be subject to disciplinary action.

While on campus, all students are required to have their school issued ID badges on them at all times from 7:30 a.m. - 2:20 p.m. each day. Administration, faculty, and visitors to PWHS will also be required to carry ID badges for safety and security purposes.

ID badges will be provided to all students in the beginning of the school year and will be used to identify PWHS students. ID badges are required to access the library-media center, and to attend school sponsored events such as dances, games, fundraisers and spirit week.

Staff members may check for a student ID to visibly display their ID at any time during the school day while on campus. Students who need to replace their ID badges must purchase a replacement in the administrative offices.

• 1st  Replacement: $5.00
   
• 2nd  Replacement: $10.00
   
• 3rd  Replacement: $15.00

At the beginning of each year, PWHS students may purchase insurance to cover bodily injuries (accidental in nature) while attending school during the hours and on days when school is in session. Accidents that may occur while traveling directly between home and school for the purpose of attending or returning from regularly scheduled classes are covered. Students participating in athletic activities are advised to have private health insurance. All insurance claims are processed through the school nurse’s office.

Lockers are assigned to or otherwise made available to students as a convenience for the safe storage of books, clothing, school materials and limited personal property, and to facilitate movement between classes and activities and to and from school. Such lockers are and shall remain the property of the school district, and to the extent students have any expectation of privacy of lockers at all, it is very limited.d

No student may place or keep in a locker any substance or object that is prohibited by law, CSD Board policy or school rules, or that constitutes a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the occupants of the school building or the building itself. Students are required to ensure that their lockers do not contain spoiled food items r beverages, or soiled clothing which may attract pests, create odors or cause unhealthy conditions. A student locker may be opened and inspected for cleanliness, with or without the consent of the student, whenever there are odors, pests or other indications that a locker contains spoiled food, soiled clothing in need of laundering or similarly unhealthy contents.

Students are exclusively responsible for locking their assigned lockers to ensure the security of their personal belongs and school property entrusted to them. Students are permitted to secure their assigned lockers only with locks provided by the district, or if the district does not provide locks, personal combination locks for which the combination has been provided to designated school staff.

Prior to an individual locker search or inspection, the student to whom the locker is assigned shall be notified and be given a reasonable opportunity to be present. However, when there is a reasonable suspicion that the locker contains materials which pose a threat to the health, welfare or safety of the school population, student lockers may be searched without prior notice to the student.

The principal or a designated staff person shall be present whenever a student locker is inspected for cleanliness or is searched. The principal or designee shall maintain written records of all occasions when a locker is searched or inspected. Such records shall include the reason(s) for the search, persons present, objects found and their disposition.

Lost and found articles are to be turned in to the Security Office and may be claimed by the owner with proper identification. After a reasonable amount of time, unclaimed items are disposed of. Lost books are returned to the appropriate department.

Lab fees, for materials designated as consumable resources, are applicable for elective courses of study only. Lab fees are determined by the department and defined in the class syllabus. Fees may not exceed $15.00 per student, per course.

Students are expected to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of school, during announcements each day. Students may decline to recite the pledge, but must be respectful of the process for other students. Students traveling in the hallways during the Pledge of Allegiance are expected to stop and stand still demonstrating respect.

Only school sponsored events are permitted to be posted. Students wishing to post information relating to school events in the building must first have the written or stamped approval of the building principal. Approved information will be submitted to be posted digitally on monitors throughout the building only.

Students must live in Colonial School District in order to be enrolled in PWHS. The district is required by state law to verify residency of all students. Families who lease or rent property in the district or whomever accepts guardianship for a student must keep a current lease or guardianship affidavit on file at the student’s school. Parents/guardians are also required to keep the school informed of any change in a child’s residency. If parents/guardians have any questions concerning Colonial School District residency requirements, they should contact the building principal or the District Residency Investigator at 610.834.1670 ext. 2150.

The main office of PWHS is open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Summer hours are 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday

A school store is located in the main lobby and is open daily during lunch periods. The store carries school supplies, PWHS clothing and novelty items. 

Students are encouraged to remain after school to complete assignments, get help from a teacher, go to the library or participate in school activities. Activity buses are provided for students at 4:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday and at 5:30 p.m. every day. As a school-wide initiative to reduce costs, students utilizing the Activity buses are required to sign-up during lunch. Sign-up is required each day a student will ride the 4:15 p.m. bus. The 4:15 p.m. bus will be cancelled on days the sign-up sheets are blank. At no time, including early dismissals, should students be loitering in the building after the school day has ended.

It is the policy of the Colonial School District that its computers, networks, internet, electronic communications and information systems must be used for education-related purposes only. Student use of CSD information technology systems for any other purpose may result in the cancellation of the privilege to use the network(s) and equipment of the district, and may also result in disciplinary consequences.

The Colonial School District works to ensure student safety as all access to the internet is filtered to screen out inappropriate websites, chat rooms and non-educational related media. Filtering of internet access within the Colonial School District meets the requirements of the federal regulations as defined in the:

• Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) which requires libraries and schools to install filters on their Internet computers to retain federal funding and discounts for computers and computer access.

Additionally, parents/guardians have the right to deny individual internet access for their children by indicating this request in writing. The form mailed by the district at the beginning of the year to each family must be signed and returned to the district community relations office to the attention of Jessica Lester.

The entire text of CSD Board Policy related to Electronic Devices (#237), Acceptable Use of Internet and School Computer Network (#815) and Use of Electronic Communications (#815.1) is available on the School district website. Additional information in this handbook specifically refers to the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) expectations for students.

The Colonial School District uses individual student data for state and federal reporting purposes in accordance with state and federal laws, state assessments, state aid, special education and program participation as well as to satisfy other data requests needed for managing the district instructional programs.

The Superintendent or designee has the authority to establish a system that maintains data in accordance with FERPA and other relevant state and federal laws. Procedures used to ensure the confidentiality of student information and data have been implemented by the Colonial School District. The process does not expand or in any way change the allowable uses by staff or the availability of student data to any other educator or member of the public.

Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you have access to any data other than your own, please contact the building administration.

Photos and videotape footage and personal interviews with Colonial students who are involved in various school-related activities are often used as part of the district’s community relations efforts (e.g., district publications, CITV programs and on the district’s Website). If you do not want photos, videotape footage or interviews featuring your child used in district publications, CITV programming or on the Website, please indicate such on the form forwarded to you during the district mailing at the opening of the school year. Be advised that your negative response on this form prevents intentional use of your child’s photo or videotape footage. In situations in which large groups of people are participating, it may not be possible to avoid photographing or videotaping certain students; therefore, we cannot prevent the use of photos or videotape footage that unintentionally includes your child.

Work  permits are issued in the PWHS Main Office during regular office hours for students residing in the Colonial School District.
 

Any student who is not physically qualified to take physical education must have a form completed by his/her family physician and returned to the school nurse. Adapted physical education classes are available for students with documented need for them.

The following procedures enable a student to possess and use an asthma inhaler during school. The Medication Dispensing Form, signed by a physician and a parent, must be on file with the school nurse. The nurse must verify the student’s ability to self-administer the inhaler. The nurse explains Asthma Watch to the asthmatic student. Coaches, trainers and physical education teachers are aware of this procedure. Following emergency use of the inhaler, a student must report to the school nurse for follow-up.

Audiometer testing is administered to students in grade 11.

Elevator keys are available in the nurse’s office for students with documented need.

Emergency forms are accessible online through the PowerSchool portal. Parents/guardians are asked to update these annually. For the health and safety of the student, it is imperative that this information is updated and on file.

Students who are unable to attend school and who anticipate confinement to their homes because of illness or injury for a period of ten school days or more, apply for homebound instruction through the School Counseling Center. To initiate this procedure, parents/guardians submit a letter from a medical doctor stating the need for homebound instruction.

A student who becomes ill during the day reports immediately to the school nurse. Students requesting to see the nurse from class and between classes use a medical pass which can be obtained from the classroom teacher or the cafeteria supervisor. Hall passes are not acceptable. Students who are ill are not to report to any other place in the school and are not to call home to request that a parent/guardian pick them up. If necessary, the school nurse notifies parents/guardians who must arrange for transportation to the home. Parents/Guardians must report to the nurse’s office to pick up a student. If a student leaves school without following this procedure, the student is subject to the penalty for unexcused class absence.

Any student allergic to insect stings must have medication or an emergency kit in the nurse's office at the beginning of the term. A Medication form must be completed and signed by the family physician and on file with the school nurse.

The Pennsylvania Guidelines regarding medications at school have recently changed. To comply with the state regulations, the following changes have been made to the Colonial School District Medication Policy.

• Students are not allowed to transport any medication, either over-the-counter or prescription, to or from school. (With a properly completed Medication Dispensing form and parent/guardian permission, students may be authorized by the school nurse and principal to carry insulin and to administer it in a designated location in the school.) A parent or guardian must deliver the medication to the school nursing office personally. A parent or guardian must also personally pick up all medications from school once the medication is discontinued, or at the end of the school year.
   
• Any medication that a parent/guardian delivers to school, either over the counter or prescription, requires the Medication Dispensing Form to be signed by both a parent/guardian AND the attending physician.
   
• The prohibition against possession and use of medication in school also includes, but is not limited to, dietary supplements such as vitamins, caffeine pills, energy pills, and training supplements.

Please attempt to give any necessary medication at home. Some over-the counter medications are kept on hand in the school nursing office. Parents/guardians may indicate the over-the-counter medications for which they give permission on the yearly Student Emergency Form. Students who do not comply with these changes may be subject to disciplinary action.

Parents/Guardians who wish to excuse their sons or daughters from physical education classes must provide a written statement for the physical education teacher. The nurse cannot write excuses for physical education classes.

It is a state mandate that all 11th graders have a physical examination including hearing and vision tests. It is preferred that students have this examination performed by their family physicians. Private Report of Physical Examination forms are mailed to parents/guardians at the end of the 10th grade year in the final report card.

Completed forms are due in the nurse's office by the first day of school. Any student who has not returned the form will be given the opportunity to have an examination performed by the school physician. In this case written parental permission is required and a health history form must be completed and submitted by the parent/guardian.

Students are obligated to report for their physicals as scheduled since the school physician is available on a limited basis. Any student who fails to report is subject to disciplinary action. If a physical concern is detected in an examination, parents/guardians are notified. A student is excused from regular or special examinations on presentation of written evidence to the school administration that such examinations are contrary to religious beliefs of the parent/guardian.

The PWHS Health Office is open daily from 7:15 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. The office will be closed from 12:30 - 1:00 p.m. for lunch, at which time the nurse will be available for emergencies only.

Comprehensive Initial Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (CIPPE)
See Chapter 4. Athletics
 

Students have rights which include the right to an education, the right to due process, the right to express an opinion, the right to be free from discrimination, the right to be treated with dignity by other members of the school community and the right to contribute to the educational program. Such rights, however, are not without their accompanying responsibilities. The PA School Code authorizes the board of school directors to adopt and enforce rules and regulations regarding the conduct of pupils during such time as they are under the supervision of the board of school directors and teachers, including the time necessarily spent in coming to and returning from school. According to Chapter 12 of The PA State Board Regulations, students’ responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work, and conformance to school rules and regulations. Students share with the administration and faculty a responsibility to develop a climate within the school that is conducive to wholesome learning and living.

No student has the right to interfere with the education of his or her fellow students. It is the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of teachers, students, administrators, and all others who are involved in the educational process. Students should express their ideas and opinions in a respectful manner. Finally, it is the responsibility of the students to conform to the following:

• Be aware of all rules and regulations for student behavior and conduct themselves in accord with them
   
• Volunteer information in matters relating to the health, safety and welfare of the school community and the protection of school property
   
• Dress and groom to meet fair standards of safety and health, and not to cause substantial disruption to the educational processes
   
• Assist the school staff in operating a safe school for all students enrolled therein
   
• Comply with Commonwealth and local laws
   
• Exercise proper care when using public facilities and equipment
   
• Attend school daily and be on time at all classes and other school functions
   
• Make up work when absent from school
   
• Pursue and attempt to complete satisfactorily the courses of study prescribed by Commonwealth and local school authorities
   
• Report accurately and not use indecent or obscene language in student newspapers or publications
   

A summary of the Colonial School District Code of Conduct is included in Appendix D. Some of the major rules are as follows:

Abuse/Bullying/Harassment

Students are prohibited from engaging in violent, aggressive or abusive behavior, physically abusing an individual, or harassment of an individual, including sexual harassment through conduct or communications. Students are prohibited from intimidation or bullying, including physical or verbal behavior. Students may complete a bullying/cyberbullying or discrimination harasment reporting form (see appendix E).

BYOD – Bring Your Own Device

Students are permitted to bring in electronic devices provided they adhere to the established guidelines. Electronic devices include but are not limited to the following; cell phones, smart phones, MP3 players/IPods, tablets/IPads, and laptop computers. Students may utilize these devices in the classroom AT THE DISCRETION OF THE TEACHER and/or in technology safe zones which include the hallways during transition in between classes and in the cafeteria. Students agree to utilize the district Wi-Fi network and are not permitted to utilize 3G or personal networks during school hours. Students MAY NOT utilize personal devices to make phone calls at any time during the school day unless directed otherwise by the teacher, administration or designated staff member. (See previous handbook section for more information.)

Students are not required to bring in personal devices to school, as will remain the case as PWHS implements BYOD. All students will continue to be able to utilize PWHS equipment when appropriate as NO student will be left out of the instructional process.

Devices may be utilized during class time at the discretion of the classroom teacher ONLY. Teachers are not required to implement personal devices into instruction. Students who do not follow the discretion of the classroom teacher will be subject to disciplinary action.

• 1st  Violation: Confiscation of device until the end of the school day, admin warning
   
• 2nd Violation: Confiscation of the device, mandatory parent/guardian meeting to retrieve the device, and a Saturday detention will be assigned
   
• 3rd Violation: Confiscation of the device, mandatory parent/guardian to retrieve the device, and a 1-day OSS will be assigned

It should be recognized that BYOD at Plymouth Whitemarsh High School is a privilege for students, not a right. Students will be required to follow all classroom procedures and the student code of conduct, or forfeit this privilege and be subject to additional disciplinary consequences as listed here and Appendix D.

Closed Campus

PWHS has a closed school day. Students are not permitted on the student parking lot between 7:35 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. unless approval for early dismissal is received from the assistant principal or they are participating in an approved off campus educational program. Students who fail to comply are subject to disciplinary action. Students who leave school grounds without permission and return the same day will be subject to a search by administration or school security.

Defacement/Destruction/Theft of School Property

Students are prohibited from littering, defacing school property, causing or attempting to cause willful destruction of school or private property, vandalism or attempted vandalism, theft or attempted theft of school or private property on school grounds.

Dishonesty

All forms of dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, knowingly furnishing false information to school authorities, forgery, and alteration or use of school documents with intent to defraud is prohibited.

Drug & Alcohol Use at School

See Appendix C; Controlled Substances..

False Alarms/Bomb Threat

The Crimes Code of Pennsylvania states that “a person who knowingly causes a false alarm of fire or other emergency to be transmitted to or within any organization, official or volunteer, for dealing with emergencies involving danger to life or property commits a misdemeanor of the first degree.” Therefore, a student who initiates a false fire alarm or a false ‘911’ call is subject to the Code of Student Conduct and Discipline under Level Four.

Fighting/Physical Force

The school has a compelling interest in maintaining a safe, orderly environment which is supportive of its educational purpose. Students who engage in fighting and/or acts of physical force, face an immediate and firm disciplinary response by the administration. Students identified for fighting are suspended from school for a minimum of three days and cited for disorderly conduct through civil authorities. If disorderly conduct is proven, the student will be fined. If necessary, the student’s parents are notified to remove the student from school immediately.

Fire/Explosion

Students are prohibited from carrying or possessing explosives, or from intentionally starting a fire or causing an explosion and thereby recklessly placing a person in danger of death or bodily harm, or intentionally frightening persons, or with the intention to destroy or damage property.

Food/Beverages

Students are prohibited from consuming food or beverages (with the exception of water) outside of the cafeteria or from taking food or beverages from the cafeteria.

Gambling/Lewd Behavior

Students are prohibited from gambling, the use of profanity, or the perpetration of immoral acts or indecent behavior on school property.

Insolence/Disrespect/Insubordination/Defiance

Students are prohibited from showing insolence, disrespect, insubordination or defiance to a member of the faculty, staff or other school district employee, guest of the school, or other persons with whom the student has contact in connection with a school-related event.

Lateness to school and/or class

Lateness to school is covered in the handbook section on Attendance. Students who are late to class will be subject to the following disciplinary action;

• 1st  and 2nd  Lateness to class: Warning from classroom teacher
   
• 3rd  Lateness to class: Teacher detention
   
• 4th Lateness to Class: Disciplinary referral and an assigned Level 1 detention
  (Additional lateness to class: Disciplinary referral and a Level 2 detention)

Leaving School Grounds

Students are not permitted to leave school grounds during the school day, without administrative approval. Students who leave school grounds without permission and return the same day will be subject to a search by administration or school security.

Loitering

Students are prohibited from loitering in the restrooms, halls or stairwells at any time during the school day, including Bonus Block and lunch periods. Students are also prohibited from loitering in the building after school hours.

Public Displays of Affection

Students are not permitted to engage in public displays of affection at school or school-related functions.

Slurs

Students are prohibited from making slurs or other such comments that are insulting, disparaging or derogatory, whether made directly or by innuendo, regarding a person’s race, ethnic origin, religion, gender or sexual orientation.

Tobacco Possession and Use

The Colonial School District, in accordance with Whitemarsh Township ordinances and Pennsylvania State Law, Act 128 of 2000, prohibits the use of tobacco on school property and on school buses. All persons, including students, employees and visitors are prohibited from using tobacco in any form in school buildings, on school vehicles and on school property. The prohibition against student tobacco use includes possession of tobacco in any form. The prohibition includes a lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe electronic smoking device such as vape-pens, e-hookahs and e-cigars) or other smoking product or materials and smokeless tobacco in any form. This prohibition applies to all buses, vans, and other vehicles owned by, leased by or under the control of the school district and further extends to all school buildings, stadiums, bleachers or any other form of property owned by, leased by or under the control of the school district.  The school district further governs the  use of tobacco at school-sponsored events that are held off school property. For the first violation of this policy, the student is suspended for two days (Possession) or three days(Use) and a citation is sent to the District Justice. For repeat offenses, the suspension may be increased.

Threats

Students are prohibited from engaging in conduct constituting a terroristic threat or act.

Unexcused Absence

Students are expected to attend class and to report on time. Failure to do so will result in the assignment of school detention and possible suspension. Students who fail to sign in to the attendance office when arriving late to school will be assigned to detention.

Weapons

Students are strictly prohibited from possessing a weapon or replica of a weapon on any school property, any school sponsored activity or any public conveyance providing transportation to a school or school sponsored activity, and/or within a school zone. According to state law, any student violating the district weapons policy shall be expelled from school for not less than one (1) year. See Appendix G.

School administrators work cooperatively with the local police force in a variety of circumstances. In normal situations the parent/guardian will be contacted by the principal/designee via telephone when a police officer will be interacting with the student during the school day, and the principal/designee will be present during all interviews. In emergency situations when police must be in contact with a student prior to parent/guardian notification, the principal/designee will make contact with the parent/guardian as soon as possible.

Many applications for admission ask the student to self-disclose disciplinary history that occurred prior to the application or at any point in the application process. It is expected that students be honest in completing these questions. An application, once signed, signifies that all of the information is accurate and reported honestly. On some applications, counselors are also asked to disclose disciplinary history. Plymouth Whitemarsh as a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling follows the guidelines of reporting disciplinary actions, if requested, on the school Report Form. Counselors are expected to report updates if changes occur in academic and/or disciplinary affairs.

The Colonial School District’s Code of Student Behavior and Discipline is comprised of several forms of discipline for student misconduct:

Direct Contact with Student and Parent/Gguardian

Contact with the home is frequently the most helpful response to an offense. A written warning or reprimand to a student and parents/guardians is an appropriate approach. Where it is deemed appropriate, school counselors and other school personnel or outside social agencies are called in for help in this procedure.

Detention

Detention is time a student is required to spend in school, beyond the regular school day, for disciplinary reasons. Teachers may assign a student detention for violation of a classroom rule to be served in the teacher’s classroom; the amount of time is determined by the teacher. A student who fails to report for teacher detention is referred to the assistant principal for further disciplinary action.

For violation of school rules, students may be assigned by principals to the school detention program. When assigned to any type of detention students are expected to bring school work to complete while in detention. Talking and sleeping are not tolerated. Students may not use any form of personal entertainment or social media, and food and beverages (except water) are prohibited. If a student reports late to or misbehaves, the student is dismissed and assigned to the next level of detention. Students absent on the assigned day are automatically re-assigned for the next available school day. Students are not allowed to participate in any extracurricular or co-curricular activities on the day of the detention.

School Detention, Level 1

Students are assigned to the detention location from 2:30 until  4:10 p.m., at which time they may board the 4:15 p.m. activity bus.

School Detention, Level 2

A student is assigned to the detention location from 2:30 until 5:15 p.m. at which time they may board the 5:30 p.m. activity bus.

Saturday School Detention

This is an effort to modify behavior without suspension from school. With those students for whom after-school detention has proven to be ineffective, students will be assigned to Saturday detention and report to the designated area at the high school by  8:00  a.m.  They  remain under  the supervision of a staff member until 11:00 a.m.

Students are responsible for securing their own transportation. All other rules pertaining to school detention also apply to Saturday detention.

Loss of Privileges

School privileges may be withdrawn for a designated period of time. These may involve removal from extracurricular activities (both athletic and non-athletic) and school social events as well as other functions.  See Appendix B.

Restitution for Damages

Students who deface, willfully destroy, vandalize or steal school property will be required to provide restitution for damages and/or non-recovered stolen property including the current replacement cost of said property and cost of labor incurred in the repair and/or replacement of such. The parent/guardian may be held liable for any and all damages to school property and/or any and all non-recovered stolen property for which the student himself/herself does not provide restitution. When restitution is not appropriate or feasible, students may be given the opportunity to provide service to the school.

Out of School Suspension

Suspension is the exclusion of a student from school and all school-related activities and functions for a period of 1 to 10 days.

During the period of suspension, a student is not permitted to participate in any instructional or activity program of the school. A suspended student is not permitted to be on school grounds, in school buildings, or at any school sponsored affairs, events, or activities. The student has the right to make up any work missed during the suspension period. The student requests assignments from his or her teachers prior to the suspension. If it is possible to do so, the teacher supplies assignments at this time. Upon  return to school, it is the student’s responsibility to schedule a meeting with the teacher to determine what additional work has been missed and to make it up in the allotted period of time.

Suspension for 1 to 3 days

When the suspension is 3 days or less, the student is given an opportunity to respond to the reasons for the suspension, unless it is clear that the health, safety or welfare of the school community is threatened. The parent/guardian is immediately informed of the suspension by telephone with a subsequent written suspension notice.

Suspension for 4 to 10 days

When a student is suspended for more than 3 days, an informal hearing is offered to enable the student to meet with the appropriate school official to explain the circumstances surrounding the suspension event or to show why the student should not be suspended. The informal hearing is meant to encourage the student’s parents or guardian to meet with the principal to discuss ways by which future offenses can be avoided.

The following due process requirements are observed for informal hearings.

• Written notice of reasons for the suspension is given to the parents/guardians and students.
   
• Sufficient notice of the time and place of the hearing is given.
   
• A student has the right to question any witnesses present at the hearing.
   
• The student has the right to speak and produce witnesses on his/her own behalf.
   
• The school offers to hold the hearing within the first 5 days of the suspension.

Expulsion

Expulsion by the school board is the exclusion of a student from school for a period of more than 10 consecutive days. Expulsion may be permanent. It is a very serious step for the most serious offense and is implemented with strict adherence to the requirements of due process contained in Chapter 12 of PA State Board Regulations.

Referral to Police

If an offense is of a serious nature, the school has the authority to refer the matter to the police. Referral to the police for legal charges occurs for possession of narcotics or alcohol, underage drinking, disorderly conduct, theft, assault, weapons possession  and other serious offenses.

Intervention with Chronic Offenders

Any student who has been suspended from school more than 3 times within the same school year, and whose behavior has not been modified by standard disciplinary intervention, may be referred to the superintendent and the Board of School Directors for possible expulsion.

PWHS, as a center of learning, shall provide for the development of habits and attitudes conducive to acceptable wearing apparel, and good grooming. Personal appearance should not disrupt the educational process or endanger the health or safety of students. For reasons of safety, students may be required to wear specific types of clothing for physical education and while participating in labs, extra-curricular activities or other situations where special attire may be required. Students in violation of the following rules will be expected to correct their appearance immediately or will be dismissed from school following parent notification. Repeat violations will result in disciplinary action.

General

• Clothing is prohibited which makes reference to controlled substances (alcohol, controlled substances, etc.) profanity, sexual act, suicide, tobacco, violence and weapons
   
• Outer garments (such as jackets, coats, etc.) may not be worn or carried in school
   
• Shoes must be worn at all times
   
• Sunglasses may not be worn in the building
   
• Full head coverings, including hats and/or hoods, may not be worn in the building except for health, religious, or school sponsored spirit days. If such reasons exist, the student must meet with the appropriate assistant principal or dean of students to explain the need.

Clothing Specifics

• Low cut and low-riding pants or pants with holes, any of which expose the midriff area or undergarments, are prohibited
   
• Skirts and shorts are to be longer than mid-thigh in length
   
• Sleeveless tops which cover to the edge of the shoulder are permitted

• Any top which is low cut or exposes the midriff, chest, shoulders, undergarments, or back are prohibited
   
• Tank tops, tube tops, spaghetti strap tops are not permitted

Students have the right to express themselves unless such expression materially and substantially interferes with the educational process, threatens immediate harm to the welfare of the school or community, encourages unlawful activity or interferes with another individual’s rights. Students wishing to post information relating to school events in the building must have the written/stamped approval of the building principal. Information will be posted on digital monitors throughout the building.

Students are prohibited from organizing, soliciting, aiding, or participating in any type of hazing for any class, school-sponsored club, activity or athletic team. Hazing is:

• any intentional knowing or reckless act directed against a student for the purpose of being initiated into, affiliation with, holding office/maintaining membership in any class, school-sponsored club, activity, or athletic team
• any activity expected of someone joining or belonging to a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.

Students are required to report any known or suspected form of hazing to a principal immediately. Disciplinary action including, but not limited to permanent removal from the class, club, activity, or athletic team, may be taken against students who organize, participate in, and/or fail to report hazing in any way.

Corporal punishment is prohibited in the Colonial School District. Staff members may use physical force under the following circumstances which are not considered as corporal punishment, with further qualification that the force used should not be extreme, excessive or unreasonable in type or purpose:

• to quell a disturbance or for the purpose of self-defense,
   
• to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects,
   
• for the protection of persons and property, or for restraint of a student.

The Board acknowledges the need to respect the rights of students to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures while fulfilling the district’s interest in protecting and preserving the health, safety and welfare of the school population, enforcing rules of conduct, and maintaining an appropriate atmosphere conducive to learning.

Authority

School officials have the authority to lawfully search students or their belongings, including lockers, automobiles, electronic devices, purses, backpacks, clothing, and other possessions, without a warrant, when in school, on school grounds or when otherwise under school supervision, if there is a reasonable suspicion that the place or thing to be searched contains prohibited contraband, material that would pose a threat to the health, safety and welfare of the school population, or evidence that there has been a violation of the law, Board policy, or school rules. The scope and extent of searches must be reasonable in relation to the nature of the suspected evidence, contraband or dangerous material and to the grounds for suspecting that it may be found in the place or thing being searched.

The district has a compelling interest in protecting and preserving the health, safety and welfare of the school population, which under certain circumstances may warrant general or random searches of students and their lockers, vehicles or other belongings without individualized suspicion, for the purpose of finding or preventing entry onto school property of controlled substances, weapons or other dangerous materials.

Delegation of Responsibility

The Board authorizes the administration to conduct searches of students or their belongings, including lockers, automobiles, electronic devices, purses, backpacks, clothing, and other possessions in accordance with the standards set forth in this policy.

Individualized Suspicion Searches

In determining whether reasonable suspicion exists, the principal or designee always should be able to articulate what is being looked for, and why it is thought to be located in the particular place to be searched. The scope of a search should be limited to the place or places the item sought is believed to be.

Examination by school staff of text messages, call logs, files, images or other data contained in a student’s mobile telephone or other electronic device, without the student’s consent, normally constitutes a search that must be justified by reasonable suspicion that material in violation of law, district policy or school rules, or evidence of such a violation, is contained in the particular files, directories or other data locations being examined in the device.

Random or General Searches Without Individualized Suspicion

Under certain circumstances, random or general searches of students and their belongings, including student lockers or vehicles parked on school property, may be conducted during the school day or upon entry into school buildings or school activities, in the absence of suspicion focused on a particular student or students, for the purpose of finding or preventing entry onto school property or activities of controlled substances, weapons or other dangerous materials. Such searches normally will be conducted in a minimally intrusive manner using screening methods such as dogs or other animals trained to detect controlled substances, explosives or other harmful materials by smell, as well as metal detectors and other technology. When such screening methods provide a reasonable suspicion that particular students, items or places possess or contain controlled substances, weapons or other dangerous material, screening may be followed by physical searches of those particular students, items or places on an individualized basis.

Random or general searches for weapons may be conducted when there are circumstances, information or events tending to indicate increased likelihood that students may be armed or headed for physical confrontation because of community strife or tensions, or as a continuation or escalation of a prior incident, in or out of school, which threatens to spill over into school, into a school-sponsored activity, or into other times and places that students are under school supervision.

Random or general searches for controlled substances may be conducted when there are circumstances, events or information tending to indicate significant controlled substance use, possession or trafficking among students in school.

Random or general searches not based on individualized suspicion must be approved in advance by the Superintendent or designee, in consultation with the district solicitor. Coordination with law enforcement officials will be accomplished as provided in the memorandum of understanding with the applicable law enforcement agency.

Searches Upon Consent

Searches may be conducted at any time, with or without reasonable suspicion, if the student has given knowing and voluntary consent specific to the place to be searched. The administration may establish rules and procedures governing certain privileges enjoyed by students, such as the privilege of parking a vehicle on school grounds, that make the student’s consent to random searches.

Searches by or at the Request of Law Enforcement Officials

The legal standards governing searches initiated by school officials are less strict than the standards applicable to law enforcement authorities in many situations. When searches of students, student belongings, vehicles or lockers are conducted by or at the request of law enforcement officials, with or without the involvement of school staff, the law enforcement officials are solely responsible for ensuring that a warrant has been issued or that the circumstances otherwise permit the search to be lawfully conducted in accordance with the standards applicable to law enforcement actions. School staff will not interfere with or obstruct searches initiated by law enforcement, but may assist when law enforcement officials have requested such assistance and have represented that a warrant has been issued or that they otherwise have proper authority for a lawful search.

*See District Policy #226 for additional information

The Colonial School District strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment in any form.

To report an incident of sex-based harassment or discrimination, please click here and complete the online Title IX Reporting Form. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Colonial School District Title IX Coordinator for guidance. 

Title IX Coordinator

Melissa Figueroa-Douglas
Colonial School District Administrative Offices
230 Flourtown Road
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Phone: 610-834-1670, ext. 2151
Click here to send an email to mfigueroadouglas@colonialsd.org.

What is Title IX?

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance. Passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title IX states that:

No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

Colonial School District Nondiscrimination Policies

Note that these policies are currently under review by the Colonial Board of School Directors. 

• Click here to go to Policy 103: Nondiscrimination in School and Classroom Practices
• Click here to go to Policy 103.1: Nondiscrimination — Qualified Students with Disabilities
• Click here to go to Policy 104: Nondiscrimination in Employment Practices

School personnel are authorized to use video recordings, without sound, of students for possible disciplinary action. Use of video recordings for possible disciplinary action is authorized in school buildings, on school property, off school property while students are going to and from school, and in vehicles either owned or leased by the district for purposes of transporting students to and from school and/or other school related activities. Such video recordings may be used for purposes of displaying the conduct to the student in question, displaying conduct of the student in question to the student’s parents or legal guardian, displaying the conduct of the student in question to the school administration and/or police authorities, and displaying the conduct of the student in question at hearings dealing with charges filed against the student concerning the conduct shown in the video recordings.

Video recordings involving possible disciplinary action shall be destroyed after their use for the purpose for which the recording was made, but no later than the end of the school year unless needed by local law enforcement authorities and/or school administrators for use at hearings. Under those conditions, the video recordings may be maintained until such time as the proceedings are terminated and hearings and any appeals therefrom are concluded. (See handbook section on School Bus Video/Audio Policies)

Special arrangements can be made for a student with a physical injury or condition that impairs mobility. The student may obtain an elevator key in the health office. Classmates will be recruited to help carry books from class to class, and teachers are alerted that the student may be arriving to class late or may need to leave class early to travel safely to the next class. To plan arrangements, contact the school nurse or school counselor.

The PW ACADEMY is an on-campus alternative education placement that meets the educational and social/behavioral needs of the non-traditional learner by combining online coursework and web-based tutorial programming with in-person instructional assistance and emotional support within the framework of a flexible and individualized schedule and program. Students are provided with coursework and academic assistance to fulfill needed graduation requirements, participate in individual or group counseling, and receive individualized and flexible program planning that could include vocational and/or job training. Only Colonial School District secondary students are enrolled in this program.

As alternative education placement is dependent upon the individual needs of each student, additional off-site alternative school options are available to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School students in other locations throughout the region.

Colonial Assistance and Referral Effort (CARE) is an intervention and referral team of school personnel who provide students and families with assistance in dealing with any type of concern that interferes with a student’s learning and school performance. The CARE Team provides outreach, support, and drug/alcohol or mental health aftercare services within the school setting and serves as a liaison to community treatment providers. Students may refer themselves to the CARE Team through any faculty member. Teachers, parents and students may also make referrals to the CARE Team at any time. When appropriate, a member of the CARE Team or another member of the professional staff is assigned to monitor a student's progress

In addition to the school counseling program, two community counselors are on staff to provide group and individual counseling support to identified at-risk students. Community counselors assist administrators and school counselors in individual and school-wide crisis intervention, develop and implement drug and alcohol prevention programs and function as liaisons to community agencies for the benefit of students.

Designed for students who need to make up course credits, the PWHS Credit Recovery is web-based and offers students an option to complete coursework. Students are recommended for the program based on course credit needs, through communication with their counselor, and are responsible for the full cost of tuition.

Students failing a core content subject and/or Keystone related content area will be rescheduled to take a course in the traditional PWHS classroom setting, as this is not an option for online credit recovery.

Protocol for Credit Recovery (Online Classes)

Students in need of Credit Recovery will be recommended to make up the class online during Summer Credit Recovery as students do not have additional time during the PW day to take additional classes outside of the 5 blocks. In the event this timeline does not work with a student’s schedule, a parent/guardian may request credit recovery be offered during the school year atter school hours on the student’s own time which must be approved by the Assistant Principal of Academic Affairs.  This is not recommended.

• FULL: Students will register for FULL courses when making up missing credits. (Example - a student who failed Math, was rescheduled internally to attain the Math credit but is now missing an elective credit as a result must take the Full version of the elective offering online).
   
• TRUNCATED: Students will register for TRUNCATED courses when they are making up the exact course they have failed and are missing credit. Truncated courses do not replace a previous grade of “F” on a transcript.

ELL instruction is provided to identified students whose dominant language is not English as part of the core curriculum. The purpose of the program is to increase students’ English language proficiency and facilitate their achievement of the academic standards of the school curriculum.

Homeless Children/Youth Have the Right to a Free, Appropriate Public Education

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is federal legislation that protects “homeless” school age children/youth by ensuring school stability. Entitlements such as transportation, free lunch program, and immediate enrollment assist in removing barriers to their education.

Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Who is homeless?

Children/youth are considered homeless if they lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence and have lost their “permanent” housing due to a causal event such as: eviction, fire, flood, natural disaster, domestic violence situation, substandard housing or economic hardship. A youth who has run away, been thrown out of their home by their parents or who is living on their own may also be defined as homeless. These families may be “doubled up” with family or friends (not by choice) or living in a shelter, transitional housing, motel, vehicle or on the street due to a lack of housing.

Is there any reason to delay enrolling a homeless child/youth?

No! One of the entitlements under McKinney-Vento is the right of immediate enrollment, even if parents/students lack records normally required for enrollment such as birth certificates, academic records, medical records (including immunizations) and proof of residency. Enrollment is defined as attending classes and participating fully in school activities.

Does residency have to be proven?

No. Because homeless families are unable to establish a “home” on a permanent basis, a school cannot require proof of residency that might prevent or delay enrollment of school-age children.

How is it decided where the student will attend school?

The law indicates that the Local Education Agency (LEA) shall, according to the child/youth’s “best interest”, continue the student’s education in the school of origin (where they were attending when they lost their permanent housing) for the duration of the homelessness or assist in the enrollment process to the school district where they temporarily are housed. It is the right of the parent/guardian to choose which school, although it is in the best interest of the student, for stability purposes, to stay in the school of origin as long as it is feasible.

Colonial School District's Homeless Liaison

The Pennsylvania Department of Education mandates that every LEA in Pennsylvania designate a district Homeless Liaison. The Colonial School District’s Homeless Liaison is Meghann Radick, Home/School Visitor. If you have any questions, concerns or information about a student’s housing circumstances as it may pertain to possible homelessness, please contact Meghann Radick at 610-834-1670, ext. 2108, or click here to email mradick@colonialsd.org.

For more information, click here to visit the Education for Homeless Youth page on the Pennsylvania Department of Education website. 

Commencement

Commencement is the highlight of a successful educational experience. Consequently, it is a dignified ceremony that exemplifies etiquette. It is a celebration for the entire community and a serious academic event. The following guidelines are designed to give our commencement the dignity and respectability it deserves. Students who believe they cannot comply with these conditions do not participate in commencement. Any student who does not meet the standard of conduct and dignity implied in this statement at any time during the ceremony is removed. Finally, we urge parental/guardian support and cooperation in making commencement a happy and meaningful event in the life of their children. The decorum of the audience at commencement is just as dignified as that of the graduates. Students must have fulfilled ALL graduation requirements in order to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Tickets

Tickets are not required for the outside ceremony, which is held on Colonial Field on the PWHS campus.

In case of inclement weather, commencement is held in the PWHS West Gymnasium. Each student receives two (2) tickets for admission to the gymnasium, and there will be video viewing in the auditorium if commencement must be held inside.

Student Speakers/Performers

A faculty committee panel selects any student graduation speakers/singers based on audition scores and good standing in terms of academics, discipline and attendance.

Dress

Appropriate dress includes pants or a dress (no shorts), a dress shirt with collar (white preferred), a tie, and formal shoes (no sneakers or sandals). Traditional caps and gowns are worn at commencement. Gowns are fully zippered. Caps are properly placed on top of the head. No item of any type if worn on the cap or gown other than the approved tassel and stole. Students not properly attired will not participate in the commencement ceremony. Students are assessed a nominal fee to cover the purchase of caps and gowns.

Rehearsal Attendance

Attendance at commencement rehearsals is mandatory. Those late or absent from rehearsals, without prior approval, do not participate in commencement. A student who must miss rehearsal due to illness must speak with Dr. Bacani or Mr. Price in the administrative office by 7:00 a.m. that day.

Removal from Commencement Activities

If, prior to or during commencement, it is the opinion of the administration that a student is under the influence of a controlled substance or alcohol, the student is removed from the commencement ceremony. Offenders are subject to legal prosecution. The administration has the responsibility and/or prerogative to exclude a student from commencement for academic ineligibility, for serious breaches of discipline, for use of alcohol or other controlled substances, or for other acts deemed serious enough to warrant exclusion. Administration reserves the right to hold the diplomas of any student who is involved in inappropriate behavior until a scheduled meeting can occur with members of the administration.

Cognizant of the involvement of school age youth with controlled substances (see Appendix B), the Board recognizes its responsibility to adopt guidelines to deal with student eligibility to participate in Colonial School District extracurricular activities and athletic programs. If it is determined that such students used a controlled substance either on or off school premises, it is the intention of the Board to cooperate with students, parents/guardians, private, and governmental agencies to the full extent permitted by law in dealing with this problem. The Board feels strongly that controlled substances are so deleterious that involvement in any way by students warrants immediate response so that student participation in extracurricular activities or athletic programs may be curtailed or eliminated.

It is important to note that while education is a right, participation in athletics and extracurricular activities is a privilege, and along with the privilege are certain concomitant responsibilities. Participants in extracurricular activities or athletic programs are expected to safeguard the safety of themselves and others, as well as to represent themselves, their teams or organizations, and the school in a positive manner on and off school property. Because of the extremely harmful and possibly even fatal effects that these substances can have on the body and because of their illegal status, the use of controlled substances are strictly prohibited on and off school property.

When the parent/guardian and student sign the PWHS Handbook Receipt form, they acknowledge that they have had the opportunity to review the Colonial School District Activities Code of Ethics contained in the handbook. It is understood that there is nothing in this Activities Code of Ethics that is designed to supersede the Colonial School District Student Code of Conduct. To the extent, however, that this Code of Ethics is stricter than the Code of Conduct, the Code of Ethics applies.

Anabolic Steroids

As used herein, the term "anabolic steroids" shall include those drugs specifically defined in 35 PA. STAT. ANN. tit. 807.1 (Purdons, 1989). Anabolic steroids are used for invalid medical purposes when they are used for bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, increasing muscle bulk or strength, or the enhancement of athletic ability.

Controlled Substances:

For purposes of this policy, controlled substances shall include all:

• Controlled substances prohibited by federal and state laws
   
• Look-alike drugs
   
• Alcoholic beverages
   
• Anabolic steroids
   
• Drug paraphernalia
   
• Any volatile solvents or inhalants, such as but not limited to glue / aerosol products
   
• Substances that when ingested cause a physiological effect that is similar to the effect of a controlled substance as defined by federal or state laws
   
• Prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications, except those for which permission for use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy

For purposes of this policy, "under the influence" shall include any consumption or ingestion of controlled substances by a student. For purposes of this policy, "look-alike drugs" shall include any pill, capsule, tablet, powder, plant matter or other item or substance that is designed or intended to resemble a controlled substance prohibited by this policy, or is used in a manner likely to induce others to believe the material is a controlled substance.

Drug

As used herein, the term "drug" shall include any mood-altering substance, mind altering substance, alcohol or malt beverage, any substance listed in the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act (also known as Act 64), as a controlled substance, abused chemical or abused substance, and any medication for which a prescription is required under the law, as well as any paraphernalia associated therewith. Also, any substance intended to be mind or mood-altering is encompassed by the term "drug." Examples include but are not limited to: beer, wine, liquor, marijuana, hashish, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, LSD, heroin, chemical solvents, glue, and "look-alike" drugs.

Extracurricular Activities

As used herein, the term “extracurricular activities” are those activities involving student groups, organizations, teams, and so on, not falling within the scope of the regular academic program or schedule. Such activities shall include, but not be limited to the following: athletic teams, class office positions, National Honor Society, and all voluntary student clubs, and organizations.

The possession, use, or sale of a controlled substance, anabolic steroids, the use of a controlled substance for invalid medical purposes, the misuse of any controlled substance or anabolic steroids, including but not limited to the possession of drug paraphernalia, on or off school premises during the school year or at such other times as students are engaged in official school activities by Colonial School District students is prohibited. In the event a student violates these guidelines based upon any verifiable information received by the School Administration, there will be grounds for suspension from extracurricular activities or athletics as set forth in these guidelines.

Upon receiving a credible report that a student violated these guidelines, the school administrator delegated with this responsibility by the Superintendent of Schools shall have the responsibility to investigate circumstances relating to on or off school premises controlled substance use by a student. The school administrator shall use his or her efforts to protect the identity of the informant, unless the school administrator is legally required to divulge such identity. The school administrator shall, if required, interview other student witnesses, parents, and local law enforcement officials in such an investigation.

If the school administrator determines a violation of these guidelines, the penalties in these guidelines shall be implemented in addition to any other Student Code of Conduct penalties that may be imposed.

First Offense - Controlled Substance Use

For a first violation of the guidelines relating to controlled substances, suspension from extracurricular activities and athletics shall be for a ten (10) school day period. The ten (10) school day period shall begin as soon as the investigation is completed. Any student who commits a first offense shall be subject to random drug testing at the discretion of the School Administration, based upon procedures established by the School Administration and must follow all recommendations of the CARE team. Any instance of driving under the influence of a controlled substance or distribution of a controlled substance shall be treated as a second offense.

First Offense - Anabolic Steroids *

For a first violation of the guidelines relating to anabolic steroids, suspension from extracurricular activities and athletics shall be for the remainder of the school year in the case of extracurricular activities and shall be for the remainder of the athletic season in the case of athletics.

Second Offense - Controlled Substance Use

For a second violation of the guidelines relating to controlled substances, suspension shall be 45 days or the remainder of the athletic season during which the investigation concluded, whichever is longer. Any student found to have a "Second Offense -- Controlled Substance Use" shall lose any school parking permit privileges and any permit issued shall be deemed revoked, and shall be subject to all recommendations of CARE team.

Second Offense - Anabolic Steroids *

For a second violation of the guidelines relating to anabolic steroids, suspension from extracurricular activities and athletics for the remainder of the school year and the following school year as it relates to extracurricular activities and for the remainder of the athletic season and the following season as it relates to athletics.

Third Offense -- Controlled Substance Use

For a third violation of the guidelines, suspension from extracurricular activities for a minimum of one year, with the option to apply for reinstatement with stipulations after one year.

Third Offense - Anabolic Steroids*

For a third violation of the guidelines related to anabolic steroids, permanent suspension from extracurricular activities will be imposed for participants in PIAA athletics. Participants in non-PIAA activities will be subject to the sanctions specified in "Third Offense -- Controlled Substance Use" above.

*Anabolic steroids penalties mandated by PA Interscholastic Athletic Association.

Students who violate the terms and provisions of these guidelines whether on or off school property in one school year, the violations and  penalties will carry over from year to year.

Resumption of Eligibility

No student who was found to have violated these guidelines by the School Administration shall be eligible to resume participation in extracurricular activities or school athletics unless there has been a medical determination that no residual evidence of either controlled substances or anabolic steroids exists. The School Administration reserves the right to require participation in any drug counseling, rehabilitation, testing, or other program as a condition of reinstatement to extracurricular activities and/or the athletic program.

Invoking Disciplinary Procedures

All suspensions for misconduct pursuant to these guidelines should include a conference with the Activities Director and the parent(s) or guardian. The student, parent, or guardian who feels that the action taken is unwarranted has the right to appeal to the school principal. The next level of appeal is to the District Superintendent, whose decision shall be final.

The Board recognizes that the abuse of controlled substances is a critical problem with legal, physical, social and public health implications for the entire school community. As an educational institution, the District shall strive to prevent the abuse of controlled substances through preventative education; enforcement of applicable laws, regulations, policies and disciplinary procedures; and assistance with treatment and behavioral and mental health counseling.

In the event that a student voluntarily acknowledges his or her need for assistance to confront the use of, abuse of, or addiction to a controlled substance, it is the policy of the Colonial School District to provide the student with school resources, such as the CARE Team, and where necessary, referral to community agencies.

In those cases where there is cause to question whether a student is involved with a controlled substance, this concern will be communicated to the students and to his or her parents/guardians. It is important to understand that this communication is not intended to be accusatory but is intended to place the issue in the family format where it can be appropriately addressed.

For purposes of this policy, controlled substances shall include all:

• Controlled substances prohibited by federal and state laws
   
• Look-alike drugs
   
• Alcoholic beverages
   
• Anabolic steroids
   
• Drug paraphernalia
   
• Any volatile solvents or inhalants, such as but not limited to glue/aerosol products
   
• Substances that when ingested causes a physiological effect that is similar to the effect of a controlled substance as defined by federal or state laws
   
• Prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications, except those for which permission for use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy

For purposes of this policy, under the influence shall include any consumption or ingestion of controlled substances by a student. For purposes of this policy, look-alike drug shall include any pill, capsule, tablet, powder, plant matter or other item or substance that is designed or intended to resemble a controlled substance prohibited by this policy, or is used in a manner likely to induce others to believe the material is a controlled substance.

For purposes of this policy, possessing means having on one’s person, or keeping in one’s locker, bag, automobile, desk, or any other location accessible to the individual. For purposes of this Policy, it is immaterial whether the individual possessing the controlled substances uses or is under the influence of the controlled substance himself or herself. For purposes of this Policy, possessing also includes receiving any controlled substances, whether purchased for value or not.

For purposes of this Policy, distributing shall mean providing, furnishing or making available to anyone else any controlled substances, whether for remuneration or not. For purposes of this Policy, it is immaterial whether the individual providing, furnishing or making available the controlled substances uses or is under the influence of the controlled substance himself or herself.

Penalties

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution.

First Offense – Use or Possession

For a first violation of the prohibition against the use or possession of a controlled substance, the student will be (1) suspended from school and all school activities for a period of time ranging from ten school (10) days to expulsion; (2) required to cooperate in an alcohol/other drug assessment and comply with any recommendations that derive from that assessment; and (3) agree to participate in follow-up activities of the CARE Team.

Repeated Offenses

For repeated violations of the prohibition against the use or possession of a controlled substance, the student will be (1) suspended from school and all school activities for a period of time ranging from 45 school days or expulsion as determined through a hearing by the Board of School Directors. If the student has not been permanently expelled, he or she will be required to meet specific stipulations before he or she is eligible to apply for readmission. The stipulations include but are not limited to the following:

• Successful completion of the alternate educational program determined by the high school principal;
   
• Cooperation in an alcohol/other drug assessment and compliance with any recommendations that derive from that assessment;
   
• Attendance and written report on appropriate twelve step sessions;
   
• Agreement to provide evidence of a clean drug screening prior to readmission; and
   
• Agreement to participate in follow-up activities of the CARE Team.

The Board prohibits students from using, possessing, distributing and/or being under the influence of any controlled substances during school hours, at any time while on school property, at any school sponsored activity and during the time spent traveling to and from school, and/or to and from school sponsored activities.

The Board recognizes that the abuse of controlled substances involves public and mental health issues. Accordingly, the Board may require participation in drug counseling, rehabilitation, testing or other programs as a condition of reinstatement into the school's educational, extracurricular or athletic programs resulting from violations of this policy. In the case of a student with a disability, including a student for whom an evaluation is pending, the District shall take all steps required to comply with federal and state laws and regulations, the procedures set forth in the memorandum of understanding with local law enforcement and Board policies.

Penalties - Transfer, Distribution or Sale

For a violation of the prohibition against transfer, distribution or sale of a controlled substance, the student will be (1) excluded from school for a period of time ranging from one year or expulsion as determined through a hearing by the Board of School Directors. If the student has not been permanently expelled, he or she will be required to meet specific stipulations before he or she is eligible to apply for readmission. Stipulations include but are not limited to;

1.        Successful completion of the alternate educational program as determined by the high school principal;

2.        Cooperation in an alcohol/other drug assessment and compliance with any recommendations that derive from that assessment;

3.        Attendance and written report on appropriate twelve step sessions;

4.        Agreement to provide evidence of a clean drug screening prior to readmission; and

5.        Agreement to participate in follow-up activities of the CARE Team.

School administrators will refer all credible reports of violations of these policies to the appropriate law enforcement agency. School discipline is enforced independent of any charges which may be filed with the police.

This policy shall also apply to student conduct that occurs off school property and would otherwise violate the Code of Student Conduct and Board policies if any of the following circumstances exist:

1. The conduct occurs during the time the student is traveling to and from school and/or traveling to and from school-sponsored activities, whether or not via transportation furnished by the District.
    
2. The student is a member of an extracurricular activity and has been notified that particular off campus conduct could result in exclusion from such activities.
    
3. Student expression or conduct materially and substantially disrupts the operations and educational mission of the school, or the administration reasonably anticipates that the expression or conduct is likely to materially and substantially disrupt the operations and educational mission of the school.
    
4. The conduct has a direct connection to attendance at school or a school-sponsored activity. For example, this policy would apply to a transaction in controlled substances conducted outside of school pursuant to an agreement made in school, that violate the Code of Student Conduct and District policies if conducted in school.
    
5. The conduct involves the theft or vandalism of school property.
    
6. There is otherwise a connection between the proximity or timing of the conduct in relation to the student's attendance at school or school-sponsored activities.

If based on the student's behavior, medical symptoms, vital signs or other observable factors, the building principal has reasonable suspicion that the student is under the influence of a controlled substance, the student may be required to submit to drug or alcohol testing. The testing may include but is not limited to the analysis of blood, urine, saliva or the administration of a Breathalyzer test.

The CSD Board of School Directors maintains a Code of Student Conduct and Discipline which applies to conduct that occurs while students are in attendance at school, while students are going to school from home and from school to home, and to conduct at other times which impacts on the School District. The following is a summary of that Code.

Level One Misconduct:

Level One misconduct on the part of the student is misconduct which: (1) impedes orderly classroom procedures, (2) infringes upon the rights of others to learn or teach, or (3) interferes with orderly operation of the classroom or school. Level One misconduct may occur outside the classroom and school.

Examples

• Disruptive classroom behavior
• Classroom tardiness
• Failure to complete assignment
• Unprepared for class
• Failure to follow established procedures for the cafeteria, including eating in the wrong cafeteria, the halls and field trips.
• Failure to follow established procedures at co-curricular and extracurricular activities
• Horseplay
• Failure to follow reasonable directions
• Inappropriate speech or behavior in hallways/cafeteria
• Any form of distraction
• Inappropriate use of a computer or computer network
• Failure to serve teacher detention
• Use of cell phone during school hours
• Violation of dress guidelines
• Other offenses not listed, but fitting the definition of Level 1 misconduct

Level 1 Disciplinary Options

• Verbal reprimand 
• Personal conference 
• Restorative Practices 
• Behavioral contract 
• Involvement with grade counselor 
• Withdrawal of privileges within the classroom 
• Detention 
• Telephone call to parent or guardian 
• Suspension or revocation of parking privileges.

Level Two Misconduct:

Level Two misconduct on the part of the student is behavior or seriousness of which disrupts the learning climate of the classroom and/or school. 

Examples

• Continuation of Level 1 misconduct
• Profane and/or obscene language (obscene is defined as offensive to feelings of modesty or sense of decency of the school community; lewd) 
• Disrespectful speech or action
• Obscene gestures or actions
• School tardiness
• Truancy
• Classroom disturbance
• Cutting class
• Failure to cooperate with substitute teacher
• Failure to identify oneself correctly
• Leaving school or assigned area without permission
• Violation of driving privileges
• Misconduct going to and from school
• Failure to serve Level 1 school detention
• Loitering
• Lying 
• Abusive Language
• Unauthorized possession of a telephone paging device, scanner, laser or any other electronic device 
• Disruptive hallway behavior of a physical nature
• Throwing food and/or other items
• Installation of games, programs or other files not owned or authorized by the district on computers or networks 
• Using data networks for lobbying and non-school related activities
• Possession of pornographic material at school or during school related activities
• Other offenses not listed but fitting the definition of Level 2 misconduct

Level 2 Disciplinary Options

• Any appropriate disciplinary option or response from Level 1 
• Withdrawal of privileges 
• Class schedule change 
• School Detention 
• Parental/Guardian conference 
• Suspension from student activities 

Level Three Misconduct:

Level Three misconduct on the part of the student is behavior directed against persons or property of whose consequences may seriously endanger the health or safety of others. These acts are considered serious and may result in the intervention of the law enforcement authorities.

Examples

• Continuation of Level 2 misconduct 
• Defiant or insubordinate behavior 
• Fighting
• Stealing
• Threat to others
• Turning in false alarms
• Obscene and/or threatening calls, letters or email
• Using and/or supplying forged notes or illegal excuses
• Using or supplying plagiarized materials
• Cheating
• Vandalism
• Altering or use of school documents with intent to defraud 
• Smoking or possession of tobacco or tobacco product paraphernalia 
• Trespassing
• Possession/use of firecrackers, smoke/stink bombs, etc.
• Disrespectful speech or action to a staff member 
• Transmitting or receiving offensive materials, messages, obscene or pornographic materials on the internet, computer network or single computer 
• Modifying files or other data on a computer or on the data network 
• Changing passwords belonging to other users or misrepresenting other users on any computer or data network 
• Using the data network to disrupt the work of others 
• Modifying the computer hardware or software 
• Violence and/or force
• Intimidation
• Coercion
• Other offenses violating PA crimes code
• Bullying
• Failure to serve Level 2 school detention
• Failure to serve Saturday School
• Other offenses not listed but fitting the definition of Level 3 misconduct

Level 3 Disciplinary Options

• Any appropriate disciplinary option or response from Level 2 
• Restorative Conference 
• Temporary removal from class 
• Suspension from school 
• Homebound instruction 
• Alternative program 
• Work-study program

Level Four Misconduct:

Level Four Misconduct on the part of the student is behavior that result in violence to another’s person or property or which poses a direct threat to the safety of others.

Examples

• Continuation of Level 3 misconduct 
• Extortion
• Bomb threat
• Conspiracy involving dangerous weapons
• Assault/battery
• Sexual harassment
• Institutional vandalism
• Theft-possession/sale of stolen property or conspiracy to commit theft 
• Arson
• Disruptions resulting in endangerment
• Harassment/Hazing
• Illegal distribution, reproduction and/or use of copyrighted software
• Using data networks for illegal activity, commercial or profit-making purposes 
• Theft of computer hardware or software 
• Abusing or destroying computer hardware or software 
• Using, furnishing, selling or possession of over-the-counter medications, including supplements. (All medication must be dispensed by the school nurse.) 
• Other offenses not listed violating PA Crimes code 
• Other offenses not listed but fitting the definition of Level 4 misconduct 
• Offenses not listed

Level 4 Disciplinary Options

• Any appropriate disciplinary option or response from Level 3 
• Expulsion 
• Alternative school 
• Other Board action which results in appropriate placement 

Level Five Misconduct:

Level Five misconduct on the part of a student is misconduct which involves the possession, sale, furnishings, use or involvement of any nature with an unauthorized substance. These acts may be criminal and always require administrative action which may result in the immediate removal of the student from school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities and action by the Board of School Directors.

Examples

• Use of an unauthorized substance
• Furnishing an unauthorized substance to others
• Selling an unauthorized substance
• Possession of an unauthorized substance
• Involvement of any nature with an unauthorized substance

Level 5 Disciplinary Options

• Expulsion 
• Alternative school 
• Restorative Conference 
• Other Board action which results in appropriate placement

Level Six Misconduct:

Level Six misconduct on the part of a student is misconduct that involves the act of bring a weapon to school, on school property, to any school sponsored activity or upon any conveyance providing transportation to a school or a school sponsored activity. Such an act is criminal and will always require administrative action which may result in the immediate removal of the student from school, the intervention of the law enforcement authorities and action by the Board of School Directors.  

Examples

• Possession of a weapon in school
• Bringing a weapon to school or on school property
• Bringing a weapon to any school sponsored activity or upon any conveyance providing transportation to school or a school sponsored activity  

Level 6 Disciplinary Options

One year or longer mandatory expulsion, unless the superintendent determines, on a case-by-case basis, that there are extenuating circumstances in a particular case, under which circumstances the superintendent has determined to recommend a lesser discipline. The student and their parents/guardians may also be expected to participate in a Restorative Conference.                

The Code addresses certain steps that must be taken if a student eligible for special education is determined to be guilty of misconduct, including the involvement of the student’s IEP team, the possibility of the involvement of the multidisciplinary team and additional rights to a hearing. Additionally, all Level 6 consequences are subject to disclosure on School Report Form as required by college admission guidelines. 

Bullying/Cyberbullying Reporting

A report card is issued at the end of each semester and mailed home to parents. Progress reporting terms with grade-to-date and explanatory comments are made available online and communicated to parents/guardians once each semester. The end-of-year report card includes the students’ unweighted GPAs. Final grades and GPA are recorded permanently on the student transcript.

The PWHS grading system is designed to communicate earned academic achievement to the student, the student’s family, post-secondary schools and employers. Students’ course grades are derived according to schedules and assessments appropriate to the course curriculum. When a course includes a final exam/assessment, the weight of the final exam/assessment score toward the final course grade is 15 – 20%.

Teachers use the scale in Column 1 of the Chart for Grades and GPA (see below) to assign letter grades that represent each student’s assessed performance. Note that, there are two different grading scales, one for English/Language Arts and Math courses (no D grade) and one for all other courses.

Rounding Policy

In the event that a student’s final grade calculation is .5 or greater of the next percent, the grade is raised to that percent. If the grade is less than .5 percent of the next percent, the percent remains unchanged.

Computing the Final Grade for One (1) Credit Courses

Students who pass courses that meet daily for one semester or every other day for one year earn one credit. Students’ course grades are derived according to schedules and assessments appropriate to the course curriculum throughout the semester or year. In courses that include a final exam/assessment, the weight of the final exam score toward the final grade is 15 - 20%.

 Example:Accumulated course grade of 84 (B) and a final exam score of 79 (C+)

 8(course grade 84) + 2(exam grade 79) = 672 + 158 = 830/10 = 83% = B final grade
 

Computing the Final Grade for Two (2) Credit Courses

Students who pass courses that meet daily for the entire year earn two credits. For grading purposes only, year-long courses operate as two one-semester courses and students earn a final grade each semester of the course. Refer to the entry above. If there is a midterm final assessment in the first semester, its weight toward the final first- semester grade is 10 - 20%.

Computing the Unweighted Grade Point Average (UGPA)

The unweighted GPA does not reflect differences in course levels. It is calculated for each semester and cumulatively (all courses completed up to a given date), is reported on the end of year report card and transcript, and is used to determine eligibility for National Honor Society, honor roll and graduation honors. Using column 2 of the Chart for Grades and GPA (see above), the unweighted GPA is calculated by dividing the sum of the grade points for all course grades by the total number of credits earned.

2016-2017 and BEYOND (10 CREDITS PER YEAR)

Example: A student at the end of 9th grade with eight 1.0 credit course grades of A (4.0), B+ (3.33), B- (2.67), C+ (2.33), A (4.0), B+ (3.33), B+ (3.33), C+ (2.3 3), A (4.0), B (3.0)

 4.0 + 3.33 + 2.67 + 2.33 + 4.0 +3.33 + 3.33 + 2.33 + 4.0 +3.0 = 32.32 = 3.232 UN-GPA

Computing the Weighted Grade Point Average (WGPA)

The weighted GPA is calculated cumulatively (all courses completed up to a given date). It is reported on the transcript and is used for decile placement (beginning with the class of 2009) and class rank when a student’s rank is requested from the college counselor. In computing the weighted GPA, grade points are from column 2 (academic level), column 3 (honors level) and column 4 (Advanced Placement level) of the Chart for Grades and GPA (see above).

2016-2017 and BEYOND (10 CREDITS PER YEAR)

 Example: A student at the end of 10th grade has earned 20 total credits.  He/she earned six A’s in academic level, one-credit courses (4.0), six A’s in honors level, one-credit courses (5.0), four B+’s in honors level, one-credit courses (4.33) and four B’s in AP, one-credit courses (4.5)

 6(4.0) + 6(5.0) + 4(4.33) + 4(4.5) = 2 4 + 30 + 17.32 + 18 = 89.32/20 = 4.466 WGPA 

Students are strictly prohibited from possessing a weapon or replica of a weapon on any school property, any school sponsored activity or any public conveyance providing transportation to a school or school sponsored activity, and/or within a school zone. The term “weapons” shall include, but not be limited to firearms; shotguns; rifles; knives; metal knuckles; razors of any type; razor blades; cutting instruments or tools of any nature including those individually fabricated; explosives; mace; noxious irritating or poisonous gasses; poisons; destructive devices; controlled substances; any other tools or instruments, fashioned with the intent to use or sell which could be used to harm, threaten or harass students, staff members, parents, guardians, or others legally upon School District premises. The possession of cutting instruments, drugs, tools or instruments shall be considered possession of weapons only in cases where harm, threats, harassment or intent to harm are demonstrated or may be reasonably inferred.

The term “firearm'' means any weapon which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such instrument, any firearm muffler or firearm silencer, or any destructive device.

The term “destructive” device means any explosive, incendiary, or poisonous gas, including but not limited to, any bomb, grenade, rocket, missile, mine, or device similar to any of the aforesaid instruments.

Violations of this policy will be immediately reported to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation of violations of and possible prosecution under the Federal and/or the PA Crimes Codes. Notwithstanding referrals of violations to law enforcement agencies, the school officials are authorized to conduct investigations relating to disciplinary action for violations of this policy and further authorized to make any immediate actions required to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the school community.

Further, in accord with Act 26 of 1995, in the event that any student is determined to have possessed a weapon as defined above, the student shall be expelled from school for not less than one year provided that the superintendent may recommend discipline short of such expulsion on a case-by-case basis. In the case involving an exceptional student, the superintendent shall take all steps necessary to comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

A permit to park on school property is a privilege reserved for juniors and seniors who meet all PWHS’ academic and behavioral expectations and have no financial obligations. Qualifying students who participate in Internship and other school-related work experience programs and/or extra-curricular activities are given first priority.

The parking permit fee is $25.00 annually for the first registered vehicle, and $5.00 for each additional vehicle. Students must complete a formal parking permit application with the building’s Security Office Personnel. Students must submit a copy of their valid driver’s license and proof of vehicle registration and insurance.

• Students with permits may park only in the spaces designated for students which are those with white lines in the west and south lots.
   
• Student parking is not permitted in the designated staff parking areas, the inner court, parking areas adjacent to Germantown Pike or surrounding neighborhoods.
   
• Students who park in neighborhoods surrounding PWHS are subject to the PA Motor Vehicle Code Rules and Regulations.
   
• Student vehicles must display a current parking hang tag on rear-view mirror. Security will ticket unregistered or improperly parked vehicles at a cost of $15.00. Failure to pay parking fines will result in the loss of parking privileges.
   
• A student who fails to obey driving regulations or campus security officers has his or her parking privileges suspended.
   
• Following an initial suspension of parking privileges, any further violation may result in forfeiture of parking privileges for the remainder of the school year.
   
• Driving violations may result in filing of charges with the District Justice.
   
• Following an initial suspension, any repetition of truancy, leaving school grounds without permission or other repeated offenses recognized by the Assistant Principal or Dean of Students will result in forfeiture of parking privileges for the remainder of the school year.
   
• Any car that is parked on school property may be towed at the owner’s expense in accordance with Colonial School District policy and Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicles Code, Section 3353, Subsection (a)(1), (3)(1)(2(c)). This policy applies to the following infractions: the student has not received a parking permit; the car is not parked in compliance with school or fire marshal regulations; or the student’s parking privileges have been suspended or revoked for academic or behavioral reasons.
   
• When reasonable suspicion exists regarding a violation of school policy or criminal code, the school district reserves the right to search any vehicle parked on school district property. The district may conduct a random sweep search of student vehicles on school property.
   
• Students who drive to school have the same responsibility to be punctual as any other student. Tardiness or absences which result from the student's driving or being driven to school are not excused and result in disciplinary action.
   
• The Colonial School District is not liable for damages caused by accident, vandalism, or theft