Boonton Township School District

Rockaway Valley School
Parent Handbook
2011-2012
Boonton Township Board of Education
11 Valley Road
Boonton Township, NJ 07005
Important School Numbers
Main Number 973.334.4162
School Office Extension 369
Superintendent/Principal Extension 321
Assistant Principal Extension 368
Director of Special Services Extension 370
School Nurse Extension 361
Transportation Extension 326
Reporting an Absence Press “1”
Home & School Association Extension 400
Education Foundation/4-KIDS Extension 410
Ski Club Extension 500
On the web www.rvsnj.org.

Administration Phone Numbers 4
Affirmative Action Compliance 35
Asbestos and Water 34
Athletics 21
Attendance 19
Board of Education 2
Board Meetings 2
Bus Evacuation Drills 23
Bus Stop Permission Slips 23
Bus Rules & Regulations 22
Daily Schedule 5
District Calendar 5
District Goals & Objectives 3
District Mission 2
Driving and Parking on School Grounds 24-25
DYFS Information 37
Early Dismissal 20
Emergency Closing 25
Emergency Drills 26
Equal Educational Opportunity 35-37
Harassment 36
Sexual Harassment 36
Implementation 37
Extra Help/Make Up Work 12
Family Life Education 33
Field Trips 33
First Grade Entrance Requirements 9
Forgotten Items 27
General Residency Requirements 9
Health Services 16-18
Health Personnel 16
Health Office Guidelines 16
Health Screenings 16-17
School Physicals 17
Sports Physicals 17
Sending Students Home 17
Communicable Diseases 18
Medications 18
Dressings 18
Emergency Cards 18
Immunizations 18
Home & School Association 8
Homebound Instruction 20
Homeroom Placements 13
Homework Hotline 13
Homework Policy 12-13
Honeywell Alert System 7, 23
Honor Roll 12
Integrated Pest Management 35
Kids Club 21
Kindergarten Entrance Requirements 9
Library 33
Libraries 34
Lost Articles 27
Lunch and Recess 25
Make-Up Work for Absences 20
Medical Exemptions 10
Mountain Lakes High School 34
Nutrition Policy 19
NJ State Immunization Requirements 9-10
Parent/Teacher Conferences 7
Physical Education 20-21
Religious Exemptions 10
RVS Bulletin 7
Table of Contents
School Communications 7
School Pictures 26
Science Lab Exemption 20
Sibling Attendance at Assemblies 26
Snow Closing 23
Snow Routes 23
Some Safety Ideas 33
Special Programs 14-15
Extended Instructional Support 14
Reading Specialist 14
Speech & Language Therapy 14
Enrichment Program 14
Special Education 14
English Language Services 14
Guidance & Counseling 15
Intervention and Referral Services 15
Staff Directory 6-7
Student Assessment 11
Student Code of Conduct 28-32
Zero Tolerance 28
Classroom Behavior 28
Hall Behavior 28
School Dress Expectations 28
Dangerous/Destructive Items 29
Disruptive Items 29
Vandalism 29
Consequences for 30-32
Inappropriate Behavior
Grades 5/6 Point System 30
Grades 7/8 Point System 30-31
Discipline 31
Behavior Guidelines 32
Saturday Detention 32
Student Council 21
Student Insurance Plan 19
Student/Parent Grievance Procedure 35
Student Records & Progress Reports 12
Tardiness (revised) 20
Telephone 27
Testing Dates 11
Textbooks 33
Transportation 22
Use of the Building 26
Valley Views 7
Virtual Backpack 7
Visitors 26
Volunteering in the Classroom 8
Welcome 2
APPENDIX
Board of Education Policies 38-75
2224 Nondiscrimination/ 39-42
Affirmative Action
3250R Textbook Fines 43
3517 School Nutrition 44-45
5131.01 Harassment, Intimidation 46-62
and Bullying
5131.6 Substance Abuse 63-68
5141.7 Emergency Closing 69
6162.5 Research 70-71
6171.4 Handicapped Students 72-75
No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 76-77
Family Educational Rights
and Privacy Act 9 FERPA

Welcome
Welcome to the Boonton Township School District! The District consists of one elementary/middle school
educating approximately 500 students. Another 264 students attend Mountain Lakes High School on a
tuition sending-receiving basis.
Rockaway Valley School (RVS) operates a Pre-Kindergarten to 8th grade program that combines modern
teaching strategies and techniques with manageable class sizes to produce a very unique educational
environment. We pride ourselves on being large enough to offer a wide variety of special programs, yet
small enough to offer individualized attention.
As you look through this handbook, you will read about the variety of programs and services offered at
RVS. In addition to the core curriculum programs, RVS offers a creative arts program, vocal and
instrumental music programs, health and physical education, foreign language, computer literacy and an
interscholastic athletic program as well. Please share this valuable information with your child. If you
have any questions, feel free to contact the school at 973.334.4162, extension 369. We hope you find
this handbook helpful and we wish you and your child an enjoyable and productive school year.
District Mission
The mission of the Boonton Township School District is to provide a solid educational foundation for all
students, while challenging them to fulfill their individual potential. This potential is best achieved through
a diversified curriculum designed to meet the needs and aspirations of all students, while fostering selfesteem,
independent thinking and respect for individual differences.
To accomplish this mission, instruction shall be presented in an exciting manner designed to challenge all
levels of capabilities and encourage, on behalf of our children, a lifetime love and appreciation of learning.
For this mission to succeed, all facets of the school and community must work together effectively.
BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
2011-2012
Barry Brantner, President 9 Maple Drive 973.334.0464
Patricia Collins, Vice President 38 Miller Drive 973.335.7605
Giorgio Bentrovato 104 Hillside Avenue 973.263.4032
Christine Cabana 18 Devon Road 973.335.8177
Adrienne Charlton 9 Tourne Road 973.334.3928
William Dodero 11 Eagle Rock Drive 973.588.3323
John Sierchio 27 Old Denville Road 973.263.9944
Jennifer Sowa 840 Boonton Avenue 973.331.9690
Catherine Youngman 6 Sheep Hill Road 973.588.3142
Board Meetings are held the second and fourth
Wednesdays of each month unless otherwise posted.
Special meetings are held when necessary and
notification will be posted.
2

District Goals and Objectives
The Boonton Township Board of Education believes all pupils should be helped to:
1. Develop skills associated with effective communication (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) and
demonstrate the ability to seek, examine and use information.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in their ability to obtain information, solve problems, think critically and
communicate effectively by performing activities that require observing, measuring, estimating,
calculating, analyzing, reasoning and synthesizing.
3. Demonstrate the ability to accurately solve numerical problems, use numbers to express ideas, and
understand numerical relationships.
4. Demonstrate proficiency in applying acquired skills to real life decision making and problem solving.
5. Develop a desire for a lifetime pursuit of learning and an appreciation for the role education plays in
our increasingly complex and changing society.
6. Learn through an interactive process, information pertaining to the principles of the physical,
biological, and social sciences, the historical record of human achievement and failure, and current
social issues.
7. Develop pride in their efforts, and a positive feeling about their self-worth and abilities.
8. Acquire an understanding of ethical principles and values, and be given opportunities to apply them to
his/her own life, including opportunities to demonstrate an appreciation of civic responsibility.
9. Develop an appreciation for culture and beauty and be able to express themselves in the fields of fine
and performing arts.
10. Develop neuromuscular skills, perceptual motor skills and social emotional behaviors that will
facilitate an active interest and understanding in the life long benefits of physical fitness, and
cooperative team and individual sports.
11. Acquire an understanding of and the ability to form responsible relationships with a wide range of
people including, but not limited to, those with social and cultural characteristics different from their
own.
12. Develop the ability to acquire knowledge and the skills necessary for the meaningful application of
this knowledge.
To accomplish these goals the Board of Education will endeavor to provide:
1. An integrated and evolving curriculum that encourages interactive classrooms.
2. Instructional activities, which bear a meaningful relationship to the present and future needs and
interests of our students.
3. Teachers of high quality who have ample opportunities for professional development.
4. Specialized and individualized educational experiences to meet the needs of each pupil.
5. Instruction that fosters the development of high-level thinking, problem solving and decision making.
6. Adequate resources to allow us to improve, upgrade and expand our ability to employ available
technology into the curriculum.
7. Instruction that provides students with the necessary study skills, learning strategies and computer
literacy needed to achieve mastery of the subject matter.
8. Opportunities for teachers, parents/guardians, community members and pupils to make
recommendations concerning the operation of the district.
9. An environment in which any competition among pupils is positive.
3

Boonton Township School District
Rockaway Valley School
11 Valley Road
Boonton Township, NJ 07005
Main Phone # 973.334.4162
Thomas Butler, Ed.D. Interim Superintendent/Principal & Ext. 321
Affirmative Action Officer
Lia Lendis Assistant Principal Ext. 368
Katherine Bickerton Administrative Secretary Ext. 321
Claudia Winters School Secretary Ext. 369
Cordé Reed Director of Special Services/LDTC Ext. 370
John T. Murray II Business Administrator/Board Secretary Ext. 325
Debby Cuozzo Board Office Assistant Ext. 324
Mary Bosland Transportation Coordinator Ext. 326
Enrique Corona/George Scillia Buildings and Grounds Ext. 380
Matthew J. Giacobbe, Esq. Board Attorney; Cleary, Giacobbe, Alfieri, Jacobs, LLC
Norman Eckstein Treasurer of School Monies
Nisivoccia and Company, LLP Auditor
Patricia M. Renz, MD School Physician
4

September 5
6
7
19
20
Boonton Township School District Calendar
2011-2012
29
November 8
10-11
15
18
21
22
23
24-25
December 23
26-30
January 2
16
27
February 20
21-24
March 14
15
16
April 6
9-13
Labor Day
First Day for Teachers
First Day for Students
Back to School Night, Grades PreK-4
Back to School Night, Grades 5-8
Rosh Hashanah
Faculty In-Service
NJEA Convention
Classroom Visitations Grades PreK-8
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving
Winter Recess
Winter Recess
School Re-Opens
Martin Luther King Day
Kindergarten Registration for 2012-2013
Presidents’ Day
Mid-Winter Recess
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Good Friday
Spring Recess
District Closed
School Closed
Regular Day
7-9 PM
7-9 PM
District Closed
12:15 PM Dismissal
School Closed
8:45-10:15 AM
12:15 PM Dismissal
12:15 PM Dismissal
12:15 PM Dismissal
District Closed 12:15 PM
District Closed
District Closed 12:15 PM
District Closed
Regular Day
District Closed
9 AM-2 PM
District Closed
School Closed
12:15 PM Dismissal
12:15 PM Dismissal
12:15 PM Dismissal
School Closed
District Closed
May 28 Memorial Day District Closed
June
12
19
Sports Banquet @ Zeris Inn
8
20
th Grade Commencement
6:30 PM
7 PM
Last Day for Teachers and Students 12:15 PM Dismissal
This calendar contains three snow days. Any additional snow days or other emergencies causing schools to close will be
made up during Spring Recess starting with Friday, April 13, then Thursday, April 12, etc.
*Unused snow days will be applied first to Friday, May 25, then to Tuesday, May 29 and Wednesday, May 30.
Daily Schedule
Students
Lunch/Recess
Grade Report Homeroom
Periods
Dismissal
Preschool 8:30 AM 10:58 AM - 11:37 AM 1:30 PM
K-2 7:50 AM 7:52 AM 11:39- AM - 12:18 PM 2:21 PM
3-6 7:50 AM 7:52 AM 10:58 AM - 11:37 AM 2:23 PM
7-8 7:50 AM 7:52 AM 11:39 AM - 12:18 PM 2:25 PM
Half Days: Students report at 7:50 AM and are dismissed at 12:15 PM. There is no lunch period.
Preschool reports at 8:30 AM and is dismissed at 11:15 AM.
Delayed opening days: Students report at 9:20 AM; late bell is at 9:25 AM.
Children may not be dropped off at school before 7:35 AM (or 9:05 AM on a delayed start day.) We cannot
accept responsibility for children left here earlier. Tardiness for any reason other than a late school bus
must be explained with a written note.
5

Rockaway Valley School - Staff Directory
2011-2012
Assignment Name Extension Room
Kindergarten Joanne Kuhl 213 13
Sue Salsberg 219 19
Lisa Spender, Instructional Aide 213 13
First Grade Kathie DiYanni 216 16
Lauren Hemenetz 218 18
Second Grade Alyssa Ogden 204 4
Kim Richardson 205 5
Cindy Snider 203 3
Third Grade Karen Flaherty 220 20
Jennifer Marsico 223 23
Lauren Savage 221 21
Fourth Grade Janet Ball 226 26
Patricia Link 224 24
Fifth and Sixth
Grades
Seventh and
Eighth Grades
Michelle Salmon 225 25
Language Arts, 5 th Jaime Ziegler 227 27
Language Arts, 6 th Karen Steinhauser 232 32
Mathematics Judy Killingsworth 228 28
Science Robert Fordyce 229 29
Social Studies Marie Kozas 230 30
5/6 Instructional Aide Kathy Milich, Instructional Aide 230 30
Language Arts, 7 th Mark Edwards 247 47
Language Arts, 8 th Robert Sacher 245 45
Mathematics, 7 th Bryan Monaco 234 34
Mathematics, 8 th Pauline VanOudenaren 243 43
Science Debbi O’Connor 244 44
History Ladd Turner 246 46
7/8 Instructional Aide Julie Luongo 243 43
Reading Specialist Lisa Schneider 211 11
Enrichment/Technology Krista Merkelbach 214 14
Special
Director/LDTC Cordé Reed 370 60B
Services
Integrated Preschool Pamela Reitter
201
1
Linda DeVries, Instructional Aide 201
1
Kim McNall, Instructional Aide
201
1
Resource K–4
Rooms
th Christi Anthony
215
15
Patty Borden, Instructional Aide 215
15
5 th & 6 th Patricia Kersen 217 17
7 th & 8 th Glenda Elsmore 202 2
Counselor/Social Worker Cira Giarratano 239 39
Speech Ruth Bouroult 208 8
Specials Art Kate Evanchik 238 38
Computer/Technology Beverly Johnson 212 12
Library Barbara Cordaro 206 6
Music, Instrumental Anthony Gabriele 235 35
Music, Vocal Carolyn Lanigan 233 33
Spanish, 4 th – 6 th Millicent Freeman 222 22
Spanish, 7 th – 8 th Aida Lukin 248 48
Health/Physical Education Victoria Gaffney 242 41A
Health/Physical Education Craig Ellard 341 41B
Health/Physical Education Amy Fudala 342 41A
School Nurse Janice Vitcavich, R.N. 361 61
Athletic Coordinator Robert Fordyce 241 41
6

Rockaway Valley School - Staff Directory
2011-2012
Assignment Name Extension
Superintendent’s Interim Superintendent/Principal Thomas Butler, Ed.D. 321
Office
Administrative Secretary Katherine Bickerton 321
School Office Assistant Principal Lia Lendis 368
School Secretary Claudia Winters 369
Administrative Assistant Mary Bosland 357
Board Office Board Secretary/Business Administrator John T. Murray II 325
Board Office Assistant Debby Cuozzo 324
Buildings & Grounds
Miguel Castro 380
Morena Castro 380
Rosibel Castro 380
Enrique Corona 380
George Scillia 380
Transportation Coordinator Mary Bosland 326
Drivers Scott Ballard
Gary Berardi
School Communications
There are several means that we use to provide good communication between our school and the home.
These include:
1. Virtual Backpack – All notices, flyers, newsletters and publications are disseminated through the
Virtual Backpack which is located on the school’s website – www.rvsnj.org. The backpack is
updated every Friday with the current week’s flyers. To access click on Virtual Backpack on the
left column. The user name is rvs and the password is falcon (both lower case sensitive). A
Honeywell alert will be sent out on Fridays with a reminder to check the Virtual Backpack.
2. Valley Views – This monthly newsletter is our primary means of communication. It features a
calendar of activities for the month, articles from school administrators and updates from
teachers. It is posted on the fourth Friday of the month on the Virtual Backpack.
3. RVS Bulletin – The Bulletin is posted on the Virtual Backpack on the second Friday of the month.
It is primarily a calendar with updates and may also contain vital information from school
administrators.
4. Honeywell Instant Alert – Emergency messages will be sent out via the Honeywell Alert system.
Instructions to set up your Honeywell account are included in the student packet sent home on
the first day of school. Please remember to keep your phone numbers and email addresses
updated on your Honeywell account.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Parent/Teacher conferences are held twice a year in November and March. In order to stimulate
meaningful dialogue, you are encouraged to make a list of the questions you wish to discuss and request
that the teacher have your child's personal file, test results, class work or projects available for review. It
is important that both your time and the teacher's time is spent in an attempt to develop cooperative plans
for the child. However, if a concern, problem or question arises at any time during the year, don't
wait for a conference. We urge frequent contact between the home and the school and wish to stress
that as parents you should feel comfortable about sending in notes, setting up conference calls or
scheduling informal meetings whenever the need arises. If you have a question or concern, call the
school and leave a message for your child's teacher. You can do this by dialing 973.334.4162 and
entering the teacher’s extension number. (Please refer to the directory in this handbook for the
extension numbers.) You can leave a voice-mail message for the teacher and he or she will get back to
you as soon as possible. You can also contact your child’s teacher at their email address which follows
the form of person’s first initial and last name @rvsnj.org. Exceptions to this rule are Robert Fordyce
(bfordyce@rvsnj.org), Robert Sacher (bsacher@rvsnj.org) and Pauline VanOudenaren (pvan@rvsnj.org).
7

Home and School Association 2011-2012
The Home and School Association, comprised of volunteers, serves as a liaison between the school and
the parents. The Home and School organizes fundraising activities in order to furnish funds for a variety
of programs and special projects. Some of the programs and committees sponsored by the Home and
School Association are:
Cultural Arts Committee – arranges assemblies and cultural arts programs.
Class mothers/fathers – participate in classroom events.
Lunchroom Support – provides hot lunches daily.
Library Aides – provide assistance in the Library/Media Center.
MONTHLY MEETINGS are open to the public and are held on the first Tuesday of each month. Meetings
begin at 7:30 PM and are held in the RVS Library. Please attend a meeting and lend your support. The
more ideas and help we have, the better we can serve our children’s school. The phone number for the
Home and School Association is 973.334.4162, Ext. 400 and the email address is HSA@rvsnj.org.
Home and School Officers 2011-2012
President Bonnie Tsilikos 973.335.1539
Vice-President Carianne Gengaro 973.316.1230
Treasurer Cathy Yuen 973.541.0207
Recording Secretary Meg Holda 973.265.4655
Corresponding Secretary Nikoletta Pop 973.402.2236
Administration Liaison Lia Lendis 973.334.4162, Ext. 368
Volunteering in the Classroom
Parents are encouraged to help with special events throughout the year. Parents may wish to consult
with their child's teachers to see if the curriculum may enable them or someone they know, to make a
presentation on a subject of interest. Parents who have the time also may wish to volunteer on a more
regular basis. In addition, the Home & School Association relies on and needs parent volunteers. Please
contact the Home and School at 973.334.4162, Ext. 400 or via email at HSA@rvsnj.org.
8

General Residency Requirements
Attendance at public school is free to any child who is 5 years old October 1st of the school year.
Children must actually be domiciled in the school district. The Superintendent/Principal must be notified
immediately if a family is moving into the Township and the date the move is completed. Similarly,
notification must be made of the date a family ceases to reside in the Township. This procedure also
applies to students in grades 9-12 attending Mountain Lakes High School.
Kindergarten Entrance Requirements
The Board of Education's policy (#5111) states that children entering Kindergarten must fulfill the
following requirements:
1. Be five (5) years of age on or before October 1 of that school year.
2. Provide birth certificate and proof of residency at the time of enrollment.
3. Submit an acceptable certificate of immunizations.
4. Present results of a physician's examination on the form provided. If proof is presented to
the nurse that the cost of such examination and immunizations are prohibitive, the school
will provide for an examination through the school physician.
First Grade Entrance Requirements
Any child residing in the district shall be admitted to grade one provided:
A. The child will have attained the age of six years on or before October 1 of that school year.
B. The child has been in the first grade in another state-approved school or in a state-approved
kindergarten with a recommendation for placement in the first grade. Transfer records from
the previous school must be presented.
C. Initial placement shall be made on the basis of the records, but adjustments may be made
at the discretion of the administration when a functional and/or other assessment indicates
that such adjustments would be beneficial to the child. Parents/guardians shall be informed
of this policy at registration.
D. Birth certificate and proof of residency shall be furnished at the time of enrollment.
E. An acceptable certificate of immunization and physical examination shall be furnished to the
school on the form provided.
NJ State Immunization Requirements
New Jersey state immunization requirements, as of June, 2008, are as follows:
DTP
A minimum of four doses; one dose of which shall have been given on or after the child’s fourth birthday.
Tdap
Every child born on or after January 1, 1997, and entering Grade Six on or after September 1, 2008 shall
have received one dose of Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) given no earlier than the 10 th
birthday (and five years have elapsed from the last DTP/Td dose)
Polio
A minimum of three doses; one dose of which shall have been given on or after the child’s fourth birthday.
Rubella
One dose on or after the first birthday or Documented Laboratory Evidence of rubella immunity.
Mumps
One dose on or after the first birthday or Documented Laboratory Evidence of mumps immunity.
Rubeola or Regular Measles
Two (2) doses of a live measles-containing vaccine, such as the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
vaccine. The first dose shall have been administered on or after the child’s first birthday and the second
9

dose not less than one month after the first dose. Children who present Documented Laboratory
Evidence of measles immunity shall not be required to receive the measles vaccine.
Hepatitis B
Three (3) doses prior to entry to school.
Meningococcal Vaccine
Every child born on or after January 1, 1997 and entering or attending Grade Six on or after September 1,
2008 shall have received one dose of a meningococcal-containing vaccine
Varicella
Every child born on or after January 1, 1998, shall have received one dose of varicella vaccine on or after
the first birthday; documented laboratory evidence of varicella immunity, a physician’s statement, or
parental statement of previous varicella disease is also acceptable.
Pre-school students are required to also have:
Hib
A minimum of one dose on or after the first birthday.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
One dose on or after the first birthday.
Influenza Vaccine
A minimum of one dose of influenza vaccine between September 1 and December 31 of each year.
New Immunization Requirements for Sixth Grade Students:
Please note new requirements of Tdap and Meningococcal Vaccines prior to entry into the sixth grade.
Medical Exemptions
A child shall not be required to have any specific immunization(s), which are medically contraindicated. A
written statement from a physician is required indicating that an immunization is medically contraindicated
for a specific period of time, and the reason for the medical contraindication, based upon valid medical
reasons.
Religious Exemptions
A child shall be exempted from mandatory immunization if the parent or guardian objects thereto in a
written statement submitted to the school signed by the parent or guardian, explaining how the
administration of immunizing agents conflicts with the pupil’s exercise of bona fide religious tenets or
practices. General philosophical or moral objection to immunization shall not be sufficient for an
exemption on religious grounds.
*Children with medical and/or religious exemptions from receiving immunizing agents may be excluded
from the school during a vaccine-preventable disease outbreak or threatened outbreak as determined by
the NJ Commissioner, Department of Health and Senior Services.
10

Student Assessment
Student progress at RVS is assessed using both quantitative and qualitative criteria. These criteria
include: teacher developed tests, textbook generated unit tests and review exams, standardized tests,
class projects, homework, and class participation. Should parents have any questions regarding a child's
grades or performance reports, they should request a conference with the child's teacher to discuss their
concerns. Note: The NJ ASK state test is administered to students in Grades 3 to 8. The testing
schedule for the 2011-2012 school year follows.
STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE 2011-2012
GRADE 3 TESTING - New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK3): for all third-grade students.
May 7, 8, 9, 10, 2012
Regular Testing (Language Arts Literacy Days 1 and 2, Mathematics Days
1 and 2)
May 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 2012 Make-up Testing (Flexible; but no more than one content area per student
per day)
GRADE 4 TESTING - New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK4): for all fourth-grade
students.
May 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 2012
Regular Testing (Language Arts Literacy Days 1 and 2, Mathematics Days
1 and 2, Science Day 1)
May 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 2012 Make-up Testing (Flexible; but no more than one content area per student
per day)
GRADE 5 TESTING - New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK5): for all fifth-grade students.
April 30, 2012; May 1, 2, 3, 2012
Regular Testing (Language Arts Literacy Days 1 and 2, Mathematics Days
1 and 2)
May 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 2012 Make-up Testing (Flexible; but no more than one content area per student
per day)
GRADE 6 TESTING - New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK6): for all sixth-grade
students.
April 30, 2012; May 1, 2, 3, 2012 Regular Testing (Language Arts Literacy Days 1 and 2, Mathematics Days
1 and 2)
May 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 2012 Make-up Testing (Flexible; but no more than one content area per student
per day)
GRADE 7 TESTING - New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK7): for all seventh-grade
students.
April 23, 24, 25, 26, 2012
Regular Testing (Language Arts Literacy Days 1 and 2, Mathematics Days
1 and 2)
April 30, 2012; May 1, 2, 3, 4, 2012 Make-up Testing (Flexible; but no more than one content area per student
per day)
GRADE 8 TESTING - New Jersey Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (NJ ASK8): for all eighth-grade
students.
April 23, 24, 25, 26, 2012
Regular Testing (Language Arts Literacy Days 1 and 2, Mathematics,
Science)
April 30, 2012; May 1, 2, 3, 4, 2012 Make-up Testing (Flexible; but no more than one content area per student
per day)
11

Student Records and Progress Reports
Parents may request to see the contents of their child's records at any time and may submit a challenge
to any of the material contained within. Pupil record information is available to employers and educational
institutions at parental request or for research, guidance, social work or State personnel with the approval
of the Board of Education and notification of parents.
All students in grades K-8 receive written report cards four times year. In addition, teachers in Grades 4-8
are encouraged to issue mid-marking period student progress reports at least twice a year to indicate to
parents a child's strengths and areas needing improvement. If a student is doing poorly in a subject area,
these mid-marking period notices may also indicate that the teacher is requesting a parent conference.
When you experience a problem with your child and it involves the teacher, please speak to that teacher
by arranging a conference. If this does not resolve your problem, call the Assistant Principal or the
Superintendent/Principal. Individuals on the Board of Education should not be contacted about school
problems unless the regular chain of command has been completed. (Board members are not “official”
until they are seated with the board at a regular meeting.) In fairness to everyone, the teacher should be
given the courtesy of hearing a complaint firsthand.
Honor Roll
Students in Grades 5-8 participate and are eligible for earning Honor Roll and High Honor Roll status with
each marking period. To earn Honor Roll a student must have all A’s and B’s. To earn High Honor Roll a
student must have all A’s. Students who maintain honor roll status consecutively for all four years will
receive the Scholastic Excellence Award from the Home and School Association and will wear a gold
tassel on their cap at their 8 th Grade graduation. Their names will be placed on an award plaque, which is
exhibited on the wall by the school library.
Extra Help/Make Up Work
Teachers will announce their availability for extra help and assistance before and after school hours. The
student must initiate appointments for this service. In this manner, your child can make up work, obtain
extra help, use the library, and prepare for future assignments.
Homework Policy
Homework, which is properly designed, carefully planned, and geared to the development of the
individual pupils, meets a real need in the educational process. It shall be assigned to help the pupil
become more self-reliant, learn to work independently, improve the skills that have been taught, and
complete certain projects such as book reports and research papers. Home study assignments shall also
afford a way for parents/guardians to acquaint themselves with the school program and their children's
educational progress. Teachers should inform parents/guardians when assignments are not being turned
in.
The following is a list of recommended nightly homework times for each grade level:
Grades 1 & 2 15 - 30 minutes
Grade 3 20 - 40 minutes
Grades 4 & 5 30 - 50 minutes
Grades 6, 7 & 8 45 minutes - 2 hours
These times do not include long-term assignments and projects, such as book reports, etc. The length of
the project should be developmentally appropriate for the age of the students. Although, on a
few occasions during the school year, homework time may exceed the suggested time, this should not
occur on a regular basis. It is also recommended that teachers assign some recreational reading and
writing as part of homework.
Due to individual differences, the actual time it takes each child to complete his/her assignments will vary.
If you feel that a child is spending significantly more than the recommended time on homework, please
contact the child's teacher to see if they are aware of the situation.
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In general, pupils absent for any reason should make up assignments, class work and tests within a
reasonable length of time. However, teachers may exercise discretionary judgment and waive
certain assignments and/or homework if they feel the student knows the material missed. Pupils
being excused for field trips, concerts, competitions, etc., must make arrangements with the teachers of
the missed classes to make up the work.
Homework is not used for punitive reasons. Homework is used as a diagnostic assessment of
independent practice and is reflected in future planning.
If a student has received two zeros for homework in any one subject during a marking period, the
parents must be notified of the second zero and every one after it. The administration will also be
informed about any student who consistently does not do his/her homework. Students are strongly
discouraged from going on vacation when school is in session unless there is a family emergency.
Assignments cannot be provided ahead of time; however, reading a book or keeping a journal is always
beneficial to the student. Please make every effort to have your child in school when school is in session.
Homework Hotline
This communication tool is designed to help students complete their daily and long-term homework
assignments by having after-hours access to homework assignments. Teachers record the homework
assignments daily on their classroom phones and can be retrieved by calling the school’s main phone
number, 973.334.4162 and the teacher’s extension. Please refer to staff director on pages 6 and 7
for the teachers’ extension numbers.
Homeroom Placements
In the spring, grade level and middle school staff meet to determine class lists for September. Having
spent nearly a year with the children, teachers meet and utilize several criteria to make up a
homeroom group. If a parent has a special concern about placement for September, he/she should
discuss this with the child’s homeroom teacher at the March conference. That request, with a reason
given, must be submitted to the homeroom teacher and administration, in writing, by March 31. Multiple
requests cannot be honored.
Please note: No student will be placed in a class or moved for social reasons only.
13

Special Programs 2011-2012
Extended Instructional Support (EIS)
Rockaway Valley School offers an ongoing extended instructional support (EIS) program to students in
Kindergarten through Grade 8 requiring this service. These students receive special individualized
instruction in specific areas of reading, math and language arts. Children may be placed in the program if
they fall below established district level standards and/or meet other criteria, such as teacher
recommendations.
Pupils attend these classes individually and/or in small groups. The degree of need and the number of
EIS classes offered to each child are considered when arranging the schedule and may be adjusted up or
down as the year progresses.
The program is diagnostic and remedial in nature. Students are given instruction in the specific academic
areas in which they have shown difficulties on the standardized tests, in their regular classes or in the
pullout setting. Program instructors communicate regularly with class teachers to ascertain current needs
and strengths. Mrs. Johnson is our EIS Supervisor.
Reading Specialist
Students needing additional instructional support in reading may be referred to our reading specialist,
Mrs. Schneider. After a skill assessment, she may work with a child individually or in a small group. Our
reading specialist also serves as a reading coach for our classroom teachers, providing workshops,
reference materials and modeling teaching strategies.
Speech and Language Therapy
Students needing speech services are discovered through teacher and parent referrals throughout the
year. After parental notification, the child is evaluated to see if he/she is eligible for speech correction.
Once this is determined, an Individualized Educational Plan is developed in regard to delayed or deficient
language, articulation, dysfluency and/or voice. Speech classes are held in individual and small group
settings. The speech program utilizes current and creative clinical methods based on scientific principles
and the needs of the individual child. Mrs. Bouroult is our speech teacher.
Enrichment Program
Enrichment activities are provided for all RVS students with a focus on exposing them to a wide variety of
disciplines (fields of study), visual and performing arts, global issues, etc. In addition, a talented pool of
students is identified based on standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, performance, grade
reports and individual student interest and needs. In-class enrichment, mentoring and special workshops
are examples of instructional approaches that reach the advanced learners. Ms. Merkelbach is our
enrichment instructor.
Special Education
Rockaway Valley School offers a full range of services for those students identified as having special
needs. The district employs a complete Child Study Team (CST) consisting of a Learning Disabilities
Teacher Consultant (LDTC), School Psychologist, Social Worker and Speech Correctionist. Together
with staff and parents our child study team evaluates, plans for and monitors any and all district students
requiring their expertise.
Children experiencing difficulties academically, socially or emotionally may be referred to the Child Study
Team by parents, the Intervention and Referral Services Committee and/or an individual teacher.
Working very closely with the parents of a referred child, the CST assesses each referral on a case-bycase
basis and develops recommendations and strategies for addressing the needs of the child. If it is
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determined that a child is eligible for Special Education services, the CST will plan and implement an
Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for that child.
In-district programs for eligible children currently consist of one pre-school special needs class and
resource center programs for primary and intermediate grade students who require support in academic
areas. Students whose special needs require slightly more intensive services than these may be placed
in out-of-district programs.
Mrs. Reed is our Director of Special Services and can be reached at 973.334.4162, Ext. 370.
English Language Services
English Language Services (ELS) are provided to those students falling below designated cutoff scores
on state-mandated English proficiency tests. Children are pulled from a limited number of regular classes
and provided with in-depth training in the English language. This instruction is intended to boost the
child’s competence with English while minimally disrupting his or her overall education.
Guidance and Counseling
The goal of the guidance and counseling program in Boonton Township is to address significant factors
that influence our students' social, emotional and academic development. Our objective is to meet the
needs of students so that they may continue to grow in positive ways. It is important to help students
overcome problems that impede learning by providing direction and guidance in matters of personal
adjustment, peer relations and academic performance. Activities related to these objectives may take
place in classroom guidance lessons and in individual and/or group discussion sessions.
Teachers are often the first to intervene in situations where a pupil is experiencing difficulties, however,
parents may be the first to sense a problem needing guidance intervention as well. If a parent senses a
problem, he/she should call the guidance counselor. When the teacher recognizes the need for further
intervention, he/she consults with the guidance counselor regarding appropriate strategies to meet the
student's needs.
Parents are encouraged to consult with teachers and the guidance counselor in matters related to student
adjustment or any concerns that may be interfering with the child's learning and functioning. The
guidance counselor also serves as a resource person and will recommend outside community agencies
to parents when appropriate. These may include mental health centers and various social service
agencies.
Parents with questions or concerns may contact Ms. Giarratano, Counselor/Social Worker at 973-334-
4162, Ext. 239.
Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS)
Annually, RVS establishes an Intervention and Referral Services committee to serve as a school based
problem-solving group. The goal of the I&RS is to assist teachers with strategies for dealing with
students identified as having issues that are impeding the learning process. To accomplish this goal, the
team conducts a variety of activities including:
Accepting referrals from teachers, administrators, parents and students.
Gathering information and discussing this information with all concerned.
Providing the referring person with feedback and suggestions.
Seeking additional resource personnel to assist in our deliberations.
Discussing the problems with parents and student.
Monitoring the situation to see if change occurs.
To make a referral, a parent needs to contact the classroom teacher or Ms. Giarratano at Ext. 239.
15

HEALTH SERVICES
School Health Personnel
Janice Vitcavich, R.N., School Nurse
973.334.4162, Ext. 361
Patricia M. Renz, MD, School Physician
Boonton Township Health Office Guidelines
We all want our children to have good attendance, and we hope our children are healthy so they will have
few absences. There are some occasions, however, when children need to stay home. These guidelines
are designed to protect the health of all children.
1. If a child is sent home with a fever, he/she is expected to remain home a full 24 hours, feverfree,
without the use of fever reducing medications like Tylenol or Advil, before returning to
school.
2. If a child vomits during the night or in the morning, please do not send him/her to school. If a
child vomits in school, we will call you to pick him/her up rather than send your child home on the
bus.
3. If a child has been diagnosed with strep throat, state law requires that he/she must be on
medicine 24 hours before returning to school.
4. Chicken Pox requires the child to be home until all pox are scabbed and dry. Clearance from
the school nurse is necessary before returning to school.
5. It is very important that the school nurse is notified if head lice or nits are found in your child’s
hair.
6. If a child needs to be excused from Physical Education, a note from the parent/physician is
required. If a child needs to be excused for more than one week or two physical education
periods, a physician’s note is mandatory.
7. Parents need to notify the nurse if a child is on crutches, has a cast, or is in a brace of any
kind.
8. No medication, including over-the-counter medication will be administered to pupils unless
there is a parent/guardian note with the physician’s written and signed statement of the
medication’s name, the purpose of its administration, its proper dose, the time of
administration, and the time when it shall be discontinued. The medication must be in its
original container. A medication authorization form can be obtained from the nurse’s office or
school office. Please refer to the medication and self-administering medication policies if you
have any questions.
Health Screenings
Height & Weight: Yearly for all pupils
Vision: Biennially for all pupils
Hearing: Yearly for K-3, 7-8
Blood Pressure: Yearly for all pupils
Scoliosis: Biennially for all pupils ages ten through eighteen as required by law
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Note: Scoliosis is defined as a condition in which the spine may curve to the left or right. It is most
commonly found during periods of rapid growth and may progress if not treated. The purpose of the
screening program is to recognize scoliosis in its earliest stages. Parents are invited to attend these
screenings. In addition, a pupil may be exempted from this examination if the parent or guardian so
desires and places that request in writing. A referral form will be sent home only if the student displays
physical findings consistent with a postural deformity of the spine.
Sports Physicals
1. Each candidate who wishes to participate on a school athletic squad or team must
have a physical exam within 365 days of the first practice session. This exam is to be
completed by your health care provider. A health care provider is defined by the state
as the examining medical doctor, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and/or
physician’s assistant ONLY.
2. RVS will require the annual submission of the seven page state report; please note
that this form is MANDATORY and that no other form will be accepted. If the form is
not completed in full and stamped by your health care provider, it will be returned.
3. If your child does not have a “medical home,” please contact the school nurse so that
arrangements can be made with the school physician. We strongly advocate that
your child be seen by his/her medical provider to foster an ongoing provider/patient
relationship, to provide opportunities for specialist referrals, laboratory testing and
assessment of vaccination status.
4. RVS will require the annual submission of the following:
i. Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation – Health History Questionnaire,
completed and signed by parent/guardian
ii. Pre-Participation Physical Examination – Documented on an approved
school district form, dated, signed and stamped by your child’s medical
provider or school physician
5. A medical update needs to be completed by the parent/guardian for each subsequent
sport after the annual physical examination is completed. Either a sport physical or a
medical update needs to be submitted within 60 days prior to the first practice session
for every sport your child intends to participate in.
School Physicals
Physicals are recommended for all second, fifth and seventh grade students. Forms are available in the
nurse’s office.
Sending Students Home
If a student must be sent home during the school day because of illness or injury, the nurse will advise
the parent/guardian or their designated emergency person who will sign the child out in the nurse’s office.
This procedure is necessary for the well-being and safety of the youngster. It is extremely important that
the Nurse and Main Office are informed of any changes in home, cell or work numbers so that we may
contact you in the case of an emergency.
Parents will be notified and students sent home if the following conditions exist:
- elevated temperature (100 o or over)
- pain or discomfort that persists after resting
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- excessive coughing, persistent sore throat, coryza (runny eyes/nose), hoarseness
- unexplained rash, with or without itching
- head injuries with lacerations, swelling, or other symptoms of possible
concussion
- injuries that are incapacitating e.g. sprains
- severe nose bleeds (difficult to control)
- other conditions deemed necessary by school health personnel
17

Communicable Diseases
In order to prevent epidemics and protect the health of the children, children with communicable diseases
must be excluded from school. These exclusion periods vary according to the following guidelines:
Child Returns to School
Chicken Pox - When crusts are dry, no sooner than the 8th day and nurse’s
clearance
Scarlet Fever or - With written release from physician but no sooner than
Strep Throat 24 hrs. after first antibiotic
Impetigo - With physician's written release
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) - With written release from physician
Infectious Mononucleosis - With written release from physician
5th Disease - At physician's discretion
Ringworm - At physician's discretion
Pediculosis (Head Lice) - When hair is free of viable nits and/or lice and nurse’s
clearance
Children who show the following signs and symptoms of illness during the preceding 24 hours should
remain at home: fever, sore throat, upset stomach, cough, rash of any kind, inflamed eyes, earache,
swollen glands, stomach pains or headache. These symptoms may be the forerunner of one of the
above listed communicable diseases.
Medications
Any and all medications, including over-the-counter medications (such as Tylenol/Advil and throat
lozenges/cough drops) are dispensed only in the nurse’s office and will not be given without written
permission/directions from a physician. Please furnish any medication in original containers. No pills in
baggies/envelopes will be administered. Students may not self-administer any medication except for
those conditions deemed “life-threatening”, i.e. asthma, diabetes, food/insect sting allergy. In such
instances, physician documentation of need, student capability, and parental disclaimer must be obtained
yearly and kept on file in the nurse’s office. Forms are available in the nurse’s office.
Dressings
Bandages or dressings applied by a physician or parent will not be changed except upon a written
request from the physician. Soiled dressings can be covered with additional clean gauze if necessary
without prior approval.
Emergency Cards
Emergency cards are distributed on the first day of school and should be returned immediately to your
child’s homeroom teacher. Please make sure that these cards are kept up to date.
Immunizations
The maintenance of an up-to-date health record on every child is a sizable task for the school nurse.
Your cooperation in helping her keep the record accurate and current will be greatly appreciated. All
information is considered confidential.
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School Nutrition Policy
The Boonton Township Board of Education recognizes that child and adolescent obesity has reached
epidemic levels in the United States and that poor diet combined with the lack of physical activity
negatively impacts on students' health, and their ability and motivation to learn. The Board is committed
to:
A. Providing students with healthy and nutritious foods,
B. Encouraging the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, low fat milk and whole
grains,
C. Supporting healthy eating through nutrition education, and
D. Providing students with the opportunity to engage in daily physical activity.
The following items may not be served, sold or given out as free promotion anywhere on school property
at any time before the end of the school day:
A. Foods of minimal nutritional value (FMNV) as defined by U.S. Department of Agriculture
regulations,
B. All food and beverage items listing sugar, in any form, as the first ingredient, and
C. All forms of candy.
In addition, foods sold at lunch, in the vending machines, for fundraisers and in the school store are
limited to 8 grams total fat/2 grams saturated fat. Drinks are limited to 12 ounces and must be milk, water
or 100% juice. Please refer to the Nutrition Policy (No. 3517) in the Appendix for complete rules and
restrictions. Please note that these rules are applicable to snacks such as birthday treats.
If you have any questions about the School Nutrition Policy or need further clarification, please speak with
the School Nurse or the Principal.
Student Insurance Plan
A student insurance plan is available to all students during the first month of school at a nominal fee.
Enrollment is entirely optional. When considering this insurance coverage, bear in mind that there is no
medical insurance coverage provided by the Boonton Township Board of Education for injuries sustained
as part of the daily school program or associated after-school activities. Various plans are offered for
school time only, while others are 24-hour coverage. If circumstances change, the student insurance may
be purchased at any time during the school year. Please contact the School Nurse for further
information.
Attendance (973.334.4162, press “1”)
According to state law, the Boonton Township Board of Education has an obligation to require that the
pupils of this district have regular and punctual attendance. Pupil participation in all regularly scheduled
classroom learning activities in each area of study is essential in order for each pupil to receive the
maximum benefit of a thorough educational program. The entire process of education requires a regular
continuity of instruction, classroom participation, learning experiences and study. Therefore, the Board
cannot condone, excuse or encourage any non-approved absence by pupils.
Approved reasons for absences are personal illness, recovery from an accident, death in one’s family,
religious holiday, suspension, and absences authorized by the administration. It is emphatically stressed
that student absences resulting from vacations and other activities are not considered legal reasons by
the state statute and do not warrant special academic consideration before or after the absence. For an
unexcused absence, it is at the teacher’s discretion as to whether a test may be made up. Whenever a
student is absent, parents must call the school before 8:30 AM (973.334.4162, press “1”.)
A student must be present for 4 hours in order to be considered present for the day.
19

Early Dismissal
The school must be notified in advance of early dismissals by written request from the pupil’s
parent/guardian. This note should be given to the classroom teacher by the student during homeroom
and should state the date, time and reason for leaving early. Prior to leaving the school building, the
student must be signed out by a parent/guardian. Identification may be required. Children must be
picked up by 2 PM for early dismissal.
Tardiness
Students are expected to be seated in their homeroom by the time the 7:55 AM bell rings. Arrival any time
after this bell is considered late. When a parent knows that their child will be late in advance, they should
send a letter to the school office or call the attendance line at 973.334.4162, press “1” and leave a
message stating the date and the reason for tardiness. When a student arrives late to school, they must
report to the school office for a tardy slip.
Justifiable reasons for late arrivals and early dismissals shall include medical disability; family emergency,
medical or dental appointments that cannot be scheduled outside of school hours, court appearances,
and such good cause as may be acceptable to school administration.
All late arrivals will be documented as tardy on the report card. It is the responsibility of the student to
make up missed work as the result of tardiness. This may be accomplished by conferring with the
teacher to determine his/her schedule availability. In addition, a student’s grade may be affected from
repeated tardiness.
Administration understands that emergencies arise and we have made accommodations for these
occurrences. However, after the fifteenth (15) tardy, parents will be contacted by an administrative
representative to identify the cause of the repeated tardiness and possible solutions.
Make-Up Work for Absences
It is the responsibility of the student to make up work missed as a result of being absent. The
parent/guardian should call the homeroom teacher to make arrangements to have a classmate
(“homework buddy”) write down the assignments each day a child is absent. Assignments may be picked
up from the homework table in the main lobby after 2:30 PM. Ordinarily the student will have one day for
each day absent to make up the missed work. In cases of extended illness, individual arrangements will
be made for make-up work. Missed homework assignments can also be accessed through the
Homework Hotline (see page 13).
Science Lab Exemption
We understand that some students may be unable to participate in the dissection of animals. A student
will be exempt from participating in animal dissections in the science lab with a written request from the
parent. An alternate assessment tool will be used for these students.
Homebound Instruction
If a student is incapacitated at home, arrangements for instruction will be made by the parent through the
nurse. A doctor’s note is necessary to begin homebound instruction. Students are eligible for homebound
instruction when consecutive absences exceed ten school days.
Physical Education
All students, unless medically excused by a physician, are required to participate in Physical Education.
It is recommended that each student, grades 4-8, change into appropriate attire for Physical Education
class. Athletic shorts, “T” shirts, sweatpants, sweatshirts, white socks, and sneakers comprise the
acceptable “uniform”. Changing clothes promotes active involvement, safety during performance and
personal hygiene. Personal fitness, skill enhancement and individual and team sports are areas of focus
in our physical education classes.
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Occasionally, for a good reason, a student may be unable to participate in Physical Education. Excuses
will be issued in the nurse’s office during the first period upon presentation of a written note from the
parent/guardian, stating why the child is unable to participate. The nurse will request a doctor’s note
following two consecutive excuses or when a student is frequently unable to participate in gym.
Students that do not participate in Physical Education class CANNOT participate in after school sports
including Ski Club. Students that do not participate in Physical Education class cannot participate in any
physical activities during recess or lunch.
Athletics
RVS is one of over 40 member schools of the Greater Morris County Junior School Coaches Association
(GMCJSCA). We compete with many of these schools in interscholastic competitions during the regular
seasons, and also participate in the end of season competitions held by the association. The
membership is divided into groups based on the school’s 7 th and 8 th grade enrollments. Therefore, we
tend to compete against schools similar to ours in size.
Our sports programs are geared for students in Grades 6-8, because the GMCJSCA restricts participation
to those grade levels. Junior Varsity games in boys and girls basketball are held in conjunction with the
regular Varsity games to help the 6th and 7th graders develop their skills in a competitive setting.
Tryouts for individual teams may or may not be necessary for certain sports depending on the number of
students who sign up. The coaches provide the prospective team members with their evaluations and
reasons for not making a particular team if “cuts” have to be made.
All students that try-out for participation in a sport MUST have a physical examination before they can
participate in the try-out (please refer to Sports Physical section). Under no conditions will a student be
able to participate in any phase of interscholastic sports without a documented physical exam by a
licensed health professional within 365 days of the first day of practice. There is a pay to participate fee
of $75 per student for each sport played. In addition, all students participating in athletics must adhere to
the academic and disciplinary standards set forth in the Board of Education Policy governing
extracurricular activities. If a student leaves school early due to a medical condition, he/she cannot
participate in any athletic competition on that day.
The following is a list of the sports offered:
Cross Country Girls Basketball Softball
Girls Soccer Boys Basketball Baseball
Boys Soccer Track and Field
All participants in RVS sports are invited to an end of the year sports banquet. The funding for this event
is provided through the daily ice cream or frozen treats and pretzel sales that occur at lunchtime.
Certificates of participation and trophies for individual achievement in each sport are presented to the
students by their coaches.
Mr. Fordyce is the RVS Athletic Program Coordinator. If you have a question, you may call Mr. Fordyce
at 973.334.4162, Ext. 241.
Student Council
The Rockaway Valley School Student Council represents the pupils of the school and works with the
teachers and administration to improve the educational environment of the school. Students in Grades 5-
8 are eligible to be members of the council.
Kids Club
A program for after school child care is available at RVS and run by the YMCA in Mountain Lakes. If you
wish to enroll your child in this after school care program, please contact the YMCA at 973.334.2820.
21

Transportation
The Boonton Township School District provides transportation in accordance with state law for those
students who reside more than 2 miles from their residence to Rockaway Valley School and more than
2.5 miles for Mountain Lakes High School. In addition, the district provides “courtesy” busing for students
attending Rockaway Valley School and Mountain Lakes High School who reside less than 2 miles from
Rockaway Valley School and less than 2.5 miles from Mountain Lakes High School. Bus routes for
Rockaway Valley School and Mountain Lakes High School Students are mailed to the students’ homes
before the start of school. If you have a bus problem, please call the Transportation Office at
973.334.4162 Ext. 326.
Children should be told that a bus driver has an enormous responsibility and that their behavior is
important while awaiting and riding the bus. Rules are given out at the beginning of each school year.
Please remember that riding the bus is a privilege. The safety of all of the students is our primary
concern. If behavior on a bus is unacceptable, a school administrator will contact the child’s parents to
address the problem. If the inappropriate behavior continues, the student may be removed from the bus.
The parents then will be responsible for their child’s transportation.
Parents must be at the bus stop to receive their Kindergarten-aged children. If the parent is not present,
the student will be brought back to the school at the completion of the bus route. An older sibling will not
be allowed to escort a Kindergarten-aged student in the absence of the parent.
No child is to ride another bus other than his/her assigned bus to or from school.
Students are not permitted to go on a different bus at dismissal time.
REMEMBER: STUDENTS MAY RIDE ONLY THEIR ASSIGNED BUS.
Students who fail to comply with the above regulations may be deprived of the privilege
of using the bus and will be subject to disciplinary action.
If a parent intends to pick up his/her child from the school office after school, a note ahead of time is
required. Students living within two miles of school are permitted to walk, with written parental
permission.
Only children in grades 4 through 8 are permitted to ride bikes to school. New Jersey State Law 39-
410.1 requires all children under 14 years of age to wear a bicycle helmet. A bicycle rack is located in
front of the school. A bicycle permission form can be obtained in the school office. We recommend bike
locks to prevent damage and theft. The school is not responsible for any damage or theft of bicycles.
Bus Rules and Regulations
Students are under the authority of the Boonton Township Board of Education when riding on a school
bus. Therefore, the following procedures must be followed for the well-being and safety of all our
students. Please take a few minutes to ensure that your student understands the guidelines for school
bus safety:
� You should be at the bus stop 10 minutes before scheduled pick-up time.
� Never run to or from the bus.
� Wait on the sidewalk or shoulder, never in the roadway.
� Be respectful of private property at or near the bus stop.
� Do not push or shove while waiting in line to board the bus.
� Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing the road.
� Always cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus.
� Never cross the roadway behind the bus.
� Never crawl under a school bus.
� If a seat belt is provided, its use is state mandated.
� Stay in your seat always facing forward.
� Keep head, arms and legs inside the bus at all times.
� Always obey the driver.
22

� Do not yell, shout or do anything else to distract the driver. Your life and your friends’
lives could be in danger.
� Do not deface the bus seats or other equipment.
� Do not eat or drink on the bus.
� Do not leave personal articles on the bus.
Bear Sightings – When a bus driver sees a bear in the vicinity of a bus stop and does not see a
parent/guardian, the children will remain on the bus and be returned to the school. The driver will inform
the dispatcher who will in turn inform the school.
Bus Stop Permission Slips
Bus riders may not ride any bus other than that which is assigned. Bus riders may get off at another stop
on their own route provided they notify the driver through a bus stop permission slip (available only
through the Office.)
Bus Evacuation Drills
In accordance with state law, school bus evacuation drills are conducted at Rockaway Valley School and
Mountain Lakes High School twice a year in the fall and spring.
Snow Closing
On days when bad weather forces the closing of Rockaway Valley School, families will receive a phone
call on their home phone number via our Honeywell Alert system. TV Channels News 12 and NBC will
also carry the announcements beginning about 6:30 AM. You may also get notification of school
closings/delayed openings on the school website, www.rvsnj.org. A district announcement will be left on
the school’s main phone number. Do not call the police or board members.
When Rockaway Valley School is closed, bus service for Mountain Lakes High School is suspended.
SNOW ROUTES
(Hillcrest Road, Split Rock Road, Old Timber Trail and Old Wood Lane)
Weather related changes in the school schedule will result in snow routes being enforced for the following
streets: Hillcrest Road, Split Rock Road, Old Timber Trail and Old Wood Lane. Buses will not drive up
these roads. Instead, students will be picked up and dropped off as follows:
� at the bottom of Hillcrest Road on Rockaway Valley Road
� at the bottom of Split Rock Road on Rockaway Valley Road
� at the bottom of Old Timber Trail on Wildlife Run
� at the bottom of Old Wood Lane on Horizon Drive
1. Delayed opening – Snow routes are automatically in effect for morning pick up. Parents will
be notified regarding afternoon drop off procedures via the Honeywell Alert System.
2. Early Dismissal – Snow routes are automatically in effect for afternoon drop off on that day
and morning pick up the following day (the only exception is if on a Friday.) Notification
regarding the following day afternoon drop off will be made via the Honeywell Alert System.
3. No School – Snow routes will be in effect for the following day for morning pick up.
Notification regarding afternoon drop off will be made via the Honeywell Alert System. (The
only exception is if on a Friday.)
4. Full day dismissal (inclement weather) – Parents will be notified via the Honeywell Alert
System that the snow routes will be in effect for that day’s afternoon drop off and the
following morning pick up. Notification regarding the following day afternoon drop off will be
made via the Honeywell Alert System.
Note: Snow routes may be in effect for other weather related conditions or emergencies.
Parents will be notified via the Honeywell Alert System.
23

Driving and Parking on School Grounds
Please follow the instructions below and continue to exercise the utmost caution for the safety of our
students whenever driving on school grounds.
1) Walkers will continue to arrive via the Cairn Court footpath.
2) Children in Grades Kindergarten though 4 who are driven to school will utilize the
Preschool Entryway at the east end of the building. Drivers will enter school grounds via the
Glenbourne driveway and drop students off next to the entrance. A traffic monitor will assist
students. Please have children exit vehicles using the sidewalk side of the car.
3) Children in Grades 5 through 8 will continue to be dropped off near the Art Room at the west
end of the building. Drivers will enter school grounds via the Valley Road driveway. A traffic
monitor will be on duty at this location as well.
4) If your family includes children in both age ranges, please choose one entrance only and do
not drive from one end of the school to the other.
5) When picking up students after school, it is preferable for parents/guardians to park and meet
their children in the vicinity of the School Office. Older children may wait near the Art Room
end of the building, if necessary.
6) Parking: Please park in designated parking areas only, following all "no parking" and "reserved"
signs. Do not park around the circle in the front of the building as this impedes emergency
vehicles from entering and exiting the grounds. If no parking spaces are available, you are
permitted to park at the Leonard Park lot.
Keep in mind that the best way to relieve
traffic congestion is for all students
who have a bus assignment
to ride their bus to and from school!
Driving on School Grounds
The Glenbourne driveway to the school will be closed to flow-through traffic. Cars will not be allowed to
drive through the school grounds at any time during school hours.
Glenbourne driveway will be reserved for RVS buses; special education program parents and buses; and
employees who are planning to park their cars and leave after the children have been dismissed.
All students will be picked up or dropped off at the west end of the school building. (In front of the
entrance to the new addition.) If you are picking up or dropping off a small child, you may wish to park in
the main parking area and walk your child to the school to avoid confusion.
Drivers need to enter the school campus at Valley Road, bear to the right through the parking area and
wait to pick up their children at the service entrance to the school. Cars will stay in line until they reach
the area where children are waiting. After pick up they may proceed out toward Valley Road. First in will
be first out.
24

Parking on School Grounds
Parking is available on school grounds in the following areas only:
Main parking area between white lines
Recently installed parking area by Glenbourne Drive
Leonard Park adjacent to the school
Off the school driveway as you exit school grounds
Parking is not available at any time in the following areas:
Reserved parking spaces (assigned staff only)
Inner circle in front of the school (buses and emergency vehicles only)
At the intersection between the inner circle and the outgoing school driveway
(Emergency vehicles and buses must be able to make an unrestricted left turn.)
Dropping Off and Picking Up Students
We encourage all parents to allow their children to ride the bus to and from school every day. The
earliest pick up time is 7:20 AM and the latest return time is 2:50 PM. The school has limited capacity for
additional vehicles during student arrival and departure time.
A reminder to parents that children need to be dropped off and picked up at the sports field side of the
school building. The Glenbourne entrance to the school is limited to buses, staff and special education
programs. The Glenbourne driveway is designated for one-way, incoming traffic only by the Boonton
Township Police Department. Vehicles cannot be allowed to drive through groups of children waiting to
enter school and are not allowed to turn around into the path of another vehicle. Thank you for your
adherence to the rules.
Emergency Closing
The Superintendent/Principal is authorized by the Board of Education to close the school, open late or
dismiss early in hazardous weather or in other extraordinary circumstances that might endanger the
health or safety of pupils or school employees.
Each year parents/guardians, pupils, and staff members are informed in advance of how they will be
notified in the event of an emergency closing. Parents/guardians shall be required to make alternative
arrangements for their children in case no one is home to receive a child after an unscheduled early
closing. If the situation warrants an evacuation of the school premises, the children will be taken to the
Parish House on Valley Road for safe keeping until picked up by their parents/guardians.
Please refer to Appendix – Emergency Closing Policy 5141.7.
Lunch and Recess
Since no school cafeteria is available, brown bag lunches must be brought from home. Milk money is
collected in September for the school year. The cost for milk will be 30¢ per day for a half-pint container.
Parents must indicate if they wish their child to receive non-fat skim, low-fat 1% white or low-fat 1%
chocolate milk. Free milk is provided to those students determined eligible (forms available from the
School Nurse). In addition, a variety of ice cream is available each day.
The Home and School Association will sell lunches during the week. Orders are placed on a monthly
basis. Specific information will be sent home at the beginning of the school year. The 8th grade will sell
lunch one day a week as a fundraiser for their class trip in May. The lunch menu is available online via
the RVS school website.
The lunch and recess schedule is as follows: 10:58 – 11:37 Grades 3-6
11:39 – 12:18 Grades K-2; 7-8
25

Visitors
For your child's protection, all the doors to the school will be locked except the front door by the school
office. All visitors must be identified and buzzed in by school personnel. If we do not know you we will
ask for identification. No child will be released to anyone without a note from a parent. The public is
always invited to attend assemblies, sports events and music programs.
Sibling Attendance at Assemblies
Students who wish to attend programs or plays that their siblings are performing in during school hours
may do so only if a parent/guardian is present and the students must sit with them. Parents must send in
a note to the teacher and to the main office at the beginning of the day making that request.
Use of the Building
As in the past, school organizations shall have priority in using the building and grounds. Applications for
use of the building or grounds are available from the Superintendent’s Secretary. Subject to approval by
the Superintendent, outside groups may meet on school property. If you would like to run a program or
wish to enroll in programs being offered during the school year, simply call the school. Custodial fees
may be charged. Alcoholic beverages may not be brought, sold or consumed on school property and
smoking is prohibited in our building or on our grounds at all times. We welcome after school use by local
recreational and non-profit educational groups. Requests are numerous, so early application is
recommended.
Emergency Drills
A plan to evacuate the Rockaway Valley School building in the case of a fire or emergency drill has been
prepared. Beginning September 2010, Rockaway Valley School will be required to have at least one fire
drill and one school security drill each month within the school hours.
A school security drill is an exercise, other than a fire drill, to practice procedures that respond to an
emergency situation including, but not limited to, a non-fire evacuation, bomb threat, or lockdown and that
is similar in duration to a fire drill.
During the school year we may also schedule a multi-agency activity involving actual deployment of
resources in a coordinated response as if a real incident had occurred. This exercise tests many
components of one or more capabilities within emergency response and recovery, and is typically used to
assess plans, procedures and coordinated response under crisis conditions.
Please note that the fire alarm systems shall be initiated only during a fire drill evacuation. Any responses
made necessary by the unplanned activation of emergency procedures or by any other emergency shall
not be substituted for a required school security drill. Emergency responders are not required to observe
security drills, however, we plan to invite emergency responders to attend and observe at least several
security drills during the upcoming school year.
School Pictures
Individual color pictures of the children are taken each fall, at no obligation to parents. Proofs will be sent
out prior to ordering. Class pictures are provided free of charge to those who purchase a student portrait
package. Class photos are available for a small fee for those who do not order a portrait package. A
graduation picture is taken of the eighth graders in June. This photo is free to the graduates.
From time to time student pictures will be taken for use in our annual yearbook, news releases
and other school publications. If you do not want your child's picture used in these capacities,
please indicate that on the photo consent release form which will be included in the first day
packet.
26

Telephone
Use of office phones is disruptive; therefore, students are strongly discouraged from using the school
phone except in an emergency. Classroom phones may be used in extreme cases but only at the
discretion of the teacher.
Forgotten Items
Lunches and books left at home may be delivered to school during the day. Such deliveries should be
clearly labeled with the child's name and homeroom and placed in the bins located outside the
flagpole entrance (first set of doors). The bins will be emptied at 10:30 and during the lunch periods.
Medications, eyeglasses and musical instruments must be brought to the main office where they can be
appropriately distributed. It is a good experience to have children be responsible for remembering their
own things.
Lost Articles
A lost and found cabinet is located in the lunchroom (lower gym). Please ask your child to check there
first after you discover a loss. Periodically, lost and unclaimed items are sent to needy organizations.
Items left on buses may be returned to the school; however, several districts use the buses daily, so
recovery cannot be guaranteed. You may call the bus companies, Jordan Transportation at
973.838.5000 or First Student Transportation at 973.838.1300, to inquire about belongings left on the
buses. Please place your child’s name on all personal items.
27

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Rockaway Valley School is an educational community consisting of over 500 students and staff. The
following guidelines have been established to safeguard the physical and emotional well being of all
members of our school community:
1. Zero Tolerance for Physically and Verbally Aggressive Behavior
Rockaway Valley School cannot and will not tolerate bullying or the use of physical contact
(e.g. fighting, hitting, pushing or shoving), the use of obscenities in language or gestures, sexual
harassment or the making of threats or discriminatory remarks based on race, color, national
origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability. Any student engaging in such
behavior can expect to receive immediate disciplinary action. Our school’s top priority is to insure
the safety of all students and staff.
2. Classroom Behavior
a) After passing time, take your seat with appropriate materials, and be prepared to work.
b) Use courteous language at all times.
c) Respect others’ right to work and avoid unnecessary noises or distractions.
d) Be independent and honorable in doing work.
e) Show respect for all school personnel and volunteers including substitute and student
teachers.
f) Ask to be excused from class only when absolutely necessary.
g) Refrain from writing, reading and passing personal notes.
h) Avoid calling out and speaking with fellow students during class unless instructed to do
so.
3. Hall Behavior Expectations
a) Hall passes are required to leave the room during class periods.
b) Walk, do not run.
c) Avoid loitering or congregating in ways that block the movement of other
students and staff.
d) Keep the level of your voice tones in a normal range; do not yell or shout.
4. School Dress Expectations
Rockaway Valley School is an educational institution and all students are expected to dress
appropriately for this environment.
a) Neatness, cleanliness, safety and good taste are key factors to keep in mind.
b) Coats, jackets, hats, sunglasses, and backpacks may not be worn in the building.
Please leave them in your locker during the school day.
c) Clothing must cover the front and back of each student; therefore short shirts, halter-tops
and tops with “spaghetti” straps are not permitted.
d) Short shorts, skirts and pants worn below the hips are unacceptable.
e) Pajamas and slippers are not appropriate attire and must not be worn.
f) Articles of clothing that promote illegal substances, use of alcohol, or infer sexual
innuendo or which symbolize affiliation with negative or hate groups are not allowed.
g) All accessories that can be dangerous and/or disruptive to the learning environment are
unacceptable and are not to be worn by students.
h) Appropriate footwear must be worn at all times. Sneakers or running shoes must be
worn for Physical Education class.
i) When possible, students will go outside for recess. Students should dress appropriately
in warm weather and cold weather. Coats or jackets should be worn in the winter
months.
Students who choose not to comply with our dress code will be asked to change immediately.
28

5. Dangerous/Destructive Items
The following items are considered dangerous or destructive and may not be brought to school.
Possession and/or use of any of these items are cause for disciplinary action and/or referral to
local police authorities:
� Cigarettes and other tobacco products
� Matches and cigarette lighters
� Drugs, alcohol, and other controlled substances
� Fireworks
� Weapons (any type, size, shape or form, including but not limited to toy or water pistols, BB
guns, and paint guns; knives of any type including pocket knives, xacto or craft knives, common
kitchen knives or toys; mace/pepper spray; sling shots/wrist rocket)
� Spray paint
� Beepers
� Laser pointers
� Shock devices
� Remote control devices
6. Disruptive Items
The following items must not be brought to school and will be confiscated by teachers and/or
administrators to be returned to parents/guardians.
� Radios, cassette players, iPods, “Walkman” radios and CD players
� Novelty devices/toys/electronic devices
� Skateboards, rollerblades
� Lacrosse sticks
� Trading Cards of any kind
Cell Phones: Cell phones are not permitted during the school day. All cell phones must be
turned off and kept in a locker or held by a teacher or administrator. They must not be carried or
used by students during the school day. If a student’s cell phone is confiscated during the school
day by a teacher or administrator, the phone will be given to the Assistant Principal, Ms. Lendis. A
parent or guardian must meet with Ms. Lendis so the cell phone can be released to the parent or
guardian only. If a cell phone is confiscated more than once from the same student, it may result
in a detention(s) and points.
7. Vandalism
The Board of Education provides students with an environment that stimulates creativity and
learning. They have purchased many valuable educational tools and equipment for student use
such as computers, calculators, microscopes, research material, lockers, etc., not to mention the
upkeep for the building and grounds and comfortable desks and chairs. Students need to be
aware that fines and penalties will be imposed when school property is damaged, lost or defaced.
Students who are found destroying, damaging or defacing school property will be assigned to
Saturday detention and will be expected to pay for the damages or cost of repair, replacement or
cleaning of the property. Acts of vandalism are reported to the police.
Any activity using the school computers that is not specifically approved by a teacher or
administrator is prohibited. Students will be personally responsible for the cost of repairs,
replacement parts or technician time when it is required to restore computers to their original
settings or to remove unapproved, downloaded information. Students engaging in such activities
will lose computer privileges. Any act of cyber bullying committed on school property, school bus,
or bus stop may be referred to the Boonton Township Police Department.
29

CONSEQUENCES FOR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
It is important to understand that your adherence to the Code of Conduct begins the minute you leave
your house in the morning and continues until the minute you return home. Those who choose not to
comply with the RVS Code of Conduct can expect to be required to attend General Detention(s), serve a
Saturday Detention and may have “points” applied to their record (see below).
Students who repeatedly disregard our Code of Conduct may be excluded from such privileges as
participation in extra curricular activities and class outings/trips. Please be advised that once the privilege
of attending these extracurricular activities has been denied no exceptions will be made.
GRADES 5/6 POINT SYSTEM
RVS has a progressive point system that begins in your fifth grade year. This point system will be in
effect for the 5 th and 6 th graders at the beginning of the school year. The point system will at least affect
the class trips and end-of-year picnics.
These points will be assigned in the form of “Conduct Referrals” (pink slips) and will be issued for
inappropriate behavior. This point system and important milestone dates were discussed in our class
meetings.
Parents/guardians will be notified by mail when points are assigned. The total points will also appear on
the notice.
Any teacher or staff member may dispense the points. Dr. Butler or Ms. Lendis will assign all points.
Students will receive points as follows:
a) One (1) point for any “Conduct Referral” (pink slip). Conduct referrals will be issued for
disrespectful behavior, inappropriate behavior, defiant acts, etc.
b) One (1) point for disrespectful behavior towards a substitute teacher
c) One (1) point for every failing grade on the student’s report card
d) Three (3) points for a Saturday detention
e) Six (6) points for an in-school suspension
f) Nine (9) points for an out-of-school suspension
g) Points for other infractions of school rules will be assigned on a case-by-case basis
If a student has accumulated eight (8) or more points, he/she can reduce the total points by not receiving
a “Conduct Referral” or being in trouble in other ways. Each month of good behavior results in the
reduction of one point. Students may also reduce his/her total points by meeting with Ms. Lendis to
develop and carry out a school-related community service project. A student may eliminate a maximum
of two (2) points per month.
For instance, if eight (8) points are accumulated by March, it is still possible for you to go to the end-ofyear
picnic by not having any further “pink slips.” You would eliminate three (3) points for good behavior
during April, May, and June resulting in a total of five (5) points. Points do not accumulate from 5 th to 6 th
grade.
GRADES 7/8 POINT SYSTEM
A second point system takes effect November 1 of the seventh grade year. Any student who has
accumulated 15 points as of the Friday prior to the trip’s departure will not be allowed to go on the Eighth
Grade Trip. The points will determine a student’s eligibility. There will be no final review.
Parents/guardians will be notified when points are assigned. The points assigned for any infraction will
appear on the pink notice. All points accumulated in Grade 7 will be applied to Grade 8.
“Conduct Referral” slips are sent home to be signed by a parent/guardian. The total points will also
appear on the notice. All points will be assigned by Dr. Butler and/or Ms. Lendis.
Students will receive points as follows:
a) One (1) point for every pink “Conduct Referral” slip sent to Dr. Butler/Ms. Lendis
30

) One (1) point for disrespectful behavior towards a substitute teacher
c) One (1) point for every failing grade on the student’s report card
d) Three (3) points for each Saturday Detention
e) Six (6) points for in-school suspension
f) Nine (9) points for out-of-school suspension from school
g) Various amounts of points for other infractions of school rules
If a student has accumulated 10 or more points, he/she can earn negative points and reduce the total
points by not receiving a “Conduct Referral” or being in trouble in other ways. Each month of good
behavior results in one negative point. Students may also reduce his/her total points by meeting with Ms.
Lendis to develop and carry out a school-related community service project. For every five (5) hours of
community service, one (1) point will be deducted from the total points. A student may earn a maximum
of two (2) negative points per month.
For instance, if 15 points are accumulated by January, it is still possible for you to go on the trip by not
having any further “pink slips.” You would earn 3 points for good behavior during February, March and
April, resulting in a total of 12 points.
DISCIPLINE
The behavior of students in a classroom and school relates directly to their academic performance. The
classroom teachers handle basic problems with behavior. Teachers are encouraged to contact parents to
help determine how to curtail inappropriate conduct. If the unacceptable behavior continues, the student
will be referred to the administration for further action.
Teachers document improper conduct for students in grades 5–8 by filling out a “Conduct Referral” form.
This form is mailed home from the Principal or the Assistant Principal. The teacher may also assign an
after school detention(s) to the student for the behavior.
For students who demonstrate more chronic behavior problems, additional discipline actions may need to
be initiated. These actions may include any or all of the following:
A) Special Conferencing: Student and/or parent(s) meet with faculty and administration to
resolve issues and plan a course of action.
B) In-School Suspension: Student is removed from regular class setting and spends a period of
time doing class work isolated from the rest of the student population.
C) Saturday Detention: Student will be assigned to a Saturday detention at RVS from 8:00 AM to
1:00 PM.
D) Out of School Suspension: Student is removed from the school setting for a period of time.
Offenses at any grade level that result in injury to another student will be referred to the Principal’s Office
immediately.
The objective of our school discipline code is to curtail and prevent inappropriate behavior. This should
be done in a partnership between the school and home. Please feel free to contact your child’s
teacher(s) if you have any concerns about his/her behavior in school. If you are still concerned after
discussing the problem with the teacher(s), contact the Principal or Assistant Principal to arrange a
conference.
In class - Students must follow the teacher’s rules and consequences. For serious and repetitive
infractions, a conduct referral (pink slip) will be issued. Each pink slip will result in a phone call home by
the teacher. Three pink slips may result in meetings with teachers/team and/or administration. Each pink
slip equals one point which will affect the 8 th grade trip for 7 th /8 th grade students.
Note: Repetitive referrals to the administration for any disciplinary reason may result in detention and/or
Saturday detention. Severe infractions may result in an in- or out-of-school suspension and police
notification as required by law.
While there are consequences for infractions, students who behave appropriately will be rewarded
with praise, positive reinforcements and a favorable school climate in which to learn and interact
with peers and staff. “Falcon of the Month” and “Caught Doing Good” are two programs that
encourage and reward responsible and desirable behavior.
31

BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES
Infraction Possible Consequence(s)
Assembly disruption Detention/miss next assembly
Bullying/Harassment Detention/in-school or out-of-school suspension/contact police
Cyberbullying Detention/suspension/contact police
Cheating/Copying homework Grade of “0” or as determined by teacher
Classroom disruption Detention
Cut detention or Saturday detention 2 detentions/2 Saturday detentions
Fighting/Assault Detention/Saturday detention/suspension/contact police
Inappropriate language/gesture Detention/suspension
Disrespect to authority Detention/Saturday detention/suspension
Lunchroom disruption Clean up and/or detention/reverse lunch detention
Sent to Office during class Detentions/call home by teacher/administrator
Tardiness Detention
Theft Possible Saturday detention/suspension
Unprepared for class Determined by classroom teacher
Vandalism Suspension or Saturday detention; pay for damage
Violent, terroristic threats Out-of-school suspension and police notification
as required by law
All behavior infractions are handled at the discretion of a school administrator. Severe infractions may
result in an in- or out-of-school suspension and police notification as required by law.
SATURDAY DETENTION
� Saturday detentions will run from 8 AM until 1 PM.
� No one will be admitted to Saturday detention after 8:10 AM.
� Failure to report to Saturday detention will result in two Saturday detentions.
� More than one unfulfilled Saturday detention will result in suspension from all
extracurricular activities until those detentions are made up.
Rules for Saturday Detention
1. Students will bring work to do and/or books to read for five hours.
2. There will be no talking during detention.
3. No CD players, iPods, video games or any other electronic equipment will be allowed.
4. No candy, gum and/or other snacks will be allowed during detention.
5. Students must bring their own lunch and beverage for designated “lunch period” only.
32

Textbooks
The Board of Education supplies students with all the textbooks needed. Since they are valued tools of
learning, they should be treated with care. To prevent unnecessary wear and tear, they should be
adequately covered and labeled with the student’s name. This will limit fines for damaged or lost books at
the end of the year. Students will be required to pay the replacement cost for lost or damaged books and
materials. (See Appendix – Policy 3250R Textbook Fines.)
Library
Our library has several thousand books to inform and entertain, as well as computers with access to
informational databases, and the Internet. Subscriptions include two newspapers and more than 30
magazines for student use. Our part-time librarian works with parent volunteers to maintain the library.
She orders and organizes materials, often collaborating with teachers to ensure continuity with the grade
level curriculum. Our Librarian, Ms.Cordaro, provides support for the teachers in aligning research
materials to classroom projects. Our goal is to instill a sense of responsibility and a love of the written
word by allowing students to borrow library materials weekly as they are returned. Home & School
Association volunteers assist the librarian to ensure the library is a welcome place to visit.
Field Trips
The outside community contains many opportunities for pupils to experience real life learning situations.
The regular classroom can be extended through field trips, speakers, and on-site visits. Classroom
teachers supervise all field trips. Students are required to return a signed permission slip in order to
attend a field trip. Students may be asked to bear the cost of the field trip including the cost of
transportation and admission. Classroom parents who chaperone field trips must ride the bus with the
students to and from the field trip site.
Family Life Education
Family Life Education is part of our health education curriculum. A summary of the curriculum is sent
home prior to the start of any formal instruction. A student may be exempted from this program if the
parents so desire. Parents must send a written request for an exemption. The complete Family Life
Curriculum is available for inspection and review through the school office.
Some Safety Ideas
For safety between home and school a child should:
1. Start to school early to avoid having to rush.
2. Refrain from playing at the bus stops, which are always on a road and may be at a private
residence.
3. Help other children, especially smaller ones, come to school and return home safely.
4. Refrain from touching or playing with strange dogs, cats and other animals. Dogs and other
pets should be kept from following children to school.
5. Never talk to strangers, accept rides or hitchhike.
6. Learn his/her bus number, street address and telephone number.
7. Arrange a secret code word known only to your child and a parent in case your child is
approached by someone who claims a parent sent them.
33

Mountain Lakes High School Administration
Superintendent Anne Mucci, Ed.D.
Interim Principal Douglas Wilkins
Director of Special Services Janet Wright
Main Office 973-334-8400
Guidance Office 973-334-8580
Board of Education 973-334-8280
Mountain Lakes High School Library 973-334-8400
Powerville Road, Mountain Lakes
Mountain Lakes Public Library 973-334-5095
Elm Street, Mountain Lakes
There is a non-resident fee for the use of this library.
Morris County Free Library 973-285-6101
Hanover Avenue, Whippany, NJ
Area Library Information
Boonton Township is a member of the Morris County Free Library. Parents and students may obtain a
library card by requesting one at the main desk in the County Library.
Asbestos and Water
The designated person for asbestos and water monitoring at Rockaway Valley School is the school
Business Administrator. Any concerns or questions about the status of asbestos conditions or water
quality should be directed to him.
Rockaway Valley School has been inspected for asbestos as per the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) regulations by a qualified inspector and a complete management plan is on file for your review in
the Business Office. The plan is updated every three years and was totally revised during the summer of
2008.
The most visible asbestos-containing materials in the building are the vinyl asbestos tiles (VAT) that cover
the floors in many classrooms. Most floor tiles that measure 9” x 9” are VAT. This tile poses no threat to
the students or staff as long as it is in good condition. If you are not sure if you have VAT floors in your
room, check with the school Business Administrator. Please notify him of any tile that appears to be
loose or damaged.
The Rockaway Valley School water system is tested quarterly for Total Coliform Volatile Organic
Compounds and Standard Plate Count. We test annually for Nitrate/Nitrogen and Lead and Copper. A
copy of the Annual Drinking Water Quality Report for the previous fiscal year is mailed annually to all
school families and staff members by September 30 th . It is also posted in the school. If you have any
problems or concerns, please notify the school Business Administrator immediately.
34

Integrated Pest Management
The New Jersey School Integrated Pest Management Act of 2002 requires school districts to implement a
school integrated pest management policy that includes an Integrated Pest Management Plan. In
accordance with the requirements of the Act, the Boonton Township Board of Education shall ensure
implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) procedures to control pests and minimize exposure
of children, faculty and staff to pesticides. These procedures shall be applicable to all school property in
the Boonton Township School District. Information related to integrated pest management is available in
the Business Office.
Student/Parent Grievance Procedure
The purpose of this procedure is to secure, at the earliest and most direct level, an equitable solution to
any grievance that may arise. A grievance is considered a claim caused by a misinterpretation, violation,
or inequitable application of students' rights, including the right to equal opportunity regardless of race,
color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, national origin, physical or mental handicap, or social or economic
condition.
Definite action on a grievance must be initiated within ten days following the event or occurrence that is
the basis of the grievance, or the complaint shall be considered invalid. The pupil or parent/guardian
should take up the grievance with the person(s) immediately concerned. If a solution can not be
resolved, the grievance should be submitted in writing to the administration. After meeting with the
parties involved, the Superintendent shall render a decision in writing within ten days. Further appeal
may be made to the Board of Education five days after the Superintendent's written decision. The Board
shall place the grievance on its agenda within one month.
All formal grievances and decisions rendered shall be in writing. Ultimate appeals to the Commissioner of
Education, State Board of Education and the courts (in that sequence) may be made.
A complete copy of the Student/Parent Grievance Procedure (policy # 5145.6) may be secured from the
Board Secretary.
Affirmative Action Compliance
The educational programs and activities of the Boonton Township School District are accessible to all
students regardless of gender, race, religion or handicap in accordance with all local, state and federal
laws and regulations. A grievance procedure is available through the Affirmative Action Officer,
Dr. Thomas Butler.
Equal Educational Opportunity
The district shall provide equal and bias-free access for all pupils to all school facilities, courses,
programs, activities and services and give them maximum opportunity to achieve their potential
regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, affectional or sexual orientation,
marital status, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, nationality, place of residence
within the district, social or economic condition, or disability. Enforcement of other district affirmative
action/equity policies (2224, 4111, 4211.1 and 6121) contribute to this legally required equality of
educational opportunity.
Staff members shall maintain professional relationships with pupils at all times and develop wholesome
and constructive relationships with them. Staff members shall be expected to regard each pupil as an
individual and to accord each pupil the rights and respect that is his/her due.
Staff members shall promote a learning environment that encourages fulfillment of each pupil's potential
in regard to his/her program, consistent with district goals and with optimal opportunities for pupils. This
goal may be reached by adapting instruction to individual needs, by:
A. Insisting on reasonable standards of scholastic accomplishment for all pupils;
B. Creating a positive atmosphere in and out of the classroom;
C. Extending the same courtesy and respect that is expected of pupils;
D. Treating all pupils with consistent fairness.
35

The Board of Education guarantees to all pupils equal access to all academic programs within the
learning environment.
Pupils shall respect the rights of other pupils to receive an education in an environment that is conducive
to learning and personal growth. No pupil shall have the right to abridge another pupil's right to privacy or
right to hold personal beliefs that are different from those of the mainstream.
Harassment
The district's affirmative action program is part of each academic program regarding all pupils. No one-including
pupils, staff members, vendors, volunteers, or visitors--shall commit an act of
harassment/discrimination of any kind against any member of the school community on any of the
grounds prohibited by law.
Harassment is defined as a repeated pattern of unprovoked aggressive behaviors of a physical and/or
psychological nature carried out by an individual or a group against an individual or group with the effect
of causing harm or hurt. Harassing behaviors are all those behaviors that are unwelcome, unwanted, and
uncomfortable in the view of the recipient. They all have the effect of creating a hostile environment.
A third party may claim harassment. That is, individuals who are not directly involved in the behavior may
experience a hostile environment. They shall have the same legal rights to act under this policy as those
directly victimized.
Sexual Harassment
During the year, the Boonton Township School District offers an in-service on the topic of sexual
harassment to heighten awareness on any such issues that may arise. School administrators handle
these incidents firmly and with extra sensitivity to each individual’s rights to the confidentiality of the
matter and to due process.
Particularly, the Board of Education shall maintain an academic environment that is free from sexual
harassment.
Sexual harassment shall consist of unwanted and unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors, and other inappropriate conduct or communication of a sexual nature when made by any staff
member to a pupil, by any pupil to another pupil, or by any pupil to a staff member when:
A. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a pupil's
evaluation, promotion, opportunities, privileges, and other benefits of education;
B. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a pupil is used as a basis for decisions affecting the
pupil;
C. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with a pupil's academic performance or
creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment.
The administration will inform all pupils that sexual harassment is prohibited in the educational setting.
Specifically, no person employed by the district or by a vendor, or acting in a voluntary capacity, shall
threaten or insinuate, either directly or indirectly, that a pupil's refusal to submit to sexual advances will
adversely affect the pupil’s standing in the school setting. Pupils are forbidden to harass other pupils or
staff members or vendors or volunteers through conduct or communications of a sexual nature within the
school setting.
Any member of the student body may file a formal grievance related to sexual harassment. The
affirmative action officer will receive all complaints and initiate a thorough investigation and will protect the
rights of both the pupil making the complaint and the alleged harasser. Filing of a grievance or otherwise
reporting sexual harassment will not reflect upon the individual's status nor affect future grades or class
assignments.
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Findings of discrimination in the form of sexual harassment will result in appropriate disciplinary action.
Procedures shall be made available for pupils and/or parents/guardians who wish to file a grievance
protesting alleged discriminatory or sexually (or other) harassing action. An immediate report of the
allegation should be made to the affirmative action officer or chief school administrator. Violations of this
policy or its related procedures shall be cause for disciplinary action.
Implementation
The chief school administrator shall direct development of procedures regarding the implementation of
this policy to include sanctions, protection of individual rights to confidentiality and due process, and
notification procedures. The chief school administrator shall ensure that, annually, all staff and all pupils
(in means and terms that are age-appropriate) be thoroughly informed of this policy, their right to file
grievances under this policy and the law and the procedures relative to filing. Further, all staff and pupils
shall be informed annually of the identity of the district's affirmative action officer(s) and how they may be
contacted.
The chief school administrator shall also ensure that staff and pupils participate in educational programs
relating to this policy and the maintenance of an educational environment.
Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) Information
Child Abuse and Neglect
Remember: If you believe a child has been
abused or neglected, you have a legal
responsibility to report it!
Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline:
1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873)
24 hours a day/7 days a week
Boonton Township Police
973-402-4000
In New Jersey, every citizen—every teacher, doctor and neighbor—every person who comes
into contact with a child and observes behavior or conditions that might indicate abuse or
neglect is required by law to report his suspicions.
Report suspected abuse by calling the Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline at 1-877-NJABUSE AND
also the Boonton Township Police Department at 973-402-4000.
37

APPENDIX
Boonton Township Board of Education Policies
Policy 2224 Nondiscrimination/Affirmative Action
Policy 3250R Textbook Fines (procedure)
Policy 3517 School Nutrition
Policy 5131.01 Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
Policy 5131.6 Substance Abuse (policy and procedures)
Policy 5141.7 Emergency Closing
Policy 6162.5 Research
Policy 6171.4 Handicapped Students
No Child Left Behind Act of 2001
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
38

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
Nondiscrimination/Affirmative Action
File Code 2224
State and federal statutes and regulations prohibit school districts from discriminatory practices in
employment or educational opportunity against any person by reason of race, creed, color, national
origin, ancestry, age, sex (gender) or sexual orientation, marital status, liability for service in the Armed
Forces of the United States, or atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait of any individual, in employment
or in educational opportunities. Further state and federal protection is extended on account of disabilities,
social or economic status, pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related disabilities, actual or potential
parenthood, or family status.
The Boonton Township Board of Education will continue to support its Affirmative Action Resolution of
February 1994, and to implement the district’s equal educational opportunity policy, school and classroom
practices plan and contract/employment practices plan in accordance with law and regulation.
The board authorizes the chief school administrator to develop and implement a multi-year equity plan to
ensure that the district provides equality in educational programs and to identify and correct, or assess
and prevent, all bias, discrimination and impermissible isolation in policies, practices and facilities of the
district. Upon approval of this plan by the state department of education, the board shall adopt it by
resolution. The chief school administrator shall report to the board annually on progress toward goals
established in the plan. A copy of the district’s affirmative action/equity plans and self-evaluation of their
achievement shall be available in the district office.
Affirmative Action Officer(s)
The board shall appoint a certified member or members of the staff as affirmative action officer(s), who
shall serve as affirmative action/504 officer and/or desegregation coordinator(s). The board shall adopt
the job description of the affirmative action officer(s), granting to him/her the responsibility to facilitate,
oversee and ensure the development and implementation of school and classroom practices plans,
employment and contact practices plan, school desegregation plan and section 504 plans, as well as
related inter-program coordination. The affirmative action officer(s) shall ensure that the district upholds
all regulation, codes and laws related to equity in the schools.
The affirmative action officer(s) shall monitor compliance with this policy. The name, work location and
telephone number of the district affirmative action officer(s) shall annually be made known to staff, pupils
and members of the community.
Harassment
The Board of Education shall maintain an instructional and working environment that is free from
harassment of any kind. Administrators and supervisors will make it clear to all staff, pupils and vendors
that harassment is prohibited. Sexual harassment shall be specifically addressed in the affirmative action
in-service programs required by law for all staff.
Sexual harassment shall include, but not be limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
A. Submission to the conduct or communication is made a term or condition of employment or
education;
B. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct or communication is the basis for decisions
affecting employment and assignment or education;
39

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 2224
C. The conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an
individual’s work performance or education;
D. The conduct or communication has the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive
working or educational environment.
Sexual harassment of staff or children interferes with the learning process and will not be tolerated in
Rockaway Valley School. Harassment by board members, employees, parents, students, vendors and
others doing business with the district is prohibited. Any child or staff member who has knowledge of or
feels victimized by sexual harassment should immediately report his/her allegation to the affirmative
action officer or building principal. Anyone else who has knowledge of or feels victimized by sexual
harassment should immediately report his/her allegation to the chief school administrator or board
president. Employees whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the
investigation procedure which may result in discipline, up to and including dismissal. Other individuals
whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate sanctions as
determined and imposed by the chief school administrator/board. This policy statement will be distributed
to all staff members.
Staff or pupils may file a formal grievance related to harassment on any of the grounds addressed in this
policy. The affirmative action officer will receive all complaints and carry out a prompt and thorough
investigation, and will protect the rights of both the person making the complaint and the alleged
harasser.
Findings of discrimination or harassment will result in appropriate disciplinary action.
School and Classroom Practices
In implementing affirmative action, the district shall carry on:
A. Identify and correct the denial of equality of educational opportunities for pupils solely on the
basis of any classification protected by law;
B. Continuing reexamination and modification, as may be necessary, of its school and classroom
programs; of location and use of facilities; of its curriculum development program and its
instructional materials; of the availability of programs for children; and of equal access of all
eligible pupils to all extracurricular programs.
These topics are included in the pupil and instruction policies of the district at #5145.4 Equal educational
opportunity, #6121 Nondiscrimination/Affirmative action, and #6145 Extracurricular activities.
Contract/Employment Practices
The district directs the chief school administrator to ensure that appropriate administrators implement the
district’s affirmative action policies by:
A. Adhering to the administrative code in selection of vendors and suppliers; informing vendors
and suppliers that their employees are bound by the district’s affirmative action policies in
their contacts with district staff and pupils;
40

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 2224
B. Continuing implementation and refinement of existing practices and affirmative action plans,
making certain that all recruitment, hiring, evaluation, training, promotion, personnelmanagement
practices and collective bargaining agreements are structured and administered
in a manner which furthers equal employment opportunity principles and eliminates
discrimination on any basis protected by law, holding in-service programs on affirmative
action for all staff in accordance with law.
These topics are included in the business and non-instructional operation, and the personnel policies of
the district at #3320, #3327, #4111.1 and #4211.1.
Disabled
In addition to prohibiting educational and employment decisions based on nonapplicable disabling
condition, the district shall, as much as feasible, make facilities accessible to disabled pupils employees
and members of the community as intended by Section 504 and as specified in the administrative code.
Report of Implementation
The chief school administrator shall devise regulations, including grievance forms and procedures to
implement the district’s affirmative action policies. He/she shall report to the board annually on the
effectiveness of this policy and the implementing procedures.
Date: December 5, 1991 Revised: September 21, 2000
Approved: December 5, 1991 Readopted: October 5, 2000
Replaced: February 17, 1994 Readopted: (August 19, 2003)
Readopted: January 18, 1996
Monitored: Indicator 6.6 staff in-service, affirmative action
9.1 District’s desegregation plan
9.2 and 9.3 the affirmative action aspects of a whole spectrum of school
operations
Legal
References: N.J.S.A. 10:5 Law Against Discrimination
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-5, -6 Inquiry as to religion and religious tests prohibited
N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-17 Facilities for handicapped persons
N.J.S.A. 18A:26-1, -1.1 Citizenship of teachers, etc . . . .
N.J.S.A. 18A:29-2 Equality of compensation for male and female teachers
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-20 Discrimination; prohibition
N.J.S.A. 5:23-7 Barrier free sub code of the uniform construction code
Equality in educational programs
N.J.S.A. 6:4 Equality in educational programs
See particularly:
N.J.A.C. 6:4-1.3,
-1.5, -1.6
N.J.A.C. 6:8-4.3 Quality assurance
N.J.A.C. 6:3-4.10 State and Federally mandated programs and services
41

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), U.S.C. 1101 et seq.
Executive Order 11246 as amended
Equal Pay Act of 1963 as amended, 29 U.S.C.A. 201
Title IX of the education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C.A. 1681
File Code 2224
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended by the Equal Employment
Opportunities act of 1972, 42 U.S.C.A. 2000e et seq.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C.A. 794 et seq.
Education of the Handicapped Act, 20 U.S.C.A. 1401 et seq.
MERITOR savings bank v. Vinson, 106 S. Ct. 2399 (1986)
School Board of Nassau County V. Arline, 740 P. 2d 404 (Cal. Sup. Ct. 1987)
Manual for the Evaluation of Local School Districts (P.T.M. No. 700.7, revised July 1988)
Cross References: * 3320 Purchasing procedures
* 4111 Recruitment, selection and hiring
* 4111.1 Affirmative action
* 4131/4131.1 Staff development; in-service education/visitations/conferences
* 4211 Recruitment, selection and hiring
* 4211.1 Affirmative action
* 4231/4231.1 Staff development; visitations/conferences
* 5145.4 Equal educational opportunity
* 6121 Affirmative action
* 6145 Extracurricular activities
*Indicates policy is included in the Critical Policy Reference Manual.
42

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
PROCEDURE
Textbook Fines
In the event that a student harms or loses a textbook, the following fines shall be imposed:
File Code 3250 R
1. If a textbook is damaged (i.e., broken spine, torn cover, lose pages with complete pagination, or
markings that can be glued, taped or cleaned), a fine of $10 is to be paid by the student prior to
receiving the final report card. A means to repair the book will be directed by the school.
2. If a textbook is damaged beyond repair (i.e., lost cover, missing pages, indelible marks covering
instructional content, wet, molded, or food/drink/substance damaged), a fine of the replacement
cost of the book is to be paid by the student prior to receiving the final report card.
3. In the event a book is irreplaceably damaged or the book is no longer available, the original fee
shall be charged. The administration may choose to amend this fine on a per case basis.
Teachers issuing fines must document the damage and forward a notice to the parents/guardians
informing them of the fine. The School Office must be made aware of the fine with any other instructions
concerning the withholding of report cards, etc.
Approved: January 25, 2007
Readopted: March 6, 2008
43

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
School Nutrition
File Code 3517
The Boonton Township Board of Education recognizes that child and adolescent obesity has reached
epidemic levels in the united State and that poor diet combined with the lack of physical activity negatively
impacts on students' health, and their ability and motivation to learn. The Board is committed to:
A. Providing students with healthy and nutritious foods,
B. Encouraging the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, low fat milk and whole grains,
C. Supporting healthy eating through nutrition education, and
D. Providing students with the opportunity to engage in daily physical activity.
All reimbursable meals shall meet Federal nutrient standards as required by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture Child Nutrition Program regulations. All items served as part of the After School Snack
Program shall meet the standards as outlined within this policy.
The following items may not be served, sold or given out as free promotion anywhere on school property
at any time before the end of the school day:
A. Foods of minimal nutritional value (FMNV) as defined by U.S. Department of Agriculture
regulations,
B. All food and beverage items listing sugar, in any form, as the first ingredient, and
C. All forms of candy.
The School shall reduce the purchase of any products containing trans fats. All snack and beverage items
sold or served anywhere on school property during the school day, including items sold in a la carte lines,
vending machines, snack bars, school stores and fundraisers or served in the reimbursable After School
Snack Program, shall meet the following standards:
A. Based on manufacturers’ nutritional data or nutrient facts labels:
1. No more than eight grams of total fat per serving, with the exception of nuts and seeds.
2. No more than two grams of saturated fat per serving.
B. All beverages shall not exceed 12 ounces, with the following exceptions:
1. Water.
2. Milk containing two percent or less fat.
C. Whole milk shall not exceed eight ounces.
In the elementary grades:
100 percent of all beverages offered shall be milk, water or 100 percent fruit or vegetable juices.
In the middle school grades:
1. At least 60 percent of all beverages offered, other than milk and water, shall be 100
percent fruit or vegetables juices.
2. No more than 40 percent of all ice cream/frozen desserts shall be allowed to exceed the
above standards for sugar, fat, and saturated fat.
Food and beverages served during special school celebrations or during curriculum related activities shall
be exempt from this policy, with the exception of foods of minimal nutritional value as defined by USDA
regulations.
44

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 3517
This policy does not apply to: medically authorized special needs diets pursuant to 6 CFR Part 210;
school nurses using FMNVs during the course of providing health care to individual students; or special
needs students whose Individualized Education Plan (IEP) indicates their use for behavior modification.
Adequate time shall be allowed for student meal service and consumption. The School shall provide a
pleasant dining environment. The Board recommends that physical education or recess be scheduled
before lunch whenever possible.
The District's curriculum shall incorporate nutrition education and physical activity consistent with the New
Jersey Department of Education Core Curriculum Standards.
The Board of Education is committed to promoting the Nutrition Policy with all food service personnel,
teachers, nurses, coaches and other school administrative staff so they have the skills they need to
implement this policy and promote healthy eating practices. The Board will work toward expanding
awareness about this policy among students, parents, teachers and the community at large.
Approved: June 28, 2007
45

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
File Code 5131.1
The Boonton Township Board of Education believes that a safe and civil environment in school is
necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. Since students learn by example,
school administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers are required to demonstrate appropriate behavior,
treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation or bullying.
Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts
both a student's ability to learn and a school's ability to educate its students in a safe environment.
Therefore, the school district will not tolerate acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying.
The Board of Education expects all students to treat each other with civility and respect and not to
engage in behavior that is disruptive or violent. The Board expects students to conduct themselves in
keeping with their level of maturity, with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students,
for school personnel, for the educational purpose underlying all school activities, and for the care of
school facilities and equipment.
The standards of character education are an essential component of the Boonton Township School
District’s Code of Conduct. The Board believes that with the appropriate infusion of character education
into the school curriculum, modeling of appropriate behavior by adults; support and assistance of
students in school, the community and home; our students will achieve the above standards of character
education.
The Board prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying against any student. School responses to
harassment, intimidation and bullying shall be aligned with the Board-approved code of student conduct
which establishes standards, policies and procedures for positive student development and student
behavioral expectations on school grounds, including on a school bus or at school sponsored functions.
The Superintendent/Principal shall be responsible for ensuring the prompt investigation and response to
all reports of harassment, intimidation and bullying committed on school grounds, at school activities and
on school buses. In addition, the Superintendent/Principal shall ensure that this policy is applied to
incidents of harassment, intimidation and bullying that are committed off school grounds in cases where a
school employee is made aware of such actions. The Superintendent/Principal has the right and
authority to impose a consequence on a student for conduct away from school grounds that is consistent
with the board’s approved code of student conduct, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-
7.6.
This authority shall be exercised only when it is reasonably necessary for the student’s physical or
emotional safety, security and well-being or for reasons relating to the safety, security and well-being of
other students, staff or school grounds, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:25-2 and 18A:37-2, and when the
conduct which is the subject of the proposed consequence materially and substantially interferes with the
requirements of appropriate discipline in the operation of the school. The board directs the chief school
administrator or his or her appropriately trained and qualified designee to develop detailed regulations
suited to the age level of the students and the physical facilities of the individual schools.
Definition
“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” is defined as any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any
electronic communication, whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents, that is reasonably
perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color,
religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental,
physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school
grounds, at any school-sponsored function or on a school bus, or off school grounds, in accordance with
law, that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly operation of the school or the rights of other
students, and that:
46

A. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, will have the effect of physically or
emotionally harming a student or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable
fear of physical or emotional harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or
B. Has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students; or
C. Creates a hostile educational environment for the student by interfering with the student’s education
or by severely or pervasively causing physical or emotional harm to the student.
“Electronic communication” means a communication that is transmitted by means of an electronic device,
including, but not limited to a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager.
Consequences and Remedial Measures for Acts of Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying
Students
Consequences and remedial measures for a student who commits an act of harassment, intimidation or
bullying shall be varied and graded according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the
student, the student’s history of problem behaviors and performance, relationships between the parties
involved and context in which the alleged incidents occurred. Consequences shall be consistent with the
board approved code of student conduct and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7. Consequences and remedial measures
shall be designed to:
A. Correct the problem behavior;
B. Prevent another occurrence of the problem;
C. Protect and provide support for the victim of the act; and
D. Take corrective action for documented systemic problems related to harassment, intimidation or
bullying.
Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a student who commits an act of harassment,
intimidation or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including short and
long-term suspension or expulsion, as permitted by law. The consequences and remedial measures may
include, but are not limited to:
A. Consequences
1. a warning that the student has violated the policy and a discussion of the harm caused by
bullying along with notification of further consequences for repeated violations;
2. parent/guardian notification;
3. School Counselor/Social Worker notification;
4. temporary removal from the classroom;
5. deprivation of privileges
6. lunch or after-school detentions, an in- or out-of-school suspension;
7. performance of school service work
8. writing a letter of apology;
9. a recommendation of further evaluation (in- or out-of-school counseling, social skills training, etc.)
10. exclusion from after-school programs and activities;
11 Saturday detention
11. legal action; and
12. expulsion.
B. Remedial Measures
1. Personal
a. Restitution and restoration;
b. Mediation;
c. Peer support group;
47

d. Recommendations of a student behavior or ethics council;
e. Corrective instruction or other relevant learning or service experience;
f. Supportive student interventions, including participation of the intervention and referral
services team;
g. Behavioral assessment or evaluation, including, but not limited to, a referral to the child study
team, as appropriate;
h. Behavioral management plan, with benchmarks that are closely monitored;
i. Assignment of leadership responsibilities (e.g., hallway or bus monitor);
j. Involvement of school disciplinarian;
k. Student counseling;
l. Parent conferences;
m. Student treatment; or
n. Student therapy.
2. Environmental (Classroom, School Building or School District)
a. School and community surveys or other strategies for determining the conditions contributing
to harassment, intimidation or bullying;
b. School culture change;
c. School climate improvement;
d. Adoption of research-based, systemic bullying prevention programs;
e. School policy and procedures revisions;
f. Modifications of schedules;
g. Adjustments in hallway traffic;
h. Modifications in student routes or patterns traveling to and from school;
i. Supervision of students before and after school, including school transportation;
j. Targeted use of monitors (e.g., hallway, cafeteria, locker room, playground, school perimeter,
bus);
k. Teacher aides;
l. Small or large group presentations for fully addressing the behaviors and the responses to
the behaviors;
m. General professional development programs for certificated and non-certificated staff;
n. Professional development plans for involved staff;
o. Disciplinary action for school staff who contributed to the problem;
p. Supportive institutional interventions, including participation of the intervention and referral
services team;
q. Parent conferences;
r. Family counseling;
s. Involvement of parent-teacher organizations;
Classified students are subject to the same disciplinary procedures as nondisabled students and
may be disciplined in accordance with their IEP. However, before disciplining a classified student,
it must be determined that:
A. The student's behavior is not primarily caused by his/her educational disability;
B. The program that is being provided meets the student's needs.
Staff
Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for any staff member who commits an act of
harassment, intimidation or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to disciplinary
charges which could result in suspension or termination. The consequences and remedial measures may
include, but are not limited to:
A. Consequences
1. Admonishment;
2. Temporary removal from the classroom;
3. Deprivation of privileges;
4. Referral to disciplinarian;
48

5. Withholding of Increment
6. Suspension;
7. Legal action; and
8. Termination
B. Remedial Measures
1. Personal
a. Restitution and restoration;
b. Mediation;
c. Support group;
d. Recommendations of behavior or ethics council;
e. Corrective action plan;
f. Behavioral assessment or evaluation;
g. Behavioral management plan, with benchmarks that are closely monitored;
h. Involvement of school disciplinarian;
i. Counseling;
j. Conferences;
k. Treatment; or
l. Therapy.
2. Environmental (Classroom, School Building or School District)
a. School and community surveys or other strategies for determining the conditions contributing
to harassment, intimidation or bullying;
b. School culture change;
c. School climate improvement;
d. Adoption of research-based, systemic bullying prevention programs;
e. School policy and procedures revisions;
f. Modifications of schedules;
g. Supervision;
h. Small or large group presentations for fully addressing the behaviors and the responses to
the behaviors;
i. General professional development programs for certificated and non-certificated staff;
j. Professional development plans for involved staff;
k. Disciplinary action;
l. Supportive institutional interventions, including participation of the intervention and referral
services team;
m. Conferences;
n. Counseling;
Reporting Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Behavior
The Superintendent/Principal, Assistant Principal and/or their designee shall be responsible for receiving
complaints alleging violations of this policy.
The Board shall allow reports to be anonymous, but no formal disciplinary action shall be based solely on
an anonymous report. Any school employee, board member, contracted service provider, student, visitor
or volunteer who has witnessed, or has reliable information that a student has been subject to
harassment, intimidation or bullying, must report the incident to the Superintendent/Principal or his/her
designee.
The following procedures shall apply to the reporting of incidents of harassment, intimidation and bullying:
A. All acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be reported verbally to the Superintendent/
Principal or designee on the same day when the school employee or contracted service provider
witnessed or received reliable information regarding any such incident;
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B. The Superintendent/Principal or designee shall inform the parents or guardians of all students
involved in the alleged incident, and may discuss, as appropriate, the availability of counseling and
other intervention services; and
C. All acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall be reported in writing to the Superintendent/
Principal within two school days of when the school employee or contracted service provider
witnessed or received reliable information that a student had been subject to harassment,
intimidation, or bullying.
A board member, school employee, contracted service provider, student or volunteer who has witnessed,
or has reliable information that a student has been subject to, harassment, intimidation or bullying shall
report the incident to the Superintendent/Principal and any appropriate school official, or to any school
administrator or safe schools resource officer, who shall immediately initiate the school district’s
procedures concerning school bullying.
A board member or a school employee who promptly reports an incident of harassment, intimidation or
bullying, to the appropriate school official designated by the school district's policy, or to any school
administrator or safe schools resource officer, and who makes this report in compliance with the
procedures in this policy, shall be immune from a cause of action for damages arising from any failure to
remedy the reported incident.
A school administrator who receives a report of harassment, intimidation, or bullying from a district
employee, and fails to initiate or conduct an investigation, or who should have known of an incident of
harassment, intimidation, or bullying and fails to take sufficient action to minimize or eliminate the
harassment, intimidation, or bullying, may be subject to disciplinary action.
District Anti-Bullying Coordinator
The Superintendent/Principal shall appoint a district anti-bullying coordinator. The Superintendent/
Principal shall make every effort to appoint an employee of the school district to this position. The district
anti-bullying coordinator shall:
A. Be responsible for coordinating and strengthening the school district’s policies to prevent, identify,
and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying of students;
B. Collaborate with school anti-bullying specialists in the district, the board of education, and the chief
school administrator to prevent, identify, and respond to harassment, intimidation, and bullying of
students in the district;
C. Provide data, in collaboration with the chief school administrator, to the Department of Education
regarding harassment, intimidation, and bullying of students; and
D. Execute such other duties related to school harassment, intimidation, and bullying as requested by
the chief school administrator.
The district anti-bullying coordinator shall meet at least twice a school year with the school anti-bullying
specialists in the district to discuss and strengthen procedures and policies to prevent, identify, and
address harassment, intimidation, and bullying in the district.
School Anti-Bullying Specialist
The Superintendent/Principal shall appoint a school anti-bullying specialist. When a school guidance
counselor, school psychologist, or another individual similarly trained is currently employed in the school,
the Superintendent/Principal shall appoint that individual to be the school anti-bullying specialist. If no
individual meeting these criteria is currently employed in the school, the principal shall appoint a school
anti-bullying specialist from currently employed school personnel. The school anti-bullying specialist
shall:
A. Chair the school safety team;
B. Lead the investigation of incidents of harassment, intimidation, and bullying in the school; and
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C. Act as the primary school official responsible for preventing, identifying, and addressing incidents of
harassment, intimidation, and bullying in the school.
School Safety Team
The district shall form a school safety team in each school to develop, foster, and maintain a positive
school climate by focusing on the on-going, systemic process and practices in the school and to address
school climate issues such as harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The school safety team shall meet at
least two times per school year.
The school safety team shall be appointed by the Superintendent/Principal and consist of the Assistant
Principal or his or her designee; a teacher in the school; the school anti-bullying specialist; a parent of a
student in the school; and other members to be determined by the Superintendent/Principal. The school
anti-bullying specialist shall serve as the chair of the school safety team.
The school safety team shall:
A. Receive any complaints of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students that have been reported
to the principal;
B. Receive copies of any report prepared after an investigation of an incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying;
C. Identify and address patterns of harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students in the school;
D. Review and strengthen school climate and the policies of the school in order to prevent and address
harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students;
E. Educate the community, including students, teachers, administrative staff, and parents, to prevent
and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of students;
F. Participate in the training required pursuant to the provisions of (N.J.S.A.18A:37-13 et seq.) and other
training which the principal or the district anti-bullying coordinator may request;
G. Collaborate with the district anti-bullying coordinator in the collection of district-wide data and in the
development of district policies to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, or bullying of
students; and
H. Execute such other duties related to harassment, intimidation, and bullying as requested by the
principal or district anti-bullying coordinator.
No parent/guardian who is a member of the school safety team shall:
A. Receive complaints of harassment, intimidation or bullying of students that have been reported to the
principal;
B. Receive copies of reports prepared after an investigation of a harassment, intimidation or bullying
incident;
C. Identify and address patterns of harassment, intimidation or bullying of students; or
D. Participate in any other activities of the team which may compromise the confidentiality of a student.
Investigating Reported Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
All reported incidents of harassment, intimidation and bullying shall be investigated promptly and in
accordance with law and the following procedures:
A. All investigations shall be thorough and complete, and documented in writing, and shall include, but
not be limited to:
1. Taking of statements from victims, witnesses and accused;
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2. Careful examination of the facts;
3. Support for the victim; and
4. Determination if alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy.
B. The investigation shall be initiated by the Superintendent/Principal or designee within one school day
of the report of the incident and shall be conducted by a school anti-bullying specialist. The
Superintendent/Principal may appoint additional personnel who are not school anti-bullying
specialists to assist in the investigation.
C. The investigation shall be completed as soon as possible, but not later than 10 school days from the
date of the written report of the incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying. In the event that
there is information relative to the investigation that is anticipated but not yet received by the end of
the 10-day period, the school anti-bullying specialist may amend the original report of the results of
the investigation to reflect the information.
D. The results of the investigation shall be reported to the Superintendent/Principal within two school
days of the completion of the investigation, and in accordance with law and board policy. The
Superintendent/Principal may initiate intervention services, establish training programs to reduce
harassment, intimidation, or bullying and enhance school climate, impose discipline, order counseling
as a result of the findings of the investigation, or take or recommend other appropriate action.
E. The results of each investigation shall be reported to the board of education no later than the date of
the next board meeting following the completion of the investigation, and include:
1. Any services provided;
2. Training established;
3. Discipline imposed; or
4. Other action taken or recommended by the Superintendent/Principal.
F. The Superintendent/Principal or designee shall ensure that parents or guardians of the students who
are parties to the investigation shall receive information about the investigation. This information shall
be provided in writing within 5 school days after the results of the investigation are reported to the
board and include:
1. The nature of the investigation;
2. Whether the district found evidence of harassment, intimidation, or bullying; or
3. Whether discipline was imposed or services provided to address the incident of harassment,
intimidation, or bullying.
Range of Ways to Respond to Harassment, Intimidation or Bullying
The Board of Education recognizes that some acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying may be isolated
incidents requiring that the school officials respond appropriately to the individuals committing the acts
and provide support programs for victims. Other acts may be so serious or parts of a larger pattern of
harassment, intimidation or bullying that they require a response either at the classroom, school building
or school district levels or by law enforcement officials.
In considering whether a response beyond the individual is appropriate, the administrator shall consider
the nature and circumstances of the act, the degree of harm, the nature and severity of the behavior, past
incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior, and the context in which the alleged incident(s)
occurred. Institutional (i.e., classroom; school building; school district) responses include:
A. School and community surveys;
B. Mailings;
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C. Focus groups;
D. Adoption of research-based bullying prevention program models;
E. Training for certificated and non-certificated staff;
F. Participation of parents and other community members and organizations;
G. Small or large group presentations for staff, students, and the community for fully addressing a
positive school climate and culture as well as the issues surrounding harassment, intimidation and
bullying in the school community; and
H. The involvement of law enforcement officers, including school resource officers.
For every incident of harassment, intimidation or bullying, the district shall respond to the individual who
committed the act. Responses may include:
A. Individual responses can include positive behavioral interventions (e.g., peer mentoring, short-term
counseling, life skills groups) and punitive actions (e.g., detention, in-school or out-of-school
suspension, expulsion);
B. Classroom responses can include class discussions about an incident of harassment, intimidation or
bullying, role plays, research projects, observing and discussing audio-visual materials on these
subjects and skill-building lessons in courtesy, tolerance, assertiveness and conflict management;
C. School responses can include theme days, learning station programs, parent programs and
information disseminated to students and parents, such as fact sheets or newsletters explaining
acceptable uses of electronic and wireless communication devices;
D. District-wide responses can include community involvement in policy review and development,
professional development programs, adoption of curricula and school-wide programs and
coordination with community-based organizations (e.g., mental health; health services; health
facilities; law enforcement; faith-based).
The range of ways in which the school shall respond once an incident of harassment, intimidation or
bullying is identified shall be defined by the Superintendent/Principal in conjunction with the school antibullying
specialist, and shall include an appropriate combination of counseling, support services,
intervention services, and other programs as defined by the commissioner.
Retaliation and Reprisal Prohibited
The Board prohibits reprisal or retaliation or false accusation against any person who witnesses and/or
reports an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying by any student, school employee, board member,
contracted service provider, visitor or volunteer. The consequence and appropriate remedial action for a
person who engages in reprisal or retaliation or false accusation shall be determined by the
Superintendent/Principal or designee after consideration of the nature, severity and circumstances of the
act, in accordance with case law and board policies and procedures.
Any act of retaliation or reprisal or false accusation against any person who reports an act of harassment,
intimidation or bullying shall not be tolerated. Any student, school employee, board member, contracted
service provider, volunteer or visitor who engages in the act of retaliation or reprisal or who falsely
accuses another shall be subjected to consequence and appropriate remedial action. In cases where any
state or federal law has allegedly been violated, the local law enforcement agency shall be notified.
A. Students
The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a student found to have engaged in
retaliation, reprisal and/or falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying
shall be varied and graded according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the
student and the student’s history of problem behaviors and performance, and shall be consistent with
this policy. Consequences may include positive behavioral interventions, notification of the
parents/guardians, up to and including short or long-term suspension or expulsion, as permitted by
law;
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B. School Employees
Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a school employee found to have engaged in
retaliation, reprisal and/or falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying
shall be determined in accordance with district policies, procedures and agreements, up to and
including suspension or dismissal from service;
C. Board Members
Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a board member found to have committed an act
of harassment, intimidation, or bullying; or found to have engaged in retaliation, reprisal and/or falsely
accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying shall be determined in
accordance with district policies, procedures and agreements, up to and including a public sanction or
filed ethics charges;
D. Visitors, Volunteers, Contracted Service Providers, and All Other Persons
Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a visitor, volunteer, contracted service providers
and all other persons found to have engaged in harassment, intimidation or bullying; or engaged in
retaliation, reprisal and/or falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying
shall be determined by the chief school administrator after consideration of the nature, severity and
circumstances of the act, including reports to appropriate law enforcement officials.
Consequences and remediation for students, employees, board members, visitors, volunteers, and
contracted service providers, engaging in harassment, intimidation or bullying or engaged in
retaliation, reprisal and/or false accusations may include the following:
A. Consequences
1. Admonishment;
2. Temporary removal from the classroom or school;
3. Deprivation of privileges
4. Prohibited from access to the school facilities (visitors, vendors, board members, all other
people);
5. Classroom or administrative detention;
6. Referral to disciplinarian;
7. In-school suspension during the school week or Saturday detention;
8. Exclusion from after-school programs;
9. Out-of-school suspension (short-term or long-term);
10. Legal action;
11. Withholding of Increment;
12. Suspension;
13. Expulsion;
14. Termination;
15. Termination of service agreements or contracts (vendors, volunteers);
16. Public sanction (board members);
17. Ethics charges (some administrators, board members).
B. Remedial Measures
1. Personal
a. Restitution and restoration;
b. Mediation;
c. Peer support group;
d. Recommendations of a student behavior or ethics council;
e. Corrective instruction or other relevant learning or service experience;
f. Supportive student interventions, including participation of the intervention and referral
services team;
g. Behavioral assessment or evaluation, including, but not limited to, a referral to the child study
team, as appropriate;
h. Behavioral management plan, with benchmarks that are closely monitored;
i. Involvement of school disciplinarian;
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j. Counseling;
k. Conferences;
l. Treatment; or
m. Therapy.
2. Environmental (Classroom, School Building or School District)
a. School and community surveys or other strategies for determining the conditions contributing
to harassment, intimidation or bullying;
b. School culture change;
c. School climate improvement;
d. Adoption of research-based, systemic bullying prevention programs;
e. School policy and procedures revisions;
f. Modifications of schedules;
g. Supervision;
h. Small or large group presentations for fully addressing the behaviors and the responses to
the behaviors;
i. General professional development programs for certificated and non-certificated staff;
j. Professional development plans for involved staff;
k. Disciplinary action;
l. Supportive institutional interventions, including participation of the intervention and referral
services team;
m. Conferences;
n. Counseling;
Appeal Process
The parent or guardian may request a hearing before the Board after receiving the information from the
Superintendent/Principal or designee regarding the investigation. The hearing shall be held within 10
days of the request. The Board shall meet in executive session for the hearing to protect the
confidentiality of the students. At the hearing the Board may hear from the school anti-bullying specialist
about the incident, recommendations for discipline or services, and any programs instituted to reduce
such incidents.
At the next Board of Education meeting following its receipt of the report, the Board shall issue a decision,
in writing, to affirm, reject, or modify the Superintendent/Principal decision. The Board’s decision may be
appealed to the Commissioner of Education, in accordance with law, no later than the 90 days after the
issuance of the board’s decision.
A parent, student, guardian, or organization may file a complaint with the Division on Civil Rights within
180 days of the occurrence of any incident of harassment, intimidation, or bullying based on membership
in a protected group as enumerated in the “Law Against Discrimination.”
Week of Respect
The week beginning with the first Monday in October of each year is designated as a “Week of Respect”
in the State of New Jersey. The district, in order to recognize the importance of character education, shall
observe the week by providing age-appropriate instruction focusing on preventing harassment,
intimidation, or bullying as defined by law (N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14). Throughout the school year the district
shall provide ongoing age-appropriate instruction focusing on preventing harassment, intimidation, and
bullying in accordance with the Core Curriculum Content Standards.
Training
A. School Leaders
Any school leader who holds a position that requires the possession of a chief school administrator,
principal, or supervisor endorsement shall complete training on issues of school ethics, school law,
and school governance as part of the professional development for school leaders required in
accordance with State Board of Education regulations. This training shall also include information on
the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying (N.J.S.A. 18A:26-8.2).
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B. Teaching Staff Development
Each public school teaching staff member shall complete at least two hours of instruction in suicide
prevention, to be provided by a licensed health care professional with training and experience in
mental health issues, in each professional development period. The instruction in suicide prevention
shall include information on the relationship between the risk of suicide and incidents of harassment,
intimidation, and bullying and information on reducing the risk of suicide in students who are
members of communities identified as having members at high risk of suicide (N.J.S.A. 18A:6-112).
C. Board Members
Within one year after being newly elected or appointed or being re-elected or re-appointed to the
board of education, a board member shall complete a training program on harassment, intimidation,
and bullying in schools, including a school district’s responsibilities as required by law (N.J.S.A.
18A:37-13 et seq.). A board member shall be required to complete the program only once (N.J.S.A.
18A:12-33).
D. Staff, Student and Volunteer Training
The school district shall:
1. Provide training on the school district's harassment, intimidation, or bullying policy to school
employees and volunteers who have significant contact with students;
2. Provide ongoing staff training, in cooperation with the Department of Education, in fulfilling the
reporting requirements;
3. Ensure that the training includes instruction on preventing bullying on the basis of the protected
categories as required by law (N.J.S.A.18A:37-14) and other distinguishing characteristics that
may incite incidents of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying; and
4. Develop a process for discussing the district's harassment, intimidation or bullying policy with
students.
Information regarding the school district policy against harassment, intimidation or bullying shall be
incorporated into a school's employee training program and shall be provided to full-time and parttime
staff, volunteers who have significant contact with students, and those persons contracted by the
district to provide services to students.
Throughout the school year, the district shall provide ongoing age-appropriate instruction on
preventing harassment, intimidation and bullying, consistent with the Core Curriculum Content
Standards.
Reporting to the Board
Two times each year between September 1 and January 1 and between January 1 and June 30, the
school board shall hold a public hearing at which the Superintendent/Principal will report to the Board of
Education all acts of violence, vandalism, and harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) which occurred
during the previous reporting period. The report shall include the number of HIB reports in the schools,
the status of all investigations, the nature of the HIB, and other data required by law.
A. The number of reports of harassment, intimidation, or bullying;
B. The status of all investigations;
C. The nature of the bullying based on one of the protected categories identified in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14
such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and
expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic;
D. The names of the investigators;
E. The type and nature of any discipline imposed on any student engaged in harassment, intimidation,
or bullying; and
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F. Any other measures imposed, training conducted, or programs implemented, to reduce harassment,
intimidation, or bullying.
Reporting to the Department of Education
The information, including but not limited to, oral reports, written reports or electronic reports shall also be
reported once during each reporting period between September 1 and January 1 and between January 1
and June 30, to the Department of Education. The report shall include:
A. Data broken down by the enumerated categories including the protected categories as listed above
and the type of harassment, intimidation and bullying (any gesture; any written, verbal or physical act;
or any electronic communication, whether it be a single or series of incidents); and
B. Data broken down by each school in the district, in addition to district-wide data.
The report shall be used to grade each school for the purpose of assessing its effort to implement policies
and programs consistent with law (N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 et seq.). The district shall receive a grade
determined by averaging the grades of all the schools in the district.
Each school shall post the grade received by the school and the overall district grade on the homepage of
the school’s website. The district shall post all the grades for each school of the district and the overall
district grade on the homepage of the district’s website. A link to the report shall be available on the
district’s website. The information shall be posted on the websites within 10 days of the receipt of a grade
by the school and district.
It shall be a violation to improperly release any confidential information not authorized by Federal or State
law for public release.
The Superintendent/Principal will annually submit the report to the Department of Education utilizing the
Electronic Violence and Vandalism Reporting system (EVVRS). The Superintendent/Principal shall
accurately report on each incident of violence, vandalism, alcohol and other drug abuse, and incident of
harassment intimidation and bullying within the school district. Any allegations of falsification of data will
be reviewed by the board of education using the requirements and procedures set forth in N.J.A.C.
6A:16-5.3(g).
The State Board of Education shall impose penalties on any school employee who knowingly falsifies the
report. Therefore, the Superintendent/Principal shall make a reasonable effort to verify reports of
violence, vandalism, and harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The Board shall provide ongoing staff
training, in cooperation with the Department of Education, in fulfilling the reporting requirements. The
majority representative of the school employees shall have access monthly to the number and disposition
of all reported acts of school violence, vandalism, and harassment, intimidation, or bullying.
Program Assessment and Review
Schools and school districts shall annually establish, implement, document, and assess bullying
prevention programs or approaches, and other initiatives involving school staff, students, administrators,
volunteers, parents, law enforcement and community members. The programs or approaches shall be
designed to create school-wide conditions to prevent and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying.
Policy Development and Review
The district harassment, intimidation and bullying policy shall be adopted through a process that includes
representation of parents or guardians, school employees, volunteers, students, administrators, and
community representatives.
The district shall annually conduct a re-evaluation, reassessment, and review of this policy, making any
necessary revisions and additions. The board shall include input from the school anti-bullying specialists
in conducting its re-evaluation, reassessment, and review. The district shall transmit a copy of the revised
policy to the appropriate executive county superintendent within 30 school days of the revision (beginning
September 1, 2011).
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Publication, Dissemination and Implementation
In publicizing this policy, the community including students, staff, board members, contracted service
providers, visitors and volunteers, shall be duly notified that the rules detailed within apply to any incident
of harassment intimidation and bullying that takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored
function or on a school bus, or off school grounds that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly
operation of the school or the rights of other students in accordance with law.
The Superintendent/Principal shall take the following steps to publicize this policy:
A. Provide a link to this policy on a prominent place on the district website;
B. Provide a link to this policy on a prominent place on each school’s website;
C. Distribute this policy annually to all staff, students and parents/guardians; and
D. Print this policy in any district publication that sets forth the comprehensive rules, procedures and
standards of student conduct and in student handbooks;
The district shall notify students and parents/guardians that the policy is available on the district’s website.
The district shall publish the name, school phone number, school address and school email address of
the district anti-bullying coordinator on the home page of the district website. Each school within the
district shall publish the name, school phone number, school address and school email address of the
district anti-bullying coordinator and their school anti-bullying specialist on the home page of the school’s
website. The information concerning the district anti-bullying coordinator and the school anti-bullying
specialists shall also be maintained on the Department of Education’s website.
Additionally, the district shall make available, in an easily accessible location of its website, the
Department of Education’s guidance document for the use by parent/guardians, students and district staff
to assist in resolving complaints concerning student harassment, intimidation or bullying.
The Superintendent/Principal shall ensure that the rules for this policy are applied consistently
with the district’s code of student conduct (N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7) and all applicable laws and
regulations. All disciplinary sanctions shall be carried out with necessary due process.
This and all related policies shall be reviewed on a regular basis.
Adopted: June 17, 2003
Readopted: October 5, 2004
Revised: November 12, 2008
Revised: April 29, 2009
Revised: May 11, 2011
Revised: July 27, 2011
Legal References:
X Monitored
X Mandated
X Other Reasons
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QSAC Monitored:
Section 3: Governance
Mandated:
P.L. 2010, c.122 concerning harassment, intimidation, and bullying in school settings, amended
various parts of the statutory law and supplements N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 et seq. and chapter 3B of Title
18A of the New Jersey Statutes. It created the “Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act” which is contained in
N.J.S.A. 18A: 37-13 through N.J.S.A. 18A:37-32.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, as amended by P.L. 2010, c.122 section 11, defines "harassment, intimidation or
bullying" to include “any gesture, written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication,
whether it be a single incident or a series of incidents, that is reasonably perceived as being motivated
either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin,
gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or
by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored
function, on a school bus, or off school grounds that substantially disrupts or interferes with the orderly
operation of the school or the rights of other students.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.3 (P.L. 2010, c.122, Section 16) requires that district policy include provisions for
appropriate responses to harassment, intimidation and bullying as defined in N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, that
occurs off school grounds, where a school employee is made aware of such actions. The responses must
be consistent with the code of student conduct and the board policy on harassment, intimidation and
bullying.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-16 (see P.L. 2010, c.122, Section 13) prohibits retaliation and false accusations by a
board member, school employee, student or volunteer against a victim, or person with reliable information
about an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying. It also requires reporting of incidents by a board
member, school employee, contracted service provider, student or volunteer with reliable information that
a student has been subject to harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Reporting shall be to the designated
school official, or any school administrator or safe schools resource officer.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-17 (see P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 14) requires the principal of each school to appoint
from existing trained and qualified staff a school anti-bullying specialist and details the responsibilities of
the anti-bullying specialist. Additionally, the law requires the chief school administrator to appoint a
district anti-bullying coordinator and lists the responsibilities pertaining to the district’s bullying policy and
programs, and requires the anti-bullying coordinator to meet at least two times a year with the school antibullying
specialists.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-26 requires the Commissioner of Education to establish inservice workshops and training
programs to train selected public school employees to act as district anti-bullying coordinators and school
anti-bullying specialists. (P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 23)
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-21 (P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 18) requires each school to form a school safety team
which at a minimum includes the principal or his or her designee (who shall be a senior school
administrator), a teacher, the anti-bullying specialist, a parent/guardian of a student in the school and
other members as determined by the principal. The school safety team is required to meet at least twice a
year, and its responsibilities are enumerated and include the review and analysis of bullying reports;
investigations; school bullying program and policy assessment and revision; training and staff
development programs; community education; and district data accumulation and reporting. Parents may
not participate in certain activities, including those that would compromise student confidentiality.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-18 provides that the school statutes involving harassment, bullying, and intimidation do
not prevent a victim from seeking redress under any other available law.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-19, adopted in 2002 (P.L. 2002, c.83, s.7.) provides for a school district that incurs
additional costs to implement the bullying law, to apply to the Commissioner of Education for
reimbursement.
N.J.S.A. 18A: 37-28 (P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 25) establishes a “Bullying Prevention Fund” to be used
for grants to school districts to provide training on harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention and
on the effective creation of positive school climates.
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N.J.S.A. 18A:37-19 requires the Department of Education, in consultation with the Division on Civil Rights
in the Department of Law and Public Safety to develop a guidance document and to maintain it on their
respective websites.
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.4(a)16 requires policies that provide for the development and implementation of a code
of student conduct. Required elements of the code are listed at N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.1(a-d) requires district boards of education to develop and implement a code of student
conduct, and sets forth the purposes of the code, the minimum standards to be included in the code, and
requires due process procedures and policy for students and their families in accordance with N.J.A.C.
6A:16-7.2 through 7.6.
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 governs district authority for student conduct away from school grounds.
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.9 governs the development, adoption and implementation of a policy prohibiting
harassment, intimidation, and bullying pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:37-15.
Other Reasons:
Districts are reminded that they must develop a Code of Student Conduct in accordance with N.J.A.C.
6A:16-7.1. The range of school responses to harassment, intimidation and bullying shall be aligned with
and not replace the district’s Code of Student Conduct.
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-112 requires that teaching staff receive professional development on suicide prevention
and instruction on the relationship between the risk of suicide and incidents of harassment, intimidation
and bullying. In addition, staff shall receive information on reducing the risk of students who are identified
as at high risk of suicide.
N.J.S.A. 18A:12-33 requires newly elected or appointed board of education members and charter school
trustees to complete training on harassment intimidation and bullying within one year of being newly
elected or appointed or being re-elected or re-appointed to the board. A board member shall be required
to complete the program only once.
N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46 requires the chief school administrator to report two times each school year, between
September 1 and January 1 and between January 1 and June 30, at a public hearing, all acts of violence,
vandalism and harassment, intimidation or bullying which occurred the previous reporting period. The
elements of the report are enumerated such as the number, status and nature of the incidents. It also
requires the board to report once each reporting period the information to the Department of Education.
The DOE shall use the information to “grade” each school and the district. The grades must be posted on
the homepage of the school’s and district’s websites.
N.J.S.A. 18A:26-8.2 requires “school leaders,” meaning a school district staff member who holds a
position that requires the possession of a chief school administrator, principal or supervisor endorsement,
complete training that includes information on the prevention of harassment, intimidation, and bullying.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-17 requires that the district provide training to staff, students and volunteers who have
significant contact with students, on the district harassment, intimidation and bullying policy; preventing
bullying; and district reporting procedures.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-22 (P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 19) requires all candidates for teaching certification who
have completed a teacher preparation program at a regionally accredited institution of higher education to
have satisfactorily completed a program on harassment, intimidation and bullying training. Also, the State
Board must require public school teachers to complete at least two hours of instruction on harassment,
intimidation, or bullying prevention in each professional development period as part of the professional
development requirement.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-22 (P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 20) requires all candidates for administrative and
supervisory certification to have satisfactorily completed a program on harassment, intimidation and
bullying training.
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-19 (P.L. 2010, c. 122, Section 26) requires all schools to observe a “Week of Respect”
on the first Monday in October each year and provide age appropriate instruction focusing on preventing
harassment, intimidation and bullying during that week, as well as throughout the school year.
60

Legal References:
N.J.S.A. 2A:4A-60 et al. Disclosure of juvenile information; penalties for disclosure
N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. Law Against Discrimination
N.J.S.A. 18A:6-112 Instruction on suicide prevention for public school teaching staff
N.J.S.A. 18A:11-1 General mandatory powers and duties
N.J.S.A. 18A:12-33 Training program; requirements
N.J.S.A. 18A:17-46 Reporting of certain acts by school employee; annual report; public
hearing (acts of violence)
N.J.S.A. 18A:25-2 Authority over pupils
N.J.S.A. 18A:26-8.2 School leader defined; training as part of professional development
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-19 Pupil records; creation, maintenance and retention, security and access;
regulations; nonliability
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-19a Student records (Newly enrolled students; transfers of records,
identification)
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 et seq. Submission of Pupils to Authority (Discipline)
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-13 et seq. Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act
See particularly:
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-14, -15, -17 Harassment, intimidation, and bullying
N.J.S.A. 18A:54-20 Powers of board (county vocational schools)
N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.8 Discipline/suspension/expulsions (students with disabilities)
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.1 et seq. Programs to support student development (includes student conduct
code)
See particularly:
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.4, -7.1, -7.6, -7.9
N.J.A.C. 6A:32-12.1 Reporting requirements
N.J.A.C. 6A:32-12.2 School-level planning
Gebser v. Lago Vista Independent School District 524 U.S. 274 (1989) United States Supreme Court
addresses the standard by which a district will be held liable for sexual harassment of a student by a
school employee under Title IX --requires actual notice and deliberate indifference.
Davis v. Monroe County Board of Education 526 U.S. 629 (1999) United States Supreme Court
establishes the standard under which a school district may be liable under Title IX for sexual harassment
of one student by another student. The district will be liable for damages only where the school officials
are proven to have been deliberately indifferent to harassment of which it is actually aware. The
harassment must be “severe, pervasive and objectively offensive.”
Saxe v. State College Area School District 240 F.3d 200 (3 rd Cir 2001) A Pennsylvania school district’s
anti-harassment policy was overly broad and therefore violated the Constitutional guarantee of freedom of
speech.
L. W. v. Toms River Regional Schools Board of Education 189 N.J. 381 (2007) The New Jersey Supreme
Court held that the standard under which a school district may be liable under the New Jersey Law
Against Discrimination for student-on-student bullying or harassment is not the Title IX deliberate
indifference standard, but is rather the same standard used under the NJLAD for hostile work
environment cases. A district will be judged by whether the district's response met the “reasonable
person” test: what would a reasonable person (teacher, supervisor, vice principal, principal, etc.) do in a
similar situation. School districts will be shielded from liability under NJLAD when their preventive and
remedial actions are reasonable in light of the totality of the circumstances.
Cross References:
1220 Ad hoc advisory committees
1410 Local units
3517 Security
3541.33 Transportation safety
4131/4131.1 Staff development; inservice education/visitation conferences
4148/4248 Employee protection
4231/4231.1 Staff development; inservice education/visitation conferences
5000 Concepts and roles for students
61

5010 Goals and objectives for students
5020 Role of parents/guardians
5113 Attendance, absences and excuses
5114 Suspension and expulsion
5124 Reporting to parents/guardians
5131 Conduct and discipline
5131.5 Vandalism/violence
5131.6 Drugs, alcohol, tobacco (substance abuse)
5131.7 Weapons and dangerous instruments
5132 Dress and grooming
5142 Student safety
5145 Rights
5145.2 Freedom of speech/expression
5145.4 Equal educational opportunity
5145.6 Pupil grievance procedure
5145.1 Questioning and apprehension
5145.1 Search and seizure
6145 Extracurricular activities
6164.4 Child study team
6171.4 Special education
6172 Alternative educational programs
62

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Drugs, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Steroids
File Code 5131.6
It is the responsibility of the Board of Education to safeguard the health, character, citizenship, and
personality development of the students in its schools. We, therefore, must maintain that the use of drugs
and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful. The Board of Education
recognizes that the misuse of drugs, alcohol, tobacco or steroids threatens the positive development of
that student and the welfare of the entire school community. The Board of Education is committed to the
prevention of drug, alcohol, tobacco and steroid abuse and the rehabilitation of identified abusers.
Students
For the purpose of the policy, “drug” includes all controlled dangerous substances set forth in N.J.S.A.
24:21-1 et seq. and all chemicals that release toxic vapors set forth in N.J.S.A. 2A:170-25.9 et seq.
A. The Board of Education prohibits the use, possession and/or distribution of any drug, alcohol,
tobacco or steroids on school premises, and at any event away from the school provided by the
Board. Compliance with a drug-free standard of conduct at all school functions is mandatory for
all students. Pupils suspected of being under the influence of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or steroids
will be identified, evaluated, and reported in accordance with the law. Assessment will be
provided by individuals who are certified by the New Jersey State Board of Examiners as
substance awareness coordinators or by individuals who are appropriately certified by the New
jersey Board of Examiners and trained in alcohol and other drug abuse prevention. A pupil who
uses, possesses, or distributes drugs, alcohol, tobacco or steroids on school premises or while
attending a school-sponsored activity will be subject to discipline, that may include suspension or
expulsion, and may be reported to appropriate law enforcement personnel. Pupils suspected of
involvement with alcohol, drugs or steroids away from school premises will be referred to
appropriate treatment and remediation. Students who are affected by alcohol or other drug use
will be referred to options by individuals who are certified as substance awareness coordinators
or who are otherwise appropriately trained in drug and alcohol prevention, intervention, and
follow-up. Use of these services is determined and paid for by the parents/guardians of the
student.
B. The Board will enforce the laws of New Jersey requiring a program of drug, alcohol, tobacco and
steroid education. The Superintendent/Principal shall prepare and submit to the Board for its
approval a comprehensive curriculum for such instruction in grades 5 through 8 offering a
minimum of 10 clock hours per school year of alcohol and other drug education in accordance
with Department of Education chemical health guidelines, pursuant to N.J.S.A.18A:40A-1 et seq.
Drug, alcohol, tobacco and steroid education shall be integrated with the health curriculum.
C.
All district personnel shall be alert to signs of alcohol, drug, tobacco and steroid use by pupils
and shall respond to those signs in accordance with procedures established by the
Superintendent/Principal of schools. The Board of Education will provide inservice training to
assist teaching staff members in identifying the pupil who uses drugs, alcohol, tobacco and/or
steroids.
D. The Superintendent/Principal shall develop administrative regulations for:
1. A comprehensive program of drug, alcohol, tobacco and steroid education;
2. The identification and remediation of pupils involved with drugs, alcohol, tobacco and
steroids;
3. The examination and treatment of pupils suspected of being under the influence of drugs,
alcohol, tobacco or steroids to determine the extent of the pupil’s drug or alcohol use or
dependency;
63

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 5131.6
4. The treatment and discipline of pupils who use, possess or distribute drugs, alcohol,
tobacco and steroids in violation of law or this policy through referral to an appropriate
drug/alcohol abuse program as recommended by the Department of Health; and
5. The readmission to school and treatment of pupils who have been convicted of drug,
alcohol, tobacco and/or steroid offenses.
E. The Board of Education shall establish an annual process to review the effectiveness of its
alcohol and other drug policies and procedures. Alcohol and other drug policies and procedures
for discipline, evaluation, and treatment of pupils shall be made available annually to all school
staff, pupils, and parent/guardians. This policy shall be in each building, and notification of its
availability shall appear annually in the in the parent handbook.
F. Any staff member who reports a pupil to the Superintendent/Principal or his/her designee in
compliance with the provisions of the subsection shall not be liable in civil damages as a result of
making such a report as provided for under N.J.S.A.18A:40A-1 et seq.
G. All policies and procedures must comply with the confidentiality requirements established in
federal regulation found at 42 CFR Part II.
Substance abuse in the district is considered a health risk. It is the expressed position of the
district that when school rules have been violated, and when a student’s health is at risk, we must
notify the student’s parents/guardians and attempt to involve the family in the rehabilitation plan
subject to the confidentiality restrictions of 42 CFR Part II.
H. Refusal or failure by a parent/guardian to comply with the provisions of N.J.S.A.18A:40A-12 shall
be deemed a violation of the compulsory education (N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 and 18A:38-31) and/or
child neglect (N.J.S.A.9:6-1 et seq.) laws.
Enforcement of Drug-Free School Zones
The Board of Education recognizes its responsibility to ensure continuing cooperation between school
staff and law enforcement authorities in all matters relating to the use, possession, and distribution of
controlled dangerous substances and drug paraphernalia on school property. The Board further
recognizes its responsibility to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in planning and conducting law
enforcement activities and operations on school property. The Board shall, therefore, establish a formal
Memorandum of Agreement with the appropriate law enforcement authorities and set forth the following
policies and procedures after consultation with the county prosecutor and approval by the county
superintendent of schools. The Memorandum of Agreement shall be consistent with the Uniform State
Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law Enforcement Officials (1999 Revisions).
Law Enforcement Liaison
In order to ensure that such cooperation continues, the Board directs the Superintendent/Principal to
designate a school district liaison(s) to law enforcement agencies and to prescribe the roles and
responsibilities of the school liaison(s). Such assignment shall be in accordance with the district’s
collective bargaining agreement, if applicable.
Undercover Operations
The Board hereby recognizes that the Superintendent/Principal may request that law enforcement
authorities conduct an undercover operation in the school if he/she has reason to believe that drug use
and/or drug trafficking is occurring in the school and that a less intrusive means of law enforcement
intervention would be ineffective. The Board hereby authorizes the Superintendent/Principal to request
such intervention to discuss any aspect of the undercover operation until authorized to do so by law
enforcement authority under these circumstances. The Board also recognizes that the Superintendent/
Principal is not permitted to discuss any aspect of the undercover operation until authorized to do so by
law enforcement authorities.
64

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 5131.6
The Board recognizes that law enforcement authorities may contact the Superintendent/Principal to
request that an undercover operation be established in a district school. The Board recognizes that the
Superintendent/Principal is prohibited from discussing the request with the Board. The Board hereby
authorizes the Superintendent/Principal to act upon any such request in the manner that he/she
determines is in conformity with the law and the Attorney General’s Executive Directive 1998-1 and that is
in the best interests of the students and the school district.
The Board directs the Superintendent/Principal to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in the
planning and conduct of undercover school operations. The Superintendent/Principal or any other school
staff or district board member who may have been informed about the undercover operation is required to
immediately communicate information to the county prosecutor or designee if the integrity of the
undercover school operation has been compromised in any way.
At the completion of an undercover operation in a school, and with the consent of the appropriate law
enforcement authority, the Superintendent/Principal shall report to the Board regarding the nature of the
operation, the result of the operation, and any serious problems encountered during the operation.
Summoning Law Enforcement Authorities onto School Property for the Purpose of Conducting
Investigations, Searches, Seizures and Arrests
Any school employee who has reason to believe a student(s) or a staff member(s) is using or distributing
controlled dangerous substances, including anabolic steroids, or drug paraphernalia on school premises
shall bring that information to the Superintendent/Principal. The Superintendent/Principal shall
immediately report that information to the appropriate law enforcement agency. If, after consultation with
the law enforcement official, it is determined that further investigation is necessary, the Superintendent/
Principal will cooperate with the law enforcement authorities in accordance with the law and
administrative code. He/she will provide the officials with a room in an area away from the general
student population in which to conduct their law enforcement duties. If law enforcement officials do not
choose to investigate the incident, the Superintendent/Principal may continue the investigation to
determine if any school rules have been broken and whether any school discipline is appropriate.
If an arrest is necessary, and no exigent circumstances exist, the Superintendent/Principal and staff will
cooperate with the law enforcement officials and provide them access to the office of a school
administrator or some other area away from the general student population. Every effort shall be made to
enable law enforcement personnel to carry out the arrest in a manner that is least disruptive to the
educational environment. The Superintendent/Principal shall immediately notify the student’s parent/
guardian whenever a pupil is arrested for violating any laws prohibiting the possession, use, sale, or
distribution of any controlled substance or drug paraphernalia.
Whenever the police have been summoned to a school building by the Superintendent/Principal, the
Superintendent/Principal shall report the reason the police were summoned and any pertinent information
to the Board at its next regular meeting. If confidentiality is required, the report shall be made in
executive session.
Student Searches and Securing Physical Evidence
The Superintendent/Principal of his/her designee may conduct a search of a student’s person or
belongings if the search is necessary to maintain discipline and order in the school, and the school official
has a reasonable suspicion that the student is concealing contraband. All searches and seizures
conducted by designated school staff shall comply with the standards prescribed by the United States
Supreme Court in New Jersey v T.L.O., U.S. 325 (1985) and the New Jersey School Search Policy
Manual.
If, as a result of the search, a controlled dangerous substance or drug paraphernalia is found, or if a
controlled dangerous substance or drug paraphernalia is by any means found on school property, the
individual discovering the item or substance shall immediately notify the building principal;
65

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 5131.6
the principal shall immediately notify the superintendent who shall immediately, in turn, notify the
appropriate law enforcement agency. The Superintendent/Principal shall ensure that the controlled or
dangerous substance and/or drug paraphernalia is labeled and secured in a locked cabinet or desk until
law enforcement officials pick it up. The Superintendent/ Principal shall then contact the student’s
parents/guardians to inform them of the occurrence.
Whenever law enforcement officials have been called into the school, and a search of a student’s person
or belongings is necessary, or an interrogation is to be conducted, the Superintendent/Principal shall
request that the law enforcement officials conduct the search, seizure or interrogation.
Police Presence at Extracurricular Activities
The Superintendent/Principal is hereby authorized to contact the appropriate law enforcement agency
and arrange for the presence of an officer(s) in the event of an emergency or when the Superintendent/
Principal believes that uniformed police presence is necessary to deter illegal drug use or trafficking or to
maintain order or crowd or traffic control at a school function.
Resolving Disputes Concerning Law Enforcement Activities
The Board authorizes the Superintendent/Principal to contact the chief executive officer of the law
enforcement agency involved with any dispute or objection to any proposed or ongoing law enforcement
operation or activity on school property. If for any reason the dispute or objection is not satisfactorily
resolved with the chief executive officer of the agency, the Superintendent/Principal shall work in
conjunction with the county prosecutor and, where appropriate, the division of criminal justice to take
appropriate steps to resolve the matter. Any dispute that cannot be resolved at the county level shall be
reported to the Board and shall be resolved by the attorney general whose decision will be binding.
Confidentiality of Pupil Involvement in Intervention and Treatment Programs
Nothing in this policy shall be construed in any way to authorize or require the transmittal of any
information or records that are in the possession of a substance-abuse counseling or treatment program
including, but not limited to, the school district’s own substance abuse programs. All information
concerning a pupil’s or staff member’s involvement in a school intervention or treatment program shall be
kept strictly confidential. See 42 CFR 2 and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-6.5.
In-service Training
The Superintendent/Principal will ensure that all district employees receive annual in-service training to
make them aware of their responsibilities in accordance with Board policies and N.J.A.C. 6A:16-3.1 within
one month of school opening.
Annual Review
The Board will review annually the effectiveness of these policies and the Memorandum of Agreement
entered into with the appropriate law enforcement agency. As part of this review, the Board will consult
with the county superintendent, local community members, and the county prosecutor’s office.
Availability of Policy
The policies and procedures contained herein shall be made available to all staff, pupils, and
parents/guardians on an annual basis.
Adopted: September 16, 2003
66

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
Legal References:
File Code 5131.6
N.J.S.A. 2A:62A-4 Reports by educational personnel on dependency upon or illegal use of
controlled dangerous substances or use of intoxicating vapor releasing
chemicals; immunity from liability
N.J.S.A. 2A:170-25.9 Definitions
N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3a Hindering apprehension or persecution
N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15 Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverage in public place or motor vehicle
by person under legal age
N.J.S.A. 2C:33-16 Alcoholic beverages; bringing or possession on school property by person of
legal age; penalty
N.J.S.A. 2C:33-17 Offer or service of alcoholic beverage to underage person; disorderly persons;
exception
N.J.S.A. 2C:33-19 Paging devices, possession by students
N.J.S.A. 2C:35-1 et seq. New Jersey Comprehensive Drug Reform Act of 1987
See particularly:
N.J.S.A. 2C:35-7, -10,
N.J.S.A. 9:17a-4 Consent by minor to medical care or treatment; venereal disease, sexual assault
or drug use or dependency; notice and report of treatment; confidentiality
N.J.S.A. 18A:25-2 Authority over pupils
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-1 Submission of pupils to authority
N.J.S.A. 18A:37-2 Causes for suspension of expulsion of pupils
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-19.2 Student locker or other storage facility; inspections; notice to students
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1 et seq. Substance abuse
See particularly:
N.J.S.A. 18A:40A-1, -2
-3, -4, -5, -9, 1-, -11, -12,
-13, -14, -15, -16, -18, -19
N.J.S.A. 24:21-2 Definitions (New Jersey controlled dangerous substances)
N.J.S.A. 26:3D-15
through-21 Legislative findings and declaration (smoking in educational institutions)
N.J.A.C. 6:8-3.1 et seq. Pupil Behavior
N.J.A.C. 6:11-11.5 Substance awareness coordinator
N.J.A.C. 6:29-6.1 et seq. Substance abuse
N.J.A.C. 6:20-10.1et seq. Safe and drug free schools
N.J.A.C. 6A:8-3.1 Curriculum and instruction
N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.8 Discipline/suspension/expulsion
Attorney General’s Executive Directive No. 1988-1
Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 Enacted November 1988 (Pub. L. 100-690, Title V., Subtitle D) 102
Stat. 4305-4308
Regulations Under Drug Free Workplace Act, C.F.R. 4946 (1/31/89)
42 CFR Part 2 Confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse patient records
F.G. v. Bd. of Ed. of Hamilton, 1982 S.L.D. 382
G.L.H. v. Bd. ef Ed. of Hopewell Valley Regional School District et al, 1987 S.L.D. April 20, aff’d St. Be.
1987 S.L.D. Sept. 2
State in the Interest of T.L.O. 94 N.J. 331 (1983) Rev’d 469 U.S. 325 (1985)
State of New Jersey v. Jeffrey Engerud 93 N.J. 308 (1983)
Honig v. Doe 484 U.S. 305 (1988)
67

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
Vernonia School District v. Acton 515 U.S. 646 (1995)
In the Matter of the Tenure Hearing of Graceffo, 2000 S.L.D. (September 21)
Manual for the Evaluation of Local School Districts (August 2000)
File Code 5131.6
A Uniform State Memorandum of Agreement Between Education and Law Enforcement Officials (1999
Revision)
Cross References: 1330 Use of school facilities
1410 Local Units
5114 Suspension and expulsion
5124 Reporting to parents/guardians
5125 Pupil records
5131 Conduct/discipline
5131.7 Weapons and dangerous instruments
5141.3 Health examinations and immunizations
5141.21 Administering medication
5145.12 Search and seizure
6145.1/6145.2 Intramural competition; interscholastic competition
6145.7 Social events/meetings
6154 Homework/makeup work
6172 Alternative educational programs
6173 Home instruction
68

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey
POLICY
EMERGENCY CLOSING
File No. 5141.7
It is the responsibility of the Boonton Township School District to insure the safety of its students. The
following protocol will be followed whenever there is the need for an emergency/ early closing.
1. Upon the determination by the school administration that an emergency/early closing is
warranted, the school office will activate the emergency alert system to notify parents/guardians
of children in grades Pre-K through 8 of the early closing. Children with special needs will be
accommodated according to their need in all grade levels.
2. Children who are not picked up or sent on the bus will be supervised until they can be safely
picked up.
3. Parents/guardians should review contingency plans with their children.
4. The school answering machine (973-334-4162) and web site (www.rvsnj.org) will carry the
message that the school will be closing early.
Adopted: January 21, 1993
Revised: November 16, 2000
Revised: September 10, 2008
69

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
Research
File Code 6162.5
The Board of Education recognizes that educational research can be a valuable tool in identifying and
applying strategies to enhance student achievement and in identifying factors that could prevent students
from becoming contributing members of society. Surveys among student populations can be an
important part of this research.
Students and parents/guardians retain certain rights, however, in the administration of surveys. The
board shall ensure that prior written consent is obtained from parents/guardians or emancipated students
before any survey is administered that is funded in whole or in part by any program administered by the
United States Department of Education, if the survey (analysis or evaluation) is designed to reveal
information on any of the following:
A. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parents/guardians;
B. Mental and psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
C. Sex behavior or attitudes;
D. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
E. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
F. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, or
ministers;
G. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent/guardian; or
H. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for
receiving financial assistance under such program).
Written informed consent shall also be obtained from parents/guardians or emancipated students prior to
the administration of any academic or nonacademic survey, assessment, analysis or evaluation that
would reveal the student’s social security number.
Parents/guardians shall be given the opportunity to inspect any survey, analysis or evaluation that solicits
information in any of the above areas. If parents/guardians object to their child(ren)’s participation in the
survey, the child(ren) shall be allowed to opt out.
Prior approval of the Superintendent/Principal is required for all other surveys on topics not listed.
Anyone seeking approval of a proposed survey must provide the superintendent with details of the survey
methodology, its specific educational purpose and a description of how results will be disseminated and
applied.
For all surveys the identity of the respondent shall remain confidential.
The Superintendent/Principal shall develop regulations to implement this policy that include reasonable
timelines for parents/guardians to access and review surveys as prescribed by law, and arrangements to
protect student privacy in the administration of a survey.
This policy and the regulations shall be made available to the public at least annually at the beginning of
the school year, especially to parents/guardians and to district staff. The public shall be informed within a
reasonable period of time if substantive change is made to policy and regulations. The public shall also
be informed of specific or approximate dates, if known, when surveys may be administered.
Date: September 12, 1985
Readopted: February 17, 1994
Revised: February 10, 2010
70

BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey 07005
POLICY
File Code 6162.5
Legal References: X Mandated
X Other Reasons
N.J.S.A. 18A:36-34 Written approval required prior to acquisition of certain survey information from
students
N.J.A.C. 6A:16-1.4 District policies and procedures
20 U.S.C.A. 1232g Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
20 U.S.C.A. 1232h Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment
No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, Pub. L. 107-110, 20 U.S.C.A. 6301 et seq.
In re: Application of Charles V. Reilly, Robert A. Hutton and Sean Reilly to Contest the Validity of the
Enactment of Assembly Bill 3359 (P.L. 2001, c. 364), Superior Court of New Jersey, Appellate Division,
Docket No. A-0163-02T2, 2003 N.J. Super. Lexis 376
Cross References:
1140 Distribution of materials by pupils and staff
1315 Distribution of materials to pupils and staff
4132 Publications/materials
5020 Role of parents/guardians
5124 Reporting to parents/guardians
5125 Pupil records
5141.3 Health examinations and immunizations
6147.1 Evaluation of individual student performance
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BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey
Procedures
Handicapped Students
File Code. 6171.4
Policy #1: All students with disabilities, who are in need of special education and related services,
including students with disabilities attending nonpublic schools, regardless of the severity of their
disabilities, are located, identified and evaluated according to N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.3.
Procedures:
1. The Director of Special Services will coordinate the Child Find activities to locate, identify and
evaluate all children, ages three through 21, who reside within the Boonton Township School
District and who may be disabled.
2. These activities will include:
• Twice each year (in the Fall and Spring issues), the district Director of Special Services will
place a Child Find notice in the Boonton Township Times. This publication, which is delivered
to every home in the town as well as being made available to the public at Town Hall, notifies
the public of the services available through the Boonton Township School district and
describes how to access these services.
• Additional fliers and letters will be sent by April 30 th to all nonpublic schools in the surrounding
towns, local area pediatricians, hospitals, libraries, places of worship and appropriate social
agencies. This effort shall be extended to the location of all students regardless of the
severity of their disability and shall include students who are highly mobile such as migrant
and homeless students as well as those students being moved from grade to grade. All
attempts are made to reach the public in their native language unless it is not feasible to do
so.
3. Interventions in the general education program to alleviate educational problems shall be
provided to a pupil in the following manner:
• General education staff members shall be instructed in the criteria to identify students who
may require such interventions. These children are referred to the Intervention and Referral
Committee.
• The child’s teacher shall maintain written documentation of the implementation and
effectiveness of the interventions. A copy of this written documentation shall be forwarded to
the Intervention and Referral Services Committee. This committee may recommend further
interventions or a referral to the Child Study Team.
4. A potentially disabled student is referred to the Child Study Team:
• When a written request is sent from the pupil’s parent or guardian to the principal or Director
of Special Services.
• At the recommendation of the Intervention and Referral Services Committee.
• When the child’s educational problem is so severe that direct referral to the Child Study Team
can be supported and documented.
Students may be referred to the Child Study Team even if they are advancing from grade to grade.
Referral information shall be provided in the family’s native language.
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BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey
Procedures
5. Once a referral has been received, certain procedures will be followed:
File Code. 6171.4
• Within 20 calendar days (excluding school holidays but not weekends, or summer vacation)
of receipt of a written referral, the Director of Special Services will assign a case manager
who schedules an evaluation plan meeting.
• This meeting will be attended by the Child Study Team, parent and general education teacher
with knowledge of the student’s educational performance or the district’s programs.
• The purpose of this meeting shall be to review existing data and determine whether an
evaluation is warranted. If so, the nature and scope of the evaluation will also be determined.
• If it is a preschool child or the suspected disability includes a language disorder, a speechlanguage
specialist shall also attend this meeting.
• If the parent/guardian is limited English proficient, attempts shall be made to secure an
interpreter for this and all ensuing special education meetings.
• The Child Study Team shall contact the parent by telephone, or through an interpreter if
necessary, to determine a mutually agreeable time and date for this meeting and then send
written confirmation, and the Parental Rights in Special Education booklet.
Policy #5: Students with disabilities are included in Statewide and district wide assessment programs,
with appropriate accommodations, where necessary according to N.J.A.C. 6A:14-4.11.
Procedures:
1. The IEP Team shall determine whether or not a student has been instructed in any of the
knowledge and skills tested on the Statewide Assessments.
2. If it is determined that the child would not be able to do any of the types of items on the Statewide
Assessment, the child shall be exempt from taking the assessment.
3. The IEP Team shall also determine appropriate modifications on an individual basis for all
students taking the Statewide Assessment.
4. For students who the IEP Team determines are exempt from taking the Statewide Assessment,
their IEP goals and objectives will reflect correlation to general education curriculum and the Core
Curriculum Content Standards. This will allow the Team to measure the child’s progress in the
general education curriculum and the Core Curriculum Content. Standards.
Policy #7: A free, appropriate public education is available to all students with disabilities between the
ages of three and 21, including students with disabilities who have been suspended or expelled from
school.
Procedures:
• For insuring provision of a free, appropriate public education to students with disabilities who are
suspended or expelled:
The Boonton Township Board of Education in accordance with State and Federal regulations does not
provide services for short-term removal of students with disabilities for disciplinary reasons nor does is it
provided for general education students. Short-term removal is defined as 10 days or less.
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BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey
Procedures
Discipline procedures will contain the following steps:
File Code. 6171.4
1. The building principal is responsible for discipline.
2. He/she shall send written notification, including the reasons for the removal to the case manager
whenever disciplinary action is being considered regarding a student with disabilities.
3. The case manager shall maintain a count of the number of removals.
4. Suspension from transportation will be counted as a day of removal if the student does not attend
school.
5. Removal for a portion of the school day will be counted proportionately.
6. If the student attends an in-school suspension program, he/she will be provided an opportunity to
progress in the general education curriculum and will be given the services and modifications
stated in the IEP. He/she will be given opportunity to be with non-disabled peers and will not be
marked absent. Therefore, it shall not count as a day of removal.
7. When a series of removals accumulate to more than 10 days
• The case manager, in consult with the principal will determine if the removals constitute a
change of placement.
• Written documentation of the consultation shall be maintained by the case manager.
• If it is determined that there is no change of placement, the principal, case manager and
special education teacher will meet to determine the extent of services that are necessary for
the student to progress appropriately in the general education curriculum as well as advance
in meeting the goals set forth in the student’s IEP
• Written documentation of this meeting shall be maintained by the case manager.
8. Either before but not later than 10 business days after either first removing the student for more
than 10 school days in a school year or commencing a removal that constitutes a change of
placement, the IEP Team shall meet to conduct a functional behavioral assessment and, with the
parent, develop a behavioral intervention plan.
9. If the student already has a behavioral intervention plan, the IEP Team shall meet to review the
plan and its implementation and modify the plan to address the behavior.
• For insuring provision of a free, appropriate public education to preschool students with
disabilities:
1. Parents or agencies working with a preschool child with a suspected disability and who may be
eligible for special education and related services shall contact the Director of Special Services.
2. The Director of Special Services shall provide the parent or agency with information regarding the
referral process.
3. Upon receipt of the written referral, the Director of Special Services will assign a case manager to
the referral.
4. Within 20 calendar days of receipt of the written referral, excluding school holidays but not
weekends or summer vacations a meeting shall be scheduled to be attended by the Child Study
Team, including the speech-language specialist, the parent, and a regular education teacher with
knowledge of the educational performance of the student or the district’s programs.
5. At this meeting, existing data will be reviewed and a determination will be made as to whether an
evaluation is warranted. If an evaluation is deemed necessary, the nature and scope of the
evaluation will also be determined.
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BOONTON TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION
Boonton Township, New Jersey
Procedures
File Code. 6171.4
6. Within 90 days of consent to evaluate by the parent, the IEP Team will meet to determine the
child’s eligibility for special education and related services. If eligibility is determined an IEP will
be developed and the child will be placed in an appropriate program before the 90 day timeframe
has elapsed.
7. When written consent is received 90 days prior to a child’s third birthday, and h/she is found
eligible for special education and related services, the child will be placed in a program on the
his/her third birthday.
• For insuring provision of a free, appropriate public education to students with disabilities who are
advancing from grade to grade:
1. Every three years from the prior evaluation, the IEP Team will reevaluate each student currently
receiving special education and related services to determine if he/she continues to need
specially designed services to progress in the general education curriculum.
2. The IEP Team will use functional assessment information in making this determination.
Date: October 5, 2000
Adopted: October 19, 2000
Approved: February 8, 2001
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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR
Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The
law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S.
Department of Education.
FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education
records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18
or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have
transferred are "eligible students."
• Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student's
education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to
provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is
impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may
charge a fee for copies.
• Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct
records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school
decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the
right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to
amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a
statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested
information.
• Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible
student in order to release any information from a student's education
record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without
consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR §
99.31):
o School officials with legitimate educational interest;
o Other schools to which a student is transferring;
o Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
o Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student;
o Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school;
o Accrediting organizations;
o To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena;
o Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and
o State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant
to specific State law.
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Schools may disclose, without consent, "directory" information such as a student's
name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and
dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about
directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount
of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them.
Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under
FERPA. The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a PTA bulletin,
student handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.
For additional information or technical assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887
(voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at
1-800-877-8339.
Or you may contact us at the following address:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5901
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