Student Suspension Policies
Education Law Section 3214 – Chapter 16, Title IV, Article 65, Part I
The principal has the power to suspend a pupil who is insubordinate or disorderly or violent or disruptive, or whose conduct otherwise endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others. The principal shall have the power to suspend a pupil for a period not to exceed five school days. In the case of such a suspension, the suspending authority shall provide the pupil with notice of the charged misconduct.
If the pupil denies the misconduct, the suspending authority shall provide an explanation of the basis for the suspension. The pupil and the person in parental relation to the pupil shall, on request, be given an opportunity for an informal conference with the principal at which the pupil and/or person in parental relation shall be authorized to present the pupil’s version of the event and to ask questions of the complaining witnesses.
The aforesaid notice and opportunity for an informal conference shall take place prior to suspension of the pupil unless the pupil’s presence in the school poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the academic process, in which case the pupil’s notice and opportunity for an informal conference shall take place as soon after the suspension as is reasonably practicable.
No pupil may be suspended for a period in excess of five school days unless such pupil and the person in parental relation to such pupil shall have had an opportunity for a fair hearing, upon reasonable notice, at which such pupil shall have the right of representation by counsel, with the right to question witnesses against such pupil and to present witnesses and other evidence on his behalf. Where a pupil has been suspended in accordance with this subdivision by the superintendent of schools, the superintendent shall personally hear and determine the proceeding or may, in his discretion, designate a hearing officer to conduct the hearing. The hearing officer shall be authorized to administer oaths and to issue subpoenas in conjunction with the proceeding before him. A record of the hearing shall be maintained, but no stenographic transcript shall be required and a tape recording shall be deemed a satisfactory record. The hearing officer shall make findings of fact and recommendations as to the appropriate measure of discipline to the superintendent. The report of the hearing officer shall be advisory only, and the superintendent may accept all or any part thereof. An appeal will lie from the decision of the superintendent to the board of education who shall make its decision solely upon the record before it.
Use of Bikes/Skateboards/Rollerblades/Heelys
Bikes must only be parked in the bike rack area. Bike riders must wait for the third dismissal to leave in the afternoon. Reminder: All children under 14 years of age are required by law to wear a helmet. Skateboards and Rollerblades are not permitted on school property. Use of Heelys inside the school building is prohibited.
Displays of Affection
Displays of affection (i.e. kissing, hugging, inappropriate touching, etc.) are not appropriate in school and therefore prohibited.
Unauthorized Vending
The sale of items in school for personal profit or for the benefit of club activities is prohibited (i.e. candy, gum, etc.).
Gambling
Gambling of any kind is prohibited.
Food & Drink
All food and beverages should be consumed in the cafeteria. Only water is allowed outside of the cafeteria. There is a water refill station across from the cafeteria.
Other Prohibited Items
Squirt guns
“Slam books”
Other items deemed by administrators as distracting, dangerous, or inappropriate.